Glass News September 2023

New Build Installer Network

An initiative from Pearl Window Systems

Taking place at Birmingham’s Edgbaston Stadium and Conference Centre on October 12th, this must-attend conference is backed by the industry’s biggest names including Yale, VEKA, Edgetech, Eurocell, Reynaers, Liniar and many more.

Andrew Scott, founder of the Glazing Summit, commented; “It’s hugely exciting to announce this year’s Glazing Summit agenda. At a time of further regulatory change and evolving consumer demands, the glazing industry finds itself at a pivotal crossroads.

“This year we want to not only inform, but also provide steps we can all take to enable real change in the industry. And with world class insight and keynote speakers, it’s set to be another crucial event for our industry.”

Technical experts will discuss the looming Future Homes Standard and new Building Regulations including Document Q, while

new initiatives will be announced to tackle the skills shortage and perceptions of the industry.

Over 400 fabricators, installers and glass companies will attend the Summit, with 20 speakers and a revised format for some of the sessions.

“We want this year to be punchier, more solution-focused and give delegates essential information they can apply to their business immediately, especially as many companies are facing a slow-down in the market after a period of boom” adds Andrew.

This year installers are put under the spotlight as many report changing consumer trends, pressure on prices, demand for new products and greater adoption of technology.

Alongside the industry debates and keynote talks, the Glazing Summit will also present leading UK Economist Ed Johnstone who will share a banks view on the home improvement and property market, while the UK’s leading inspirational business speaker Brad Burton will take to the stage. Having worked with companies like JCB, Bentley and Costa Coffee, Brad’s energy and self-deprecating humour will have delegates inspired and equipped with ideas to take their lives and businesses to the next level.

This year’s Glazing Summit will also be more interactive, with delegates taking part in questions to the panellists and polls/ surveys.

Andrew concludes; “With free on-site parking, refreshments and lunch, the Summit is a great opportunity to network and connect with friends, customers and suppliers, and build new business relationships. For business leaders and managers, it really is the one-day event not to miss.”

To view the Glazing Summit agenda visit glazingsummit.co.uk/2023-agenda

To book tickets visit glazingsummit.co.uk, email hello@glazingsummit.co.uk or call 01934 808293.

The fenestration industry is facing some of its toughest challenges ever and this year’s Glazing Summit promises to tackle the issues head-on in what is set to be the most explosive Summit so far.

TRUE VALUES, WORKING TOGETHER, AND THE MATERIALS DEBATE

The other day I had reason to wonder whether everyone in our industry is working to the same principle? We are all aware of the Future Homes standards and the U Values of our products becoming all important as we are pushed to achieve lower and lower values. We have this magic figure of thermal transmittance, or U value, of 0.80 W/m2/K looming in the case of windows. The test standard actually talks about the thermal transmittance of windows and doors being calculated to two significant figures…. slightly different to two decimal places.

What does this mean? Significantly, it means that to be able to declare a compliant U Value of 0.80 W/m2/K the actual U Value must not be higher than 0.804 with rounding being 1-4 for rounding downwards, and 5-9 for rounding upwards. Therefore, 0.804 gets rounded down to 0.80 W/M2/K and is compliant. It must be tempting to stray towards the use of one significant figure in calculations but anything above 0.804 will not comply to regulations – for instance, 0.805 W/m2/K once rounded, is actually 0.81 W/m2/K hence non-compliant. Incidentally, any U value over 1.0 W/m2/K is still calculated to two significant figures, but also one decimal place as in 1.1 W/m2/K.

Are we operating on a level playing field if these ‘roundings’ are cheated in order to appear to be compliant for a product that can’t really make the required U Value? Just saying….

The other side to this is what will the compliant U Value be for Future Homes? Nothing is set in stone yet and although numbers are being bandied around it really is all speculation. There is then the difference between New Build and Replacement to consider and will sometime in 2025 actually be the timing of introducing these thermal values? Quite possibly for New Build but for Replacement, not necessarily.

So, amongst all the jockeying for position, at least one system house is ensuring that whatever is thrown at them, their 90mm system will be compliant and, I believe, has achieved as low as 0.66 W/m2/K, albeit with argon filled triple glazing. The burning question is just how low a U Value can be achieved with a 70mm system, even with fancy glass? I’d be intrigued to know your views…

I attended a training day during the month and, although I’m sure co-operation between a system house, a fabricator and an installer is not unusual, the commitment shown by all parties impressed me. What better way can there be to introduce a new customer to a completely new range of products than taking them to the system house’s own showroom and showing them the full process of extruding PVCu profile? The fabricator was able to show everyone in the customer’s company what they had bought into, from apps and websites, to print and vehicle livery plus training and technical assistance. Yes, I was very impressed particularly that the installer had shut up shop and had literally brought every employee to the day! Everyone working together and forging relationships and friendships between all parties. I like it! Interestingly, this training day and seeing an installer company learning about new products, systems and, possibly, a different way of working made me think about the issues of changing suppliers and what motivates that change. Everyone knows that a fabricator who takes on a different system is making a big commitment to that change. Certainly, the system house will aid them financially with tooling and the like but, nevertheless, it’s a big decision to make the change. However, I had never thought about the installer who changes fabricators and what that involves. Additionally, bearing in mind the upheaval in making any change in supplier, I was thinking about what the reasons are for making that change. The simple answer is money, but there must be many more reasons. Danny Williams, in his Cold Calling column this month, is looking at the pricing issue and I’m looking forward to hearing what he has to say about it.

I’m sure you have read about ‘The Materials Debate’ in the August edition of Glass News and on social media: this is important to our industry and will help us all in planning for the future. It was particularly interesting reading about the progression of materials over the years and how manufacture has moved from simple operations that can be employed in your garage to becoming the sophisticated and automated systems we see today. The survey and debate that Mike Rigby is undertaking is an important piece of work that will benefit everyone in our industry and I would encourage everyone to have their say and voice their opinions and thoughts…why not give Mike a call on 07785 367716 or, if you prefer, email him at mike@mra-research.co.uk?

It's hard to believe that we are already in August as I write this column. With no summer in the UK this year and friendly souls sending weather forecasts showing temperatures in the low to high 30 degrees C from their sunbeds in the Balearics and Mediterranean resorts, all we have to look forward to is an early autumn! I’m not sure that this is the time to start a debate on the pros and cons of ‘global warming’!

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY?

Email Chris at: chris@glassnews.co.uk

August

CONTENTS

‘TIME OUT’ WINNERS –AUGUST!

Sudoku: Darren Barraclough, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Eye Spy:

Brian Laws, Bracknell, Berkshire Spot the Difference: Deby Crittall, Crowborough, East Sussex

Crossword: Julie Baker, Weston-super-Mare

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

CONTACT DETAILS

Christina Shaw Managing Director / Advertising Enquiries

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E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

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Please

AT WORK, REST AND PLAY

AT WORK...

How did you get into this industry?

I was searching for a new role and was open to any industry. It was only when a recruiter approached me about the position at The Glass & Glazing Federation, that I liked the sound of it and felt excited to explore an industry I hadn’t worked in before. I’ve been here for the past 4-years as I really like both the company and the industry!

Please give a brief resume of your career to date.

After graduating university with a BSc (Hons) Business & Management (2:1), I felt lost about what career path to follow and tried a variety of roles that included Merchandising and Recruitment. I then settled on working for my last employer where I stayed for over a decade. This was within the welfare-to-work sector, which assisted people out of employment into the world of work. My time here allowed me to develop a range of skills, working in a variety of different roles and eventually led me to compliance. It was within this role as a Senior Compliance Officer that I felt I’d finally found the career I wanted to be in. Seeking a change and new opportunity to develop, I then joined The Glass & Glazing Federation as their Group Compliance Manager.

Do you believe your speciality (finance, sales, management, marketing etc.) is transferable to any industry?

