Glass News May 2023

An initiative from Pearl Window Systems

Making life easy for the home builder

BUILT FIT TOGETHER –WELCOME BACK!

It’s just a year since the last instalment of FIT Show but organisers have been busy making sure that its May 2023, ten year anniversary, edition delivers above and beyond its 2022 event. With just a few short weeks until FIT Show returns, here’s why FIT Show event director Nickie West believe FIT Show 2023 is not to be missed for the whole industry.

Nickie comments: “There’s a reason FIT Show is the UK’s number one trade show for the windows, doors, glass, hardware and components industry, and that’s the continued support of our loyal community. With just a few weeks until we open for our tenth anniversary edition, I couldn’t be more excited about bringing the industry together to celebrate this landmark

occasion. We built FIT Show together, and I want FIT Show this May to be a celebration of how far we’ve come as a show, and indeed industry, over the last decade.

“There are some really big and exciting changes that our visitors will see this May. If you think there won’t be anything new to see, you couldn’t be more wrong.

“Over 25% of the lineup is made of brands who have never exhibited before, and 40% are from overseas. These are brands and products that you will never have seen at FIT Show before. I’m excited that brands such as Apeer, Residence Collection, Sheerline (Garnalex), Supalite, Gerda Doors by Pioneer Trading, Saint-Gobain, Listers, Glazerite, Business Micros, Chekatrade, Emmegi, Deponti and Whitesales have all joined the lineup in the last couple of months.

Continued on page 4...

“Over 25% of the lineup is made of brands who have never exhibited before, and 40% are from overseas."

And here we are. We’re into May and, yes, it’s the FIT Show 2023. This is a show to be savoured with the next slated to be in two years’ time, in 2025. There are, of course, some noticeable absences from the exhibitor list but, equally, there are additions too. It is understandable that some have thought twice about investing in the FIT Show for two years running, bearing in mind the current economic conditions, but investment in marketing often pays dividends when others pull the purse strings tight. The fact is we have a show: a good selection of exhibitors and some new faces to boot and what is evident is a rash of these companies are from overseas. Many of these companies are new to me and I’m looking forward to finding out more about them. There will be new products to see, technological innovation to savour and three days of networking, great camaraderie, and deals to be done. The FIT Show is one to attend and enjoy and there is no doubt that there is much to be gained by turning up at the NEC for this great industry event. Let’s support our industry exhibition. This month I had the great pleasure of interviewing the GGF’s Head of Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations at the GGF, Chris Beedel, and you can watch and listen to him talking about the government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO+) Scheme and the Heat and Buildings Strategy in this issue of Glass News and in our online edition.

This important strategy talks about saving energy and looks at the entire building envelope - but totally ignores glazing. What? You may well be as flabbergasted as I am! Mind you, this is not the first time that the glazing industry has been ignored by governments and it seems that they have in their minds that 86% of all domestic dwellings have double glazed windows – well, job done then, let’s move on to something else! However, what has completely escaped their notice is the fact that the vast proportion of those double glazed windows would not pass current building regulations and actually need renewing with the current generation of windows that meet the 1.4 w/m2/k U value or, better still, anticipate the 1.2 w/m2/k requirement of the Building Regulations that will come in in 2025.

The GGF has commissioned some research – well, very substantial research, that shows how vital glazing is in the government’s pursuit of energy saving and CO2 reduction. All credit to the GGF and the research they have commissioned makes fascinating reading. Just seeing where the UK is in the heat loss table shows how the coldest European countries’ housing stock performs so much better than our own! I definitely commend listening to Chris Beedel.

I can’t help feeling that I’ve missed out. We’re forever being told that the ‘baby boomers’ have been the most fortunate of generations, after all, Harold Macmillan quoted "Let us be frank about it: most of our people have never had it so good". That was in 1957 and it was in an effort to persuade the electorate that they were best off with the party in power. In fact, Macmillan nicked the phrase from the US Democratic Party who used the slogan ‘You’ve never had it so good’ in their 1952 election campaign. OK, we know things are not easy. The days of getting married in your early 20s, buying a house and raising a family, are long gone, as are jobs for life. However, the so-called Gen Z, those born after 1997, are apparently being wooed by hundreds of companies who are desperate to attract younger staff amid a post Covid recruitment crisis. The perk being offered is an official POETS Day. In my day we may have been guilty of leaving the odd meeting and failing to return to the office on a Friday afternoon, whereas it looks like Friday afternoons will become one of the busiest times in the pub with car parks full of white vans and company cars. Added to this, perks such as birthdays as a day off, and massages are being offered, so it looks like the work/life balance is getting stretched a bit. Nice for some, but what happens to all the rest of your staff while Gen Z are being pandered to?

If you are my Page 3 reader you’ll know I’ve been trying to find out the origin of the claim that UPVC can be recycled up to 10 times…a figure roundly used by many companies in our industry. I stumbled across a website that mentioned that the Watford based British Research Establishment (BRE) was the source, so I was straight on the ‘phone. It was eventually, answered, and I was asked to hold while they put me through to the Plastics Research section. As ever in this day and age, I wasn’t put through and was simply cut off. Two more tries and a less than interested receptionist said she’d get someone to call me back. Yeah right! No call or contact. Fairly typical of companies today but, maybe I’m being unfair: they’re probably all working from home or perhaps on strike. Hey ho!

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY?

Email Chris at: chris@glassnews.co.uk

‘TIME OUT’ WINNERS – APRIL!

Sudoku: Callum Sempill, IFC, Aylesbury, Bucks

Eye Spy: Gillian Shields, Leeds Spot the Difference: Mr A Loveday, Nottingham

Crossword: N Bonser, Carlisle, Cumbria

Congratulations to all our winners! Good luck in this months Time Out pages!

CONTENTS CONTACT DETAILS

glassnews™ is a registered Trademark.

The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility.

The paper we use is 100% recycled.

07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk

Kate Carnall Graphic Design

E: kate@glassnews.co.uk

Please

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE FIT SHOW; THE GGF ARE ON THE CASE AND POETS DAY IS OFFICIAL, PLUS A GRIPE

Continued from page 1...

“Brands are joining us from every corner of the globe making FIT Show 2023 a truly international showcase of the very best that the window, door, hardware, glass and components industry has to offer from countries including Canada, Turkey, China, France, Italy, Germany, America, India, Poland, Spain, Belgium, Finland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Denmark and the Netherlands.

“FIT Show 2023 visitors will be able to take advantage of the brand new Installer Hub which will include live product demos from brands including Whitesales, Strongdor, GGF, Made for Trade and Building our Skills. Installers will be able to receive training and support on how to install the latest products on the market, including rooflights, lantern roofs and steel doors, as well as watching demonstrations of the new pulse testing system for Part F compliance.

“Also new for FIT Show 2023 is the CPD Certified learning programme delivered in partnership with the GGF & FENSA. We have curated a programme of 30+ hours of seminars, all delivered by industry experts, tackling the big issues that we know our visitors will want to arm themselves with the knowledge and power to improve their businesses over the coming months.

“Our ten year celebrations will be in full swing on the second day of FIT Show (Wednesday 23rd May) as we stay open for our late night party. This will include the PiG’s Party with live music and an extra place for visitors to network after they have seen all of the latest products on the market.

“There has never been a more important time to plan a trip to FIT. For anyone who hasn’t registered yet, what are you waiting for? Head to www.fitshow.co.uk to register for your FREE ticket! I look forward to seeing you all at FIT Show 2023 this May!”

DID WE SPEND ALL OUR CASH DURING LOCKDOWN?

The findings of an independent survey by Deceuninck suggests that homeowners still have cash to spend, despite inflation and the pandemic home improvement boom.

Revealed this month [April], the survey conducted by leading pollster YouGov, and commissioned by Deceuninck, found that only 6% of respondents brought forward their home improvement spend during Covid.

In fact, double that (12%) delayed their spending, while 30% of homeowners said that COVID restrictions had no bearing on their plans. A further 45% weren’t planning home improvements before the pandemic.

Rob McGlennon, Director, Deceuninck said: “It’s very easy to get caught up in the headlines and just assume that everyone spent all of their money during lockdowns and don’t have anything left to spend.

“The market has slowed slightly this year as inflationary pressures have put the squeeze on household incomes – and there is no doubt that we saw increased spending during lockdown.

“But that doesn’t mean that people aren’t prepared to spend now, especially against the backdrop of still high energy prices.”

The Deceuninck commissioned YouGov study also found that spend on individual home improvements by homeowners in the last year three years was at a comparatively low level, with only 30% of respondents taking on projects costing £7,000 or more.

Looking ahead, Deceuninck’s research suggests homeowners are still prepared to spend, with 60% of respondents stating that they were planning to invest in home improvements within the next two years.

“If you look at current data for retail sales so far this year, the industry is perhaps at worst down around 10% on where it was in 2022”, Rob said.

He continued: “If, however, you take a longer-term comparison and go back to before the pandemic, sales are broadly inline but average order values are significantly up, suggesting that people have moved towards whole house replacements, which can only be a good thing for us as an industry.”

www.deceuninck.co.uk

SUMMER AMBIENCE FROM TUFFX

Long summer nights are coming and for one homeowner in Coleraine, Northern Ireland, this posed the question: how best to enjoy the garden as the sun goes down? Hampton Conservatories had the answer, and called leading glass specialists TuffX to help them achieve it.

An eight-pane timber glazed conservatory with bifold doors and roof lantern provided the customer with the perfect space to entertain and enjoy whatever the temperamental summer weather the country’s north coast might bring. Finished in brilliant white, the new room made a perfect addition to the house, matching the elegant sense of grandeur that the large, detached property and gardens enjoy.

Orangery and conservatory specialist Hampton Conservatories have been a TuffX customer for two years, after initially being

impressed by TuffX’s reliably good lead times. Twenty-six Ambience glass units were ordered to complete the roof lantern. These units used a combination of 4mm clear, low E toughened glass panes and 4mm self-cleaning clear toughened glass which remains cleaner for longer with optimum clarity, keeping maintenance to a minimum for the owner.

Hampton Conservatories’ managing director, Mervyn Montgomery said: “The customer was after an indoor-outdoor feel with lots of light, extending the property out into the generous garden to better

enjoy summer evenings. A roof lantern gives the room additional height and light, and TuffX’s Ambience roof glass guarantees high performance in terms of temperature control, durability, maintenance and aesthetics.”

The new room is already proving popular as Hampton Conservatories have received enquiries from the client’s friends, who have been able to see for themselves what a light, airy yet temperate addition to a home a conservatory topped with TuffX’s Ambience roof glass can offer.

WIN £10 CASH PRIZE!!

DN11 9UU or Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk. Entry deadline: 20/05/23.

Name:

Address:

Email:

Tel:

Postcode:

"We have curated a programme of 30+ hours of seminars, all delivered by industry experts, tackling the big issues that we know our visitors will want to arm themselves with."

The Decalu88 Flush Casement. The future of aluminium in the making.

U-VALUE OF 1.2W/M2K – MEETS PART L NEWBUILD REQUIREMENTS DOUBLE-GLAZED!

U-VALUES OF AS LOW AS 0.8W/M2K TRIPLE GLAZED – FUTURE HOMES READY

KNOCK-IN GLAZING BEAD FOR RAPID INSTALLATION. SINGLE GLAZING BEAD ACROSS DECALU88 RANGE

PATENTED THERMAL BREAK

FLUSH INTERNALLY AND EXTERNALLY WITH EQUAL SIGHTLINES

MARINE-GRADE, METALLIC AND DUAL COLOUR FINISHES AS STANDARD

FULLY TESTED TO PAS24

PRE-INSERTED FLUSH FINISH GASKET FOR QUICKER FABRICATION

Lower stock holding. Maximum opportunity. Want to make more? Get in touch!

‘WE ALL HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO DO SOMETHING’ SAYS FREEFOAM STOCKIST C & A BUILDING PRODUCTS

C & A Building Products has installed solar panels on its warehouse in the next step to improve its green credentials.

Family-run firm C & A Building Products, a Freefoam stockist for almost 20 years, is an independent supplier of plastic building materials and has been operating for 55 years across the UK.

In March last year, C & A Building Products used a local firm to install an 84 solar panel, 35-kilowatt system with 24-kilowatt battery storage on one of its warehouses at its Gillingham depot. Since installation, C & A Building Products has been 80% self-sufficient in energy, reaching as high as 100% on some days.

Darren Beaumont, Director at C & A Building Products, the driving force behind the scheme says: “Solar energy was something we have always considered. Everyone has to take some responsibility for the environment and as a business we should take our own fair share. There are so many ways that you can reduce energy consumption such as installing LED lightbulbs and recycling, if you can’t invest in something like solar panels. I think it’s something that everyone should consider on some level.

“The solar energy we produce first charges our requirement, secondly charges the battery, and once the batteries are full, anything left gets automatically exported back to the grid. Last year, we exported around 30% of our energy. The system will also use the energy in the battery before it takes any from the grid, which is great.

“It will take us less than five years to make back our investment in solar energy. We have seen how successful the installation has been for us and have decided to expand

GEOCEL SPONSORS ALL MASTIC LTD’S TRAINING ACADEMY

it. We are going to install 40 additional solar panels to our second, smaller warehouse this spring.”

Just as working with suppliers and partners who are considering their green credentials is important to C & A Building Products, it is equally as important to Freefoam.

Freefoam is building momentum on its own sustainability journey, transitioning from a linear to a circular economy with a range of projects and initiatives across all areas of the business, from recycling and rainwater harvesting to introducing a closed loop production process. In the UK, 100% of the electricity Freefoam uses comes from solar energy.

Colin St John, Commercial Director at Freefoam, says: “To achieve carbon reduction on every level of the supply chain, it is so important that everyone does their bit. C & A Building Products is doing just that and Freefoam is delighted to be able to work with businesses who are taking sustainability seriously.

“In addition to our existing initiatives, we are rolling out further projects in the coming months in our own manufacturing processes and with customers. We would love to hear from any of our customers who are considering their sustainability journey and planning their own green initiatives.”

Learn more about Freefoam’s products, service and support by visiting www. freefoam.com or calling 0800 002 9903. Follow @freefoam. And to check out Freefoam’s sustainability initiatives, visit https://freefoam.com/professional/ sustainability-archive

To learn more about C & A Building Products, visit www.cabp.co.uk.

FRAMEX GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Establishing a business in the middle of a global pandemic might have proved challenging for some. For one Lancashirebased fabricator, however, opening its doors in 2020 was the perfect time to tap into a captive audience. Today, business continues to bloom for FRAMEX, with huge demand for its high-quality aluminium windows and doors from nearby customers in the picturesque Rossendale Valley.

FRAMEX was founded with the aim of supporting local builders, installers, and architects with ready-to-install aluminium glazing solutions, backed up by exceptional customer service and expert technical advice.

Following significant investment into both machinery and people, FRAMEX has since expanded into a 15,000sq ft manufacturing facility in the heart of the historic mill town of Waterfoot. Here, a 30-strong team fabricates its portfolio of Senior Architectural Systems aluminium windows and doors, as well as flat roof lights and lanterns and a range of commercial glazing solutions.

Tim Mooney, Managing Director, FRAMEX says: “Our dedicated team combines technical expertise with experience, delivering high-quality products for our customers every time, whether they are working on a new build or a commercial installation. From manufacture through to despatch and delivery, we pride ourselves on getting it right and adding value at every step, providing fully finished products ready for installation.”

While demand for the aesthetics, strength and slim sightlines of aluminium grows, so does FRAMEX, which now produces hundreds of windows and doors per week.

FRAMEX’s success has been recognised locally, with the company being named Best New Business finalists at the 2021 Red Rose Awards and recognised for its commitment to local investment at the 2021 Rossendale Business Awards.

Meanwhile, the firm has recently opened its showroom, the best of its kind locally. Just up the road from its fabrication facility, it showcases FRAMEX’s portfolio of casement, flush and tilt and turn windows, bi-fold and sliding doors, and roof lights and lanterns and is open to both trade and commercial customers and the general public.

www.framexuk.com

Geocel is proud to announce its sponsorship of All Mastic Ltd.’s training and NVQ assessment programme by providing a range of its most popular products and other equipment free of charge for use by the programme’s trainees.

All Mastic Ltd is a mastic sealant application company based in the southwest of England. Working in association with both the CITB and Association of Sealant Applicators, All Mastic runs a variety of training courses from its HQ in Portishead, Somerset. A one-day course is available for contractors who are looking to upskill while a threeday course offers experienced applicators the opportunity to gain an NVQ Level 2 qualification in Sealant Application. All Mastic also acts as the UK provider for the CITB SAP apprenticeship course, providing a location for other sealant application contractors send their apprentices on day release for a period of 18 months to learn about all aspects of the industry.

As part of the sponsorship, Geocel is providing its sealant and adhesive products – specifically Geocel HM and Dow C60 and DOWSIL™ 796 and 791 – for use during the training sessions, as well as sealant guns, aprons and other associated equipment. In return, All Mastic will provide training sessions for Geocel employees and promote the Geocel brand throughout the sponsorship.

“We are delighted to be joining forces with Geocel in the first partnership of its kind within the sealant industry,” said Warren Hill, Contracts Director at All Mastic. “Throughout the year, we’ll be teaching students all aspects of joint sealant application and feel that this new partnership enables us to use the very best materials available to teach all our trainees.”

Colin Macdonald, UK Regional Sales Manager at Geocel added: “The sponsorship gives us an opportunity to give back to the industry and support All Mastic with its fantastic academy. It will also help us to capture the interest of individuals at the start of their career and introduce them to everything Geocel has to offer.”

For more information on All Mastic’s training courses, please visit: www.allmastic. co.uk/training-and-nvq-assessment

To find out more about the Geocel product range, visit: www.geocel.co.uk.

Chris Candlin, Managing Director at C & A Building Products, and Darren Beaumont, Director at C & A Building Products

• 4.5m span in two panes!

• Locks on all four sides of the sliding door. PAS24-2016.

• ‘Part-open’ sliding door locking.

CLEARVIEW HOME IMPROVEMENTS RECEIVES CHAS ACCREDITATION

KOLORSEAL WITHDRAWS FROM NFA RACE

Over the last 10 years, the Kolorseal Ltd team has enjoyed being part of the NFAs and fully supported all it stands for as an event for the industry. Having won the last four years category of colour specialist, Deborah Hendry, Managing Director, considers it is now time to step aside whilst holding the title. She comments, “As another strong female stated recently, knowing in your heart when it is time to go is so very important and now is definitely that time. As a team we have proven ourselves to be worthy winners and we are so grateful for all the support we have received from the industry.

LINIAR INCREASES CAPACITY WITH THE OPENING OF £3 MILLION MIXING PLANT

Liniar, the UK’s leading PVCu systems company and a subsidiary of Quanex, is prepared for further growth with the opening of its new state-of-the-art mixing plant in Denby, Derbyshire.

Officially opened by Scott Zuehlke, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer and Mark Livingston, Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller from the Quanex Senior Leadership Team, the new £3 million facility mirrors the footprint of Liniar’s existing PVCu mixing plant. The two mixing plants will run in tandem using the very latest technology to seamlessly switch between rigid and foam PVCu mixes for optimum efficiency.

Home-improvement specialist Clearview Home Improvements has received the nationally recognised CHAS (The Contractor’s Health and Safety Scheme) accreditation as part of its ongoing commitment to deliver excellence in the sector.

CHAS offers third-party accreditation to ensure that its service focuses on improving health and safety.

Clearview has been awarded the Principal Contractor status, which places the North West installer of windows, doors and living spaces, alongside major housebuilders and giants of the construction sector as a leader in its field.

“This is a fantastic achievement for the company,” begins Richard Ashley, Clearview’s Contracts Director.

“It demonstrates to homeowners that our practices are second-to-none and that when we work on their properties, we do so in a regulated and safe manner. We’re one of a handful of companies in our field with this leading accreditation.

Richard continues: “And, it’s only the beginning of an ongoing process to ensure that Clearview is the leader regarding quality and health and safety within the fenestration and construction sectors.”

To gain the accreditation, Cleaview has to undergo a rigorous, 20-point assessment of its existing Health and Safety practices, specifically regarding staff training, best practice policies and live site audits.

Becoming CHAS accredited follows after Clearview was named as the Installer of the Year at the G-Awards, the glass and glazing sector’s most prestigious awards ceremony.

“It has been a fantastic couple of months for Clearview. We take pride in this receiving and gaining these independently assessed awards and certifications,” adds Richard. “They are proof of the quality of work and service that Clearview provides and are a real benefit to staff and customers alike.”

To make meaningful and sustainable progress however, companies need to open up the stakes for others to get a chance to win.”

Kolorseal Ltd is therefore removing itself from the NFA nominations stage with Deborah believing that stepping away from the competition, while the company is at the top, is both necessary and the right thing to do moving forward.

Deborah concludes, “As nominees, Kolorseal has had a great experience, winning four NFA accolades, which demonstrates that all our accomplishments and success stories have been recognised.

The whole team is very grateful to those who have nominated us again and to those who voted for us over the years. Now is the time for a graceful exit from the NFA race and it will be very exciting to see who wins this category at this year’s event.”

Kolorseal is an award-winning, colour coating specialist with a niche target audience in the fenestration and building sectors.

Please visit the website www.kolorseal.co.uk for more information.

The build and fit-out, which took just over ten months, has been delivered on time and on budget by Liniar’s internal project team and the twin mixing plants now offer the largest PVCu mixing capacity in Europe. The ongoing investment in Liniar’s plant and machinery means the systems company can continue on its path of sustainable, steady growth whilst maintaining an industry-leading 99% OTIF rate across its loyal customer base.

Martin Thurley, Group Managing Director says: “The completion of our new mixing plant allows us to increase capacity and enhance operational flexibility – both of which ensure we can continue our growth plans without compromising on either safety or customer service. Building in additional headroom ahead of the requirement to do so is a proven business model for Liniar and helps to assure Liniar’s continued customer service excellence as output increases.

“I’m delighted the timing has worked to enable Scott and Mark to perform the official opening ceremony for the new mixing plant. Quanex’s support enables us to continue to make further investments in our facilities, teams and logistics, all with sustainability in mind to reach our Net Zero target.”

Martin concludes, “I’d also like to give a special mention to the Liniar team that

managed this important project. 2022 has been another year with lots of external supply chain pressures to navigate, many of which could have easily affected the deadlines. With a well-executed plan, they have not only delivered our world-class mixing facility on time and on budget, they’ve achieved this with virtually no disruption to the wider Liniar team and site.”

Liniar is already embarking on the next phase of its site expansion with the addition of a 350,000 sq. ft warehouse and manufacturing facility during 2023. This will further enhance Liniar’s marketleading customer service whilst bringing employment opportunities to the area.

Richard Ashley, Clearview Home Improvement’s Contracts Director, showcasing the company’s CHAS accreditation

Mixing Plant Opening (From left to right Mark Livingston, Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller, Quanex, Adam Gale, Mixing Plant Manager, Martin Thurley, Group Managing Director, Scott Zuehlke, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Quanex, Lee Hodson, Maintenance Manager)

Mixing Plant Team

Mixing Plant Team

We’re the home of Sheerline

Make Part L compliance a cinch with u-values as low as 1.0W/m2K! Save time on site with clip in beads – no wedge gasket Secured by Design options available across the complete

METAL TECHNOLOGY LAUNCHES NEW SILICONE POINTED 65MM CURTAIN WALLING SYSTEM

Designed for use in high rise or multi-storey applications, Metal Technology Ltd's new 17-65 Silicone Pointed 65mm curtain walling system has been developed as an extension to our standard System 17-65 65mm High Rise Curtain Walling adopting the same stick built assembly process with overlapping transom to mullion connections with bespoke glazing inserts and retaining lugs, which offer flush vertical and horizontal joints.

This new system provides greater clearance for the glass units to move within the curtain walling profiles when compared with the System 17 SP 50mm suite. The system has been designed with a range of

structural mullions and transoms from 50mm to 225mm, allowing architects and designers a variety of aesthetic solutions.

• CWCT dynamically tested and to BS EN 13050 for weather performance.

• Designed as a 'Stick' built system, giving optimal creative freedom through a range of profiles and technical options, whilst meeting security and specification requirements.

• Various finishes can be provided internally and externally.

• Expansion joints are allowed on every floor or every other floor to accommodate any building movement.

• Specialist glazed units from 32mm to 54mm can be achieved.

• Black neutral cure silicone gives a flush finished façade and bespoke thermally broken profiles also provide a flush perimeter detail.

• The system is designed to aid compliance with the latest thermal requirements of the current building regulations, in conjunction with the correct glass specification.

For further information please visit - https://www.metaltechnology.com/ products/system-17-65-sp/

transformation

PROFINE UK MD NAMED LEADER OF THE YEAR

Robert Thiroff, managing director of profine (UK), has received two highly respected, regional business awards and reached the shortlist for a third.