Definitely! The core elements of compliance remain the same, that include data protection, risk management, internal audit, and good governance. There may be certain areas of regulatory compliance that vary, but it’s about understanding the fundamental requirements of the regulator and ensuring the business is abiding by them. Installsure is the insurance arm of The GGF and is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA); working closely in this area of the business has allowed me to expand my knowledge, offer guidance

to comply with their principles and ensure all reporting obligations are met within set timeframes.

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

A combination of both. Based on my experience and the variety of roles I’ve worked in so far, it has been about opportunism; but now I know the career I want to be in, my ambitions are likely to follow a career path.

It is also about understanding who you are and what you like. I love organising! Compliance suits me and my skills-set, as it is essentially about organising a business and guiding senior management to lead with confidence, knowing they operate compliantly with unyielding integrity.

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

In 5-years’ time, I would like to grow and lead the compliance department with sub-departments that include Data Privacy and Information Governance, Risk Management, Internal Audit Management, External Audit Management & Accreditation and Regulatory Compliance. This would allow a focussed approach to the various compliance activities across the business to continuously improve how it operates. It would also give me

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?

My family. I’m the mum of two energetic young children, my son is aged 8 and daughter aged 5. They are such a big part of my life; in fact, my husband and I often say that it’s hard to imagine how life was without them in it! I want to be a positive role model for both of my kids, encouraging them to achieve their goals and be happy.

the opportunity to mentor and support a team, where I can offer my knowledge and experience to drive change.

In 10-years’ time, I would like to be exploring work opportunities in another country. I’ve always worked in London and would like to see how I can develop and adapt within a completely different environment bringing new challenges and opportunities.

AT PLAY...

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

The flexible approach to work has dramatically improved over the last few years and has really allowed me to achieve the work/ life balance I have; especially when being a mum to a young family and meeting the demands women put on themselves to be an active mother but also build a successful career. A key part of achieving this is the family time we get to spend at the weekends, whether it’s enjoying family walks with our dog, a movie night on the sofa all together or having a lovely summer holiday abroad. We were lucky this year to visit Dubai and really enjoyed having some quality time together as a family. I find holidays (especially if staying at a lovely luxury hotel) really refreshing for all of us to come back and work hard.

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

I’d like to travel more and show the kids more of the world. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day without remembering that there is a whole world out there to see and so many different experiences to have! I love my life and where we live in Surrey, but a few extra holidays a year travelling by private jet would be the icing on the cake!

THIS MONTH: Jananee Duggal Group Compliance Manager, GGF

• 4.5m span in two panes!

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

• ‘Part-open’ sliding door locking.

HAS THE INDUSTRY FORGOTTEN HOW TO SELL?

at PST, we’ve developed vsHome, a unique sales platform designed specifically for the modern installer.

GLAZERITE UNVEILS

ULTION SWEET AS STANDARD

PST Managing Director Neil Travers discusses how technology is the key to escaping this dangerous path…

There’s no denying that the UK fenestration industry has experienced unprecedented growth over the past few years, in most part thanks to the pandemic-induced home improvement boom.

As lockdowns led homeowners to invest in their living spaces, installers found themselves with a surge in demand for their products and services.

A boost in business was of course welcomed by all, but a sudden influx also led to a concerning trend of complacency among some installers who became solely reliant on increased demand rather than actively innovating their sales strategies.

Today, many businesses have grown accustomed to customers reaching out directly, reducing the need for aggressive marketing and sales efforts – in short, many have actually forgotten how to sell. But while the booming market may have been sufficient to sustain some companies temporarily, now that Covid is very much a thing of the past and the market is noticeably slowing, failing to innovate their selling approaches has left many installers vulnerable to downturns and emerging competitors.

THE VITAL ROLE OF TECH

In order to stay competitive in a rapidly changing landscape, it’s vital that installers break free from this trap, and one proven way to do this is to invest in technology to help boost their sales strategies.

Modern technology allows installers to streamline communication and create personalised journeys with every customer, helps potential customers make more informed buying decisions with the likes of virtual and augmented reality, and can provide valuable insight into customer trends and buying behaviours through data analytics, paving the way for targeted marketing campaigns – and a boost in sales.

THE ULTIMATE TOOL

As the market levels off, installers who have embraced technology are better equipped to stand out from the competition – it’s why

The advanced yet simple to use sales and surveying software solution allows for the design, visualisation, and pricing of a wide range of products such as windows, doors, conservatories, garden rooms and more.

As an advanced point of sale tool, vsHome allows installers to design and bring their customers’ ideas to life using drag and drop tools within the integrated 3D editor. A unique visualisation tool can then be used to fit models onto a photo background, producing a real-life representation of the finished product.

This can be taken a step further with vsHome AR, the innovative app that allows installers to share product designs directly to their customer’s phone or tablet to visualise what their new conservatory, orangery or extension will look like as a life size representation on the side of their home or presented on a tabletop. By locking the model down and holding their device, the customer can walk around their new home improvement product and explore it from the inside for a truly immersive experience.

Installers then have the option to add pricing and calculate the cost of each job, incorporating finance tools, discounts, markups and custom payment schedules, while also benefitting from the integrated reporting suite which can export branded sales and survey reports at the touch of a button. The software can be tailored to individual installers and the products they offer –installers can also incorporate their own logo and branding, as well as their own pricing model.

ENSURE LONG-TERM SUCCESS

While a previous surge in demand has provided an opportunity for installers, the complacency that came with it has led many down a dangerous path.

To ensure long-term success, installers need to learn how to sell again, break free from the complacency trap and invest in technology to enhance the customer experience, discover remote selling solutions, streamline processes, leverage data insights, and gain a competitive advantage.

vsHome is one platform that has taken selling home improvement products to a whole new level, and is a truly unique tool that will help installers increase sales and boost conversion rates – by proactively integrating it into their operations, they can establish themselves as industry leaders and secure a sustainable future amidst an everchanging market landscape.

If you’re an installer looking for a new and modern way to sell again and gain a competitive advantage, contact PST today –we’d love to help you.

For more information or to sign up to a 14day free trial, visit www.pstonline.co.uk.

The Glazerite UK Group has unveiled a new standard offering for installers, set to appeal to consumers looking for the perfect balance of aesthetics, durability and security.

The move will see Glazerite doors fitted with Ultion Sweet door furniture at no extra cost to installers, as part of the trade fabricator’s ambitions to support its customers to differentiate themselves in their own markets.

Jeff Dunn, Sales & Commercial Director, Glazerite, explains: “As part of ongoing investment into our portfolio, we are delighted to add Ultion Sweet as our standard door furniture offering going forward. Ultion Sweet is an exceptional system: premium in quality, unique in style and innovative in performance. Its unparalleled weather resistance comes backed with Brisant Secure’s enhanced warranty for extra peace of mind.”

The edgeless design of Ultion Sweet combines aesthetics with simplicity and is available in a range of finishes. The system has a 20-year anti-corrosion guarantee, with a ‘fit and forget’ manufacturer-to-consumer approach enabling homeowners to register online with Brisant directly. Brisant underpins its unique Ultion and Ultion Sweet products

with distinctive marketing, including brochures and social media campaigns that outline Ultion Sweet’s durability and style credentials to homeowners.

The news follows the announcement of a collaboration between Brisant and Glazerite on a Ultion Sweet patio door handle, following a joint product development project. A new urn-style door knocker has also been added to the range, with a traditional look complementing the contemporary styling of Ultion Sweet products.

Nick Dutton, CEO of Brisant Secure adds, “Glazerite and Brisant Secure have had a longstanding partnership, which includes active collaboration on NPD. We’re delighted that Glazerite has added Ultion Sweet as its standard offering on doors and look forward to supporting their installers to win new business.” www.glazerite.co.uk

PREMIER ARCHES TAKES CONVENIENCE TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH FULLY GLAZED FRAMES

While Premier Arches has made a name in the industry as the leading supplier of high-quality PVC arched and angled frames, taking the hassle of profile bending away from fabricators across the UK, the St Helens-based company has taken this convenience a step further –with fully glazed frames.

Thanks to a core company principle of making its customers’ lives easier, Premier Arches not only supplies state-of-the-art arched and angled frames in a wide range of leading systems, but can also supply you with fully fabricated frames, delivered right to your factory door.

Managing Director Sean Greenall comments: “We’ve been supplying arched frames to customers across the country for a few years now, but what many don’t actually realise is that we can also supply a fully glazed option rather than just the outer frame, saving time and eliminating errors caused by glass templating.

“We can also supply frames fitted with sashes, accessories and composite door slabs, all geared towards our busy fabricator customers who don’t have the time to mess around with finishing arched frames in their streamlined factories that have been set up for speed.

“We can save our customers not only the manufacturing hassle, but the time, trouble and cost of sourcing glass units, and deliver complete products, wrapped up and ready to go out to your customers.

“At Premier Arches, we pride ourselves on making our customers’ lives easier, and providing fully glazed frames is just one of the ways we can do this. We’re a one-stop shop for anything that’s difficult to make, so for your next arched and fully glazed frame requirements, contact Premier Arches today – we’d love to help you.

For more information, visit www.premierarches.co.uk.

In the wake of an industrywide boom, installers have fallen into a complacency trap when it comes to sales.

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

MERCURY AGREES NEW THREE-YEAR SUPPLY DEAL WITH EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS

Specialist trade fabricator Mercury

Glazing Supplies has agreed a three-year supply extension with Epwin Window Systems to manufacture the Vertical Sliding Sash Window System. Mercury is Epwin Window Systems’ longest standing vertical slider customer and both parties are delighted to have agreed the extension.

Steve Cross, Co-founder and Director of Mercury, said: “Our partnership with Epwin Window Systems stretches back over 20 years and we are pleased to be extending it. We choose to continue manufacturing the system because it’s a market-leading sash window solution from an industry-leading systems house.”

Katrina Earl, Sales Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Mercury was one of the first fabricators to manufacture the Spectus Vertical Slider system way back in 2002 and we continue to value their business today as much as we did then. We are delighted they have signed a new threeyear agreement and look forward to further developing this longstanding relationship.”

The Vertical Sliding Sash Window System from Epwin Window Systems was one of the first PVC-U vertical sliders to be introduced to the market. It remains at the forefront of the industry today because it combines authentic heritage aesthetics and outstanding thermal performance with no compromise.

Mercury Glazing Supplies manufactures the welded and mechanically jointed versions of the Vertical Sliding Sash Window System, giving its trade, commercial and new build customers the solutions they need for all projects.

The Vertical Sliding Sash Window System is part of Mercury’s portfolio of feature-rich product solutions, which are all backed up with an unwavering commitment to customer service and support.

It’s an approach that has seen Mercury Glazing Supplies achieve impressive growth in the past few years. The company currently operates from three state-of-theart manufacturing centres in Gloucester and employs a team of over 60 experienced personnel with a customer-centric approach. Tel: 0845 340 3968 www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

RENSON UK SUPPLIES FULL SOLUTION LOUVRES TO NEW LEEDS RESIDENTIAL PROJECT

Leading ventilation louvre specialist Renson UK has supplied its marketleading systems to two impressive residential buildings in Leeds.

Situated on the previous site of Doncaster Monkbridge Iron and Steelworks, Latitude Purple, a £68 million development, comprises of 463 homes over two residential buildings at 17 and 21 storeys tall, and spanning 17,000 square feet.

Working with Facade company M Clarke, main contractor John Sisk Ltd, developer Hub Group, and architect Carey Jones Chapman Tolcher (CJCT), Renson UK has supplied over 1,400 of its 414 glazed in louvres with insulated blanking plates to the project.

Made from extruded aluminium sections and stainless steel 304 insect screen, Renson UK’s 414 glazed in louvres have a blade pitch of 33.3mm and can accommodate most glazing thicknesses.

They have a free area of 50%, and are weather and aerodynamically tested to EN 13030.

Renson UK National Sales Manager Martin Daniels comments: “We were very pleased to be called on to supply our market-leading louvres to the Latitude Purple project. At Renson, we pride ourselves on our highquality, fully-tested ventilation solutions, as well as our ability to deliver bespoke products for unique projects like this.”

Renson UK has spent the past 50 years designing, developing and manufacturing high-performance ventilation products, supplying fully tested, high-quality louvres and mechanical ventilation products for every application.

These include removable louvre panels, door systems, cladding systems, specification trickle vents, and selfregulating window ventilators.

All products offer outstanding weathertightness and have been fully tested to the highest standards, having undergone rigorous BSRIA testing.

For more information, visit www.renson.eu/en-gb/for-professionals/contact

FENSA LAUNCHES NEW GUIDE TO COMPLIANCE

The government authorised scheme that monitors building regulation compliance for windows and doors, FENSA, is pleased to announce further industry support in the form of an updated, comprehensive Guide to Compliance. Produced in conjunction with RISA and the GGF, the publication is free to download for all FENSA Approved installers.

Lis Clarke, Operations Director for FENSA explains why the Guide to Compliance is so useful: “Building regulations are constantly monitored to ensure the health and safety of anyone working on or using all types of buildings. Sometimes these changes are just tweaks on a previous clause, and sometimes the updates are more significant. Either way, it is the responsibility of the installer to make sure the work they complete and

the products they fit, are compliant.

“With all the recent changes to Building Regulations it was the perfect time to update and re-issue our Guide to Compliance. This is the first update since 2016 so there is a plethora of new information to consider. The guide has been produced by experts in the industry with a wealth of experience from the GGF, RISA and FENSA and covers everything from structure to fire safety, sealing to

ventilation, and access to thermal performance. It means installers have one publication covering everything they need to know. The guide is free to download and is a key document to help all FENSA Approved Installers avoid any problems with meeting Building Regulations during installation.”

Lis concludes: “It’s important to stay on top of building regulations and there is sometimes much debate and discussion among industry peers about individual interpretations. It can be hard to sift through the onslaught of information to decipher the facts. And for something so important, installers need a definitive guide. FENSA is pleased to provide this resource for the industry so we can collectively continue to raise standards and provide reassurance to homeowners that the work on their house is compliant.”

UAP NAMED AS MAIN SPONSOR OF G23 AWARDS

UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has been announced as the main sponsor of the G23 Awards.

Launched in 2004, the awards recognise innovation and exceptional performance in the glass and glazing industry. Expected to attract more than 450 people, this year’s event will take place on 24 November at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

Established in 1996, UAP now operates across seven leading brands, providing an unrivalled range of products to the domestic and commercial industries.

Kamila Kasperowicz, marketing director at UAP, said: “Having watched the G Awards go from strength to strength, we wanted to show our support as a main sponsor this year.

“UAP has expanded rapidly in recent years, and works with many different people and companies, so we know our industry has a lot to be proud of. The products,

businesses, individuals, and initiatives showcased at the awards never fail to impress, demonstrating the innovation and quality which we are all committed to.

“We are looking forward to celebrating these achievements as both a sponsor and entrant into the awards.”

Tony Higgin, organiser of the G23 Awards added:

“UAP’s sponsorship is great news for the G23 awards. The backing of leading brands ensures we can keep rewarding excellence in glass and glazing, and that the event remains a highlight in the industry calendar.”

UAP’s sponsorship follows several successes at the G

Awards. In 2022, it was named a finalist in the Sustainability Initiative of the Year category for its S.E.E. scheme. Considering social, economic and environmental factors, S.E.E has been designed to go above and beyond standard policies and accreditations such as ISO:14001.

In 2021, after being shortlisted in three categories, UAP went on to be crowned Covid Business Hero of the year. The award recognised the team’s quick response to the pandemic, including the production of its own PPE which was later donated to local hospices and other businesses.

www.uapcorporate.com

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!

CDW SYSTEMS PARTNERS WITH ALUTRADE ON CONTINUED SUSTAINABILITY DRIVE

Specialist aluminium fabricator CDW Systems has partnered with Alutrade, the largest and most established independent aluminium recycling company and extrusion specialist in the UK.