On the evening of Thursday 23rd March, at a ceremony held at the Crowne Plaza, Nottingham, Robert was announced as the winner of the Transformational Leader category at the 2023 East Midlands Leadership Awards.

The award acknowledged Robert’s achievements in turning around a business acquired by the profine group in 2020 and which had twice fallen into administration under two previous owners.

Robert and the profine team have successfully reversed the fortunes of the business taking it from making a loss to the secure and thriving position it enjoys today, increasing its profitability by 350%, winning back customers, and safeguarding over 200 jobs.

Robert’s strong leadership skills, genuine people focus and commitment to the wellbeing and professional development of those around him have all been central to this success. Combined, they have contributed to a dynamic company culture where there are high levels of employee engagement.

At the ceremony, which was attended by 250 regional business leaders, Robert was

also presented with the overall Leader of the Year award.

This award is not open for nominations and instead is selected by the judges from the 11 separate category winners. The chosen recipient is an individual or organisation that embodies outstanding leadership and who is an exemplar for the East Midlands. Robert was also shortlisted for the Company Leader (100+ Employees) award.

The East Midlands Leadership Awards are staged by TheBusinessDesk.com – a market leading, digital source of regional business news. They are staged annually and are mirrored by similar awards staged in the West Midlands and the North of England.

Speaking of the awards, Sam Metcalf, Midlands editor of TheBusinessDesk.com, said: “The standard of entries at this year’s East Midlands Leadership Awards was higher than ever and the judges had an especially difficult job choosing who should come out on top.

“All too often the brand obscures the individual, and so it’s always great to celebrate the people behind the success of a company. I’d like to congratulate all of the 2023 shortlisted and winning business leaders and I look forward to following their journey in the future.”

EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS PRODUCTS SPECIFIED FOR ENTRANCE UPGRADE

Epwin Window Systems curtain walling system and Optima windows have been installed in an entrance to a block of residential flats in the Greystone Gardens area of Rutherglen, Glasgow. Owned by Rutherglen & Cambuslang Housing Association, the project required upgrading six windows, main entrance door and curtain walling screening 8077m high x 2360m wide across the three stories of the building.

The contract was secured by Gold Seal Home Care Ltd, an Epwin Window Systems fabricator and installer that has been supplying and fitting window systems in all parts of Scotland for over 30 years.

Working closely with the inhouse Epwin Window Systems commercial specification team, Gold Seal Home Care Ltd were able to find the most effective project solution to help Rutherglen & Cambuslang Housing Association manage its budget and ensure they secured the contract. The commercial specification team was also on hand throughout the entire process as part of the company’s end-to-end service available for all commercial projects, regardless of project size.

The award-winning Optima from Epwin Window Systems is the UK’s most widely specified window and door system and is used on projects of all sizes in all sectors. Its intelligent design, elegant aesthetics and exceptional performance make it a compelling solution across all projects.

Epwin Window Systems’ curtain walling is a high-performing thermally broken aluminium system which is PVC-U clad both internally and externally for warmth and low maintenance benefits.

Following an initial onsite survey to establish the project requirements, the Epwin Window Systems commercial team produced detailed specification drawings to demonstrate the proposed solution.  They also developed fabrication cutting lists and provided fabrication assistance. The products were manufactured in Hazy Grey

on White to match the building’s aesthetics and provide a seamless visual finish.

Gary Millership, Specification Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Our commercial specification team adds value to our service and, by extension, to our commercial customers. It’s a level of support we are proud to offer all our approved commercial customers.”

Gold Seal Home Care and the Epwin Window Systems commercial specification team worked together to ensure installation ran smoothly, despite several challenges. The building’s brick and plasterwork construction added an extra layer of complexity and specialist scaffolding was also required to access the site.

Installation was scheduled for January. Despite the winter weather conditions, the expertise of everyone involved meant the project took just three days to complete.  The project has upgraded the entrance to the block of flats and given an enhanced visual appearance.

Tel: 0808 101 4143

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

INDEPENDENT NETWORK INSTALLER RADLEY AYLESBURY REPLACE TRADITIONAL ADVERTISING WITH AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Radley Aylesbury, who install windows made from the HALO profile, has adopted a unique approach to bringing in new business, which means that it’s now exceeding its sales targets month on month.

With the aim of giving something back to charities and the local community, the company have decided to re-deploy its marketing spend, abandon traditional advertising methods, and instead launch the ‘Radley Stage Trailer’ which enables them to reach its customer base by showcasing its brand at events within its geographical target area. The branded vehicle is hired out free of charge and the team now regularly support

at occasions such as school sports days and charity car shows.

Director, Nathan Ing said, “The Radley Stage has proved to be a huge success. It

gives us a good feeling to know that we are making a difference to events that maybe don’t have the budget to hire a stage trailer, or even allowing them to save on hire costs. It’s nice to feel like we are giving something back.”

The trailer has proved hugely popular, with many customers referencing it at enquiry stage. With over 20 event bookings in the diary for 2023 already, it’s looking to be another successful year ahead.

VEKA Commercial Director Tim Taylor said, “Radley Aylesbury is providing an exceptional service to its customers, along with quality products that are backed by the

Independent Network Insurance Backed Guarantee. Its Customer Satisfaction Score currently stands at an impressive 98.5%, and we believe that this innovative approach to marketing plays a role in this, as the team have been able to grow a strong, solid reputation within their local area.”

Nathan continued, “As with any business, our aim is to get people through the door. We work hard to provide this service, and it’s a winning solution for all parties. We have created huge amounts of awareness and our customers are safe in the knowledge that we are a trusted brand when it comes to the replacement of their windows and doors.”

SERIES OF CHANGES AT RENSON UK SEES INCREASED PRODUCT DEMAND

Ventilation louvre specialist Renson UK has seen an influx of demand for its market-leading products following a series of changes at the Maidstone company.

Implemented to drive business growth and development, the company has seen both internal re-structuring to ensure better customer service, and wider price adjustments put into place in order to be more compatible with the wider louvre market.

National Sales Manager Martin Daniels comments: “Renson opened its doors over a century ago as a manufacturer of window and door hardware, and for the past 50 years, has specialised in the design, development and production of high-performance ventilation products, supplying fully tested, high-quality louvres for every application.

“Renson has always had a reputation for being the premium option within the louvre market, providing customers with the finest bespoke products, alongside our vast range of standard products.

“Over the past year, I was joined by the team to have a careful look at all our offerings, and following changes in personnel, system changes, and streamlining of production processes, we are now able to offer the high-quality and market-leading products associated with Renson, at competitive prices.”

Renson specialises in high-quality, fully tested louvre systems, mechanical

ventilation products, fans and window vents, while also providing design support, and NBS specifications to ensure compliance and technical performance.

The company also specialises in integrated ventilation solutions (IVS), a complete, oneunit airtight and rain resistant ventilation system that includes blanking panels, insulated blanking panels, bespoke plenums and factory-fitted dampers.

Martin concludes: “Myself and the wider senior management team are very excited to be ushering in a new era for Renson UK, which builds on the decades-old reputation of premium quality and now combines competitive pricing in order to deliver the full package to our customers.

“For market-leading louvres at a price you wouldn’t expect, get in touch with Renson UK today.”

For more information, visit www.renson.net/en-gb

EASTER TAX FREE BONUS FROM FORCE 8

One of the many benefits of a EOT (Employees Owned Trust) is that every employee can receive up to £3600 tax free within the tax year. And this was the case for everyone at Force 8 with a £500 tax free bonus for the Easter holidays, which followed a similar pay-out before Christmas. The workers are delighted that they can benefit from the success of the company and the time and effort that they have put in.

“The EOT has totally altered the company dynamics and created the perfect team spirit within the workforce, everyone has become a quality control expert making sure every product is perfect and delivered on time”, comments Lisa Mottershead operations director.

EVOLUTION AND VEKA GO FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Bedfordshire based Evolution Windows a specialist manufacturer of timber alternative windows and doors, is celebrating continued success despite the turbulent times of the past few years. The company which uses a unique 82mm patented profile and has built a successful partnership with leading PVCu Manufacturer VEKA plc for the last 11 years says that quality, service and VEKA’s strong operational support are the key elements of its success.

The prestige brand was founded in 2005 and has grown to become a leading player in the timber alternative segment with one of the most desirable products available.

Evolution markets its products through an approved dealer network of independent customers right across the UK. Products are designed to emulate traditional timber aesthetics and every window and door is hand finished to create a genuinely authentic timberalternative look and feel.

VEKA Managing Director, Neil Evans said, “We are pleased to be in partnership with Evolution and UK Windows and Doors Group, who have successfully carved out a niche in the marketplace. It offers a high specification product range of window and doors, that bring something different to the market and VEKA is honoured to be part of that offer. We look forward to

continuing the partnership over the long-term”.

Paul McEneaney, General Manager of Evolution said, “Our position in the market continues to be strong, even with the growth in competition for timber alternatives. Evolution remains highly desirable to our target demographic, and we have enjoyed growth in market share over recent years. Our unique 82mm patented profile makes us distinctive to customers market and our partner profile supplier VEKA extrudes this exclusively for Evolution.”

The relationship between the two businesses has gone from strength to strength over the years. Paul said, “The day-to-day support from the VEKA Customer service team has allowed us to be consistent in achieving delivery dates and the highest quality standard of products that exceed our customer expectations. Our Business Development Team is always on hand to provide additional support, which gives us extra confidence in this partnership.”

www.veka.co.uk

Lisa continues “Force 8 has always been a family business and extremely successful under the guidance of Dennis Sumner the managing director. After receiving many attractive offers to buy the company Dennis decided that the EOT was the best way forward for the company. Some of the staff from the shopfloor to the office have been with the company for over 20 years, and Dennis wanted to make sure the company was secure, and most of all the staff felt secure, the EOT was the perfect solution”.

An Employee-Owned company is one where over 51% of the shares are held in a trust for the benefit of all employees, in the case of Force 8 its 100%. The trust which oversees the management of the company includes shop floor representatives and one non-working independent person The trustee board must

meet certain legal requirements and ensure that the company is always acting in the best interest of all the employees. Alongside this, a Forum is made up from staff and directors with the aim of improving the company and discussing new ideas. Companies with employee ownership often see greater productivity, reduced absenteeism, increased revenue, and higher profitability. These

successes also tend to continue over time, as the motivation of employees continues to build, which is evident with Force 8.

In an industry where staff and skill shortages are starting to bite, Force 8 has found what it believes is a unique and longlasting solution to the problem.

www.force8.uk

Think cladding. Your customers are.

Cladding has seen a huge spike in demand in the past year. According to the Rated People Home Improvement Trends Report 2023, cladding saw the biggest increase in demand in 2022 out of any home improvement job – a massive 743%!

That alone is impressive, but what makes Freefoam’s stunning range of easy-to-install, long-lasting cladding stand out from the crowd even more? Our choice of colours, of course.

Get in touch now on 0800 002 9903 to find out how your customers can get confident with colour cladding.

We offer a variety of colours to suit any homeowner’s requirements from pale shades of cream and grey to stronger blues and greens.

See what Freefoam’s colour cladding looks like on a home. Our PVC Cladding Visualiser Tool at freefoam.com will bring your ideas to life.

MODERN WINDOWS, COUNTRY STYLE

Older properties often have unusual features and their own unique charm. Finding and fitting windows that can accommodate modern functionality and features while remaining sympathetic to a property’s style can be challenging. Discover how GL Glazing and REHAU rose to that challenge in the country village of Lea Marston.

Just outside the town of Sutton Coldfield, in the picturesque Warwickshire countryside, is the village of Lea Marston. On the outskirts of the village lies a cluster of older rural cottages called Paddys Row. which like many properties across the UK countryside, often have unconventional layouts. This includes period features such as exposed wood beams, tiled floors and large open fireplaces.

A CONTEMPORARY COTTAGE LOOK

One of the Paddys Row cottage owners wanted to replace their property’s timber windows as the frames had become worn out, impacting the home’s thermal performance. With the owners unsure about what replacement windows to choose, they contacted Birmingham-based installer GL Glazing in early 2022 for their recommendation. Their requirements were clear –a frame and profile that while keeping with the cottage’s original design and character, would provide excellent thermal efficiency and security.

“Though homeowners expect security and energy efficiency as standard, there were multiple factors that marked out the Paddys Row project as more complex than most,” explains Gary Lynch, Managing Director at GL Glazing. “For example, the cottage had an unusual layout, including several

different-sized window recesses across the ground and first floors. There were also 12 windows to be replaced in total, with some facing the road, so we also needed to ensure good acoustic performance too.”

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PRODUCT

With the homeowner’s requirements in mind and the need to complete the project in a short period of time, GL Glazing recommended REHAU’s Rio Flush Fit system. The solution’s clean lines, jointing options and availability in a variety of colours and foils for an authentic-looking finish greatly influenced this decision, offering a highly convincing alternative to wood. Additionally, as the Rio is available in chamfered and sculptured frames, it is a good match for both new builds and, in the case of Paddys Row, period properties requiring a more considered approach.

On GL Glazing’s advice, the cottage owners chose Pearl Grey frames with welded joints, which would provide a modern, understated look that complements adjacent Paddys Row properties. Alongside this, the specified frames enjoyed a certified ‘A’ Windows Energy Rating and are among the most thermally efficient on the market, achieving 1.3 W/m2K thanks to glass widths of 28mm and 34mm. These features are useful in cottages such as those on Paddys Row which have low levels of insulation that can lead to draughts and quicker heat loss across the property.

Similarly, the Rio frames have the highest BSI weather performance ratings for wind, air and water, meaning they possess a durability often beyond timber frames. Combined with the fact they are virtually maintenance-free and, unlike their wooden counterparts, do not require treatment, they can offer leading and consistent performance over its lifetime with comparatively little effort from the homeowner.

Rio windows also offer a high level of security – a key consideration for older properties in quieter rural areas that can be targeted by thieves. Specifically, they meet the stringent requirements set out in PAS24, with accreditation to this standard

providing further assurance of high security performance through an independent testing process.

Furthermore, given the cottage’s location near a busy through-road, the addition of 28mm and 34mm glass panels also greatly reduced the noise created by passing traffic. As acoustic glass also has the added benefit of being stronger than standard double glazing, further assurances could be given over the home’s security. Alongside this, the Rio window profile itself benefits from enhanced noise reduction qualities, further improving occupant comfort.

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE

“The Paddys Row project was more involved than typical domestic installations we usually carry out,” said Gary. “The frames needed to be designed with various recess sizes in mind, and specified and installed in a short period.

“This is because the owners were still living in the cottage throughout the refit, so it was vital we chose frames that would be quick, simple and non-invasive to install. The Rio, therefore, stood out as an excellent frame to use for this project, and so it proved – it only took us two days and 16 hours to install the new frames once the recesses were measured and the parts were cut. Though the fitting process itself was straightforward, the cottage’s age also meant that GL Glazing had to manage some unusual dimensions that are rarely found in the majority of today’s homes, as Gary explains. “The team had to work with some non-standard window sizes, and some of the older windows had deeper sills too, meaning everything had to be measured and installed more meticulously than your typical refit.

“As Rio frames are also reinforced, we had to be very careful with the cottage’s existing brickwork, making sure any drilling maintained structural integrity and didn’t damage the façade. It’s difficult to say if an aluminium equivalent would be as cooperative in a building of similar age, so given the energy-efficiency requirements, polymer was a natural choice.”

Taking the project’s unique challenges into account, the work was completed on time and to budget. As a result, the Paddys Row cottage now has windows that fit with the look of the surrounding area, to the extent that the owners say neighbours often compliment them on their new frames.

“The cottage’s traditional and historic look was very important to the homeowners, so we’re glad we were able to maintain that look while upgrading their windows,” Gary concludes. “To hear that not only they are pleased with the frames, but their neighbours are too, is therefore a great bonus. Thanks to the Rio frames, this project was carried out seamlessly, even with the need to adapt windows to fit nonstandard openings. I definitely wouldn’t hesitate to contact REHAU again for an installation with similar requirements.”

To find out more about REHAU Rio Flush Fit windows and the different looks and finishes available, see: https://www.rehau.com/sites-gb/rio.

VEKA’S VISION FOR 2025

With Building Regulations set to change again in 2025, VEKA wants to reassure customers that they are focused on preparing suitable solutions that will be effective across all market sectors, are fabricator friendly and will meet all required legislation.

In 2025, the Future Homes Standard (FHS) will become mandatory, with the ambition that new homes will produce 75 – 80% less carbon emissions than those built under current regulations. It is anticipated that the standard window in a new build will be required to have a U-Value of 0.80 W/ m2K (note the two decimal places), this will be confirmed after the consultation due to take place later this spring. Many VEKA and HALO casement systems can already meet this value, and VEKA is working hard behind the scenes to understand the implications of various imminent consultations, to ensure that they offer a suitable solution. For example, a consultation on Part Q is on the horizon, which potentially means that easily accessible windows and doors may be required to contain laminate glass, which will ultimately have an effect the U-Value of a finished product.

VEKA Technical Director Paul Kennington said, “We need to fully understand what the consultations of this year will bring. With results due in the spring, our team will be working hard to find fabricator friendly solutions to the new legislation. We will deliver this in a traditional 70mm frame, so that our customers can offer the same products to both the new build and replacement markets and there will be no requirement for new machinery.”

There are also practicalities to consider, it is true that the climate

is getting warmer. The UK is experiencing hotter summers, which means that dark colours could be susceptible to thermal movement. Even the smallest change will make a difference to a U-Value. More storms during winter months also mean that reinforcement is essential.

Paul continued, “We are taking time to ensure that we get this right. Our aim is to minimise the impact of these changes for our customers by offering hassle free solutions.”

www.veka.co.uk

Thermally Enhanced

& Security

System 10-35 Hi / Hi+

Commercial Door and Framing

PAS 24 Security Tested

Panic Exit (Push Rail or Touch Bar)

Multi-Point Locking + Mag Locks

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE ARCOFRAME CELEBRATE THEIR 20TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Chamber Member Arcoframe are the leading profile bending company in the UK, located in Sutton Fold Industrial Park, they have been manufacturing top-quality double glazed UPVC windows for clients in the local area and beyond for 20 years.

Suzanne Hill, Accounts Manager at Arcoframe, explained: “Arcoframe is a family business was set up with just 4 members of staff and has now grown to a highly skilled team of 35. “We offer a bespoke service and are passionate about our customers, having seen an upturn in home building in the construction industry and home improvement sector Arcoframe has purchased the unit next door and doubled our factory size and output which compliments their expanding customer base.”

On the back of their success, Arcoframe have decided to give back to their employees, recognising their input and commitment to the business by supporting them through the cost of living crisis.

WELCOME VAL FEATHERSTONE

Due to growth and expansion, Arcoframe employed Val in November 2022.

We are delighted to welcome Val to our ever expanding team here at Arcoframe

Val worked her way up from office trainee to Customer Care Manager and as such, she has a wealth of experience in profile bending and product knowledge.

Here at Arcoframe, Val will be dealing with all your quotations and product queries.

Suzanne continued: “We’re really pleased that the business is growing, and we recognise that our skilled team play a massive part in this – that’s why as well as giving the staff a 10% pay rise over the past twelve months.

“The directors have also agreed to pay the staff a £160 cost of living bonus per month, to help them through the winter months.” Arcoframe are conscious of their carbon footprint and are currently in talks with solar power companies with a view to covering the whole factory roof with solar panels, giving them the capacity to generate their own power.

Suzanne explained: “We have increased our fleet of vehicles and are in the process of

purchasing an electric van, with a vision to increase to 50% electric in the next 2-3 years.

“Arcoframe are very much committed to developing our Net Zero capabilities for the future and have signed up to the “Starting your journey to Net Zero” virtual course through St Helens Chamber, helping to lead the way as a Together To Zero ambassador by becoming greener as part of Liverpool City Region’s commitment to become Net Zero carbon by 2040.”

To find out more about Arcoframe visit https://www.arcoframe.co.uk/

With a background in building and construction, Jimmy has over 10 years experience in profile bending and is responsible for the daily running of ArcOframe’s factory.

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS!

• Company founders: James Chorley, Charles Richards and Anthony Richards MBE

• Products: Bespoke arched and angled UPVC frames

• Factory size: 25,000 sq ft

• Number of employees: 29

• Nationwide delivery: To the trade and domestic, using our own fleet

• Average service time: 3 working weeks from date of order

• Factory capacity: Doubled in size, increasing staff and turnover

• Working towards: Improving our carbon footprint and heading towards net zero

• In the future: We are installing solar energy in coming months, recycling waste and looking to purchase electric vehicles

Jimmy Co Owner

Jim Anthony Richard MBE Managing Director Anthony was made Honorary Freeman of the Metropolitan borough of St Helens in 2000, won Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2004 and recieved his MBE in 2006.

Charles Co Owner Backed by his wealth of experience in profile bending, Charles is responsible for both the sales and marketing and ensuring customer requirements are always met.

CHRIS BEEDEL, HEAD OF ADVOCACY & STAKEHOLDER RELATIONS AT THE GGF TALKS ABOUT THE ENERGY COMPANY OBLIGATION (ECO+) SCHEME AND THE HEAT AND BUILDINGS STRATEGY

Chris Beedel, Head of Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations at the GGF is interviewed by Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion.

The question? Where does the window and door industry sit in the government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO+) Scheme and the Heat and Buildings Strategy as they desperately steer us towards Net Zero? The answer? At the bottom of the pile, literally. I found a paragraph in the 230 odd page document that stated: “Windows and doors:

Both double and triple glazing can decrease energy loss and save money on bills. There can be other benefits too, such as soundproofing and reducing condensation.”  Yes, It was the last entry when it came down to listing the various insulation methods for buildings.

The catch-all statement that introduces this strategy document says: “The heat and buildings strategy sets out the government’s plan to significantly cut carbon emissions from the UK’s 30 million homes and workplaces in a simple, low-cost and green way whilst ensuring this remains affordable and fair for households across the country. Like the transition to electric vehicles, this will be a gradual transition which will start

by incentivizing consumers and driving down costs.

There are about 30 million buildings in the UK. Heating these buildings contributes to almost a quarter of all UK emissions. Addressing the carbon emissions produced in heating and powering our homes, workplaces and public buildings can not only save money on energy bills and improve lives, but can support up to 240,000 skilled green jobs by 2035, boosting the economic recovery, levelling up across the country and ensuring we build back better.”

The GGF, on behalf of our industry has jumped on this document and commissioned an extensive piece of research which they are presenting to the government as it is clear that they have absolutely no grasp of the importance of glazing when it comes to saving heat and energy, generally. They also seem to think the proportion of double glazed properties, at around 86%, is a success, whereas the huge proportion of these windows need replacing to achieve current building regulations yet alone those coming in 2025. Chris Beedel talks about the issues, produces a series of fascinating statistics, and is a must ‘listen to’ for those of us in the fenestration industry.

Rio Flush Fit

Designed for timeless style

KOLORSEAL AND HURST DOORS PROVIDE INSTALLERS WITH WINNING OPTIONS

Leading colour coating specialist Kolorseal Ltd and Hurst Doors have once again come together to provide installers with the perfect colour solution.

The two companies have a longstanding working relationship which is helping installers to grow their business opportunities.

For Hurst Doors, Kolorseal is the best colour coating specialist in respect of both retail and commercial colouring projects. This was most recently demonstrated by Purbeck Windows and Conservatories who won Hurst’s Installation of the Month competition.

The Dusty Grey colour in RAL 7037 on a Rustic Cottage door provided a stunning effect on this replacement door project, with the homeowners highly satisfied with the overall appearance.

Purbeck Windows & Conservatories is a Dorset-based company providing a variety of services and products to the local market. These include replacement and repair projects such as doors, window and conservatory installations.

Mark Spicer from Purbeck Windows commented, “Being able to rely on the quality guarantees offered by suppliers is so important to my business as this generates referral work for me. The homeowners on this project were truly delighted with the finished look.”

Whether on a single door or a multiple installation, Hurst and Kolorseal share each others commitment to the highest standards for the industry, with Hurst able to offer one of the broadest ranges of premium colour coated products via the Kolorseal portfolio. Kolorseal is recognised for providing virtually any desired colour for windows, doors, conservatories and composite doors, ensuring that each order is completed with a lasting colour solution.

Howard Wilson, Composite Manager comments, “Choice, guarantees and a good working partnership with a tailored service

are the qualities from Kolorseal that we rely upon. Having complete peace of mind in the consistent quality is so important for the range we offer.”

Deborah Hendry, Managing Director comments: “Working together with our clients is vital and for Hurst Doors it is essential to ensure they can meet market demands as they change. The team knows that honesty and flexibility are critical when discussing technical issues and delivery times.

It is lovely to see that the Dusty Grey door led to such a positive result for Purbeck Windows.”

Purbeck Windows has won a year’s license for the Hurst Door Designer and the homeowner won a £50 Amazon voucher from Hurst Doors.

Hurst Doors is the UK’s largest manufacturer of PVC-U door panels, composite doors and fire doors. For more information on the vast Kolorseal colour range please visit www.kolorseal.co.uk; for details on the Hurst Doors portfolio please visit www.hurstdoors.co.uk.

British Fenestration Rating Council

Prove energy performance with BFRC ratings

BFRC Energy Ratings let you prove the energy performance of your window and door products with our highly recognised ‘rainbow’ rating labelindependent, impartial, trusted.

Homeowners no longer select new windows and doors simply based on price. They want to know what they purchase will improve their home’s comfort, so product performance is now a priority.

By using the renowned BFRC rating scale to demonstrate the noise reduction properties of your windows or doors, you can show installers and consumers the quality of your products.

Your products will stand out from your competitors’ and you’ll be able to avoid a race to the bottom on price. Sell using BFRC proven performance and leave your customers in no doubt.

PURPOSE for

KORNICHE aluminium roof lantern and bi-folding door

The KORNICHE

Roof Lantern Fitted in minutes, glazed in seconds

No silicone is required in the build of the lantern structure. Supplied as a kit for ease and speed of installation directly from the manufacturer

The strongest lantern in its class

Available up to 3x2.5m in four glass panels and a maximum size of 6x4m

Standard colours; Black, White and Anthracite in any combination

FOR NEW BI-FOLDING DOOR TRADE CUSTOMERS

QUOTE CODE:

10% DISCOUNT* GNK02

Fast KwikQuote service

FREE UK Mainland delivery*

10 YEAR warranty

QUOTE CODE:

FOR NEW ROOF LANTERN TRADE CUSTOMERS VISIT US STAND Q11 WE’RE GOING 23 - 25 MAY 2023

GNK01

OPTIMA USED IN HIGH-END UPGRADE OF PICTURESQUE DEVON HOME

Optima windows and doors from Epwin Window Systems were selected for a high-end installation in a picturesque 4-bedroom detached home in Trusham near Newton Abbott in Devon. The windows were fabricated by longstanding Epwin Window Systems fabricator Fabframes Ltd and installed by its sister company, Coastal Windows and Conservatories.  The homeowners needed to replace the house’s original timber windows and French doors to upgrade its appearance and thermal performance. At the same time, they wanted to preserve the elegant period aesthetics of the substantial dwelling.

Optima Sculptured windows and French doors were the answer – as the UK’s leading window and door system, its intelligent design, elegant aesthetics and exceptional thermal performance ticked all the boxes.

In total, 24 casement windows and two sets of French doors were manufactured and installed. They were all manufactured in the popular Sage Green foil on white combination to replicate the colour of the original timber windows.

George Bartlett of Coastal Windows and Conservatories commented: “Optima is a versatile system that enhances period and modern homes alike. It was the perfect solution for this beautiful heritage home and the homeowners are delighted with the results.”

Coastal Windows and Conservatories was established in 1989 and has grown to become one of the biggest home improvement companies in the South West.  Its sister company, Fabframes, is a specialist fabricator of Optima windows, doors and conservatories. As a trade-focused company, it works hard to give its customers the support they need to ensure jobs run smoothly. This includes responsive and friendly customer service, outstanding product quality, quick and clear quotations with no hidden extras, competitive pricing, a 7-day order turnaround, free to-site deliveries across the South West and technical support.

George concluded: “We were delighted to work on this project and demonstrate once again the credentials of Optima and the quality workmanship of our fabrication and installation teams. A perfect partnership!”  Tel: 0845 340 3968  www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

STEEL WINDOWS AND SCREENS DELIVER STYLE TO ENHANCE INTERIOR DECOR

A SIGNIFICANT SHIFT TO THERMALLY EFFICIENT BI-FOLD DOORS

Jeremy Phillips, CDW Systems’ Group Chairman, discusses the rise in thermally efficient bi-fold doors.

The popularity of bi-fold doors has increased over the many years of their existence. Now, with the rise of aluminium as a strong and stylish alternative to PVCu, they are even more in the spotlight.

There is another reason for an increased uptake in bi-fold interest – thermal efficiency. Once upon a time, such doors were notorious for leaking heat from underperforming double glazing and the various joints used in their construction. Not now. Today’s bi-folds have very low U-values, offering superlative heat retention while keeping out draughts.

Strong yet comparatively slim steel frame sections are well recognised amongst architects for offering excellent light transmission, while the slender sightlines are also ideal for allowing windows to “bring the outdoors in.”  However, contemporary systems available from members of the Steel Window Association (SWA) can also play a pivotal role in influencing interior fitouts.

The unexpected property boom from the pandemic included people adding extensions or improving their homes and saw SWA members responding to high demand for both classic and contemporary steel windows, doors and interior screens. In fact, the latter has proved ideal for creating home offices or sub-dividing living spaces without significantly cutting light reaching deep plan areas; while introducing an aesthetic often described as industrial but also sophisticated.

Getting the best from these versatile, highperformance systems does, though, require careful consideration of both potential suppliers and between the multiple systems available which offer a choice of performance as well as appearance.

Ethan Blackman, Contracts Coordinator for long-established SWA member, Cotswold Casements, comments, “In terms of the way projects are specified, normally we get clients (property owners) being directed to visit our showroom by their design consultants once the decision to utilise steel frames has been made, so that they can decide on items like ironmongery or type of opening light.”

“While a lot of our clients have already decided that they want the slim sections and large pane size that steel windows offer, they still want to view the past projects to help visualise how their own properties might turn out. There are a lot of nice-

looking buildings on our website including commercial buildings!  Normally they will send us their architects’ drawings detailing what they are trying to achieve. We will then respond with CAD drawings and a quote.”

“We’ve also invested in a new CRM system which enables everyone involved in a contract, including the client and our production team, to keep track.  Plus, we have new window making software – all of which helps improve the customer journey, and the turnaround time.”

Interestingly, there is a perception in the market that the vast majority of steel doors and windows are produced in black, but while it is a popular colour, Cotswold Casements is one of the SWA members seeing a lot of interest in Anthracite and other shades of grey, as well as brighter colours, like Cotswold Green, white and even the stark ‘Industrial Patina’ finish.  The latter is proving particularly popular for warehouse and barn conversions, along with heritage buildings generally.

Property owners and professionals can use the “Find a member” facility on the SWA website to identify a manufacturer in their locality or offering the particular area of speciality that their project requires, in order to obtain a steel window package produced to a high standard which will be correctly installed.

The SWA offers UK wide coverage with member companies able to carry out the full range of contracts from the repair and restoration of heritage windows through to the installation of major fenestration packages in contemporary commercial, residential and other types of developments.

For further information on the Steel Window Association or if you’re interested in becoming a member, please visit  www.steel-window-association.co.uk.

There’s no doubt that the market is very much leaning towards ever-increasing ways of saving energy In part, this is driven by the Government’s to cut fuel inefficiency by 2025, but also because of increasing inflation and the costs of heating the average home.

It means all of us in the sector are having to think much smarter and more quickly too, which is a good thing because it drives innovation. At CDW Systems we have introduced a new bi-fold door - the AluK Luminia F82 – to our range due to increasing consumer and trade demand for a high-end product with excellent thermal efficiency.

Over the years we’ve had enormous success with the versatile BSF70 bi-fold from Aluk but we want to make sure we can offer customers an upgrade if they want a more high-end aluminium bi-fold door. It won’t take over from the BSF70HI, but there will certainly be a demand for it due to its better sightlines and its thermal properties, which is its biggest USP. As fabricators, it’s also never been a more important time for all of us to listen to our customers, especially when they need guidance on areas such as thermal efficiency. They need to know about compliance, and thanks to our industry experience and knowledge we understand the high standards set by industry in terms of product, specification, and compliance.

Established in 1992, CDW Systems is one of the UK’s longest running aluminium specialists in the trade supply of aluminium window, door, and curtain wall products.

For more information visit www.cdwsystems.co.uk or call 01452 414853.

SILKA ALL-NEW FUTURE-PROOF SLIM SASH WINDOWS

easy installation and the benefit of added protection - thanks to its resilient and durable materials – aluminium windows are the perfect package to create a stylish, safe and energy efficient home.

Leading by example is the newly launched range of SILKA Aluminium Windows, that delivers its revolutionary design and technology. Its collection of ahead-of-thecurve Aluminium Windows – available in both slim and standard sash with a choice of 60mm and 72mm deep outerframespromises future-proof performance and extraordinary style.

According to the Rated People 2023 Home Improvement Trend Report, more homeowners are looking to install new windows and find ways to make their homes more energy efficient in 2023 – and aluminium windows offer all the forwardthinking features they’re looking for.

Renowned for their structural integrity and style, aluminium windows deliver a lightweight alternative to their heavier timber and PVCu counterparts, they also require minimal maintenance to keep them at their best for longer. Plus, with

As with all SILKA products, every innovation benefits from its ground-breaking thermal barrier, Thermafill™. The highly insulated Thermafill™ technology is a revolutionary new method of insulating chambers inside both the outer frame and sashes, which helps to provide top levels of energy efficiency and top performing U-values. SILKA Aluminium Windows achieve U-values as low as 0.8 W/ m²K, adding extra insulation into the home – a home improvement project that is the third most popular job in 2023, according to Rated People.

Plus, with demand for triple glazing surging by 125% in 2022 and 15% of homeowners looking to install it in their homes in 2023, SILKA is already one step ahead - offering triple glazing as standard. That’s not all. All SILKA Aluminium Windows come complete with the frame and glass – for hassle-free, one stop delivery.

The delivery of triple glazing has been a standard offering at New World Developments, the company behind SILKA, for many years. Its confidence in delivering even the largest of units, for the likes of the triple glazed Lift & Slide Door is based on its proven track record as the frame and glass are manufactured at the same site. So, it’s no surprise that the combination of Thermafill™ and triple glazing delivers ultralow U-values, making SILKA Aluminium Windows a top glazing system.

As well as ticking all the energy efficiency boxes, SILKA’s Aluminium Windows also benefit from SILKA’s exclusive SILKtouch sputter coat technology, offering a smooth as ‘SILKA’ feel to touch, while its robust finish helps resist finger marks and avoid

Jones

unwanted smears and scratches. SILKA has also redefined the top standard of security, with its high-security multi-point locking system, so security is never compromised – helping to offer added peace of mind to homeowners.

SILKA Aluminium Windows are also available with a dummy sash configuration, which is a big advantage against other aluminium systems. The square-edge detailing perfectly suits both contemporary and heritage properties, particularly for traditional bay windows with a dummy sash. Their 66mm thickness and 44mm triple glazing – which come at no additional cost – makes them the most exciting system on the market.

SILKA is the future of aluminium windows. It is the perfect system for installers looking for an aluminium glazing system to keep them ahead of the curve.

The team at New World Developments has used its technical expertise to develop the SILKA brand and its revolutionary system, with the aim of creating a suite of high performing, aesthetically pleasing products to bring the future home.

The complete SILKA range encompasses Windows and Doors, including Bifold and Lift & Slide, Entrance Doors, and Rooflights which are available now: www.silkawindows.com.

As demand for triple glazing increased by 125% last year, Andy Jones, Sales and Marketing Director at SILKA for England and Wales, talks about how SILKA triple glazed Aluminium Windows are meeting these demands.

Andy

"SILKA Aluminium Windows are also available with a dummy sash configuration, which is a big advantage against other aluminium systems. The squareedge detailing perfectly suits both contemporary and heritage properties, particularly for traditional bay windows with a dummy sash."

STELLAR SELECTED FOR REFURBISHMENT OF A DAY CENTRE IN CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Stellar aluminium windows have been used in a refurbishment of Victoria Lodge, a day service for adults with learning disabilities and older people, in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. The windows were fabricated by Stellar fabricator Prestige Aluminium Ltd of Bishop’s Stortford.

Gavin Taylor, Managing Director of Prestige Aluminium, said: “The team at Victoria Lodge needed to replace the ageing timber windows in their building that were thermally poor. Stellar gave them the clean line aesthetics they were looking for in addition to the next-level thermal performance improvements too.”

Phil Parry, Business Development Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Stellar was developed predominately as a domestic system but, as this refurbishment project shows, it has clear commercial advantages too.”

The project involved the manufacture of 16 Stellar Flush Casement Windows with the glazing units featuring laminated glass to maximise safety. The exterior faces were powder coated in moss green, RAL 6005M, to replicate the colour of the original timber windows, with white internal faces to

complement internal décor. Gavin said: “It was important to Victoria Lodge to get the external colour right, so we undertook a site visit to make sure the best shade for the project was selected.”

Stellar Flush Casement Windows have a streamlined flush aesthetic externally with a traditional stepped appearance internally. They have a U-value to 0.95W/ m2K, making them perfect for projects with demanding thermal efficiency requirements. They offer up to 12% more glass area than a comparable window, maximising natural light and further reducing resource use because less artificial lighting is needed.  The finished result has transformed the appearance and thermal efficiency of Victoria Lodge. Gavin said: “The Victoria Lodge team were delighted with the flush finish of the windows and the striking colour match. It was great to be involved in a project like this and to demonstrate the versatility and cross sector appeal of Stellar aluminium windows.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

168 STELLAR FLUSH CASEMENT WINDOWS INSTALLED IN A HIGH-END LONDON APARTMENT BLOCK

Experienced Stellar fabricator and installer Capital Windows has just completed the manufacture and installation of 168 Stellar Flush Casement Windows as part of a complete commercial refurbishment of a prestigious private apartment block in a sought-after area of North London’s NW2.

The original crittal style windows of the red-brick apartment block had lost their aesthetic appeal and were poorly insulated. Stellar from Epwin Window Systems was selected to replace the windows because of the system’s high-end aesthetics and, more importantly, its ability to achieve the thermal requirements of Part L with standard double-glazed units.

The windows were manufactured in Anthracite Grey on both sides to give the building an updated aesthetic and sophisticated appeal. The project took 12 weeks from start to finish and has completely transformed the building’s appearance and thermal efficiency. Peter Adams, General Manager at Capital Windows, said: “This project is the perfect example of the transformational benefits of

NEW DEKKO SALES MANAGER TO SPEARHEAD LEADING ALUMINIUM RANGE

Leading trade supplier Dekko Window Systems has appointed a new sales manager in order to help streamline processes and spearhead growth within the company’s aluminium division.

Paul Schofield joins the company with over 16 years of industry experience, having previously worked as a commercial sales manager in the window, door, and conservatory markets.

In his new role at Dekko, Paul will be focusing on Räum, the company’s luxury aluminium range of windows and doors, and will be responsible for promoting new products and supporting customers with their buying journey.

Paul comments: “Over the past few months, Dekko has invested in its Räum range,

adding new premium products, such as the Decalu 88 bi-fold and entrance door, in order to better equip its customers to get ahead in a very competitive market.

“In addition, thanks to an acquisition by leading European group Inwido and the launch of an innovative – and world first – fully seamless window, Dekko has experienced a very successful past 12 months, and I’m delighted to be taking on this role at such an exciting time in the company’s history.

“Thanks to my previous roles, I come to Dekko with plenty of experience in sales, business development and account management, and I very much look forward to helping the company achieve growth and hit sales targets, establish productive relationships with suppliers, and build longlasting customer relations.”

Dekko Sales Director Kurt Greatrex comments: “I’m extremely pleased to be working with Paul in his new role as sales manager. The huge success we’ve enjoyed over the last few years has only been possible because of the talented, dedicated people we employ. Add to that Paul’s skills and experience, combined with a growing demand for the premium aluminium home improvement products we manufacture, and I’m confident that the year ahead will be another successful one for Dekko.” Visit www.dekkowindows.com.

Stellar. The upgrade has helped to enhance the value of the apartments in the block and made them more comfortable to live in.”

Capital Windows of Uxbridge, Greater London works with domestic, trade and commercial sectors throughout the South-East of England. For over 40 years the company has positioned itself as a specialist designer, supplier and installer of the latest generation of technically advanced window and door products. It has been manufacturing Stellar, which it markets under the brand name Evoke, since 2020. Peter said: “We were an early adopter of the Stellar aluminium system as we were impressed with the unique flush aesthetics which has been instrumental in securing several large-scale domestic contracts. However, the thermal performance of Stellar is second to none, and as a result, we have won several commercial projects as the system easily complies with Part L of Building Regulations without complicated workarounds.”

The multi-award-winning Stellar from Epwin Window Systems was predominantly designed for the domestic market, but

since the changes to Part L of Building Regulations last year, it has been rapidly gaining traction across commercial projects. This is because the system features the patented reverse butt joint, which means no dummy sashes or reverse adaptor profiles are needed. This makes it thermally efficient by design and means it can achieve the requirements of Part L in double glazed versions without the need for complicated workarounds that add extra time and cost.

Peter concluded: “Stellar has always been a very easy system to sell into the domestic market because of its outstanding aesthetics. The innovation in the design means it is now an easy system to sell into the commercial sector too. We are looking forward to securing more commercial projects using its powerful benefits.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

Elevate

Why installers choose Elevate by Liniar

With everything made to order and available in kit format in just 5 working days, assembly and installation can be done in less than 30 minutes.

Every lantern roof benefits from patented elements and the latest in thermally efficient technology.

For a quick quotation, contact roofs@liniar.co.uk

of the Liniar product range.

AT WORK, REST AND PLAY

AT WORK...

How did you get into this industry?

I was working at the hotel that Steve Haines (our now retired Sales Director) had stayed at for many, many years. We were chatting over the bar when I mentioned I was working a temp job during the days so I could break out of shift work now my children were older, and as it so happened an admin role had recently opened up at Stuga. Then the rest is history!

Please give a brief resume of your career to date.

In my late teens I worked in a corner shop, I then took a job at the hotel which I ended up staying at for 11 years! I started off waitressing & then after a couple of years moved on to the reception desk. I took extended leave to have my children between 2014-2016, a couple of years after I returned

customer facing, it has given me a great foundation to work well under pressure.

Have you a career path mapped out or is it more about opportunism?

I would say more about opportunism. As long as I am growing in my career & my hard work is paying off, whether that’s an increase in salary, or a change of role or responsibility, then I’m happy.

Looking ahead, where would you like to be in a) 5 years’ time and b) 10 years’ time?

I’m unsure to be honest. I didn’t foresee my career taking this direction but I’m really enjoying the journey. It’s great to have someone see your potential before you have! With Stürtz acquiring Stuga early last year, it has opened up a variety of opportunity for me. Stuga hadn’t overly invested in the marketing side of the business prior to the acquisition but I believe with this new direction, we can expand our customer base & grow into a dedicated team, hopefully with me at the forefront!

This series in Glass News highlights the hopes and aspirations of women in the windows, doors, glass, roofs and hardware industry and will hopefully inspire more to make this their career.

AT REST...

Away from work, what is your focus?

Family time! Me & my husband have 2 young children, aged 7 & 9 so family days are very important, they’re only young once! A lay in on the weekend & a cup of coffee in peace is the perfect way to wind down…unless a night out with the girls is on the calendar!

AT PLAY...

Do you achieve the work/life balance you would like to?

Mostly yes! Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t say no to more holiday days, but otherwise I think it’s important to not carry the stresses of work into your home life, after all you work to live not live to work.

If money and leisure time were no object, what would you really like to do for yourself or your family?

Like many I’m sure, I would love to have the time & money for us to travel the world. To have the opportunity to see all kinds of wildlife in their natural habitat, to learn as we experience life!

I think I would still like to work, whether it be owning property or some sort of company I could mostly just oversee, something I could dip into here & there, to keep the ambition & the brain ticking, but more of 80/20 balance – leisure taking priority of course.

Just a stress free life really, no money pressures or mum guilt when having to balance work & school holidays would be the dream!

THIS MONTH: Aimee Cargill Sales and Marketing of Stuga Machinery Ltd

#BEPARTOFTHEFAMILY AND CONNECT ON STAND M31

host the upgraded Connect portal, whilst a brand new homeowner website will intrinsically link enquiries and sales leads between Connect and the customer”.

Sales Director, Andy Green and Marketing Manager, Mark Walker, give you an insight in to what you can expect from the independent and family-owned PVCu systems company at FIT Show 2023!

Andy comments, “We have always been proud of our ability to provide a flexible and personal service and support package and we see the FIT Show as the perfect platform to show off our latest innovations. The recent update to our Connect customer portal aims to take our marketing and sales support package to the next level, with a suite of support mechanisms designed to help fabricators and installers win new business”.

“The Connect customer support portal was originally launched in May 2018, where it focused

around a resource centre of marketing and technical downloads, information and guides to help fabricators and installers 24/7, 365 days a year. Our intentions were to always grow the platform in to the ‘go to hub’ for all areas of technical, marketing and sales support, of which we are now able to fully demonstrate its new capabilities and features, as Mark will explain.

Mark continues, “The whole project has been in progress for almost two years with our Connect portal now boasting a host of new marketing, sales and technical support features. A new trade website has been built that will

“The homeowner website has two fantastic features. The first being a ‘Find a Fabricator / Installer’ feature, where all of our approved fabricators and installers are available within a simplistic search engine. The second is the option for visitors to the site to design their own windows and doors with our fantastic Window and Door Designer! The designer has all of the Selecta range of products, from casement, flush sash and tilt and turn windows through to residential, French, patio and EASi-FOLD doors. We’ve also added in a range of composite doors, so that the homeowner has a good range of products, styles and configurations to choose from and improve their home”.

“We have kept the design and enquiry process simple. The homeowner can select a number of window and door configurations and styles, the internal and external colour, hardware colour and other glazing options like Georgian bar or leaded glass. The real beauty of this is that they can also take a photo of their property and drop the windows and doors on to their home to visualise how they would look! They can then submit their design as a professional PDF enquiry for quoting, of which we send direct to their local fabricators and/or installers admin area of their Connect portal for access and follow up”.

“As a fabricator or installer, we are also able to offer you a branded version of the window and door designer for the you to have embedded upon your own website! As a fabricator and/or installer you are then able to generate your own sales leads and have them land within your own admin area

of your own version of Connect. You can have your own logo and contact details contained within the package and also emblazoned on all the relevant paperwork. What’s also being added, is the ability to add prices and provide a professional quote and order system. It really is a fantastic marketing and sales management platform!”, says Mark. The upgraded Connect portal also provides a number of other features to support fabricators and installers, as Mark describes.

“Within Connect we also provide customers with the facility to have a brand new themed and branded website. This takes away the headache of a website build, whilst also incorporating the ability to have our amazing window and door designer embedded in to the site. This provides our customers with a professional website and excellent sales lead generation and presentation tool, whether it’s for trade or retail”.

“An excellent Web2Print brochure and marketing material creator and designer is also featured within Connect. This is where you can take our brochures, guides and flyers, add your own installation imagery and brand them with your own logo and contact details. You can then add them to your basket and have your own branded marketing materials delivered direct to your door! A shop will also provide you with the option to have your own branded point of sale items, banners, stationery, mugs, workwear etc.”

“Connect will also have a brandnew resource centre full of all the latest marketing and technical information and downloads. This includes brochures, guides, manuals, certificates, test reports and a comprehensive range of product and sales related materials and documents. A news section will also keep you up-to-date with the latest news from Selecta. We

see this as a game changer for fabricators and installers and the whole suite of features certainly sets us apart from our competitors, delivering a marketing support package that will help our customers win new business”. With the Connect portal featuring heavily on the stand, Selecta have also used the opportunity to relaunch the modernised and improved MASTERslide patio door as Andy reveals.

“Over the last few years the patio door has had some kind of renaissance and they now seem to be the cost effective solution to creating a wall of glass. So, what we have done at Selecta is bring the MASTERslide patio door bang up-to-date and a more attractive proposition for the homeowner, whilst also being more fabricator and fitter friendly”.

“We designed a brand-new twopart interlock, which not only serves as an added security measure for PAS 24, but also provides both the fabricator and installer with a far more simpler solution. It improves the fabrication and installation time, whilst also allowing greater flexibility for adjustments when on site”.

“An aluminium low threshold has also been added to the patio door for Document M compliance.

The new low threshold has a height of just 20mm compared to a full PVCu frame and cill at 80mm, thus providing easy access and egress. Aesthetically, it also improves the look and enhances the appeal of the patio door”.

“Another desirable upgrade comes in the form of the locking system. The addition of a 12 point shootbolt lock adds to the overall security passing the requirements of PAS 24 with relative ease. An attractive infill bar between the keeps provides a clean finish to the locking mechanism”.

Andy concludes, “Alongside the MASTERslide patio door, we will also have our industry leading window and door system, ADVANCE 70, on our stand with a few new product prototypes on display for feedback. With these new products and the fantastic Connect portal suite of features, we are really looking forward to this year’s 10 year anniversary show. As an ever-present exhibitor it demonstrates our continued commitment to the industry”.

One of the UK’s leading and longstanding PVCu window and door systems companies, Selecta Systems, head to FIT Show 2023 with a fabricator and installer support package that is being touted as a real game changer, whilst they also show off how they have modernised the ever-popular patio door!