This collaboration marks a significant step towards CDW Systems’ commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices in its operations to reduce its carbon footprint.

Alutrade, a leading expert in sustainable aluminium scrap recycling, recycles in the region of 30,000+ tonnes of metal at its Midlands aluminium recycling plant every year.

CDW’s Group Chairman Jeremy Phillips, said:

“We are thrilled to join hands with Alutrade as part of our commitment to more sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. By turning to Alutrade we can ensure that our aluminium scrap and offcuts are kept within the industry and processed efficiently and sustainably.

“It also means a more traceable way of dealing with everything we have that can be recycled and allows us to minimise waste generation, conserve valuable resources, and contribute to a greener future.

“Aluminium is an infinitely recyclable material, and by working together, we can ensure that the lifecycle of this valuable resource is maximised, benefiting

COMMERCIAL ADVANTAGES WITH EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS

both the industry and the environment.”

The Gloucester-based CDW, part of the East Manor Group, has been taking huge steps to enhance its sustainability credentials, including working closely with Technal, one of its main profile suppliers and part of the Hydro Group. Last year the group, which also includes double glazing specialists Clearway Doors & Windows, ordered 44 tonnes of Circal 75R, Hydro’s high quality 75% recycled aluminium profiles, helping to saving 378 tonnes of CO2 emissions in the process.

Jeremy added: “As an aluminium fabricator committed to sustainability, we are doing everything we can for the planet and helping the glazing industry become more sustainable.”

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.

Epwin Window Systems has launched an enhanced Approved Commercial Partner (ACP) scheme that will add even more value to commercial fabricator members. Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are serious about making our stakeholders succeed. We work closely with our Approved Commercial Partners to provide a seamless, reliable partnership they can depend on.”

Commercial fabricators who become members of the ACP scheme have access to a wealth of technical information, professional services, and marketing material to help them grow their commercial portfolio. The offer is underpinned by a skilled and experienced in-house team who can help navigate the commercial complexities of technical specifications, sustainability and building regulations.

The ACP scheme starts with exclusive access to all Epwin Window Systems-specified systems: Optima, Spectus and Stellar, each with their own distinctive qualities and built on a combination of proven design pedigree and technical advantages. There is also a free Barbour ABI licence so fabricators can research, apply and track construction projects across their region and sector.

There is assistance with tendering and PQQ writing to help fabricators submit compelling bids. Full technical support for commercial project is included too, covering survey, design, drawing, structural calculations, stakeholders’ meetings, and on-site installation.

To help fabricators keep their finger on the pulse and build their skills, a comprehensive Commercial Training Programme is available that covers various modules including commercial law and site management. Whilst Commercial Market Reports and a quarterly Approved Commercial Partner newsletter helps keeps fabricators up to date with market opportunities.

To further support marketing efforts, customers’ projects can be promoted across key press titles and specification directories. And to help promote their ACP status, members can use the dedicated logo and certification and feature on the Epwin Window Systems’ ACP portal.

Epwin Window Systems has impressive credentials in the commercial sector, with 50 years of experience and 10+ years of partnerships with several local authorities, housing associations and private developers. It’s also a business with an unwavering commitment to sustainability.

Gerald commented: “Sustainability has become even more of a key consideration in the commercial sector as demand for sustainable buildings continues to increase. Our commitment to sustainability is front and centre across all our business practices which gives our ACP members a further advantage.”

Gerald continued: “Our wealth of experience, knowledge and product quality is recognised and respected in the commercial sector. When you partner with Epwin Window Systems, you have the peace of mind that you are choosing a strong and reliable partner with unrivalled expertise.” The enhanced ACP scheme is now open to fabricators that meet a strict entry criteria in order to maintain the highest standards. To join the scheme, contact Epwin Window Systems today.

Tel: 0845 340 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

SHEERLINE CELEBRATES BEST OF GLASS AND GLAZING AS A MAIN SPONSOR OF G23 AWARDS IN NOVEMBER

Sheerline is delighted to be one of the main sponsors of the G23 Awards for the first time this year. The renowned industry awards celebrate the best of the glass and glazing industry and are taking place on Friday 24th November, at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

Well established within the industry, the annual awards are now in their 19th year and enable the glass and glazing

community to display the breadth of innovation and success achieved across the whole industry. This is reflected in the range of categories open to submissions.

This includes Best Business Initiative of the Year, which is a new category for 2023, as well as Fabricator of the Year, Glass Company of the Year, Installer of the Year, and the Unsung Hero Award. The latter highlights the team member that goes the extra mile for their organisation.

To show just how much this person is appreciated, they will receive industry-wide recognition as they collect their trophy on stage, plus a champagne lunch for two at Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill. To nominate an individual, all that’s required is 500 words outlining why he or she should win.

This year, the independent judging panel includes familiar faces from the Glass & Glazing Federation, RISA, and the Certass Trade Association.

Last year’s ceremony was hosted by comedian Hugh Dennis and included a collection for GM Fundraising and Hope

House, which is an industry charity. Details about this year’s ceremony are being kept under wraps, but it is sure to be an unmissable event.

David Wigley, Head of Marketing for Garnalex and the Sheerline brand, said: “To be one of the main sponsors of the G23 Awards means we are directly supporting and rewarding those within the industry who are developing innovative solutions and challenging the bounds of what is possible. It is hugely rewarding for everyone within the Garnalex and Sheerline team.”

“Industry awards are extremely important. They shine a light on those who are going above and beyond, they recognise talent, exceptional performance, and the best in the industry. It is fantastic to be part of this – we’re very much looking forward to the ceremony in November and the opportunity to celebrate these achievements,” he added.

To find out more about the awards, visit the website here: https://g-awards.com/2023/en/page/home or to find out more about Sheerline, visit this link: https://www.sheerline.com.

CONSERVATORY OUTLET’S RETAIL NETWORK SEES DIGITAL LEADS GROW YET AGAIN

A group of independent retail installers are enjoying sustained year-on-year increases in online enquiries, achieving, on average, 16% more digital leads than the same comparable year-to-date period in 2022.

The companies, all part of the Conservatory Outlet Network, have remained fully engaged with a proactive, multi-channel approach to marketing and have recorded impressive results, defying the challenging market conditions.

Fabricator Conservatory Outlet, which heads up the Network, employs its in-house marketing team and draws further support from the industry-leading digital agency, DigitalKOG. With decades of experience in the home improvement sector, DigitalKOG works exclusively for Conservatory Outlet’s retail partners, bringing unique insight to each company’s marketing strategy.

Access to this marketing expertise has helped Conservatory Outlet’s retailers to continue generating a consistently strong level of retail enquiries, paving the way for a healthy order book through the second half of 2023 and beyond.

Karen Clough, Marketing Director at Conservatory Outlet, explains: “It’s been no accident that our retailers are up year-onyear consistently each month so far in 2023.

“We work in constant partnership with our agency partner, DigitalKOG, to experiment with new ideas and channels, spilt test campaigns and replicate successes across our dealer network.

“It’s crucial to us that retail marketing and lead generation is the number one priority for our business.”

A recent report from Insight Data indicated that 74% of home improvement companies were finding enquiries hard to come by and many were raising concerns about a lack of demand through 2023 and beyond as inflation and the rising cost of living start to bite.*

Karen continues: “Despite the tough trading conditions, there is still plenty of demand out there from homeowners wanting to

improve their properties. It’s all about hitting the right audience with the right messaging right at the right time.

“It's pretty rare for a fabricator to put so much emphasis on understanding the retail customer. There are plenty of fabricators out there that can make you a good product. And yes, it's hugely important. But without leads, it's all academic. We’re proud of our Network of retailers for continuing to embrace a proactive approach to keep lead intake at a consistent level.”

For more, please visit www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk

*Reference: https://www.windowsactive.com/ fenestration-industry-sees-significant-drop-indemand-reveals-insight-data/

Conservatory Outlet’s Group Marketing Director, Karen Clough

OBITUARY

STEVE WILLIAMS

Steve

Steve was a formidable member of the Kenrick team for more than a decade. A well-known figure in the industry, Steve was respected and liked by his customers and suppliers as well as everyone at Kenrick.

Steve joined the industry in 1976 as a junior draughtsman with Plastal Ltd, which was one of only two PVC-u fabricators in the UK at the time. He then took on the role of factory manager with another window fabricator before moving to Mila Hardware, where he worked for nearly 20 years in a variety of commercial sales roles. Steve then moved to Groupco - a Kenrick customer - where he became familiar with Kenrick’s products, before joining Vita Hardware. He went on to join Kenrick in 2012 and was instrumental in developing and launching a number of new products to the market.

With a vast experience in both hardware and PVC-u window fabrication (Steve was able to fabricate windows and doors from profile bar length to the finished and installed product), he possessed a rare skillset coupled with an understanding of the needs of the fabricator, installer, distributor and homeowner.

Steve was a terrific salesman with a big personality and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with Steve’s wife, his children and grandchildren at this very sad time.

The Kenrick management team, colleagues and friends of Steve

CRL GLASS DETECTION TOOLS TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF GLASS INSTALLATION

DELIVERING STYLE AND FIRE SAFETY ON DUBLIN’S FITZWILLIAM STREET

The company’s flagship product is the Glass Check Elite which enables installers to quickly and easily obtain a whole host of information. The installer can identify glass spacer and overall thickness of single, double, triple, and quad pane windows with ease. In addition, the Glass Check Elite can identify the type of Low-E coating in the window as well as the surface location and can identify and measure laminated glass, including glass and laminate inner-layer thickness.

The device also has a graphical display that draws a picture of the profile of the window, numbering each surface for easy identification and for ease of use it stores the most recent 30 measurements. It also has speciality operating modes such as bulletresistant, reflective/mirrored glass and dark tinted glass ensuring that it can provide all the necessary information whatever the specification. What’s more all of this functionality is offered in multiple languages.

For further information call 01706 863600, email crl@crlaurence.co.uk, or visit www.crlaurence.co.uk.

Balancing fire safety with aesthetics, Pyroguard Protect fire safety glass and the minimalistic Jansen steel framing profile was the system of choice for a new office development on Dublin’s iconic Fitzwilliam Street Lower.

‘Project Fitzwilliam’ in Dublin has captured the attention of many in the architecture and design world, involving the restoration and redevelopment of a number of protected Georgian structures for ESB, the Irish state energy company. This restoration and specification have helped to reinstate the traditional Georgian streetscape, now the longest and uninterrupted of its kind in Europe. The 45,000 m2 development also involved the construction of a new sevenstorey office block, designed by Grafton Architects and O’Mahony Pike.

KCC Group has worked closely with the architects, design teams, contractors and client to deliver a range of glazing solutions for the renowned project. One of those was the design and installation of fire-rated internal doors and screens in the lift and entrance lobbies on each floor of the project’s new office space as a means of compartmentation, providing up to 90 minutes fire performance. Compartmentation is a key part of a passive fire protection strategy and involves splitting the building into a series of fire-safe compartments, not only helping to control the spread of a blaze but also creating a safe means of escape for occupants and safe access for emergency services in the unfortunate event of a fire. Carefully balancing safety with aesthetics, a combination of Pyroguard Protect fire safety glass in classifications EI60 and EI90 were

specified alongside Jansen’s steel system for doorsets and screens, providing 60 and 90 minutes fire performance respectively.

Speaking about the project, David Skelly, Director at KCC Group said: “Working with both Jansen and Pyroguard, these glazing systems and screens were designed not only for their minimalistic aesthetic and ability to allow maximum light into the interior space, but more importantly to comply with the fire strategy of the building. Pyroguard Protect fire safety glass enabled the creation of fire safe compartments on each floor and lobby, ensuring the protection of future building occupants.”

As well as fire protection, Pyroguard’s products can also offer a range of other qualities, which proved valuable on this project, as Andy Lake, Sales Director UK & IRE at Pyroguard explained: “By combining our technical knowledge and the multi-functional capabilities of our fire safety glass, we were able to offer KCC Group a solution that also delivered highperformance impact resistance and acoustic properties – two qualities which are vital when you consider the application being central lobbies within a busy office space.”

Pyroguard Protect is a range of toughened fire safety glass suitable for both internal and external applications, offering integrity and heat insulation from 30-120 minutes (EW classification) and 30-180 minutes (EI classification). The glass can also provide a 1B1 impact rating, high-performance acoustics and excellent UV stability. For more information, please visit: www.pyroguard.eu.

‘Project Fitzwilliam’ was completed in 2022, with Dublin’s ESB Headquarters opening shortly after.

It is with great sadness that we announce that

Williams, sales and marketing director at Kenrick, has passed away.

CRL offers an extremely comprehensive range of glass detection tools which completely takes all of the uncertainty and guesswork out of identifying glass.

PatioMaster Sliding Door PVC-U System

Scaling new heights

The UK’s favourite PVC-U sliding door now reaches even greater heights. New reinforcing capability means it’s now 33% stronger. And with larger size options, and weather performance that’s nothing short of outstanding, PatioMaster delivers class-leading performance at every level.

Tested to 1600Pa wind loading, 300Pa water tightness & 600Pa air tightness

U-values as low as 1.0 W/m2K

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NEW 36mm triple glazing option

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Perfect for exposed and elevated locations.

Ready to discover more? Contact us on 0845 340 3968 or email info@epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

STELLAR ALUMINIUM SPECIFIED FOR REFURBISHMENT OF SURREY COLLEGE

113 Stellar Aluminium Flush Casement Windows have been manufactured and installed in the refurbishment of North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot) in Epsom, Surrey.

The vocational FE and HE college had funds to replace the original timber and aluminium windows in one of its 1980s-built buildings. Upgrading the windows would enhance thermal efficiency, as well as improving the visual appearance of the building.

The college appointed Chawton Hill Associates Ltd to manage the refurbishment project. The contract for the fabrication and installation of the windows was awarded to Epwin Window Systems’ Approved Commercial Partner, Capital Windows of Uxbridge due to the company’s highlevel commercial credentials which aligned with Chawton Hill’s expectations.

Stellar Aluminium Flush Casement Windows from Epwin Window Systems were specified for the project because they

were able to meet or exceed the specification, including meeting the requirements of the Department for Education’s Standards for School Premises.

The 113 Stellar windows were manufactured to achieve a U-value of 1.4 W/m2K using a standard 6.4mm clear laminated outer pane, 16mm or 12mm black spacer with argon and 6.4mm soft coat low-e laminated inner pane. Solar glass was used in the windows for the building’s south elevation to prevent solar gain and glare.

To complement the building’s aesthetics, the project’s windows were powder coated in Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016 matt) on both sides. Matching fascias and soffits were also specified for a high-quality visual appearance.

Peter Adams, General Manager at Capital Windows, said: “Stellar has cross-sector appeal because of its combination of exceptional aesthetics and outstanding thermal efficiency. It was the perfect system solution for this project.”

The installation of the windows was undertaken during term time, which meant careful planning to minimise disruption to students’ learning. The work was carefully sequenced week-by-week, with stringent health and safety protocols in place to ensure the safety of students, staff and contractors.

Peter said: “We have over 40 years’ experience in commercial project installations, so we were happy to work closely with everyone involved to ensure everything ran smoothly and safely.”

Now completed, Nescot’s building is more thermally efficient and more visually attractive, helping to enhance the learning experience of students.

Miles Cassidy, Surveyor at Chawton Hill commented: “All stakeholders have been pleased with the outcome. The project has transformed a dated 1980s building and given it a fresh modern feel that is more in keeping with the rest of the campus.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968 – www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

Epwin Window Systems’ PVC-U Vertical Sliding Sash Window System remains the window of choice for Palladian Homes, a developer of exclusive homes in north and east Yorkshire.