A FABRICATOR THAT WORKS FOR YOU

Add value for your customers with access to the broadest product range in the industry, backed by extended warranties and guarantees. Throw in the support and guidance on offer from our expert marketing and technical teams, and you have a fabricator partner ready to help you transform your business.

www.glazerite.co.uk

Your fabricator partner. We’ve got you every step of the way.

SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS FOR

EVERYONE FROM THE BUSINESS MICROS GROUP

Visitors can find out what the buzz around TOUCH is all about and installers can even sign up for a month’s free trial of TOUCH on the stand.

BM ALUMINIUM

Register is a TOUCH enabled product which lets fabricators embed any amount of information about a window or door into a single QR code ready to be printed out onto a label and applied to the inside of the frame.

BM TOUCH

It will be the first chance to see the Group’s groundbreaking BM TOUCH end to end lead generation, quoting and ordering software platform. There will be demos of both TOUCH Portal, the quoting and ordering tool for fabricators which links directly into their Evolution manufacturing software, and other TOUCH products for homeowner enquiries and lead generation - all powered by real time access to their fabricators’ product data, pricing and imagery.

Two and half years in the making, TOUCH is already generating a huge amount of interest and has been installed at the likes of Comp Door, Portico, Sliders UK, Heritage and Universal, with a roll out to 30+ other big-name fabricators happening during the course of 2023.

FIT 2023 will also be the first showing in the UK of the latest v12 update for BM Aluminium’s LogiKal software; with a raft of improvements to the aluminium industry’s favourite processing software ready to be shared with customers, including the new intuitive design layout giving customers a better, faster and more user-friendly experience.

Visitors will be able to discover why LogiKal is the leading aluminium fenestration software, with its ability to handle multiple systems companies’ data within a single project. Having the ability to process the most complex commercial projects down to the simplest residential window and door application.

BUSINESS MICROS

For users of Business Micros’ core Evolution manufacturing and EvoNET ERP software, the stand will feature demos of all the newest modules, including Courier and Register. Courier is a delivery scanning tool which allows fabricators to track deliveries and

THE CONSULTANCY

And, from the online ordering, web design and lead generation specialists at The Consultancy, there will be lots of new websites designs and templates for both fabricators and installers to have a look at and lots of experts on hand to advise on digital sales tools including door designers.

Nick Bailey, Head of Sales at Business Micros, summed up the stand: “Whatever kind of software help your business needs, there will be a solution on the Business Micros Group stand for you.

“We’ll be demonstrating just how many elements there are to our offering for this industry and emphasising exactly why new and existing customers just don’t need to go anywhere else. We’re the only software provider at the show with anything like our breadth of products. From generating a lead via one of our websites to attaching a QR code to the finished window and door, we’ve got every stage in the buying, manufacturing and fitting stage covered.”

Paul Callaghan, Managing Director at The Consultancy, added: “We’ve all exhibited individually at FIT before, but this is our first time with all the group companies together on a single stand. It’s a great opportunity for anyone who thinks they know Business Micros from Evolution, EvoNET or LogiKal to come and see us and find out just how much more there is to the Group today.”

www.thebmgroup.co.uk

ADMINBASE OFFERS

MORE NEW FEATURES AT FIT ON STAND J41

The tried, tested, and trusted installer management system, AdminBase from Ab Initio, is returning to the FIT Show this year with free demos of recently launched and wellestablished aspects, as well as the launch of an entirely new feature, all with the aim of helping installation businesses achieve better productivity and profitability.

“The recently launched AdminBase Taskboard feature will be one of the newer aspects available to see at the show and is likely to prove popular in itself,” says Rhonda Ridge of Ab Initio. “With this feature, installation businesses can see how they can effortlessly keep track of entire projects, and better manage how work is distributed among teams.

“At last year’s show we launched our partnership with PricepointTM which has also proved immensely popular. The PricepointTM team will be attending the show on the AdminBase stand to answer any questions on the sales app specifcally, but our own friendly team will also be on hand to talk visitors through our award-winning Customer Portal, the facility to collect digital signatures, and the ease and flexibility of AdminBase as a CRM for installation businesses overall.

“AdminBase is an installer management system created by people with experience in the field, which is why it proves so popular with installation businesses of all shapes and sizes. We know from experience this means our team will be busy giving demos throughout the show, so we are recommending that visitors book a time beforehand to secure their slot and avoid disappointment. Our 1 to 1 demos will include a personal walk-through of AdminBase which for existing customers might be a demonstration of a new feature, or for new customers we can demo the whole system.

“All visitors will be able to see the entirety of the CRM in action via videos that will be running constantly on the stand.

“In addition to running through the existing system, including our recent additions, there will be another new launch happening live at the FIT Show. We’re not revealing anything about it beforehand, but what we can say is that it’s an extension of one of the AdminBase apps that will make a big difference to window installation businesses and companies further afield.”

Visit AdminBase on stand J41. For more information go to: https://www.abinitiosoftware.co.uk

The 2023 FIT Show will be the first time that all four entities within the Business Micros Group have exhibited together. That’s big news in itself – but there will be several more firsts happening on the stand as well.

"We know from experience this means our team will be busy giving demos throughout the show, so we are recommending that visitors book a time beforehand to secure their slot and avoid disappointment."

DAY ACHIEVE

MORE FACE-TO-FACE VALUE IN 1 DAY THAN YOU COULD ACHIEVE IN YEARS.

VALUE IN 1 DAY

MORE FACE-TO-FACE VALUE IN 1 DAY THAN YOU COULD ACHIEVE IN YEARS.

COULD ACHIEVE IN YEARS.

FACE-TO-FACE VALUE IN 1 DAY THAN YOU COULD ACHIEVE IN YEARS.

ONLY AT THE UK’S NUMBER 1 EXHIBITION FOR THE WINDOWS, DOORS, GLAZING, HARDWARE AND COMPONENTS INDUSTRY.

ONLY AT THE UK’S NUMBER 1 EXHIBITION FOR THE WINDOWS, DOORS, GLAZING, HARDWARE AND COMPONENTS INDUSTRY.

ONLY AT THE UK’S NUMBER 1 EXHIBITION FOR THE WINDOWS, DOORS, GLAZING, HARDWARE AND COMPONENTS INDUSTRY.

EVERYONE’S GOING.

EVERYONE’S GOING.

EVERYONE’S GOING.

ONLY AT THE UK’S NUMBER 1 EXHIBITION FOR THE WINDOWS, DOORS, GLAZING, HARDWARE AND COMPONENTS INDUSTRY.

NEC BIRMINGHAM | 23 - 25 MAY 2023

EVERYONE’S GOING.

fitshow.co.uk/exhibit

NEC BIRMINGHAM | 23 - 25 MAY 2023

fitshow.co.uk/exhibit

NEC BIRMINGHAM | 23 - 25 MAY 2023

KORNICHE - ‘FIT FOR PURPOSE’

messy sealants, whilst Korniche Bi-Folding doors feature a similar raft of benefits.

The security aspect remains at the forefront of any Made For Trade product, and with enhanced protection as standard with Korniche, it is designed into products from day one. The doors and their durable frames come rigorously tested to keep homes protected – they are certified to the advanced PAS24:2016 standard, whilst the unique patented clip-in internal glazing bead is the standard by which all other systems are judged.

partners; offering all the resources needed to allow them to maximise sales and profit.

The MFT team take care of nationwide promotion and ensure all the possible tools are to hand, meaning that customers can get on with the next step of project supply or fit.

The company’s ‘Brand Toolkit’ offers a one-stop resource for customers to find everything quickly in an online directory that adds value and helps develop sales.

Seven years on, that brand is now requested by name alone from consumers and homeowners, but what is it that sets the product line apart? As the company looks ahead to meeting customers old and new, here are four reasons to come along and find out more at FIT 2023:

ENGINEERING AND PRODUCT DESIGN

Made For Trade’s multi award-winning Korniche brand was founded with the idea to bring inspirational products to market via the use of innovative design and precision engineering not seen before in fenestration.

Created as completely bespoke systems from a clean sheet, the MFT engineering team design products founded on the three core principles of Precision, Simplicity and Beauty to offer uncompromised class-leading glazing. The combination of new technology and engineering experience means slim, industryleading sightlines for the consumer thanks to low-profile extrusions, along with robust long-lasting functionality and security.

Since 2016, the Korniche Roof Lantern was not only catapulted straight to the top of the desirability stakes at launch, but its game-changing engineering - backed up by experience derived from the motorsport and automotive sectors – means that this Korniche product still remains a forerunner in terms of construction.

The award-winning bi-folding door followed, underlined by the same principles and whilst other products may appear to offer some similar benefits, it is also the beauty of the design you can’t see that identifies Korniche and Made For Trade’s unique approach.

Korniche lanterns, for example, use a selection of aluminium components such as end caps and ridge bosses that have been uniquely die cast to suit, enabling greater accuracy and tighter tolerances to be achieved to the benefit of the structure. Meticulously engineered to be the strongest and stiffest on the market, the lantern supports industry-leading maximum glass sizes without the need for additional rafters, and the smart design details mean that glazing the structure is free of tapes and

Of course, any benefits are soon lost if quality and consistency are not ensured for every item; from order through to installation. This quality includes the fit, finish and longevity of the product, and this is secured through the principles and practice of quality assurance and control for both the product and service.

Made For Trade recently gained the enviable ISO9001 certification - based on continually improving and optimising all stages of how the company operates; allowing the company to remain at the forefront of manufacturing and efficiency in the fenestration industry. These are just some of the reasons that Made for Trade was voted by industry peers as the NFA’s Aluminium Fabricator of the Year.

IMPECCABLE SERVICE

Having satisfied customers around the UK and expanding - becoming one of Ward Hadaways ‘Fastest 50’ companies in the North East in 2021 - the multi-awardwinning Made for Trade prides itself on the phone and email support and service provided to its customers. Come and meet the team at FIT 2023, and discover the values of this family enterprise first-hand. You’ll also have the chance to explore MFT’s class-leading website featuring CGI imagery alongside more traditional routes of product demonstration, allowing trade customers keen to get up close and personal with the award-winning products before committing to orders, or looking to expand their product or supplier portfolio.

Whilst visitors to the popular NEC exhibition will be able to get hands on with the Korniche product line, customers also have access to a contemporary showroom area at the firm’s Wynyard base where bi-folding doors are on display, and the area is complete with a Demonstration Build using a standard sized lantern. Prospective installers are invited to see for themselves just how quick and easy lantern construction and glazing is with the Korniche system using only basic tools.

VALUE AND EXTRAS

Each year, Made for Trade has continued to invest heavily in their customers and trade

To assist with the creation of websites or social media use, promotional video content is available alongside trade brochures, literature and professional images showcasing Made For Trade’s highly regarded engineering-led approach to fenestration design.

The Brand Toolkit is supplemented by the Geo-Tool feature on the Korniche website, which actively points consumers towards a registered MFT partner to complete the transaction. Homeowners and project managers can find their nearest suppliers and installers with just a couple of clicks - a game-changing feature that is free for registered trade customers.

New for 2023, customers can specify a stylish modern Uni-Blind system in their Korniche Bi-Folding Doors; offering an integrated and energy-efficient light control solution that requires no installation or setup.

This finishing touch is rapidly gaining in popularity thanks to being maintenancefree and energy-efficient. The Screenlinebased blinds use an SL20SV Sliding Control and are now available as an option on MFT’s online quotation request forms. These venetian systems are installed ready to use, whilst new and improved gaskets alongside the renowned Korniche ‘SpeedBead’ ensure the blinds are truly a ‘FIT, Glaze and GO’ system.

INSTALLER BENEFITS

Ultimately the aim is to ensure installation is as straightforward as possible, saving the fitter time and therefore saving money for the consumer, and maximising profit for the trade partner.

The industry-leading Korniche lantern stands by its impressive ability to be ‘fitted in minutes and glazed in seconds’ owing to its unique design. There are no visible fixings on show and all joints are seamless. This means perfect aesthetics as it meets the eye and hints at the ‘clean sheet’ method of construction behind. The number, grade and size of fasteners, for example, have

been optimised for security and rigidity compared with typical self-tapping screw fixings, whilst intricate details such as ridge bosses use anti-crush tubes for perfect installation torque to provide a superior, more precise fit than traditional glazing fittings such as flat plate.

Installation of a Korniche Roof Lantern involves a system that bolts together as a unitary structure rather than box sections and plates that flex or distort to the detriment of security, structural integrity and weatherproofing. This is not achieved through simplification of construction with speed in mind but clever engineering from the outset that creates a strong and secure glazed product, which is also convenient and time-saving for the installer.

Improving efficiency still further for the installer is the ‘One-Drop Delivery’ service now offered by Made for Trade. Having invested in excess of £400,000 over the last 18 months in its fleet of delivery vehicles, MFT now not only offer crane offloading for maximum ease and safety on site, but is proud to showcase a one-drop service that includes both the door system and glazing together on the same truck.

This significant investment allows MFT to offer a Document L-compliant glazed product at a much-reduced cost and increased convenience compared to having the glass delivered by a third party. Customers can now save up to 20% on glazing as a result, with the glass delivered direct to site via MFT. What’s more, the One-Drop delivery saves downtime on site dealing with deliveries and glass that could typically arrive a day or two either side of the door system.

Meet the team at FIT 2023 where you can discover Made for Trade’s market-leading products and service for yourself.

As a multi-award-winning company at the disruptive forefront of glazing innovation for resellers and installers, Made for Trade have rapidly become the industry’s go-to for aluminium bi-fold doors and roof lanterns; marketed under the influential Korniche brand.

ROSEVIEW BRINGING NEW SASH WINDOW FEATURES TO FIT

Leading sash window manufacturer

Roseview Windows will be exhibiting at FIT Show 2023, where they will showcase several new developments to their range of uPVC sash windows.

Amongst the developments will be two key features for Roseview’s class-leading Ultimate Rose model, which the company believes mark a significant step forward in modern sash window authenticity.

Roseview director Mike Bygrave explains: “Roseview has been an enthusiastic supporter of the FIT Show since the start more than ten years ago. You could say that we’re constant fixtures! We love exhibiting at FIT, and always approach our presence with two goals in mind.

“Firstly, the FIT Show provides a great environment to meet our customers. It’s relaxed but focused, giving us the chance to meet face-to-face with the people we usually talk to by phone or email. We encourage all of our customers to visit the show for a day, and come and say hello to us on stand Q41. We’re a friendly bunch!

“We’re also there to show off the new products and features we’ve developed since the last show.” Mike continues.

“This year we have a number of recently released features, including our Seahorse sash horn and the slightly more understated Chamber Cover. Both developments represent big steps forward for Ultimate Rose, which is already widely recognised as the most authentic timber-

MORE REASONS TO VISIT EMMEGI (UK) AT FIT

Having exhibited at every FIT Show since the start, Emmegi (UK) knows that most visitors to the show want to see something new, they want to track down showonly deals and they want to spend time catching up with friends and colleagues. Unsurprisingly then, the Emmegi (UK) stand will offer them all three.

is such a significant part of FIT. Of course, we’ll also have our Acca XL benches on display – after 10 years, the Emmegi stand at FIT wouldn’t be complete without them!”

alternative sash window on the market. Plus we have a very timely new solution for trickle vents on heritage windows; which we’re keeping under wraps until the show.

“This year’s FIT Show is being held under the banner of ‘Ten years of FIT, a decade of innovation’. That message really resonates with us. Roseview has a long history of innovation and pushing the development of modern sash windows forward, and for the last ten years the FIT Show has been the perfect place to showcase that. We’re very proud to be part of the FIT Show family.” Mike concludes.

For more information visit www.roseview.co.uk or call 01234 712657.

QUICKSLIDE’S EXCLUSIVE REVEAL AT FIT STAND R31

Quickslide are preparing to take this year’s FIT Show by storm, with a stand at R31 that’s themed ‘Engineering Future Innovations’. It will showcase the brand’s latest products, including new aluminium doors and windows, exclusive dual foils and smart hardware. Plus – in a FIT Show exclusive – a new feature for Quickslide’s market-leading Legacy vertical sliders will be revealed.

With an extra large stand with plenty of room to mingle, make R31 your meeting point with colleagues. Visitors will be able to see Quickslide’s new Heritage doors, the versatile aluminium slide-and-stack door system Indi-fold and AluSpace’s new super slim aluminium interior screen and hinged door system, which creates a striking contemporary room divider in any space.

Quickslide will be showing off its heritage inside and out, with exclusive new dual foils

for Legacy vertical sliders which are now available in exterior/interior woodgrain combinations of anthracite grey /heritage white and agate grey /heritage white. There’s also the perfect mix of tradition and modern with a white woodgrain/smooth

In terms of something new, FIT 2023 will be the first chance for visitors to see the new Precision C2 entry-level twin head saw; and it will also be the first time Emmegi (UK) has included Someco products on its stand, following the acquisition of Someco by Emmegi’s parent company Voilap last year. The electronic Emmegi Precision C2 will in time replace Emmegi’s much loved Classic Magic twin head saw and will come in two versions for 4000 and 5000mm cutting lengths, complete with brushless motors and blade adjustment from 90° to 22°30’. It will be on the stand alongside two popular machining centres – the Phantomatic M4L and Comet X4.

The Someco products on display will include the SM3TVH 3-head welder and accompanying CM1H milling machine, as Emmegi (UK) demonstrates that its range now includes dedicated machines for PVC-U as well as aluminium and steel.

Ian Latimer, Emmegi’s Managing Director explained: “We’ve selected products for the 2023 stand which we know will appeal to anyone who is shopping for machinery at the show. The focus will be on some of our most accessible and cost-effective options and will include Someco because PVC-U

When it comes to show-only deals, Emmegi (UK) will be promoting its range of spares and consumables with a 10% off promotion for orders placed from day one of FIT up to 30 June 2023. Visitors to the stand will be able to pick up a copy of the 2023 catalogue which will include a special voucher. There will also be show-only discounts available on the range of hand tools and ancillaries that Emmegi (UK) supplies.

Wayne Hunter, Emmegi (UK)’s Operations Manager, explained: “We always recommend that customers use good quality authentic spares and quality tools and consumables to get the most from the performance of their machines so we’re incentivising them to do just that.

“We’re also hoping the special offers will encourage as many of our existing customers just to come and visit us on the stand and have a chat with our team. For us FIT, has always been as much about saying thank you to our existing loyal customers as it has been about selling new machines.

“As usual, we’ll have our trademark Italian style hospitality on offer for customers and plenty of space to relax, catch up and enjoy a drink and a snack with us.”

Wayne will be on the Emmegi (UK) stand for all three days of FIT and is also inviting customers to stop by the stand if they just want any help or advice on their machine. He added: “I’ll be answering questions on everything from cleaning and maintenance routines to software options and training recommendations.

“Essentially, our stand at FIT is all about giving as much value to visitors as we can –whether they’re browsing for new machines, or they bought from us 10 years ago. We can’t wait to see everyone again.”

More product details at: www.emmegi.com

white option for VS from stock, as well as a new smooth grey flush sash window for a sleek modern twist.

Also being shown on-stand are new secure smart hardware products from Avia. Thanks to a partnership with Avia’s creator Mighton Products, Quickslide now offers trade partners this smart hardware which can be easily fitted to sliding sash and casement windows, both PVCu and aluminium.

Quickslide Managing Director Ben Weber said: “It has been almost 20 years since we introduced the nation to authentically styled traditional sash windows coupled with all the benefits of modern performance. And we’ll be at FIT to show how we’ve not stopped progressing and innovating since. We’ll have our very latest products and features on show – as well as showcasing something new for our Legacy vertical sliders that we are looking forward to revealing.”

www.quickslide.co.uk

SASH WINDOWS ARE JUST THE START... UNRIVALLED INNOVATION FULL MARKETING SUPPORT

AFRAID OF COMMITMENT? TRY AVIASMART

This is the experience of Mike Derham, whose company Mighton Products launched into the smart hardware market in 2019 with its AviaSmart, Apple HomeKit compliant, multi-point door lock. With steady direct sales to homeowners growing since its launch at the hugely influential ‘CES’ Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas four years ago, sales of the AviaSmart door lock have been steady. This is due to the impressive tech behind the product, the Apple HomeKit branding, but also because it is eminently retrofittable by anyone that can handle a screwdriver and load a smartphone app.

And that, says Mike, is the crux of the matter, and a core benefit of what is now a range of complementary smart products: “Our products have all been designed to be easily retrofitted and operated through a welltested smartphone app,” explained Mike, “but, importantly, one that does not demand a subscription. I believe that in a market that is still establishing, subscriptions present a further barrier to people adopting such products for their homes, which is why we have taken the simpler approach – products that are easy to understand, to fit and to operate.”

The door lock has now been extended into a range of complementary products, all with the same philosophy of ‘keep

it simple’. Now included are a unique smart sash fastener for VS windows, smart casement handles and secure door and window sensors, and accessories such as a smart plug and PIR sensor, all of which connect to the AviaSmart app to provide homeowners with a fully integrated security system for their homes.

The casement window handle simply replaces standard casement handles and looks like any normal handle. The AviaSmart BSI Secure socket is a highly useful device with energy monitoring and remote scheduling functions,

as well as the ability to provide audio and visual feedback to the homeowner. The advanced PIR motion sensor is capable of operating for over a year on battery power alone – or up to five years if combined with an optional mini solar panel. It can detect intruders from up to 10m away, sounding an audible alert or powerful LED when activated. Continuing the policy of gaining formal approval and awards for all AviaSmart products in order to instil consumer confidence, the AviaSmart multi-point smart lock was one of the first to be awarded Sold Secure SS301 Silver approval and is a recipient of the Internet of Things (IoT) ‘Smart Lock Product of the Year’ award, a globally recognised accolade that underlines the quality of the device’s smart security.

It features a 2-star external handle and a 3-star cylinder, a reinforced stainless steel backing plate to protect against external attack and is designed and tested to PAS 24:2016. In addition to having undergone the rigorous testing standards of Apple HomeKit, all

AviaSmart products are Secured by Design where relevant. And crucially, it may be manually operated by a key if required, thus alleviating a common doubt amongst potential users. And of course, all AviaSmart products are compatible with Apple products, including iPhone, iPad, and Apple watch; the Deadlock also works with Apple Home Keys, with all operating seamlessly with Apple HomeKit.

“We have worked very hard to ensure that every AviaSmart

product is intuitive to use, easy to fit, and crucially of course, simple to operate. What this means is that retail installers can offer AviaSmart products to their customers and, when they are chosen, they can fit them themselves prior to, or during installation of the windows and doors.

“Confidence in smart products is essential for sales to grow from the installer’s point of view, as well as the homeowner,” says Mike. “Making them simple to consider, purchase, fit and operate, remains at the heart of AviaSmart. And the only commitment required by homeowners is to buy the product, not to a long-term subscription, which we believe puts installers and buyers off.”

www.mightonproducts.com

Although anecdotal, the adoption of smart hardware by the industry appears to be growing, with pockets of early adopters amongst homeowners, driving sales.

“Confidence in smart products is essential for sales to grow.”

HERITAGE

DOOR HANDLE RANGE

Designed for all doors.

TRADITIONAL DOOR HANDLES IN 9 SUITED COLOURS

MATCHING ESPAG HANDLES, PEG STAYS & BUTT HINGES

UAP OPTIMISES FLEXIBILITY WITH NEW MULTI-POINT LOCK

UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, continues to expand its product range with the launch of Flexi Lock.

Thanks to a revolutionary design, the multi-point lock can be paired with a vast range of rose handles, offering fabricators, installers, and consumers more choice and flexibility.

“The popularity of rose handles is growing rapidly, especially in the new build market,” explained David Jennings, CEO of UAP. “From our own research, we know that more customers want to use these handles on front doors to match interiors and provide a more contemporary appearance throughout a property.

“In response, we wanted to develop a multi-point lock with more design

freedom. The Flexi Lock is compatible with lever handles on rose as well as traditional handles on a backplate, providing a highly flexible solution which also maximises security and reliability.”

KEEPING IT SIMPLE

Launched under UAP’s Fullex brand, the Flexi Lock is suitable for timber, composite and aluminium doors with a 45mm lock backset.

Ideal with 1* or 3* cylinder, it has a non-handed easily reversible latch. Quick and easy to install, the Flexi Lock is prepared in the same way as the Fullex XL Crimebeater lock.

UAP’s high security escutcheon is also available with the Flexi Lock. Designed to colour match the door handle, this further enhances aesthetics. Security features include a bevelled edge, making it a lot more difficult to grip the escutcheon with pliers to pull it off, and high tensile strength fixing bolts, which secure the escutcheon to the door.

CREATING OPTIONS

In line with the latest design trends, UAP has bolstered its range of door handles with several new additions, which can all be paired with the Flexi Lock.

Introduced by UAP’s Intelligent Hardware brand, the new products include the ‘Calla’, ‘Fern’ and ‘Lyra’ lever handles on round rose as well as the ‘Ava’ lever handles on square rose. Designed in-house and following customer feedback on shapes and styles, the range is targeted at the high-end residential sector. Each handle features a contemporary design and is available in a variety of finishes, including a new matt black option plus polished chrome, satin chrome, and gun metal grey.

Uniquely, the handles have been developed to operate with the lift and lock function, which is has been made possible thanks

to a mechanism created by UAP’s design team. Other handles in the range offering the lift and lock function, and which can be used with the Flexi Lock, include the Enterprise, Jade, Ruby, Falcon, and Truro plus the Ventura, a range targeted at the developer market plus the Nevis stainless steel range. Each handle can be purchased with matching accessories and comes with a five-year guarantee.

ONE FOR ALL

“Innovation is at the heart of UAP enabling us to keep evolving our range and meet the changing needs of our customers,” added David. “The Flexi Lock is

the latest example of this proactive approach. Cost effective and affordable, it provides one multi-point lock to secure every type of door and eliminates any design constraints.

“Combined with our recently expanded range of lever on rose door handles, the Flexi Lock means fabricators can offer their customers a high quality, versatile design which improves the security of a front door and meets different lifestyles.

“When choosing our products, customers can also be assured of high stock levels, fast deliveries, and technical support and guidance.”

The Flexi Lock comes with a 10-year mechanical warranty and a free registration scheme. For further details or to download the Flexi Lock information pack, visit: www.uapcorporate.com.

OPEN YOUR DOOR WITH THE TOUCH OF YOUR FINGER

SIEGENIA: A HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPLETE RANGE FOR SLIM LIFT AND SLIDE ELEMENTS

NEW OPTIONS FOR INDIVIDUAL FREEDOM OF DESIGN

SIEGENIA is expanding its PORTAL HS range with new solutions tailored for lift and slide elements with slim profile systems: the new HS 250 compact bogie wheels, the SOFT CLOSE compact and the SOFT STOP compact complete the portfolio for elements with 30 mm hardware groove and allow fabricators maximum freedom of design, as well as tangible benefits for end users.

The focus is on versatility. Suitable for aluminium elements for the first time, as well as for timber and timber-aluminium elements and for the slim PVC profile system Vekamotion 82, the portfolio from SIEGENIA is an ideal solution both for private residential buildings and commercial buildings. In combination with the tried-and-tested HS 400 compact bogie wheels in the classic or height-adjustable version, the 27.5 gear and the 28/28 sealing rail for timber and timber-aluminium elements with burglar resistance up to RC2 or PAS 24, the new solutions from SIEGENIA provide fabricators with a highperformance complete range for slim lift and slide elements.

NEW BOGIE WHEELS: SLIMLINE DESIGN WITH FABRICATION BENEFITS

As a cost-effective solution for lower sash weights, the new HS 250 compact bogie wheels, set apart by their low height, can carry 250 kg sash weight. Their innovative bearing technology, which takes, among other things, the weight distribution of

energy-efficient triple glazing into account, provides enhanced smooth running. In spite of having only four rollers, they offer end users a high degree of comfort in everyday use.

Moreover, fabricators will also be won over by the efficient assembly. For example, the height-adjustable version of the HS 250 compact with its integrated precision adjustment supports the compensation of assembly tolerances of up to approximately 3 mm. Lifting the rear of the sash is quick and easy. Benefits also come with the sophisticated design of the new coupling pieces for the square connecting rod, which enables swift, torsion-free fixing. This prevents the development of noise or limitations in the ease of use. The new coupling piece for the square connector rod will now also be used for the HS 400 compact bogie wheels up to 400 kg sash weight.

CONVENIENT: SOFT CLOSE AND SOFT STOP IN A COMPACT VERSION

The new SOFT CLOSE compact and the new SOFT STOP compact offer convenient operation for end users. While the SOFT CLOSE function brakes the sash during closing and automatically draws it into the locking position, the sash stops just before the locking position with the SOFT STOP function. The braking path of the sash is dependent on the sash weight and the operating speed. In the final centimetres, the sash can be easily and effortlessly slid into the closed position and locked. This manual action over the final few centimetres also enables opening without requiring additional force to activate the damper. Fabricators benefit from the significantly easier assembly of these new solutions. Thanks to their flat and space-saving design, they enable insertion without the hitherto required milling on PVC and aluminium sashes. This means that the stability of the profiles remains unaffected.

www.siegenia.com

NEW HERITAGE DOOR HANDLE FROM MILA – WITH A CONTEMPORARY TWIST

Mila has launched a new Heritage door handle - with a contemporary twist. With no fewer than nine colours and finishes available, there is a handle in the range to suit even the most traditional or modern door.

Designed in-house by Mila’s own product development team, the new Heritage handle features a diamond shaped lever tip for a timeless aesthetic and a faux ‘clocked’ screw detail on the external backplate for a truly authentic look.

The Heritage black and Heritage pewter versions of the handle both have a ‘hammered’ textured effect making them perfect for traditional and cottage style properties. The pewter patina, antique bronze, polished, satin and matt painted versions are all smooth finishes designed to bring just a hint of classic styling to more modern homes.

As fabricators would expect from Mila, the new Heritage handle has been designed to be easy to stock and easy to fit. The 240mm backplate and universal lever are suitable for both left and right-handed doors and all the handles are supplied as standard with fixings for 44mm and 48mm composite doors and with the option of a 70m fixing pack for PVC doors.

The new door handle collection suites with Mila’s popular Heritage espag handles,

peg stays and dummy butt hinges. And, with matching letter plates available as well, the emphasis is on maximising sales opportunities for customers.

Managing Director Richard Gyde explained: “We’ve responded to demand from our customers for a modern Heritage range which works across all window and door styles. By offering such a wide range of colours and finishes, the aim is to appeal to all those retail buyers who just want something quite classic as well as those who want to replicate something very traditional.”

Like all Mila branded products, the new Heritage range comes with the reassurance of quality in the form of a 10-year guarantee on mechanical operation, a 10-year guarantee on all the painted finishes and 5-year guarantee on the matt black and white plated finishes.

Mila is providing a package of sales and marketing support for customers buying the new Heritage handles, with downloadable brochures available via a dedicated new web page, links to digital animations and free product imagery.

More details at: https://www.mila.co.uk/ heritage-door-handles

Ease of use made even easier: the new SOFT CLOSE compact and the new SOFT STOP compact combine the easy opening and closing of heavy sashes with efficient assembly without any milling.

The new HS 250 compact bogie wheels from SIEGENIA are set apart by their low height and bear lift and slide elements up to 250 kg sash weight. The innovative bearing technology provides ease of use with only four rollers.

REALLY SMART SMART HARDWARE

For every home, without the faff

The most secure, Apple HomeKit Approved, range of smart door and window hardware and accessories. Easily fitted with a screwdriver, no subscription or commitment, linked simply through a free app. Take advantage of the growing demand for smart home security, simply and effectively.

CARL F GROUPCO RENEWS SECURED BY DESIGN MEMBERSHIP

Leading independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has just renewed its membership of Secured by Design, the official police security initiative.

John Crittenden, Managing Director of Carl F Groupco, said: “The safety and security of our products has always been front and centre of our business. Moreover, we know how much our customers value such recognition and are reassured by our continued membership with Secured by Design and its far-reaching benefits. We’re delighted to have renewed our membership.”

Doug Skins from Secured by Design, said: “I’m delighted that Carl F Groupco have renewed their membership with Secured by Design. They are longstanding members and supply a wide range of

locks and hardware solutions which have achieved Police Preferred Specification. I look forward to our continued working relationship over the coming years.”

Carl F Groupco provides an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware and has long-standing relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers. It is an authorised supplier of Secured by Design products from Cotswold, FUHR, GT Guardian, Hoppe, Kenrick, MACO, Roto, Siegenia and Yale.

The company is committed to exceptional service at all levels. It holds £5 million of stock and has a target OTIF rate of 98%. With distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld, the business operates nationally, including to the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands. It also offers a value-added consultancy service, testing and working with its customers’ fabrication teams and manufacturing partners to scope new

NEW SECOND GENERATION 3 STAR CYLINDER FROM KENRICK

Kenrick has unveiled its second generation 3 star high security cylinder, which has been approved to TS007: 2014 British Standard rating – the highest level of certification currently available. Now featuring a brass barrel and a nickel cylinder, the euro cylinder is Anti-Snap, Anti-Pick, Anti-Bump, Anti-Screw, Anti-Drill and AntiPull, making it Kenrick’s most secure cylinder ever.

Endorsed by the Police Secured by Design scheme, the cylinder features multiple high security pins to provide maximum security and excellent resistance against all known cylinder attack methods.

The cylinder meets the standards of TS007 on both sides of the cylinder, which means that fabricators only need to stock one cylinder for both open in and open out doors.. It’s also compatible with an A1 key blank, so homeowners can easily buy additional keys from the high street if they need to.

Steve Williams, Kenrick’s sales and marketing director, says: “In 2021/2022, there were more than 192,000 burglaries reported in England and Wales, which equates to over 500 burglaries a day. And, with a door being used to gain access in more than 70% of burglaries, the choice of hardware is really important.

“We’re delighted to launch our new second generation 3 star cylinder, which eliminates any possibility of tampering with the cylinder through picking,

drilling, snapping, bumping, pulling, drilling or screwing, therefore offering maximum protection for homeowners.”

The cylinder comes in a polished brass or a nickel plated finish and can be easily retro-fitted with no additional preparation. It is available as Paired Alike or Thumb Turn and in all sizes from 70mm to 110mm in 5mm increments. The cylinder has also been tested to 100,000 cycles and comes with a 10-year mechanical guarantee.

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 fourpoint Centurion system and the Easifit and Espagnolette locking systems.

Tel: 0121 553 2741 - www.kenricks.co.uk

hardware solutions and ensure smooth transitions to new ranges.  Secured by Design (SBD) seeks to improve the physical security of buildings and the surrounding area using high-quality products that meet the SBD Police Preferred Specification security requirements, which provides a recognised standard that effectively deter and reduce crime.

SBD has many partner organisations, ranging from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities through to local authorities, housing associations, developers and manufacturers and work closely with standards and certification bodies.

John concluded: “We have an unwavering commitment to upholding our core principles of product quality, first class service and industry knowledge. Through our membership of Secured by Design, we are looking forward to continuing to play our part in ensuring that product security

ORION HAS THE POWER TO PROTEQT

VBH, the hardware manufacturer behind the greenteQ range, advises that the door industry and the Great British public at large have welcomed its Orion TS007 3 Star profile cylinder with open arms.

Orion is the top-level profile cylinder in the greenteQ range, which also includes the entry level 6 pin Gamma, and TS007 1 Star Q-Star models.

As a 3 Star rated cylinder according to the TS007 Kitemark, Orion offers protection against drilling, picking, bumping and snapping, all without the need of additional hardware such as a security handle or cylinder guard.

Orion comes with five keys as standard, and is available in nickel, brass, key/key and thumb turn variants, all of which can be keyed alike for multi-door installations. Each Orion cylinder is supplied with a full 10-year performance guarantee. However, VBH advise that it is, perhaps, the additional proteQ10 anti-snap guarantee/ Key Security Scheme that has grabbed the attention of fabricators, installers, locksmiths and the general public alike.

Hayley Martin, Media Coordinator at VBH says, “Being involved in promoting Orion is a dream as it pretty much takes care of itself!

“The snap guarantee element is very simple. We will pay the homeowner £2000 if the Orion cylinder is snapped and a break in is successful as a result. We’ve had no claims yet. The Key Security aspect is really popular. When the homeowner registers their guarantee online, they are prompted to set up a password. Once the password is

standards are current and updated to keep pace with emerging crime trends.”

Tel: 01733 393 330

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

www.smartsecure.co.uk

www.carlfdirect.co.uk

set, additional keys can only be cut when the password is given. This has proved a real hit.”

The door manufacturer or installer do not get involved in any registrations, claims or additional key cutting. Orion’s five keys are supplied with a card that tells the homeowner how to register for their guarantees and Key Security scheme online. VBH advise that it takes just a few seconds and is very secure, with no eyes on the password. The site also has details on how to obtain additional keys.

Hayley adds, “We’ve had well over 6000 registrations from launch, which represents a lot of customers with that secure feeling that greenteQ Orion and proteQ10 bring!”

The Orion cylinder range is a finalist in the Best Door Component category of the 2023 National Fenestration Awards. The winner will be announced in October. VBH is a finalist in twelve categories, including Best Hardware Company for the 5th year in succession.

To find out more about greenteQ Orion 3 star profile cylinders or any other hardware in the VBH range, contact VBH on 01634 263263, email at sales@vbhgb.com, or send them a Tweet @vbhgb.

BIGGEST BRANDS. WIDEST CHOICE

Come to Window Ware and be sure you’ll find exactly what you need! Take your pick from around 5000 highly specified door and window hardware products from 115 of the industry’s most trusted brands.

DELIVERING ON STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

Leading independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco says that when it comes to door hardware, product performance should always be the top priority.

John Crittenden, Managing Director of Carl F Groupco, commented: “The aesthetics of door hardware can have big impact on the overall look and feel of a project. But, as an essential component part for any home or building, product performance should always be the top priority, so it’s essential to prioritise it when selecting your choice of door handles.”

John highlights one product that delivers on both objectives: the Hoppe ARRONE Lever/Lever Handle Set. He says: “Product performance is a vital part of customer satisfaction, so it’s essential to prioritise it when selecting your choice of handles. Fortunately, with the Hoppe ARRONE handle, there’s no need to compromise.”

Suitable for use on PVC-U and composite doors, the Hoppe ARRONE Lever/Lever Handle

Set comes in a range of seven contemporary colour finishes, including colour-matched fixings,

to make it easy to find the perfect handle aesthetic. It features a long backplate with 92mm PZ

centres and is reverse handed to reduce stockholding. It’s also part of a broader product suite that offers everything an entrance door needs, including numerals, spyholes, door knockers and letterplates.

Available in zinc alloy and aluminium construction variants, the handle has been extensively quality tested to ensure fabricators, installers and homeowners all benefit from the added confidence and reassurance that the ARRONE brand promise provides.

This includes durability testing to 200,000 cycles. It also includes corrosion salt spray testing to grade 5, which requires 480 hours of salt spray testing, although the handle was tested to 1,000 hours with no impact on performance. To demonstrate the quality of the handle, it comes with a 10-year guarantee on the mechanical operation.

The Hoppe ARRONE Lever/Lever Handle Set is just one example from Carl F Groupco’s portfolio

Experts in Hardware

Experts in Hardware

Experts in Hardware

Experts in Hardware

We’ve steadily increased the range of hardware we buy from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

We’ve steadily increased the range of hardware we buy from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

We’ve steadily increased the range of hardware we buy from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

of a product that delivers on both style and performance. John also highlights the Atlanta PAS 24 handle, which is fully tested to the latest PAS 24 requirements. There are also Hoppe ARRONE Pull Handles and the Yale Elite T-Bar Pull Handle for projects that need a high-quality, contemporary finish.  All these products are just a snapshot of the extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware that Carl F Groupco supplies. It has long-standing relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers and focuses on offering the breadth, depth and quality that today’s industry demands.

Combined with a genuinely customer-focused approach, it demonstrates why the company is the go-to hardware supplier.  Tel: 01733 393 330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk

Get in touch and speak to one of our experts today:

Get in touch and speak to one of our experts today:

Get in touch and speak to one of our experts today:

t. Peterborough: 01733 393330

t. Peterborough: 01733 393330

t. Peterborough: 01733 393330

t. Peterborough: 01733 393330

t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557

t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557

t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557

t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557

e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Product Manager Carl F Groupco

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

Product Manager Carl F Groupco

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

Product Manager Carl F Groupco

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

Product Manager Carl F Groupco

Scott Dowling Cairngorm

Group

We’ve steadily increased the range of hardware we buy from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

SPRING HAS SPRUNG AT VBH

Hardware manufacturer, VBH, offers a sprung lever on rose for aluminium residential and bi-fold doors.

The handle, which is part of the greenteQ Aspire range, is available in eight colours of the greenteQ Suite of matching residential door, patio door and window furniture.

As such, all finishes are covered by the comprehensive greenteQ 10-year surface and performance guarantee.

The handle features a strong spring to ensure that it always returns to the 90° position, with no handle droop.

VBH Marketing Manager, Gary Gleeson, says, “The lever is manufactured from grade 304 stainless steel, which is a fittingly high quality material for top end doors, but is, of course, very heavy. Our greenteQ designers paid a lot of attention to ensuring that the perfect strength spring was required. It’s a fine balance between preventing droop and not having it snap to 90° too strongly.”

The handles have concealed fixings, and there are complementing 4mm escutcheon plates that clip into place on the door. No screws are required to fit the escutcheons.

Gary adds, “With the continued and increasing popularity of aluminium doors, it’s important that we continue to bring in new products to suit. The Aspire Sprung Lever is just one of many products within our range that has been designed specifically for this end of the market. We have always been ‘big in aluminium’ and are the preferred hardware supplier for alu manufacturers of all sizes.”

To find out more about greenteQ Aspire Sprung Levers or any other hardware in the VBH range, contact VBH on 01634 263263, email at sales@vbhgb.com, or send them a Tweet @vbhgb.

UK’S FIRST ‘WORKS WITH KUBU’ HOOK AND SHOOTBOLT WINDOW LOCK INTRODUCED

Avantis, the designer and vertically integrated manufacturer of next generation multipoint locking systems for the fenestration industry, has made a pioneering new addition to its range.

The business has launched SUPERIOR – the UK’s first high-performance, bi-directional hook and shootbolt window lock that ‘Works with Kubu’ Smart Security sensors. The new product offers homeowners the best of both worlds – exceptional mechanical security with Kubu’s next generation smart sensing technology.

Mark Bromley from Avantis explains: “The Avantis SUPERIOR is one of the most secure window locks now available. It is manufactured using a combination of ultra-high strength materials and features an innovative design for exceptional levels of resilience.

TOTAL HARDWARE AND UAP CELEBRATE LONGSTANDING RELATIONSHIP

Leading independent hardware supplier Total Hardware and door hardware supplier UAP are celebrating a longstanding relationship that adds value to both companies.

Total Hardware sources Fullex, the leading brand of high-security multipoint locking systems for doors, through UAP which has led to a mutuallyrespected partnership. Chris Pell, General Manager at Total Hardware, says: “Fullex locks have been part of our portfolio for over 15 years. We always had a great working relationship with Fullex, and it’s something that continued when UAP purchased Fullex back in 2016.”

Barry Halpin, Group Sales Director at UAP, adds: “We enjoy a great relationship with Total Hardware. Like us, it’s a strong, proactive business and, as a result, the partnership has gone from strength to strength over time.”

Fullex is one of the most recognised brands in the fenestration and specification markets, and its multi-point locks are suitable for PVC-U, composite, timber and aluminium doors. The range includes the respected Crimebeater and XL locks alongside Secured by Design and PAS 24:2016 certified products, all with a 10-year guarantee.

Chris says: “Fullex has a well-deserved reputation for product excellence, and customers seek it out by name.”

As one of the UK’s leading independent trade stockists, Total Hardware continues to evaluate its offering to ensure they deliver the depth and breadth of products its customers need. And with the rise in

smart technology, Total Hardware will be adding the newly launched IONIC Electronic Lock by Fullex-ai, giving their customers a further competitive advantage.

The new IONIC is an ultra-secure electronic lock enabling access via a smartphone App. Manufactured for timber, aluminium and composite doors, the IONIC is the first in a series of ‘smart’ products set to be launched under UAP’s Fullex Ai brand. Chris said: “The new IONIC door lock is the next generation of smart technology. It’s secure, easy to use and presents an additional upsell for our customers. It’s an exciting product to be adding to our range.”

Chris continues: “We are a dedicated and customer-centric business that proactively offers new hardware solutions that will add value to our range and to our customers’ businesses. We also believe in stocking the stalwarts that never stop adding value – Fullex locks from UAP are the perfect example and we look forward to further developing our successful relationship into the future.”

Tel: 0113 243 2255  www.totalhardwareltd.co.uk

“This design includes a unique bidirectional gearbox as well as the largest bidirectional locking hooks currently on the market. These help to ensure unparalleled levels of security when they’re engaged into the reinforced keeps.”

Thanks to its robust construction and intelligent engineering, the new Avantis SUPERIOR has the ability to withstand in excess of 4.5 kilonewtons of end load.

As a result, it benefits from both Secured by Design and PAS 24 certification. It has also been operation tested to over 50,000 cycles and comes backed with a ten-year mechanical guarantee.

By enabling the new SUPERIOR lock to Work with the Kubu floating window sensor, Avantis is opening up a whole new level of convenience and functionality for the homeowner.

These sensors can be used to determine whether a window is open, closed, secure or on a vent setting. They can also alert users if a window is under attack.

Kubu smart sensors can be used for remote monitoring on a smartphone or tablet or integrated with other devices such as Amazon’s Alexa or Google’s Nest to form part of a complete smart home ecosystem. The new SUPERIOR lock will be available from Avantis’ launch partners, Listers Window Systems. In the first instance, it will feature on Listers’ Eurologik windows before being introduced across further product lines.

Roy Frost, managing director of Listers, comments: “We use Avantis products across our range because of their reliability, ease of use and exceptional performance.

“Given our experience, being one of the first to adopt the manufacturer’s new SUPERIOR hook and shootbolt window lock was a natural decision. It offers all the qualities we know and trust of the brand but with the added benefit of being perfectly placed to help us capitalise on the surging demand for smart home and home automation technology.”

For more information on Avantis, visit: www.avantis-hardware.com.

“The Aspire Sprung Lever is just one of many products within our range that has been designed specifically for this end of the market.”

KIT-FAB SUPPLIES CHOOSES CARL F GROUPCO FOR HARDWARE SUCCESS

Kit-Fab Supplies of County Limerick, Ireland, have been sourcing Roto Inowa Hardware from leading independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco for three years. As an approved fabricator for Aluplast’s PVC-U Smart-Slide Door, only the best hardware will do. Barclay Costello, Managing Director at Kit-Fab Supplies, says the Roto hardware more than fits the bill, while the partnership with Carl F Groupco has added even more value. He said: “This partnership has been the key to success with this fantastic product. Trade customers are delighted with the weather tightness, ease of operation and installation.”

Justin Costello, Promotion Manager at Kit-Fab Supplies, said: “There are many considerations when you choose a supplier to support your business. Quality and reliability are two immediate factors, but you also need access to the best range of products that present a tangible highquality difference to your offering and we get that from the Inowa hardware range supplied by Carl F Groupco.“

The popular Smart-Slide Door design allows the door sash to slide smoothly and freely. Once the handles are engaged, the sash moves out from the frame and slides free from all seals. The Roto Inowa sliding door hardware wraps the sash with rollers top and bottom and has locking on both the verticals, delivering superior security and weathertightness as the door sash is locked and compressed against gasket seals on all sides.

Justin commented: “We have had nothing but great reviews for the Smart-Slide Door since we started manufacturing it three

years ago. The high-quality credentials of the Roto Inowa sliding door hardware is part of that success.”

Carl F Groupco is a major stockist of Roto hardware, and Julie Warner, Carl F Groupco’s Roto product manager, said: “The Roto Patio Inowa range is a prevalent choice for customers looking to differentiate their offer. It meets the stringent requirements of the BS EN 13126-17 rain and air impermeability tests and can achieve PAS 24 compliance with its secure locking points in the mullion, V-locking cams and its lockable handle with drilling protection. Every element of the hardware range is of the highest quality, something that’s appreciated by Kit-Fab Supplies.”

Founded in 1979, the Costello familyrun business is committed to the highest standards by offering the best-in-class products. It operates from a 13-acre factory located in Glin, County Limerick, and employs 60 skilled staff.

It’s ambitious for growth, and through KitFab Supplies it offers a dependable trade

supply service based on years of experience and expertise.

Carl F Groupco provides an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware and has long-standing relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers. It prides itself on exceptional customer service, offering short lead times and an OTIF target of 98%. 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.

It's a service that will prove invaluable to Kit-Fab Supplies because it’s about to start using Roto NT Tilt and Turn Hardware on its products. It’s proof that the recentlyformed partnership with Carl F Groupco is set to get even stronger.

Tel: 01733 393 330

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

www.smartsecure.co.uk

www.carlfdirect.co.uk

PULL HANDLES FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL ENTRANCE, SAYS COASTAL GROUP

Door manufacturers are continuously pushing the envelope to craft entrance doors with the best durability, thermal efficiency, and aesthetics that deliver exceptional kerb appeal. The front entrance door marks the beginning of the journey for homeowners and visitors alike, each carefully considered detail including the hardware must be perfect in capturing the narrative for the quality behind the door.

Coastal Group believe it’s fundamental that doors of this quality must be paired with hardware that matches, outlining their flagship BLU range of pull handles as the “statement ironmongery” that truly makes an exceptional entrance.