Simon Gibbons, founder and Managing Director of Palladian Homes, says: “The PVC-U Vertical Sliding Sash Window System continues to be Palladian Homes’ first choice for the sash windows we use to add kerb appeal across our various developments.”

Palladian Homes specialises in creating homes with typical sales values of between £500k and £1m. Each home is built on the fundamental principles of striking design, first-class quality and enduring style. The homes are carefully designed to sit sensitively in the beautiful Yorkshire towns and villages where they are situated, and the PVC-U Vertical Sliding Sash Window System provides the ideal mix of authentic design and modern-day performance.

Simon says: “The replication of the sliding sash is very close to traditional timber but offers much better performance. It’s maintenance-free and we also particularly like the multi-directional opening of the sashes for ease of window cleaning and general use.”

Epwin Window Systems fabricator Quickslide manufactures the windows for Palladian Homes and Simon is delighted with the partnership that has been built up between the two companies over nearly ten years. He says: “As a business we benefit from Quickslide’s tailored support and a sales team that is especially set up to work

directly with house builders and our specialist requirements. We have a oneto-one buying process, with our dedicated Sales Manager Adam Wray, who’s always very helpful. We thoroughly recommend Quickslide, and over the years keeping our business local has also helped each of us support the others’ ongoing expansion too.”

Quickslide’s Sales Director Tom Swallow agrees: “We’re very proud to have worked with Palladian Homes for nearly ten years now. During this time, we’ve supplied around 1,320 windows and doors across nine home development sites in Yorkshire.”

“Palladian Homes are the perfect example of what Quickslide and the PVC-U Vertical Sliding Sash Window System from Epwin Window Systems do best – marrying traditional styling with all the comforts of luxury modern living. The results are stunning, and we look forward to many more years working with them.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

Over 90 Optima windows from Epwin Window Systems have been installed in Langton Business Centre which occupies a prominent location in County Durham.

Home to around 25 business, the building’s 90 firstgeneration PVC-U windows had come to the end of their useful life. The landlord wanted to replace the windows to provide a more contemporary appearance and refresh the kerb appeal for the site’s occupants. Equally as important was to upgrade the thermal efficiency of the buildings to enhance sustainability.

The contractor selected for the work was Epwin Window Systems Approved Commercial Partner Swainstons Ltd. The business, which was first founded in 1964, is an established commercial contractor with an exceptional track record of delivering high-profile contracts in the region.

Swainstons manufactures the Optima system from Epwin Window Systems, and Liam McClorey, General Manager at Swainstons, commented: “Optima is straightforward

to fabricate and offers the superior aesthetics and performance that commercial projects need.”

For this project, Swainstons used the Optima Sculptured Window System, which offers sleek sculptured aesthetics. The 90 windows were manufactured in anthracite grey on white and used bronze tinted double glazed units to achieve a sleek contemporary finish that sat perfectly in the surroundings.

The system features a 6-chambered outerframe and 5-chambered sash, which can be used with RCM inserts to increase the number of insulating chambers and further enhance thermal performance when required.

It has revolutionary, optional centre seals to the outerframe and sash, and a 10mm overlap for improved weatherability. The slimmer frame gives more light and improved solar gain, adding further thermal advantage.

These features and more meant the system was comfortably able to achieve the project specification of a Window Energy Rating of A.

Because Langton Business Centre is home to around 25

active businesses, the fourweek installation needed to be carefully managed. As a highly experienced commercial contractor, this is something Swainstons was able to handle. It undertook comprehensive risk assessments to ensure the safety of the building’s occupants and the Swainstons team throughout the installation. It also planned the works carefully to minimise the disruption caused.

The new Optima windows deliver the more contemporary look that Langton Business Centre required and have helped to enhance the building’s envelope. At the same time, thermal performance has been considerably upgraded, helping to reduce the building’s carbon emissions and enhance the sustainability of current and future occupants.

Tel: 0808 101 4143

www.profile22.co.uk

EPWIN’S SASH WINDOW SYSTEM IS THE LONGSTANDING SOLUTION FOR PALLADIAN HOMES

OPTIMA FROM EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS UPGRADES COUNTY DURHAM BUSINESS CENTRE

INSULATED GLASS PERFORMANCE THAT’S BUILT BY DESIGN

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU...

Where were you born and live currently?

I always say I’m from Leeds, but I was born in Liverpool. My Dad was a long distance lorry driver and apparently the pay was better there than his hometown of Leeds. I lived in Liverpool until I was 5, then moved back to Leeds where I stayed until 2000 when I moved to Chorley, Lancashire, to be closer to my Mum who moved to be near family after my Dad passed away.

Your education and the subject or activity in which you excelled?

History! I love history, especially local history. This love of local history started at school when we went on a ‘field’ trip through Greenside railway tunnel, somewhere we had always banned from going into as Mum thought it was full of ‘unsavoury characters’! When our guide was showing us things it all clicked into place - the chunks of wood that as a kid we paid no attention to were the old sleepers from a previous life.

Your favourite sports or interests?

Leeds United obviously! Dad was a big sports fan, but his one true love was Leeds United ALAW.

Your biggest regret in life?

This would have to be not joining the Police Force. At 17 I applied to be a Special Officer with my local station. In those days you had to handwrite why you wanted to be considered. Whatever I wrote was so good the Police Inspector came to my house to see me! My best friend’s brother was a Police Officer and he regaled me with how badly they treated Specials and as such I withdrew; he is now Detective Superintendent of West Yorkshire CID.

The temptation you can’t resist...?

Fish and Chips with curry sauce! It’s the best thing ever invented.

Someone or something that inspires

you?

Over the years many people have inspired me: my old history teacher and my Mum, but I think workwise it has to be Faisal Hussain. He asked me to step up to my current role/a role with more responsibility and as much as I wanted to, my confidence was lacking. I didn’t know if I could do it, but with his guidance and the fact that he believed in me, I stepped up and I am exactly where I want to be.

YOUR CAREER...

When and how did you join this industry?

After leaving local government I started a job here within the claims team, and after a few months I was asked to move to the Dispute Team.

What is your job?

I’m the ADR and Remedial Manager within the three Schemes. I’m responsible for the Dispute team, building relationships with members to bring about an amicable resolution for both parties. More recently I’ve been managing customers whose installers have ceased to trade, arranging works that have been promised.

THIS MONTH: Cathryn Wolfenden Dispute Resolution and Remedial Manager, DGCOS, HIES and HICS

Cathryn says she has the perfect job for her, thanks to the inspiration of her colleagues and family. She is also a Leeds United fan, local history buff and has a soft spot for fish and chips with curry sauce.

Your greatest achievement?

Being promoted not just once but four times over the course of the last six years. It just shows what you can do if you have people who believe in you and then you believe in yourself.

AND YOUR FUTURE...

What would you like to do if you weren’t in this industry?

It’s hard to imagine not doing this now but if I win the lottery a nice villa in the sun to while away the hours, reading, with Brad Pitt bringing me food and drinks would be nice.

A particular ambition?

Personally, I’d like to shift this baby weight I’m still clinging onto after 11 years! Workwise I’d like to continue pushing and promoting the Schemes so they are a household name and to encourage homeowners to use our installers wherever possible.

The way you want to be remembered?

Just as I am now - fun to be around and brighten a day but always there for my friends and family. Professionally, someone dependable but who can make anyone laugh.

you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email

FIT, GLAZE & GO...

the only clip-bead that delivers glazing and de-glazing in seconds.

The KORNICHE Bi-Folding Door has MORE TO OFFER...

Removable SPEEDBEAD allows adjustment and remedial work without damage

Glass supply - one drop delivery for competitively priced glass ordered with your door*

Integral blind glass option available

Trickle vents positioned in outer frame (No frame extenders required for PART F compliance)

PAS24 security as standard*

Korniche matching hardware, including brushed stainless steel

Pre-hung doors, no site assembly required.