“The handle is often the first thing touched on front entrance doors, so we’ve gone the extra mile to ensure the right impression is given” comments Coastal Group Head Of Sales, Adrian Welch. “Each of our pull handles are precision engineered with an extra finishing process to create a smooth super-satin finish for the highest-quality look and feel”.

Coastal Group attribute advanced engineering capabilities that set their pull handle range apart from the rest, including:

• Superior durable fixing method to ensure the handle does not come loose.

• Higher tensile strength so the handle will not bend over time, removing the need for a middle stem that can conflict with the locking gearbox.

• All components are made from 316 Stainless Steel for ultimate lasting performance.

Coastal offer a wide range of pull handle designs in their BLU range to suit various door styles – from inline to offset, round to square, rectangle and curved as well as a range of size and fixing methods.

However, perhaps the most popular addition to the range has been the introduction of black pull handles. “Black ironmongery is becoming more and more sought after by homeowners to achieve the sleek, contemporary look” continues Adrian Welch.

“Our new BLU PVD stainless satin black pull handles are the perfect accompaniment for modern contemporary doors”.

The Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) finish process provides an ultra-thin, extremely strong protective layer on top of the hardware, giving the black pull handles a more premium look which showcases the satin grain of the stainless steel. The PVD process is the same as used by many high-end watch manufacturers to achieve the desired premium look and feel of their watches.

“Our customers often outline how the pull handles being part of a suited range of matching furniture including door knockers, letter plates and escutcheons is a major benefit to their offering” comments Managing Director Loren Jenner. “Maintaining a consistent look and feel across the furniture on your front entrance door emphasises that ‘wow factor’ homeowners are searching for. We’ve even introduced smart access technology through our BLU-e biometric pull handle”. The BLU range of pull handles continues to gather recognition as a hallmark of quality on front entrances. An industry leading composite door manufacturer comments “We were introduced to the BLU range of door hardware after we were let down by a supplier. Coastal were able to step in and deliver a great service and great product. We were impressed from the start as they not only got us out of a potential hole but were happy to go the extra mile for us.”

Manufactured from the finest 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel, the reassuringly robust BLU range of pull handles come with a lifetime guarantee. This gives peace of mind to manufacturers and installers that

wherever in the world your doors are fitted, they won’t be let down by ironmongery that rusts and fails.

Coastal outline they have recently doubled their stockholding capabilities by adding a second warehouse, allowing them to maintain a large stockholding across their range of pull handles.

To enquire about handles for your showroom or see the quality of our pull handles for yourself, you can request a 300mm sample pull handle by emailing kevin.richards@coastal-group.com or calling us on 01726 871 025.

INSULATED GLASS PERFORMANCE THAT’S BUILT BY DESIGN

KUBU AND UNIQUE LAUNCH

‘SMART AS STANDARD™’ PARTNERSHIP

as soon as possible, fully backed with Kubu’s award winning marketing support. Given the surging demand amongst consumers for smart technology and the exponential growth in people looking to benefit from connected homes, the sales potential for Kubu smart sensors, and especially as a first to market solution, is enormous.

DEBAR DESIGNS STRONG AND COMPACT LOCK FOR SLIM BI-FOLD PROFILE

Leading bi-fold manufacturer Debar has launched a strong and compact lock perfect for slim bi-folding door profiles.

On Wednesday 22nd March 2023, Unique Window Systems and Kubu Smart Security staged a launch event announcing a new partnership between the two businesses. This will see all Unique windows and doors supplied with ‘Works with Kubu’ capability as standard and with immediate effect.

During the event, which took place at the National Space Centre in Leicester, some 140 people representing a variety of companies from Unique’s UK-wide customer base, heard presentations from Kubu’s managing director, Ryan Bromley, head of projects and technical, Irun Sangha, and design engineer, Tom Jameson.

Collectively, they covered topics such as the highly reliable, highly secure nature of the technology employed by Kubu smart sensors, the ease with which they can be incorporated into new windows and doors, and the rich functionality and benefits they offer the homeowner.

This includes the ability to remotely check whether their home’s windows and doors are open, closed, locked, unlocked or on a vent setting as well as to receive alerts if someone enters or attempts to enter their property.

The Kubu team also highlighted the impressive commercial opportunities available to installers through their innovative ‘3-Levels to Smart as Standard’ sales strategy and Kubu Pro Installer Scheme, which actively encourages installers to take full advantage of current market trends and become smart installers

During their presentations, the team drew parallels with other game-changing brands of smart home and home automation technology such as Nest, Hive, Sonos, and Philips Hue.

Commenting, Sunil Patel, joint managing director of Unique Window Systems, who opened the event said: “Unique’s success as one of the UK’s leading fabricators of windows and doors owes much to our progressive, forward-thinking approach and our ability to adapt to changing market conditions and trends.

“The decision to offer our range with ‘Works with Kubu’ as standard is a natural extension of that and fully reflects our desire to create the most inspiring, innovative, and high-performance architectural fenestration products available.”

Ryan Bromley co-founder of Kubu Smart Security added: “Our partnership with Unique creates some truly exciting opportunities for their installers to embrace smart tech and to use it as means to upsell or to create differentiation from their competitors.

“Best of all, they can tap into the rapidly expanding and already £multi-billion smart home market with impressive ease and efficiency. Installing Kubu smart sensors has been designed to be simple and intuitive. It can be performed without specialist tools or training. Plus, we’re also offering comprehensive marketing and tech support to help them enjoy maximum returns with minimum effort.”

Allowing for increased sightlines without compromising security and only 26.5mm wide, the Robus Compact is made from high-strength zinc diecast and has been properly coated making the product fully corrosion-resistant.

Suitable for residential and commercial applications, Robus Compact provides two points of engagement to secure the top and bottom of the door panel. Plus, the threaded rod connections provide easy adjustment and tolerances for improved performance.

The smaller size and design of the lock certainly doesn’t impact the end result as Robus Compact is incredibly secure and can achieve an impressive 90Nm Torque.

Like all Debar products, this slimline lock will also undergo PAS 24 testing to measure its security performance to

guarantee it is incredibly difficult for intruders to force entry.

Marjanas Petraitis, Technical Manager at Debar, comments: “Our new Robus Compact is a fantastic addition to our well-established bi-fold lock range. For many years we have led the way in the market for designing and manufacturing high-quality bi-fold hardware and components, and the brand-new Robus Compact is no exception. As its name suggests, this lock is small in size making it the perfect match for a slim bi-fold profile. “This is one of the slimmest locking bi-fold gear boxes with the largest lock throw of 24mm. Compatible with any existing Debar handle, Robus Compact delivers outstanding security, incredible functionality and even protection in extreme weather.”

Debar is the largest independent British manufacturer of bi-fold hardware and bifold door systems supplying to fabricators and system houses around the world. For more information on the Robus Compact lock email sales@bifold-hardware.com or call 01274 673 547.

ULTION KEYTAG WINS THE RED DOT AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING DESIGN IN SMART HOME DEVICES FOR BRISTANT-SECURE

Brisant-Secure wins the Red Dot Design Award for Ultion KeyTag, an integrated smart key that can be located using the Apple Find My app. Chosen from over twenty thousand entries, KeyTag impressed the judges with its special integrated design quality, winning in the Product Design category.

KeyTag was assessed against its degree of innovation in functionality, quality, ergonomics and durability. The annual award was decided by a panel of 50 international experts who tested, evaluated and discussed each entry. The winners’ prize is awarded exclusively to outstanding, forward-looking concepts.

Past winners include Seiko, Dyson, Shark, Honda and the Apple watch series 4 and 7. Winners come from more than seventy countries. This award clearly shows that Brisant-Secure is well able

to compete with the big players with its cutting edge developers keeping the needs of the customer and functionality at the heart of all its design development. KeyTag has given Brisant-Secure the ability to be recognised on an international stage. Brisant-Secure continues to set new standards in UK manufacturing industry with the design of their products, including its award winning lock Ultion.

Last September saw Brisant-Secure launch Ultion KeyTag. Built into the actual Ultion key itself, KeyTag finds lost Ultion keys in a matter of minutes by

sounding an alarm. KeyTag works with the Apple Find My app that is already into the iPhone operating system, so there is no app to install, and the Ultion Key can be found in the same way as a lost iPhone or iPad.

Remarkably, with all the functionality, power and sounder in the body of the key, it’s still only 11mm thin, so looks and feels like a normal house key.

The Red Dot Award is a recognised international seal for outstanding design. For 60 years, it has been pursued by companies and design studios as a credible endorsement of their design excellence.

Installers from across the UK have enjoyed an exclusive insight into new technology that will deliver revolutionary benefits for the fenestration industry.

• Delivering energy efficient and thermal retention.

• Available in grey, black, white and grey on white.

Our Cortizo Aluminium Bifold are manufactured to the highest standards to deliver outstanding technical performance .

• Superb slimline aesthetics.

• Market leading sash width of 1200 mm.

• Suitable for commercial, residential and new build applications.

• PAS24:2016 option.

• Incorporates the latest in security technology.

T: 01452 383 344

WHEN IS A COMPOSITE DOOR NOT A COMPOSITE DOOR?

Ask Danny Williams, who insists that Gerda Doors are not composite doors, even if they would appear to be…

During the run up to this year’s FIT Show, we enjoyed a conversation with Danny Williams, MD of trade fabricator, commercial installer Pioneer Trading; and now, official distributor of Gerda residential doors, from Poland. Never a dull occasion, when discussing Gerda Doors Danny made the statement that ‘Gerda Doors are not composite doors.” What are they then, we wondered….?

The definition of ‘composite’ is: ‘made up of distinct parts or elements’. And every dictionary checked, agreed. “OK,” responded Danny, “I agree that Gerda doors do fit that broader definition. But Gerda Doors do not fit the popular definition of a ‘composite’ door, because that generally suggests GRP or PVC skins, with a timber or PU core. And little variation from that. And I have sold and installed enough of them to know,” rounded Danny. We await mail from ‘conventional’ composite door manufacturers…

But Danny’s rationale is based upon the fact that Gerda’s ‘composite’ is quite different than anything else out there, and therefore should not be confused with other composite doors. And on that basis, perhaps we can agree with Danny. 60mm to 88mm front-to-back dimensions are offered, with thermal efficiency across the range between 0.79 W/m2K to 1.3 W/ m2K. Three chamber reinforced aluminium internal construction insulated with PU cores, located into reinforced aluminium outer frames, is utilised across all doors. The emphasis on security that is standard across all Gerda products, is rarely seen in any specification on composite residential doors currently available in the UK. Multi point locks, Teflon coated strike plates and antiprise pins are standard throughout, with the highest specification hardware provided by Gerda’s own hardware, though with Fuhr figuring widely.

But who and what are Gerda? A major residential door manufacturer, according to its website Gerda produces ‘199 designs in 8887 configurations’, with Pioneer curating a UK/Ireland-focused selection of four ranges, offering quite distinct price and specifications. Styles have been chosen to include contemporary to some traditional styles produced specifically for British and Irish tastes.

The hardware specification is interesting, with Gerda’s background in locks –including padlocks and bicycle locks –coming to the fore. And although Gerda is a new brand in the home improvement sector

in these isles, throughout mainland Europe Gerda is a household name.

Pioneer is also distributing Gerda’s range of hardware and locks as an OEM product. And that includes Gerda’s Tedee smart lock:

“Tedee is the first smart lock to impress me,” explains Danny. “So many so-called smart locks are clunky, ugly or both.

Tedee is beautifully styled and the smallest smartphone controlled doorlock in the world. It will lock and unlock multipoint

locks and does not rely upon a handle being thrown to do so. There is resistance from homeowners to smart security, because people don’t see any advantage in replacing ultra-reliable keys with smartphones with potential glitches that we all experience with our phones now and then.

“For there to be significant take up of smart security, there must be clear benefits. Tedee can be set to touch-free opening and closing, of the door, which I have not

seen with any other smart lock. That is a real, game changing, tangible benefit. Approaching the door for it to swing open and then close behind you, has to be seen. Brilliant.”

Gerda Doors are already available through a growing network of mostly retail installers, for which they are usually added as a premium range that sits above a conventional range of composite doors, thus qualifying Danny’s ‘not a composite door’ contention: “Gerda Doors are surprisingly affordable, to the point where most homeowners will find the extra money when they compare the specification of standard doors against Gerda. And this works especially well in showrooms where the sheer feel and heft of a Gerda door – and the quality – are so tangible,” says Danny. “We have a lot of good areas for which we are looking for partners, there are some great opportunities.”

All products will be on the Pioneer/Gerda stand at FIT Show. Where of course, visitors will have the opportunity to personally discuss the definition of ‘composite’ with the man himself.

“So many so-called smart locks are clunky, ugly or both. Tedee is beautifully styled and the smallest smartphone controlled doorlock in the world.”

A PERFECT PARTNERSHIP RAISES THE GAME: THE RESIDENCE DOOR COLLECTION BY APEER (FIT SHOW STAND R81)

design and performance. Each door will be presented as a ground-breaking 120mm front-to-back format, including traditional, contemporary and stable door designs, with 78mm quadruple sealed glass units as standard. Construction will be of GPR skins around a high density PU core, reinforced with aluminium anti-cut through security mesh embedded within the core of each door. Every door, including skins and glass units, will be manufactured by Apeer at its 120,000 feet2 Ballymena factory.

launch, will improve upon the 0.8 W/m2K anticipated to be published in the Future Homes standard by which new homes will be built from 2025.

The Residence Door Collection by Apeer delivers a range of 20 door styles that have been curated to complement Residence Collection windows in terms of aesthetics, quality and performance, and built around a specification developed by leading composite door manufacturer Apeer, that is designed to future-proof the range. Whilst designed primarily to complement the widely acclaimed Residence Collection flush sash windows, the range will be widely available on the open market.

A total of twenty designs have been chosen, including a highly distinctive concept door that is designed to include everything that the Residence Door Collection by Apeer embodies, including the key elements of

Specification from the outset will be comprehensive to include nine standard colours at launch (seven grained and two smooth), with the availability of full sidelights and top lights from launch, with half lights and others to follow. Standard specification also includes weather deflectors, and Stormguard or full frame thresholds. High quality hardware and furniture will be used throughout, whilst extra touches such as Ultion KeyTagequipped, trackable keys will also form a comprehensive standard specification. All doors will be PAS24 compliant, and thermal performance testing, which is being undertaken in advance of the FIT Show

The partnership between Residence Collection and Apeer is unusual and possibly unique in terms of two independent and previously unconnected brands coming together for such a collaboration, and Sarah Hitchings, Residence Collection’s Sales and Marketing Director explained how it came about: “Residence Collection has always been defined by our commitment to high quality, high performance, and innovation. We have been looking at developing a range of engineered doors that extends beyond our current collection, that anticipates what we believe will be required for home improvements with the influence of Future Homes. We met Asa from Apeer and everything that he told us, and showed us, was at least what we were looking for. And then he improved it.”

Asa McGillian responded: “Apeer has always strived to design and produce products that are unique, or innovative or the highest performers in their sector, or all of those

things – just as Residence Collection has with flush sash windows. And after I had the opportunity to show Sarah and her team our ideas for a premium, advanced specification door they told us that it was what they had been looking for…to be able to design and manufacture this collection under the Residence Collection name is very satisfying; we are delighted to partner and co-brand this range of doors with them.”

www.apeer.co.uk

Two of the window and door industry’s most respected brands have come together to launch a specification-leading residential door range, to be revealed for the first time at the forthcoming FIT Show.

OPTIMISING PERFORMANCE TO BRING BENEFITS TO CUSTOMERS

Aaron Williamson, DoorCo’s new Head of Manufacturing, talks about the project the leading composite door supplier is undertaking to achieve greater manufacturing efficiencies through the adoption of lean and world class manufacturing principles.

Lean and World Class Manufacturing (WCM) principles are the fundamental principles behind the ability to minimise waste (time, resources, materials) and maximising productivity. With my background in the medical device industry and mission critical energy supply components, a true understanding of the power of lean is what has driven my first few months at DoorCo, working with the team to restructure, establish and enhance processes to deliver further competitive advantage.

Getting ahead of demand

It’s well recognised that DoorCo has experienced exponential growth over recent times and is now the UK’s largest composite door supplier, and one that is never shy to invest in people and equipment. But from a manufacturing perspective, the current set up was limiting capacity and therefore, the potential for taking the business to the next stage of growth. I was able to take a step back, review the space and the working processes, and grow capacity

through strengthening the team and building plans to introduce the principles of WCM and lean manufacturing. We are aiming to create a clean, uncluttered environment, designed to decrease waste, optimise productivity and attain more consistent operational results. A clean and tidy workplace, with everything required for the job located where it should be sounds simple, but getting even this basic wrong can have huge implications on productivity and quality. Having these strong foundations will enable us to one day, achieve the World Class Manufacturing status we are working towards.

PEOPLE MAKE IT POSSIBLE

The core of making this possible is people. The culture of shared values and commitment to continuous improvement at DoorCo is strong and this project has reenergised this further across the manufacturing team.

The redesign has included input from all stakeholders and has resulted in the creation of three new areas of manufacturing focused on specific disciplines: Standard Doors, Painted/Stained Doors, and Glazing. Each cell has a dedicated team, with a clear hierarchy which has enabled us to offer promotions to manage extra responsibility and in tandem, open up opportunities for other

members of the team to aspire to, for growth within the business. The teams are empowered to manage these lines effectively and encouraged offer ideas that might help improve the business and service we deliver to our customers.

As we take each step on the journey to WCM, people can see the improvements being made because they’re being listened to. They’re experiencing an improved work environment which creates a positive feedback cycle.

HOLISTIC APPROACH

Historically, the 31,000sq.ft. manufacturing space at DoorCo was taken up by one big system responsible for all doors and processes including glazing, painting, prepping was part of it, which often caused bottlenecks and delays. A door would travel 250m round the factory – ¼ kmbefore it was ready. Starting with a blank canvas and applying the lean principles of removing the seven wastes –– we have been able to reduce a door’s travel time

to just 50m with the restructure. Not only does this indicate the advances we can make in increasing capacity, reduced transportation and motion also means fewer touch points for potential damage to the door, which in turn improves consistent quality.

Lean principles also help to identify where further investment is needed in for example machinery, although it must be justified within the whole manufacturing ‘ecosystem’. As a result, we’ve brought in additional beam saws and also upgraded the significant extraction system.

IT’S JUST COMMON SENSE

None of this is rocket science, but it does require consistency, tenacity and genuine teamwork, which fortunately are qualities seen throughout DoorCo. Our aim is to deliver consistently higher and higher levels of customer service, efficiencies to pass on to our customer through a value for money offering and to futureproof the business to keep ahead as we share and support our customers’ growth.

www.door-co.com

Aaron Williamson

“Having these strong foundations will enable us to one day, achieve the World Class Manufacturing status we are working towards.”

THE PERFECT PARTNERSHIP, THE PERFECT DOOR

The industry’s most respected brands in their sectors have aligned to produce The Residence Door Collection by Apeer. The result? A range of residential doors with the most advanced specification available in terms of quality, performance and aesthetics.

Offer The Residence Door Collection by Apeer to your customers and it will raise the bar

beyond any other residential door. The most energy efficient door on the market, a 120mm profile, 78mm quadruple sealed glass unit, perfectly colour matched doorsets, powerful security performance in excess of PAS24 and an attention to detail and manufactured quality beyond anything else available today.

Come and see us at the Fit Show R81 Tel 034 5672 9333 sales@apeer.co.uk

LEADING THE WAY: SENTRY DOORS UNVEIL NEW LOOK KNOWLES

LARGEST UK FIRE DOOR MANUFACTURER

The newly expanded business continues to be headquartered in Doncaster, where Sentry Doors has an additional 40,000 sq. ft facility. This takes the company’s total footprint to 100,000 sq. ft across the Birmingham and Doncaster branches, both of which are fully equipped with the latest manufacturing equipment.

Sentry Doors’ recent acquisition of E. & S. W. Knowles Company Ltd is a case in point. The extensive Knowles product range now sits within the Sentry Doors catalogue of market-leading products, giving customers access to a complete range of fully certified fire doors, which are suitable for all markets.

Following the acquisition, Sentry Doors is pleased to announce the launch of a new look Knowles range, which sits perfectly within the Sentry family and reflects both brands shared vision for the future.

As a result of the brand transformation, E. & S. W. Knowles Company Ltd will now simply be known as Knowles.

The new branding uses familiar elements of the Sentry logo and encases them around the Knowles range. This cradling effect is symbolic of the safety and protection that the company has built its reputation on.

BESPOKE, SECTOR SPECIFIC SOLUTIONS

As part of Sentry Doors, production of the Knowles range will take place at the 60,000 sq. ft facility in Birmingham, where the focus will be on manufacturing specialist timber internal doorsets with fire rated, acoustic and PAS 24 security certification. The 100-strong team in Birmingham offers bespoke, sector specific solutions that meet the exacting requirements of its commercial, healthcare, education and leisure customers.

The acquisition added many new, complementary products to Sentry Doors’ already well-established range of fully certified bespoke timber fire and security door sets, designed for the social housing, public sector, commercial and residential markets.

Sentry Doors’ reputation for quality and certification is what makes them a UK leader, and now that they can cater to all markets, the organisation is able to provide an even wider, bespoke range of products.

Sentry Doors also benefit from having all the skills and capabilities required to manufacture their products in-house, and since the acquisition, they have invested £1.2m to support the expansion of production capabilities in Birmingham. This gives the organisation complete quality control at every stage of production and demonstrates that they are truly a centre of excellence and expertise. It also enables them to offer a complete, end-to-end service, consistent lead and delivery times and a first-class customer experience.

MADE IN BRITAIN

The expansion has provided Sentry Doors with the opportunity to pursue further innovation and growth, whilst maintaining their ongoing commitment to being the UK leader in timber fire and security doorsets, at the forefront of compliance and regulation. Sentry’s products are tested and certified to the highest industry standards, giving customers complete confidence and peace of mind.

In addition, Sentry Doors are proud to have obtained the official ‘Made in Britain’ stamp. As the only official, protected mark which certifies that a product is made in Britain, the mark gives confidence to customers that Sentry is a trusted and transparent manufacturer.

KNOWN AND TRUSTED FOR OVER 130 YEARS

The transformation of the brand also coincides with Knowles’ centenary year. This major milestone means that they now have over 130 years’ collective experience in manufacturing specialist doorsets.

Sentry prides themselves on their unique approach, which seamlessly blends traditional, time-honoured techniques with modern manufacturing methods. While Sentry are rightly proud of their combined history, heritage and reputation, this brand transformation and expansion provide an opportunity for them to look to the future.

Ty Aziz, Sentry’s Chief Executive, said:  ‘Together, Sentry Doors and Knowles have an incredible manufacturing heritage, while our complementary products and skills make us a formidable company. We’re very happy to be marking this acquisition with a new look and a logo that reflects our shared vision and goals, while cementing our status as a known and trusted brand.

‘The rebrand marks a key milestone in the growth strategy for our businesses and advances our ambition to be UK leaders in this sector.'

The new look Knowles will be unveiled at the Fire Safety Event, at Birmingham NEC on 25-27 April. Showcasing the latest products, technology and solutions in fire safety, this event is dedicated to supporting industry practitioners, professionals and organisations in achieving and maintaining the very highest standards of fire safety management.

Rocal, the manufacturer of highly respected composite doors and specialist uPVC products, is marking a major business milestone.

The company, which owns a portfolio of brands including Endurance Doors, Impressions, One Door, and Rocal Extrusions, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023.

Formed in 1993 and initially focused exclusively on the production of premium quality door panels, Rocal has continued to grow and evolve over the last three decades.

In 2001, the business moved to its current 6-acre manufacturing site in North Lincolnshire which provided additional room for it to expand and diversify.

By 2012, Rocal had extended its offer to include high-end composite doors, uPVC external door panels, uPVC internal doors and bespoke plastic extrusions.

Rocal attributes its continuing success over the last thirty years to many equally important factors, all of which are central to its approach.

This includes a focus on continuous improvement, on

EXCELLENCE

ROCAL CELEBRATES THIRTY YEARS OF MANUFACTURING

offering exceptional customer service and on maintaining the highest levels of quality.

The business also continues to make major reinvestments into areas such as new product development, staff training and development, and the use of state-of-the-art manufacturing plant and equipment.

Commenting on the company’s three-decade track record, Stephen Nadin, managing director of Rocal, said: “We are delighted to be celebrating our thirtieth anniversary. The ability of Rocal to grow and prosper against changing and sometimes challenging market conditions is a real achievement and a testament to the quality of our products and the calibre of our people.

“Over the last thirty years, we’re proud to have built more than a business. We’ve also built an exceptional reputation across the many different industries and sectors we serve.

“I would like to thank all of our team for their hard work and dedication. Our plan now is to keep build on our successes long into the future.”

Sentry Doors are never content to stand still. As the UK’s leading manufacturer of timber fire safety and security doors, they’re constantly innovating and improving their product range to ensure that they meet customer needs whilst remaining at the very forefront of the industry.

ENTRANCE DOORS REIMAGINED

SUPERBLY ENGINEERED STEEL & ALUMINIUM DOORS EXCLUSIVELY FROM PIONEER

BECOME A GERDA APPROVED RESIDENTIAL DOOR DEALER TODAY!

SPRING IS IN THE AIR!

In the Season of New Beginnings, how appropriate that a new partnership has struck up between two special names in the industry

The leaves are on the trees, flowers in bloom and the skies are clearing for a beautiful, balmy summer (OK, that last bit might be optimistic) but it’s a truism that brows are less furrowed as we emerge from another dour British winter, and everything is a little more positive.

There are two quite disparate locations in the UK where optimism is definitely the mood, Gloucester and Ballymena, as two key brands in the window and door industry have struck up a partnership that at first appears surprising, but which upon further examination becomes quite logical. The Residence Collection, the company that popularised the now ubiquitous flush timber alternative window system; and Apeer, the innovative composite door manufacturer, have come together to create The Residence Door Collection by Apeer, a new brand and one that does exactly what it says on the tin.

With the connection made, the coupling is logical: The Residence Collection was searching for a premium residential door to complement the company’s three window ranges that are renowned for their high-quality and class-leading specification; and Apeer, having produced its own doors for more than 20 years, is continuously updating and improving the performance of the doors it manufactures in its advanced, 120,000 feet2 factory. And after an introduction by Apeer’s new sales director Andy Jones, the synergies and potential of the relationship became increasingly clear.

The net result is a range of 20 door styles that have been curated to complement The Residence Collection windows in terms of aesthetics, quality and performance, and built around a specification developed by Apeer, that will provide future-proofing, including the much vaunted Future Homes standard which, whilst defining new homes from 2025, is expected to be provide the fulcrum for RMI in due course. Whilst designed primarily to complement The Residence Collection windows and provide the brand’s dealers with a powerful premium door offer, the range will be widely available on the open market.

Doors are presented in a 120mm format, including traditional, contemporary and stable door designs, with 78mm quadruple sealed glass units as standard. Doors will of course, be set in R9 and R2 outer frames. Construction

is of GPR skins around a highdensity PU core, reinforced with aluminium anti-cut through security mesh embedded within the core. Every door, including skins and glass units, will be manufactured in-house by Apeer.

Specification from the outset will be comprehensive to include nine standard colours (seven grained and two smooth), with the availability of full sidelights and top lights at launch, with half lights and others to follow. Standard specification also includes weather deflectors, and Stormguard or full frame thresholds. High quality hardware and furniture will be used throughout, whilst extra touches such as Ultion KeyTagequipped, trackable keys will also form a comprehensive standard specification.

All doors will be PAS24 compliant, and thermal performance testing, which is being undertaken in advance of the FIT Show launch, will improve upon the 0.8 W/m2K anticipated to be published in the Future Homes standard.

With the introduction made, The Residence Collection’s Sarah Hitichings and Apeer’s Asa McGillian found that they had much in common, including an avid pursuit of energy efficiency, as Asa confirmed: “My passion has been to produce doors and windows to meet ‘passivhaus’ standards,” explained Asa, “that we use as our goal when developing new products, including the Apeer 70 residential door launched recently, which has the anticipated Future Homes numbers as its performance benchmark.

“When we met, the question was ‘why had we not worked together sooner?’”, said Sarah, who confirmed: “The Residence Collection is well known and appreciated for its commitment to remaining a premium product and we were impressed both with Asa and his team’s passion for performance and quality but also for their ability to intuitively understand what we were looking for in a premium residential door. We were also impressed with the speed with which they brought it to reality.”

That reality will be experienced with The Residence Door Collection by Apeer being launched at this month’s FIT Show, where members of both teams will be in attendance. And where spring will definitely be in the air.

www.apeer.co.uk

AT WORK, REST AND PLAY

AT WORK...

How did you get into this industry?

After leaving full time education, I spent 3 years at a performing arts college before realising that career wasn’t for me! So I took an admin role at an automatic door company and I’ve stayed in the door and window sector ever since.

Please give a brief resume of your career to date.

I left my position at the automatic door company to raise my children, but when the time was right I re-entered the industry by taking up a position at an IGU manufacturer, where, after progressing through various roles, I became an estimator. After several years there, building up my knowledge of glass and windowmaking, I saw an opportunity with

involve?

As office manager, it’s my responsibility to ensure the main office functions run smoothly day-to-day. My role is extremely varied – I manage a team of 12 people spanning accounts, estimating, order processing, marketing, aftersales, reception and customer service. This means I have a responsibility for almost every area of the business apart from production!

It’s a fast paced environment as the team I manage works to return quotes for our integral blinds to customers within the hour, and it is constantly racing to ensure orders of around 4,000 blinds every week meet the cut off with our suppliers. But every day is different, and often my role involves liaising with clients, and even visiting customers on-site if needed to help resolve any issues.

This series in Glass News highlights the hopes and aspirations of women in the windows, doors, glass, roofs and hardware industry and will hopefully inspire more to make this their career.

marketing etc.) is transferable to any industry?

Yes, definitely. Although I wear many different hats in my role, my speciality is to get the best that I can out of diverse team and ensure they deliver a superb service to our customers. That’s something I would like to think would be of value to many other businesses.

Have you a career path mapped out or is it more about opportunism?

I never had window industry a career in mind, but I am a believer that you have to trust the path you’re on. I think you succeed through hard work and applying yourself to the best of your ability. Remember that every day is a school day, keep an open mind and make sure you seize the opportunities when they arise!

AT REST...

Away from work, what is your focus?

My family is everything to me, which certainly includes my dog Nelly, as well as my two sons aged 11 and 12 and husband! My sons keep me busy with their schooling and out-of-school activities, and I’m close to others in my family, particularly my mother.

We’ve also been busy renovating a house over the past few years, which as anyone who has done it will know, is a full time job in itself. Despite the scale of the task, it has been enjoyable to do and a really rewarding when you see the transformation.

AT PLAY...

Do you achieve the work/life balance you would like to?

Does anyone really achieve this? When you’re passionate about your work and focused on doing the best job you can I don’t think you really ever switch off. But that doesn’t mean I am always thinking about work – that’s not healthy for anyone! I think it is important to value your downtime, which is easy for me to do with such a great family around me.

If money and leisure time were no object, what would you really like to do for yourself or your family?

We went on a skiing holiday for the first time as a family earlier this year and everyone loved it! So we would certainly go on a big ski trip, but I think on the whole we would all love to spend time seeing as many places as we could across the world. Aside from seeing the world, I would certainly spend more time working with the charities that I’ve got to know through the support that Morley Glass has provided in recent years, especially CATCH and Yorkshire Children’s Charity, who do amazing work helping young people.

THIS MONTH: Jess Owens Office Manager at Morley Glass

Secondary glazing is simplicity itself.

It’s simple to sell, survey and install. It offers great acoustic and thermal performance. It has great profit margins. And it gets you into projects you couldn’t normally get into.

So why make it more complicated? Call Roseview today and ask about adding Incarnation secondary glazing to your range.

dark?

TIMBERLOOK PROVES A HIT ON FRAMEPOINT®

The partnership between Tommy Trinder and leading trade supplier Affordable Window Systems has got off to a strong start; £2.5m of Timberlook heritage windows and doors have been quoted via Framepoint® in the six months since launch.

Installers are enjoying the ability to price and order Timberlook flush sash windows and doors via Tommy Trinder’s Framepoint® app with over 100 installation firms quoting the timber alternative range in the first six months of the partnership. "Framepoint® makes it quick and easy for our customers to show off the premium features of Timberlook windows and doors," says Affordable's Regional Sales Administrator Amelia Gaughan. "Having our Timberlook Flush Sash range available at the touch of a button is a game-changer. It allows us to accurately display how authentic our Timberlook Flush Sash products are while directly engaging the homeowner - giving them a truly unique experience. Everything is also priced in real-time on Framepoint®, so it's a done deal!"

Tommy Trinder's patented Framepoint® Technology allows users to free draw windows and doors with their finger or mouse, just like sketching on a pad. Installers can show clients how new windows will look in their homes with a click. "Invaluable, as it allows customers to design bespoke styles with different heritage bar configurations, in addition to showing the Timberlook colour range beautifully," says Amelia.

The authentic details that set Timberlook apart are available to touch and show on the app, including traditional mortise and tenon joints, deep bottoms rails, and traditionally proportioned Radlington cills. A range of authentic heritage ironmongery has also been uploaded to Framepoint to mirror Timberlook's premium Regency Monkey-Tail, and Teardrop handles. Uniquely on Framepoint, it's easy to add and visualise designs with matching dummy peg stays.

I must say there is a real wow moment when you touch and add a Regency MonkeyTail peg stay to a Timberlook window in Framepoint®," says founder and CEO of Tommy Trinder, Chris Brunsdon. "The Timberlook windows look the businesscustomers are mightily impressed!"

Phil Myers, Sales Director of Affordable Window Group, comments on the new partnership, saying, "teaming up with Tommy Trinder has been fascinating. The Framepoint® platform makes it easy for installers to demonstrate the value of our carefully designed heritage products. The in-app pricing function saves considerable time, enabling installers to provide professional and accurate quotations within minutes. It will set our trade customers apart from the rest of the competition!"

Installers interested in finding out more about the Timberlook range should visit www.timberlook.com.

You can also book a free Framepoint® demo by visiting www.tommytrinder.com.

“Game-changer” - Amelia Gaughan & Ryan Fisher of Affordable Window Systems.

WHERE COM ES INNOVATION AS STANDARD

!e's time co rcimagine with the Legacy Suite For further information, please email us at info@legacysuite.co.uk.

DW WINDOWS IMPLEMENTS BETTER CRM TO STAY AHEAD OF SIGNIFICANT GROWTH

The 17-year-old family run installation business, DW Windows, has achieved significant growth in recent years, but recognised that to stay on the same trajectory, and continue to deliver excellent customer service, the business needed to embrace change. The company introduced the AdminBase installer management system to streamline the business and improve the customer journey.

“We had a very rudimentary CRM system in place prior to switching to AdminBase,” says Claire Walters of DW Windows. “It wasn’t helping us to meet any of our business objectives. When the organisation was smaller, we could just about manage with our existing systems and processes, but as we grew, we could see we needed a more integrated solution to eliminate duplication of work and improve efficiencies across the business.

“As soon as we identified we had an issue, we started researching options and AdminBase seemed to tick every box. We especially liked the fact it had been designed with our industry in mind. All our pains and struggles seemed to be covered within the one system. Having used the system for 12 months now, we can confidently say we made the right decision.”

Claire continues: “The AdminBase CRM is constantly evolving, and they work closely with customers to make sure we have what we need. In the last year we have benefited from streamlined diaries, automated customer communication, invaluable lead and marketing reports, a fully integrated system of customer contract information, organised deliveries, accessible financial information, managed service calls, and improved customer service.

“We have used some of the additional apps that accompany the AdminBase system including MyDiary and the Installer app, and some of the newer features such as Taskboard and the Customer Portal are proving particularly useful. Each staff member has their own task board set up that relates to their department or role, while the management team has a complete overview of a customer contract from start to finish and can ensure that all elements of the customer journey are on track and communicated. www.abinitiosoftware.co.uk

FENTRADE ADDS EVEN MORE VALUE TO ITS CUSTOMER SERVICE

Specialist fabricator Fentrade has taken its proactive customer experience to the next level with bespoke upgrades to its LogiKal software operating system from BM Aluminium.

The upgrades will result in an even faster turnaround time on quotations and order acknowledgements, along with easier to read paperwork. From a production perspective, the system will further integrate with Fentrade’s supply chain to provide more efficiencies across the fabrication process.

Fentrade’s Director, Chris Reeks, commented: “We’ve worked with BM Aluminium and used LogiKal, the leading software for the aluminium glazing industry right from the start. As our business continues to grow, we wanted to explore how to make the most of the software to continue to offer an exceptional level of service to our customers.”

JOINED UP OFFERING FROM THE CONSULTANCY FOR KONIC DOORS

Konic Doors, one of Ireland’s leading manufacturers of premium timber doors, has chosen a one stop shop digital solution from industry specialists The Consultancy, with an online door designer, a pricing and quoting portal for trade customers, and now a newly developed lead generation website.

The Kells, Co Meath, based company is applying a marketing model already well proven in the composite door market to promote its range of solid insulated timber doors to both trade and retail customers.

Norman Ormiston from Konic Doors explained: “We approached the team at The Consultancy to create the kind of bespoke door designer which we had already seen being used extensively for composite and PVC doors. From the outset, they impressed us with their in-depth knowledge of the window and door market and their technical expertise; and the result has given us a real USP in the sustainable timber door sector.

“It is consistently generating warm leads from homeowners and that is proving really valuable as we look to recruit new trade partners across Ireland and into the UK.”

Once The Consultancy had created the bespoke designer for Konic, they also created an integrated tool for trade customers which lets them log in to create their own designs and quotes using their preagreed pricing structures. They can even add a branded version of the Konic designer to their own websites if they prefer.

Norman Ormiston added: “The joined up offering from The Consultancy meant the next logical step was for them to redevelop our website as well and we’re delighted with what they have delivered. They gave us really valuable advice and insight in terms of design and content, with the focus very much on inspirational images and communicating the quality inherent within our brand. The user experience has been transformed and we’re seeing that in terms of the level of engagement and the number of enquiries we’re generating.

“We’ve always felt that we were in very safe hands with The Consultancy and having them as our digital partner has definitely given us a valuable competitive advantage in our premium, timber door sector.”

More info at https://konicdoors.com/ and https://www.theconsultancy.co.uk/

Daniel Hodges, Technical Manager at BM Aluminium, said: “Fentrade Aluminium were already utilising the majority of the standard LogiKal functionality. After meeting with them, we identified bespoke programming requirements to integrate third party supplier hardware and parts. Further benefits include accurate procurement outputs along with future fabrication benefits when using the LogiKal CNC interface.”

The upgrades to the system will be rolled out over the coming months, with Fentrade and BM Aluminium teams working together to ensure a smooth transition.

Based in modern premises in Newport, South Wales, Fentrade manufactures and supplies a comprehensive range of aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling and shop fronts all fabricated in accordance with industry specifications.

The proactive approach to continually enhancing customer service is the perfect illustration of the Fentrade ethos.

In recent years, the company has doubled its manufacturing capacity, invested in new machinery and added to its workforce, all with the intention of continuing to deliver the outstanding service it’s built its name on.

Chris concluded: “Even though we are still a relatively young company, we never stand still. We continually review our business and processes to ensure we deliver the best experience for our customers. Whether that’s additional new products or upgrading our internal systems to ensure efficient, streamlined processes are maintained. These latest software upgrades will further support our customers as we continue to deliver our growth strategy.”   Tel: 01633 547787  fentradealuminium.co.uk

WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU!

DANNY WILLIAMS ‘COLD CALLING’

Each month our special correspondent Danny Williams* replies to a reader’s letter...

“FIT Show…there’s red everywhere! I went last year and it was OK, picked up a couple of new products, met some new people…and we had a few drinks at the late night thing. But…is it worth going again, just a year on?” PK (Retail installer, Berkshire)

Well, I don’t recall you stepping on to my stand PK…but then we signed up more than 200 people at the show in May last year who were interested in our Gerda residential doors, even after we decided to microfilter the leads to make sure they were serious. If you want inside leg measurements of 200 odd installers, we might be able to come to a deal.

COME

AND VISIT US AT STAND Q3

But seriously….a few months back when we were considering our options for this year, I was chatting to the lovely people at the FIT Show. I was especially concerned that they were going to do the show annually again (to be honest it has been all over the place in the past) and they assured me that last year was just the Covid postponed 2021 show. They promised me that the odd-numbered year and alternating with the German show Fensterbau, is back on track. Anyway, we had a blinding FIT Show last year when we launched Gerda doors in the UK, and this year we still have a few localities that we need to bolster up with installers and distributors, so we are back again. Which means PK, that you should go to the FIT Show again just so we can have a chat. But even I would concede that you probably need a bit more to drag you away from the coalface.

I am not the FIT Show PK so I am not going to give you the big sell, but rather to look

at the bigger picture of why people should, or should not, go to trade shows or for that matter, any sort of exhibition.

I have a very small, local retail operation which keeps me on my toes and helps me to track what the Smiths and Jones’s are being turned on by at any one time. Homeowners are the most switched on to trends and this keeps me ahead of the game. But it also tells me how competitive it is out there in retailland. And the best way to find suppliers of the new trending products as well as to get in ahead of consumer trends, is to go to the FIT Show.

I know that you like to get on the tools PK but you tell me that you and your lad deal with most of the retail enquiries and sales and just the day to day or running the business keep you occupied these days. You’re busy, understood. But a day, or ideally two spent at FIT is an investment, not a jolly; and as the next show won’t be for two years – I have their assurance of that – it means it will be three years from the last time you ventured up to the NEC if you don’t go this time.

I looked at last year’s attendance figures and, at something over 4,000 installers attending, that is around a third of the number claimed to be fitting windows and doors in the UK, at least doing it seriously and with their heads above the parapet. I reckon that’s a pretty good number too, because in my experience, most installers are quite happy to keep slogging away fitting the

“You’re busy, understood. But a day, or ideally two spent at FIT is an investment, not a jolly; and as the next show won’t be for two years.”

same old stuff, and usually only responding with anything new when they’ve been asked for it by their customers.

Stay ahead of the game, offer the latest products, and you will have the upper hand over at least two thirds of your competitors, if this number is anything to go by.

Anybody that can’t take a day or two out of what will be three years now until the next chance, really doesn’t deserve to do well PK. And as for you, I am told that at least a quarter of the exhibitors are brand new to the FIT Show, and 40% from overseas so there will be something new even though you went just a year ago.

And as you didn’t make yourself known to me last time around, you will have a further chance to come and examine our magnificent Gerda doors with their steel or aluminium facings…Come and see us (stand P31) on the Wednesday and when we have signed you up as a retail partner you can stay and enjoy the rock band and a beer or two on our stand to party the night away.

See you at the FIT Show!

“Anybody that can’t take a day or two out of what will be three years now until the next chance, really doesn’t deserve to do well PK. And as for you, I am told that at least a quarter of the exhibitors are brand new to the FIT Show, and 40% from overseas so there will be something new even though you went just a year ago.”

* Danny Williams is managing director of Chelmsford based Pioneer Trading and has been involved with all aspects of the windows and doors industry for 30 years. His activities include manufacturing a full range of windows and doors in PVC-U and aluminium, an IGU facility, retailing and commercial contracting.

Christina

Chris Emma

Say ‘Hi’ to our home ready, Part L compliant, HI window and door collection.

Working in close collaboration with our customers, we’ve been crafting and fine-tuning your favourite systems from our much anticipated HI collection, with even more updates arriving in the near future.

All of this is to play our part in improving efficiency, reducing carbon emissions and creating brighter futures for homes across the UK.

Say ‘Hi’ by visiting aluk.co.uk

BSF70 HI

58BW HI

58BD HI*

LET THE LIGHT IN WITH BUILDING SUPERSTORE

Building Superstore, part of leading builders’ merchant CMO Group PLC, is helping builders and contractors get a clearer view on how to work with roof windows and sky lights by extending its product choice and expert technical support.

Building Superstore provides trade customers with a dedicated account service and access to over 100,000 products via CMO’s eight specialist superstores, including Roofing Superstore which is the largest online retailer of VELUX products in the UK. The extensive range of roof windows that are available now includes VELUX’s innovative Pivot 2-in-1 system which offers the perfect balance between natural light and natural ventilation.

Building Superstore’s experienced customer service team is well placed to offer technical support to help with the design, installation, and maintenance of roof windows for both pitched and flat roof constructions. From loft conversions and refurbishment projects to new build residential and commercial schemes, the team can provide guidance on how rooflights can reduce heat loss and manage the risk of solar gain and overheating to create cost-effective interiors that are comfortable all year long. Technical support is also available to ensure compliance with the necessary Building Regulations including Part L. By opening a trade account with Building Superstore, trade contactors will also have access to the online merchant’s full range of VELUX windows – the largest online VELUX collection - which comprises a variety of styles, including top hung, centre pivot, rooflights, conservation roof windows and roof balcony systems. The range is further complemented by over 2,500 styles of VELUX blinds, flashing kits, maintenance kits and spare parts.

Building Superstore can provide reliable deliveries and short lead times, with trade accounts available as both cash and credit. Trade customers can also take advantage of exclusive discounts, rebates and special offers and will have a dedicated account manager assigned to oversee their orders from start to finish.

To find out more about Building Superstore and the benefits of a trade account, please visit www.buildingsuperstore.co.uk.

SUCCESS OF LEKA SYSTEMS’ OPEN DAYS DEMONSTRATE SURGING MARKET INTEREST

Conservatory roof innovators, Leka Systems have reported a continued success for their customer open days. Having held five successful open days for customers in the past month, Rhys Hoddinott, Managing Director of Leka Systems, says feedback from the events demonstrates the surging interest from installers keen to add the products to their portfolio. He said: “Across our five open days we’ve welcomed 70 companies and over 100 representatives. We’ve already helped to generate over £100,000 in additional sales as a result. It all demonstrates the tangible value our products bring.”

He added: “We heard from several companies that they came to the open days because they were consistently losing out on jobs and wanted to join our network to avoid losing work in future.”

Rhys continued: “To support customers, we place a heavy emphasis on marketing and our understanding of homeowner demographics sets us apart. We’ve taken the time to understand buying motives, the trigger points in the sales process and the marketing channels that really work. As a result of our efforts, homeowners ask for our systems by name which is an exclusive benefit for our Leka partners.”

Leka’s flagship products are its lightweight, tiled conservatory roof systems, which transform conservatories that are too hot in summer or too cold in winter and can achieve U values as low as 0.10W/m²K. They make homes more thermally efficient as well as create more useable living space –an attractive proposition in a world where energy bills are still sky-high.

Rhys commented: “Most attendees came to hear about our roof systems. However, they were delighted to see how much else we have to offer, as well as the number of unique selling differentiators we can add to their businesses to give them a competitive edge.”

Alongside the roofing systems, Leka offers the Leka Xi, a warm, sustainable alternative to a traditional block or brickbuilt conservatory base or wall. There’s also the Leka Carport & Canopy, which provides a durable, lightweight alternative to traditional carport systems.

As well as clear benefits for homeowners, all Leka products are designed with installers in mind – faster, easier installation than the alternative options, and extensive training and support, including exclusive Checkatrade membership discounts.

More open day dates have been scheduled to help meet growing demand. To be added to the mailing list to be among the first to hear when new dates are announced, contact Leka Systems. Rhys concluded: “There has never been a better time to join the growing Leka network. Don’t miss out!”  Tel: 0800 773 4040 - www.lekasystems.co.uk

PYROGUARD ISSUES LATEST TECHNICAL BROCHURE

Pyroguard, part of the Technical Fire Safety Group, is pleased to announce the publication of its brand-new Technical Brochure. Featuring all the latest data and supporting information, this 2023 edition is the one-stop guide for the widest and most comprehensive range of fire safety glass solutions. Showcasing the company’s extensive portfolio and product capabilities, this issue contains over 460 updates, as well as additional test data and supporting information on market-leading steel and aluminium system providers including: Aluprof, Forster, Jansen, Reynaers and Ottostumm.

Designed to be technically informative yet user-friendly, the guide provides easy-to-navigate product data, helping architects, specifiers and contractors to select with confidence the right solution for their chosen application. Also new with this issue, and of particular interest to many, is the inclusion of Pyroguard’s new EI90 steel framed certification approvals.

Richard Ainsworth, Group Technical Director at Pyroguard, spoke about the brochure, saying: “We’re very proud that

MORE INNOVATION FROM ALUK ON PART L

AluK is continuing its efforts to help customers comply with the new Part L rules as simply and cost effectively as possible. It is launching a Part L compliant version of its popular 58BD residential door system, with new foam inserts to deliver the 1.4 U-Values required for new or existing buildings other than dwellings and replacement homes.

There will be new pre-rolled foam in the sash, and additional insulating foams underneath the glazing cavity. There will also be centre seal gaskets to improve the thermal performance. In addition to that though, there will also be a brand-new material used for the low lamda thermal break which will deliver enhanced thermal performance.

Product Manager Peter Willard explained: “All of our product development around Part L has centred around achieving compliance through U-Values, but always with the needs of the fabricator firmly paramount.

“That’s why we are minimising the additional processes required for the new 58BD HI door

and delivering a solution which achieves real innovation with a new thermal break. The material we’re using is new to the doors and windows market but widely proven in other sectors so it’s a no risk option.”