Enhanced thermal performance

FREE UK Mainland delivery*

10 YEAR warranty

GASKET and BEAD

IMPROVED for a faster install

PRE-FITTED

DOORCO CREATES RETAIL WEBSITE FOR CUSTOMER LEAD GENERATION

Leading composite door manufacturer, DoorCo has launched a new retail website that is designed to signpost consumers to their customers, for extra lead generation.

Ellie Pool, DoorCo’s Marketing Manager, explains: “Over the last few years we have invested heavily in our social media presence which has naturally led to more brand awareness with consumers. This leads to high number of enquiries, every single one of which is passed on to our customers behind the scenes. To streamline this process, we have launched a new retail focused website which has been designed to help put consumers in touch with our customers more easily. The new site has been developed following engagement and consultation with customers, who identified the need and welcomed it.

“The new website shares our door product portfolio and explains the features and benefits of our composite doors in a language consumers understand. We have stripped out all the ‘technical’ and service information that our customer base needs to know, which is left in our dedicated trade site, and instead we’ve created a more aspiration perspective. Another new feature of the retail website is the Find a Supplier search function. Consumers can use this tool to find a local supplier, or they use our standard door designer (which is also a feature on the new website) to create their perfect door and request a quote directly from the same supplier list.

“The Find a Supplier feature has various search functions, like supply and fit, and also highlights who has showrooms that consumers can visit and discuss their purchase in more detail. We have worked closely with our customers to ensure this information is correct.

“The new website also has an Inspirations gallery which has been formed from a mix of customer installations and bespoke imagery we have specially created. These new pictures will form a new bank of aspirational images that our customers will be able to use in their own marketing, in due course.

“As with all our marketing, DoorCo’s customers are at the heart of everything we do and this website is another example of how we invest in helping our customers’ businesses. It is in no way designed to enable DoorCo to sell full doorsets direct in competition with them. It is solely a tool to help promote our brands and product offering to a wider audience on their behalf, and in turn generate more leads and sales for all the supply chain.”

Have a browse: https://retail.door-co.com/

For more information on DoorCo, call: 01625 428955 or visit: https://trade.door-co.com/

DIRECT TRADE WINDOWS EXPANDS PRODUCT RANGE WITH MILLENNIUM PLUS PIVOT PANEL DOOR FROM CORTIZO

Leading trade supplier Direct Trade Windows has added Cortizo’s Millennium Plus Pivot Panel Door to its product portfolio, a new offering that reaffirms the company’s commitment to providing innovative and stylish solutions to its customers.

The high-quality pivot panel door is a unique Cortizo system that allows aluminium panels to be designed into the sash and is designed to allow large pivot openings that are suitable for contemporary architectural projects while offering excellent thermal and acoustic performance along with minimalist sightlines.

Cortizo’s Millennium Plus Pivot Panel Door offers exceptional functionality and smooth, effortless operation that allows the door to rotate on its axis with ease.

The door also boasts enhanced security thanks to a robust locking system, multi-point locking bolts and toughened glass options, while offering a minimalist profile and clean lines that add a touch of elegance to any architectural style, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of any property.

Direct Trade Windows Director AJ Hassanali comments: “We are thrilled to introduce the Millennium Plus Pivot Panel Door from Cortizo to our product portfolio. This addition to our product range aligns perfectly with our commitment to offering the highest quality and most innovative solutions. The Millennium Plus combines outstanding functionality, contemporary design, and enhanced security, providing our customers with an exceptional door option that will transform their next installation project.

“At Direct Trade Windows, we take pride in our extensive range of quality aluminium windows and doors, all of which have been designed to meet the diverse needs and preferences of our customers. By continually investing in our product range, we’re ensuring that our trade customers have access to the latest in window and door technology, security features and design trends, ensuring they’re able to stay ahead in an ever-evolving market.”

For more information, visit www.directtradewindows.co.uk.

GAP DOUBLE HOMEFRAME GRP COLOUR OFFERING

GAP, the low-maintenance trade specialists, are delighted to have released a collection of eight new colours for their HomeFrame GRP composite door range, improving the selection for their customers and company after investment in a state-of-the-art spray booth at their production facility in Knowsley.

GAP’s HomeFrame GRP doors were introduced last summer as an entirely new product range for the trade specialists, who opted to minimise the number of colours in order to gradually develop their newer side of the business.

The trade specialists have introduced a number of bold colours, designed to heighten customer senses with bold, bright colours such as Tranquil Blue, Canary Yellow, Woodland Green or Sweet Pink, however there are also more traditional and contemporary, toned-down colours such as Cream, Agate Grey, French Grey and Pebble Grey.

Joint MD of GAP, Simon Bird believes that there is certainly something for everyone with their latest colours:

“We’re delighted to have introduced our fantastic new colour range to our HomeFrame GRP line of doors.

“The new colours will double our current offering, giving more choice and increase the availability for our customers, thanks to investment in a new multipurpose spray booth at our production facility, which has allowed us to reduce lead times significantly.

“We’ve enjoyed a successful opening 12 months of our new GRP composite door range and we’re thrilled to be able to start implementing the new colour ranges on top of that.”

To find out more about GAP’s fantastic new range of colours, more information is available at gap.uk.com or alternatively visit one of their 88 depots across the UK.

Out of this world performance

Available here on Terra Firma with the all new Doc L Compliant S140 Sliding Door System.

Engineered for simplified fabrication, faster fitting and effortless operation. Featuring an all new contemporary profile design perfect for modern homes and refurbishments.

To start your voyage of discovery and sign up for your exclusive Mission Pack, visit our microsite www.alukgb.com/S140

BOOSTING DOORCO’S CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Dan Sullivan, DoorCo MD discusses with Glass News, the work the leading composite door manufacturer has done to boost its customer experience, through a customer-centric approach to developing the business.

DoorCo’s drive to be best in class has been centred on customer retention, with a big focus on making the customer experience of DoorCo the best it can be. This is backed by significant investment in assessing, amending and updating systems and processes, alongside a boosted recruitment drive to make key appointments throughout the business.

From the top down, we’re building a team that is focused on delivering our compass of values - Conscientious, Considered, Connected, Consult, Complete, Communicate, Collaboration and Committed – all of which depict how we operate and wish to be seen, as a supplier.

Our values are built on the strong relationships we’ve strived to achieve across our entire customer base. Through working in partnership with our customers, we gain valuable ongoing feedback to guide our innovations to ultimately, offer customers an enhanced composite door offering that helps them meet market demand and grow their businesses.

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP

Kevin Wheatman, General Manager at Hurst, endorses the importance of strong working relationships between customers and suppliers: “The key is creating working partnerships where there is no perceived hierarchy, built on mutual respect, so you can proactively work together in order to satisfy both of your businesses’ needs, and this is the sort of relationship we are proud to say we have with DoorCo. We order from them every day, as well as receiving daily deliveries, so both sides have to work as effectively as each other to ensure everything runs smoothly. Communication is also key. You need people to pick up the phone and be available should you need them and I can honestly say that the DoorCo team is always on hand, keen and helpful in resolving any issues that may have arisen and of course, if we can assist in that, then we do.”

Our team is central to making this work. Appointments and internal promotions

have opened up opportunities for everyone employed by DoorCo to feel empowered and to develop their careers within the business.

CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPOINTMENTS

This is reflected in the recent additions to our customer facing teams – Customer Services and Sales. Two internal appointments have taken the Sales team to four, and because both Sarah and Adam come from within, they bring a range of knowledge and experience of DoorCo’s products, processes, systems and, importantly, the company’s strategy and ethics. A new Customer Services and Order Processing Manager, Michelle Kirkham, brings 23 years’ experience in the manufacturing sector, and she has started the process of further elevating our peopleled customer service approach with more 1-1 customer contact than ever before.

Developing our customer facing teams is enabling us to allocate customers with a dedicated key account manager, which so far has been extremely well received.

WORKING TOGETHER

Marketing is central to DoorCo’s drive to support customers and the expanded team, now under the leadership of Ellie Pool as Marketing Manager, works closely with all departments to ensure we have our finger on the pulse of what’s happening at the core of the business.