Alongside the launch of the 58BD HI, AluK is also delivering another enhancement to its Part L compliant 58BW HI window system, with a new bracket for the cruciform joint which fits more easily into the cavity created by the new thermal breaks.

Peter Willard added: “We’re on this Part L journey with our customers, so when they told us the cruciform bracket was taking longer to fit because of the upgraded polyamide in the system cavity, we responded straightaway.

“We’ve run a pilot with a number of customers to make sure this new bracket minimises any additional time on fitting and does everything they need, and the feedback has been very good.”

AluK’s fabricator-focused approach to Part L helped it to win the G-22 Customer Care

Initiative of the Year award. Prior to redesigning the bracket, it had already responded to the changes to the tolerances allowed in the U-Value assessment methodology and introduced a value engineered solution for the thermal foams in the 58BW.

At the start of 2023, AluK replaced the two thermal foams which were originally required between the sash and frame in its 58BW HI and 58BW ST HI window systems to achieve a U-Value of 1.4 with one single length of thermal seal. This change reduces costs and stockholding and saves time on fabrication because the new seal is inserted in the non-locking side of the window meaning there is no need to cut around hardware.

Peter Willard again: “Feedback from the industry shows an increase in the number of installations being turned down by FENSA because installers couldn’t prove compliance; Part L remains high on the agenda for many. We’re doing our bit to make sure that anyone fabricating or fitting AluK products can achieve and crucially demonstrate compliance with ease.”

this latest edition reflects our significant growth in certified applications, following a period of continued investment into new test evidence and thanks to the strength of our ongoing collaborations.

“Our Technical Brochure remains a fantastic resource for communicating all of our latest product information and assisting our customers in choosing the right fire safety glass solutions for their requirements. We understand that a key part of this decision-making and selection process is having direct access to this latest product data and so we’re delighted to be publishing this reedition.”

As the world’s leading independent provider of fire safety glass for timber, steel and aluminium applications, Pyroguard has been helping architects, specifiers and installers to achieve safe and beautiful living and working spaces for over 30 years.

The brochure is available as a download by request from the company’s website. For further information and support, please visit: www.pyroguard.eu

Wayne Heath, AluK’s Sales Director added:

“We’re now seeing how Part L is playing out in the real world and listening to our customers all the time. We’ll continue to support them with these kinds of technical innovations, but also of course with communication updates and sales and marketing support to help them sell even more Part L compliant products. More info at: https://uk.aluk.com/en-gb/products

ADMINBASE MAKES BUSINESS MANAGEMENT EXPONENTIALLY EASIER FOR IPSWICH TRADE FRAMES

The proposed service would allow us to provide our clients with a much-improved customer journey as well as help us process more orders in a more efficient manner.

“Implementing AdminBase has allowed ITF to grow exponentially over the past 18 months. In part because it has given our experienced team the opportunity to organise their time more efficiently, but also because the CRM has standardised practices across the board. This means our staff can retrieve all the information they need about a customer’s order from one central, easily accessible system.

“The Finance tabs such as customer balances and the Sales Reports are not only vital to the day to day running of operations but also help us strategically plan and prepare targets for the sales teams on a weekly, monthly and yearly basis.

Operations Manager of Ipswich Trade Frames, Fraz Youssef, explains: “Prior to using AdminBase our processes involved the use of a mixture of paper and various documents which meant we weren’t always as organised as we would have liked. We recognised it was a time-consuming way to operate and could immediately see the potential benefits of introducing AdminBase into our business.

“The diary feature has proved a big success with the team and is now used when preparing new jobs for our fitting teams and service calls for existing customers. The stock management feature is also now heavily integrated in the day to day running of our warehouse. As well as helping us to maintain the correct stock levels, we can quickly find the answers to any inventory related queries such as the location of goods in the warehouse.

“On the rare occasion we have a problem with the CRM, the customer support team at AdminBase is always on hand to help. Once the complaint is logged via email with their technical support department, we usually receive a prompt phone call back to resolve any issues. The team that conducts the training on the system is first class too, they are very informative and attentive to the needs of the user, and I have witnessed first-hand their ability to adapt the training to suit everyone.

Fraz concludes: “We only wish we had integrated AdminBase into our operations sooner. We have been so pleased with how things have gone since the system went live that we have also started to use it on our newly acquired home improvements

PORTAL HS provides the best outlook for a light and barrier-free life.

➊ Flood the room with natural daylight. The fixed glazing merges seamlessly into the floor with the ECO PASS SKY threshold. ➋ When the sash is open, the minimal threshold height allows barrier-free access to the outside. ➌ The DRIVE axxent HSA integrated lift & slide drive can also be operated via an app for even greater convenience. When design makes life easier: that‘s room comfort. info-uk@siegenia.com

SIEGENIA Window systems · Door systems · Comfort systems

company, Admiral. For the company owner and I, regardless of where we are in the country, it makes managing both companies so much easier. We’ve been thrilled with the difference AdminBase has made to our day to day operations and look forward to using it to develop our businesses to the next level.”

www.abinitiosoftware.co.uk

Specialists in PVC-U and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories, Ipswich Trade Frames (ITF) has gone from strength to strength in the last 18 months, citing the popular AdminBase installer management system as having a positive impact on the business.

FOR ALL YOUR DOOR AND WINDOW NEEDS TRADELINK HAS IT COVERED

SOTERIA COMPOSITE DOOR RANGE WHICH IS SMART READY

Offering incredible choice and flexibility, the new Soteria range of composite doors from Tradelink allows the specification of highquality doors with the same style and colour options available whether a foam or solid core is selected. A new 1,500m2 (16,000ft2) production facility in Mildenhall, Suffolk, provides increased capacity to support the vastly expanded selection of doors offered in the Soteria range.

Performance, security and versatility are integral to all doors which have been developed specifically for the UK market, with the diversity of designs appealing to both the commercial and retail sectors. The products come with the relevant accreditations, giving customers peace of mind about the manufacturing process and quality.

This composite door is the minimalmaintenance alternative to traditional door materials. It is 44mm thick with reinforced GRP skins finished in either woodgrain or Tradelink’s unique smooth/etched finish that perfectly matches aluminium. The CFC-free polyurethane foam core reduces heat loss and is encompassed by a laminated veneer lumber (LVL) subframe that provides exceptional strength and rigidity. The design results in a dependable door that has minimal thermal expansion and contraction under extreme temperature variations. The foam core allows the Soteria door to achieve outstanding thermal performance which outperforms other market alternatives.

For the ultimate composite door, the entire range is available with a solid core that offers superior benefits. The solid Soteria doors match the aesthetic options of the foam core doors, but the inner core

consists of three layers of cross-laminated engineered hardwood. This is encased with LVL and hardwood stiles and rails for protection against any water ingress; it is then pressed with Tradelink’s signature 4mm GRP skins.

Offering the highest level of security, all Soteria doors come with security features which meet current security standards, including PAS 24 in line with Approved Document Q. They feature Yale lockmaster mechanisms with platinum 3 start cylinders as standard and can be smart ready when selected with one of the SensCheck ready locking mechanisms.

TRANSFORMING INTERIOR LAYOUTS WITH ALUSPACE

Tradelink has enhanced its offer to customers through the introduction of a new range of interior screening solutions.

AluSpace Internal Screening System

has been developed to create a light and spacious ambience within interior settings.  The versatile products are also viewed as being a solution for dividing and delineating various shapes and sizes of room, thanks to the wide variety of configurations available.

Further options include visible hinges or concealed pivot or sliding mechanisms, enabling the systems to be completely tailored to meet virtually any design style.  The frames are single glazed, normally with toughened glass, and can be supplied with a choice of 6, 8 or 18mm thicknesses: providing acoustic attenuation as well as a high degree of thermal isolation and excellent light transmission.

For further design flexibility, there is also a wide range of accessories including a choice of classic, modern and industrial handles; all of which may be supplied in a matched, contrasting or complementary colour to the screen and doors.

TACKLING ENHANCED PART L WITH THE INSTALLER-FRIENDLY SMART ALITHERM 400

In a move to address the latest tightening of the Building Regulations, Tradelink has added the Smart Alitherm 400 system to its range of aluminium solutions; suitable for commercial contracts as well as new build and refurbished residential properties.

Offered in flush or chamfered styles and with a wide choice of colours as well as hardware options, the Smart Alitherm 400 is also the first thermally broken aluminium system on the market to feature the manufacturer’s pioneering co-extruded glazing gasket. This means the quick-glaze beads are supplied with the gaskets postextruded into the profile, speeding up the fitting process as they are simply tapped into place on site.

The excellent weather and thermal performance of the windows is matched by that of the matching Smart Alitherm 400 doors, which are available in both single and double as well as open-in or open-out configurations.

Smart Alitherm 400 can also be combined with Smart’s designer door panels and the company’s range of standard door furniture, including colour-matched lever handles and the Quantum range of stainlesssteel hardware, to create elegant and contemporary entrance doors. The Smart Alitherm 400 range of doors and windows is available with a lead time of three to four weeks while, across its production base in Cambridgeshire, Tradelink has been investing in increased stockholding to ensure its operations are more resilient and can keep up with customer demand.

Pictured is the Inox Lyon in Black

Pictured is the Smart Alitherm 400 from Tradelink

Pictured is the Aluspace from Tradelink

MAKE AN ENTRANCE WITH GERDA DOORS AT P31

Following a fantastic UK launch and FIT Show debut last year, Gerda residential front doors will be returning to Birmingham this year at stand P31.

Distributed exclusively in the UK by Pioneer Trading, Gerda doors offer high performance thermal efficiency and security unrivalled at its price point. On show at FIT will be a range of contemporary steel- and aluminium-faced Gerda doors that have been specially selected to appeal to UK homeowners.

Following demand from installers, Gerda will also be introducing a new fire door, as well as launching a new door configurator that will allow homeowners to design their own door.

Gerda doors are popular throughout Europe for their high-spec security, which includes multi-point locks, three bolt main locks, anti-burglary vertical bolts, anti-theft pins and optional auxiliary locks for added security. New Fuhr hardware will also be available on some models for 2023. For superior performance, Gerda’s uniquely constructed doors feature steel or aluminium skins mounted on a robust aluminium chassis with a PU foam core for excellent thermal insulation.

Partnering with Pioneer Trading, a UK doors and windows fabricator with over 30 years’ experience, has allowed the premium household Polish brand to tailor its residential door range exclusively to suit British tastes in colours and designs as well as meeting demanding new standards in anticipation of the tougher performance levels expected with the introduction of the Future Homes Standard. Since its UK launch last year, Gerda has developed classic four panel, glazed and unglazed door styles for the UK market, in addition to the contemporary designs popular with buyers. Gerda doors offer an attractive, competitive alternative to existing conventional composite front doors in the UK market, providing homeowners with exceptional aesthetics, quality engineered build and superior security and thermal performance. Stop by stand P31 to find out more and discover the Gerda door range for yourself. www.gerdadoors.co.uk

MIGHTON TO SHOW REALLY SMART SMART HARDWARE AT FIT (STAND R44)

The leading supplier of sash weights, balances and hardware, and casement window and door hardware, Mighton, is pleased to announce that it will be taking a stand at the FIT Show to give visitors the opportunity to see first-hand its range of really smart smart hardware. The company will be hosting a full display of its unique AviaSmart retrofittable smart door and window locks and sensors, and related accessories.

Visitors to Mighton’s stand will be able to see all the AviaSmart products in situ on various windows and doors and receive live demos of how they work. They will also be able to see how the products can easily be fitted and retrofitted by anyone with a screwdriver, to any normal PVC-U and aluminium doors and windows. There is no requirement to pre-install electronics in frames during manufacture, or to sign up to a subscription. This means fabricators and installers can choose from a range of highly secure, Apple HomeKit-branded and endorsed smart products according to sales made. Minimal change and outlay are required to begin offering AviaSmart window and door security products in a showroom to demonstrate to homeowners the latest smart security.

The entire AviaSmart range is Apple HomeKit approved, following in the successful footsteps of the AviaSmart multi point doorlock that was introduced at the legendary Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in 2019. The handles, motion sensors, and sash window fasteners, all connect to the AviaSmart app to alert homeowners to windows and doors that have been left unsecured or send a notification when they are opened.

Installers and homeowners alike are also given peace of mind from the fact all AviaSmart products have undergone the rigorous testing standards of Apple HomeKit and are BSI Kitemarked and Secured by Design where relevant. With a long history of innovative design in hardware that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, Mighton is pleased to show fabricators and installers a truly uncomplicated route to really smart smart hardware for new and existing windows and doors.

See and try AviaSmart home security products on stand R44.

www.aviasmart.com

PYROGUARD PROTECT PIVOTAL IN CREATION OF AWARD-WINNING ART DEPOT

Pyroguard’s fire safety glass was recently specified for The Netherlands’ Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, the world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility. A stunning ovoid shaped building standing 40 m tall, with reflective mirrors covering its surface, the depot receives anywhere from 150,000 to 250,000 visitors a year.

Based in historic Rotterdam in The Netherlands and next door to the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen is designed to complement its surroundings. With 1,664 mirrored panels all the way round its circumference the building reflects back the sights and scenery of the Museumpark. With the ground-level footprint being small, the building curves upwards and outwards and features an expansive rooftop forest, further integrating the project into the surrounding environment.

While most museums only showcase around six to seven percent of their collections, visitors to the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen can see the result of 173 years of collecting, with more than 151,000 objects housed together in 14 storage compartments, totalling 15,000 m2 of space. To ensure the protection and safety not only of the artwork, but also the infrastructure of the building and its staff and visitors, Pyroguard’s expertise and technical knowledge were key in helping to develop specific products, which would enable the project requirements to be properly met. In collaboration with ZNR (Zuid-Nederlandse Ramenfabriek), Pyroguard Protect fire safety glass was installed throughout the building’s internal partitions, providing a high-performance 1B1 impact protection and EI60 fire resistance. An Attackguard counterpane of the highest rating was also used, creating a unique multi-functional composition providing additional security to the valuable museum contents.

With some of the glass panes weighing over 1000 kg, the project presented some unique challenges. On top of this, the requirement for high levels of fire protection and burglary resistance resulted in a glazing system that had not been tested before the time of specification. As a result, Pyroguard worked closely with ZNR to design the glazing system and co-ordinate project specific fire tests with Efectis, France to ascertain its performance. These tests were successful, and with certification granted the team could proceed with the installation.

Speaking about the project, Jorn Jochems, Commercial Director at ZNR, said “When it came to working on a project of this scale we knew Pyroguard would be the perfect fit, their extensive expertise in the field of fire safety glass and the multi-functionality of their products gave us the reassurance we needed to achieve the unique requirements set out in this project.”

“With the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, it was essential that we had a glazing system that was not only fire resistant but also burglary resistant too, Pyroguard Protect ticked both of these boxes. Pyroguard’s professional and collaborative approach throughout the project proved instrumental in helping us to get the result we wanted and we look forward to working with them again in the near future.”

Opened in November 2021 by King Willem-Alexander, the Depot is multi-award winning, including the Rooftop Award in 2020, the Glass Award in 2021 and the Rotterdam Architecture Prize in 2022, among others.

For more information, visit: https://www.pyroguard.eu/case-studies/depot-boijmans-van-beuningen/

MARGINAL VALUE GROWTH IN YEAR-ON-YEAR MERCHANT SALES IN FEBRUARY

The latest figures from the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI), published in April, reveal that builders’ merchants’ value sales were up +0.8% in February compared to the same month in 2022. This growth was driven exclusively by price inflation (+14.9%) as volume sales fell -12.2%. There was no difference in trading days.

Nine of the twelve categories sold more in February 2023 compared to February 2022. Renewables & Water Saving (+58.9%) was again the strongest performing category, while Decorating (+15.0%), Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+13.3%), Workwear & Safetywear (+10.1%) and Ironmongery (+8.5%) also increased. Timber & Joinery Products (-13.9%), Landscaping (-12.5%) and Services (-2.1%) all sold less.

LAST THREE MONTHS

Total sales in the three months December 2022 to February 2023 were flat (-0.1%) against the same period last year, with price inflation of +17.9%, and volumes down -15.3%. There was no difference in trading days. Nine of the twelve categories sold more with Renewables & Water Saving (+49.7%) significantly ahead of the other

categories. Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+16.4%) and Decorating (+16.1%) also did better. Timber & Joinery Products (-14.5%) was weakest.

MONTH-ON-MONTH

Month-on-month, total merchant sales were +8.2% higher in February 2023 than the previous month. Volume sales were +13.4% higher than January, while prices were down -4.6%. With one less trading day in February, like-for-like sales were up +13.6%.

Month-on-month the strongest category was Landscaping (+27.6%), followed by Heavy Building Materials (+10.9%). Workwear and Safetywear (-6.5%) was the weakest performing category.

ROLLING 12-MONTHS

Total merchant sales in the twelve months from March 2022 to February 2023 were +3.8% up on the same period a year ago. Price inflation reached +16.6% while volumes were down -11.0%. With two less

trading days in the most recent period, like-forlike sales were +4.7% higher. Ten of the twelve categories sold more with Renewables & Water Saving (+35.0%) continuing to lead the field. Kitchens & Bathrooms (+16.1%), Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+14.6%), Workwear & Safetywear (+13.8%), Decorating (+11.5%) and Heavy Building Materials (+9.5%) all did better than merchants overall. Landscaping (-5.1%) and Timber & Joinery Products (-7.6%) both sold less. For the full report, including comments from the BMBI’s panel of leading industry Experts, please visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

SPONSORED BY GQA AND BUILDING OUR SKILLS

GQA Qualifications is the only issuer of CSCS cards for the Glass and Fenestration industries. Building Our Skills is a strategic campaign designed to help bridge the growing skills gap in the Fenestration Industry

CAREERS

NEW ADVISORY PANEL FOR BUILDING OUR SKILLS

Building Our Skills - Making Fenestration, Glass and Glazing a Career of Choice has appointed an advisory panel to offer advice and guidance as it continues to work on a wide range of initiatives to help bridge the skills gap, and to attract new talent to the industry.

Made up of representatives from businesses across all areas of the industry, the new panel will meet regularly, and is open to all to join.

The panel convened its first meeting in December and its second in January, and Partnerships Manager, Mark Handley, said they were invaluable sessions. He comments:

“We all recognise that there are challenges to overcome in trying to bridge the skills gap faced by the industry, and we know there are no quick fixes. The new advisory panel is already giving us great insights as to what we can collectively do to build on the work that has already been done to date. The breadth of experience that the panel brings to the table is already helping us to refine and commit to a long-term plan. It means that Building Our Skills is more of an ‘industry-owned’ initiative, which is as it should be.

“Our main focus is engaging with the workforce of tomorrow, and the advisory panel is helping us to develop a number of initiatives we have introduced in the education sector. These currently involve volunteers speaking in schools and pupils

visiting an industry facilities. We have put together a suggested presentation for the former so that speakers can draw on the ideas it provides and personalise it.

In addition, we have also formalised a programme of careers fayres around the UK.

“We had identified over 50 career paths in the industry, and now the advisory panel is helping us to paint an attractive picture for people looking to join us by supplying images and information, but we are keen to obtain more from anyone interested in helping out in this way. Building Our Skills now has a dedicated page on its website telling people all about this great range of options and what each individual career path offers. We’d request that people send images and job role details by emailing sayhello@buildingourskills.co.uk. Any support will be greatly appreciated.”

In addition, the advisory panel is also to tackle how Building Our Skills can continue its work to bring people into the industry from the military and prison sectors, recognising that there are unique challenges to overcome in these areas.

NEW APPOINTMENTS

SIEGENIA BOLSTERS SALES AND CUSTOMER SUPPORT PRESENCE IN SCOTLAND

As part of their plan to increase their market share in Scotland, SIEGENIA is hiring two new members of sales staff to promote their new and existing products and to provide support to their customers in the region.

Lisa Sturrock will be joining the company in May having left her role as Commercial Director at Abacus Agents Ltd. With her 20 years’ experience in the industry and her close work with SIEGENIA as one of their key distributors for the last 4 years, Lisa brings with her a wealth of knowledge as well as established strong relationships with

customers in the area and a ready-to-go list of targets. Lisa said, “I am very excited to be helping SIEGENIA with their work here in Scotland. It’s a great opportunity to work with a company with such an excellent reputation in terms of product quality and service, and at a time when they have ambitious plans for the region.”

Lisa will be providing consultative support alongside a new Area Sales Manager, who is being recruited at the time of writing. General Manager, Ryan Thompson, said, “Despite the tough economic situation at the moment, rather than cutting back we think it is essential we bolster our customer support and sales presence in Scotland. I have worked extensively in the region it’s a vibrant, growing market. We therefore want to give our existing customers here the best support possible in their efforts to expand, as well as, of course, to grow our own customer base. What’s more, SIEGENIA has always set itself apart with its high service levels and adding Lisa’s expertise alongside another technical salesperson will only enhance this. We have a bold plan to grow SIEGENIA UK significantly in the next few years and the Scottish market is integral to this.” www.siegenia.com

"I am very excited to be helping SIEGENIA with their work here in Scotland. It’s a great opportunity to work with a company with such an excellent reputation in terms of product quality and service, and at a time when they have ambitious plans for the region.”

Improve Magazine targets homeowners across the UK. We promote companies who sell windows, doors, conservatories, garden rooms and interior renovations to homeowners and we do this via our lifestyle magazine through email and social media.

With a Facebook reach of over 500,000 homeowners, and a subscription list of 16,500 consumers, with interests in homes, DIY and gardening, Improve is the perfect platform to advertise your products and services. Our targeted email database contain subscribers who are ABC 1 homeowners, to get your products in front of potential customers.

What’s more, we do all of the work for you, from ad concept to design, Facebook ads and social media posts.

Take

• Improve Magazine - full page ad with editorial feature

• Editorial feature converted to a Facebook ad and advertised within your postal region

• Facebook ads link back to your article on our landing page, where customers can enquire

• Web address and your contact details also included on the landing page for direct web traffic

• Weekly posts on social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest

• Promotion lasts for a three month period

• All this for just £495 +VAT (one invoice to cover a three month period)

WIN £10 CASH PRIZE!!

Fill in your answer and your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU or Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk.

deadline: 20/05/23.

WIN £30 CASH PRIZE!!

WIN £10 CASH PRIZE!!

Fill in your answer and your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU or Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk.

WINDOWS

USEFUL NUMBERS

British Plastics Federation (BPF)

Tel: 0207 457 5000

British Standards Institution (BSI)

– Standards & Publications

Tel: 0208 996 9001

BSI – Assessment & Certification

Tel: 0845 080 9000

BSI – Product Certification & Testing

Tel: 08450 765600

BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association)

Tel: 01449 780444

RAINWATER

Building Research Establishment (BRE)

Tel: 01923 664000

Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB)

Tel: 01453 828851

Dekura

Tel: 01952 201631

Door & Hardware Federation

(DHF)

Tel: 01827 52337

Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS)

Tel: 0345 053 8975

Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA)

Tel: 0207 645 3700

Get Britain Building (GBB)

Tel: 0870 162 0936

Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF)

Tel: 0207 939 9101

GQA Qualifications (formerly Glass Qualifications Authority)

Tel: 0114 2720033

Health & Safety Executive (HSE)

– Glass & Related Industries

Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector

Tel: 01782 602300

David Appleton, HM Inspector

Tel: 0115 9712800

Proskills – Head Office

Tel: 01235 833844

Proskills – Glass & Related Industries

Neil Robinson

Tel: 07917 015 322

Recovinyl (via Axion

Consulting)

Tel: 0161 355 7618

LINIAR ROOFLINE & CLADDING

MODERN DESIGNS, ENSURING AESTHETICS, INTEGRITY AND SAFETY!

Maintenance-free PVCu fascia boards are 20mm thick (instead of the usual 16mm) for superb strength.

Not just scratch-free, tape is pre-marked for quick cutting and easy installation.

With a full range of roofline, fascia, soffit, cladding and trims available from Liniar stockists nationwide, installers can be sure of a perfect finish.

The Glazing Ombudsman (TGO)

Tel: 020 7397 7200

UK Green Building Council

Tel: 0207 580 0623

Veka Recycling

Tel: 01322 38721

Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP)

Tel: 01295 819 900

Wood Window Alliance (WWA)

Tel: 0844 209 261

FOR FULLY MATCHING INSTALLATIONS!

Thicker

Stronger

Fire Rated 100% Lead-free

Fully Recyclable

British Made

Low Maintenance

Versatile

10 Year Guarantee

WE GO ABOVE

Fabricators, we can help you focus on what you do best by supplying a huge range of roof lights quickly and hassle-free.

From flat to lantern, walk-on to fully bespoke, we can work with you to help your customers let more daylight into their lives. And, with our highly dedicated and knowledgeable customer service team, online configuration and ordering, fast delivery and great value, here at Whitesales, we always go above.

To discover more and unwind on our exclusive stand at this year’s FitShow simply scan the QR Code below or visit whitesales.co.uk/fitshow