In particular, their close proximity to the technical team has naturally led to the combination of their skills into a mar-tech partnership which is playing an important role in maximising customer experience. The first initiative from mar-tech is a new Web to Print portal, which will hold all our existing marketing collateral, fully customisable brochures and colour swatches, corner samples and other POS items. There will also be a comprehensive door image library and the ability to access

design tools to create bespoke door images, based on the DoorCo standard range. In addition, the marketing team will continue to operate their Open Forum inbox where customers can send any other requests. This service, and our ability to support customers with design is being enhanced further with a recently appointed in house Graphic Designer.

MAXIMISING EFFICIENCIES

Our customer-centric approach is equally important in manufacturing too. We have recently split our existing operation into two

cells for the separate production of standard and painted doors to gain maximum efficiency from our existing workspace. The operation runs lean principles of manufacturing to deliver the best possible capacity and support producing doors to the highest possible quality, with daily and hourly KPI and quality control tracking to reduce errors and wastage, too.

It’s clear to see that all divisions are involved in these continued improvements, and by making sure we have the right people with the right skills in place, we are able to clearly focus on what is important to all of us – the customer.

Sarah Hayes and Adam Sullivan have recently been appointed as Sales Executives

“Marketing is central to DoorCo’s drive to support customers and the expanded team, now under the leadership of Ellie Pool as Marketing Manager, works closely with all departments to ensure we have our finger on the pulse of what’s happening at the core of the business.”

ENTRANCE DOORS REIMAGINED

ENTRANCE DOORS REIMAGINED

SUPERBLY ENGINEERED STEEL & ALUMINIUM DOORS

ENTRANCE DOORS REIMAGINED

EXCLUSIVELY FROM PIONEER

SUPERBLY ENGINEERED STEEL & ALUMINIUM DOORS

SUPERBLY ENGINEERED STEEL & ALUMINIUM DOORS

EXCLUSIVELY FROM PIONEER

EXCLUSIVELY FROM PIONEER

BECOME A GERDA APPROVED RESIDENTIAL DOOR DEALER TODAY!

BECOME A GERDA APPROVED RESIDENTIAL DOOR DEALER TODAY!

BECOME A GERDA APPROVED RESIDENTIAL DOOR DEALER TODAY!

MARKET LEADING CREDENTIALS GIVE PATIOMASTER A COMPETITIVE EDGE

The popular PatioMaster PVC-U Sliding Door System from Epwin Window Systems has long been held in high regard by customers due to its outstanding aesthetics and quality system protocols that are a cut above mass-market offering. Its high-quality credentials have been further vindicated following enhanced weather performance testing carried out by Element, an independent global provider of testing, inspection and certification services.

Based on a two-pane sliding door with heavy-duty steel, the PatioMaster Sliding Door has achieved 300pa water tightness Class 7a, 600Pa air tightness Class 2 and 1600 Pa wind loading Class A4. This market-leading wind loading performance reflects how sliding patio doors are used today, which means PatioMaster is the superior solution for coastal or high-rise properties.

Phil Parry, Business Development Director at Epwin Window Systems’, said: ”For us, it’s not just about passing these tests, but ensuring that we uphold the highest standards and deliver consistent product performance to give our customers a market-leading advantage. This latest test achievement demonstrates the technical superiority of the PatioMaster door and coupled with latest product developments, it is a PVC-U sliding door system that is leading the market.”

The PatioMaster PVC-U Sliding Door System is 33% stronger by design due to its reinforcing capability, while an intelligentlydesigned interlock prevents intruders from prising open the panes to gain entry. The system offers exceptional thermal performance and its sash profile increases the variety of glazing options to 28mm and 36mm (which is triple glazed).

In terms of aesthetics, the door’s interlock sightline perfectly aligns with the opposing sash. And colour options are next-level too. 19 stocked foil finishes cover the industry’s favoured shades, including Sage, Claystone and Pebble Grey, plus 30 Made to Order colour options with on-trend hues covering heritage classics, contemporary colours and natural palettes.

Uniquely in the market, there are five complementary base colours: white, tan, brown, cream and grey, which are used with single coloured foil options. It means that the high-end aesthetics remain when the doors are open, because there isn’t a stark disparity between the foiled colour and the white base interior as often seen on other door systems. This allows fabricators and installers to secure higher value sales and tap into consumer demand for high-end products.

All doors are fitted with the Yale 6 point lock as standard and Epwin Window Systems will be introducing a new Yale 10 point PAS 24 locking system shortly. This high-security locking system delivers the equivalent of a standard lock plus additional shootbolts at the top and bottom of the sash for maximum security benefits.

Phil concluded: “PatioMaster has always held an exceptional market pedigree and its enhanced weather testing performance demonstrates is class-leading technical credentials too.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968 www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

DOUBLE-LEAF ALUMINIUM ENTRANCE DOORS NOW AVAILABLE FROM HÖRMANN UK

Hörmann UK have announced the addition of a double-leaf option to their range of aluminium entrance doors. The TopComfort Portal, offers the combination of a modern, high quality, secure door together with the opportunity to create a truly imposing entrance for any style of home.

Constructed using high quality materials featuring a PU foam core within an aluminium skin and an aluminium frame as standard, TopComfort Portal provides long-term, operational stability. It also features RC3 security as standard, good acoustic insulation, and excellent thermal performance with a U value of 1.2 W/M2K being achievable.

A good-looking door is guaranteed with the solid door leaf being fully flush on both the exterior and interior of the door, together with flush fitting between the traffic and fixed leaf. Doors can be manufactured in widths up to 2600mm and heights up to 2500mm, with seven different door styles

being available. The ability to create an impressive, custom-designed entrance is further enhanced with an extensive choice of handles and accessories, together with twenty-three preferred colour options including the ever-popular Anthracite grey and on-trend contemporary Black. The Hörmann group have recently announced that due to their long-term commitment to sustainable manufacturing and green initiatives they are the first and only construction component manufacturer to offer CO2 neutral garage doors, entrance doors and residential internal doors. With end-consumers continuing to show an interest in CO2 neutral products Hörmann doors continue to set standards in quality and innovation, together with providing the market with a brand that is trusted and has high recognition.

To find out more about Hörmann entrance doors visit https://tinyurl.com/mrx32pu6 or call 01530 516868.

VISTA INTRODUCES THE COUNTY COLLECTION, A TIMELESS TRIBUTE TO BRITISH ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE

Leading composite door and uPVC panel manufacturer Vista Panels has launched a new range of composite doors under its flagship XtremeDoor brand.

The new County Collection is a completely bespoke offering, thanks to Vista working closely with its glazing supplier to design a heritage range of door cassettes for a truly authentic heritage feel.

The range comprises of six new door styles, three of which showcase an external Georgian bar look that’s unique to XtremeDoor. The Norfolk, Suffolk and Cheshire styles all offer a timeless aesthetic, suitable for those looking for a more traditional look to their homes.

Vista has also re-worked three classic and popular doors from the XtremeDoor range by using the glazing cassettes on the cottage style slabs with the Cumbria, Lincoln and Stafford doors.

The doors will feature all of XtremeDoor’s high specification features and benefits with their 5-hook lock, triple-seal outer frame, fully adjustable hinges, 3 star security package and a brand new £3,000 money back guarantee in partnership with Ingenious Locks and Hardware.

Ian Smith, Vista’s Sales and Marketing Manager, comments:

“There are a lot of modern and contemporary doors on the market now, including our own XtremeDoor range, but we wanted to push the boundaries, go in the opposite direction and come up with something that reflected more closely the housing stock of the UK.

“The retail and domestic market to a point follow what house builders do, and they continue to build traditional looking houses with traditional looking doors, so we know there is a demand out there.

“With the launch of the new County Collection, we’re encapsulating the rich heritage and timeless elegance of traditional British architecture. At Vista, we always strive to meet the demand of an ever-changing market, and this collection is a testament to our dedication to creating doors that stand the test of time.”

Visit www.xtremedoor.co.uk.

AUTHENTIC APPEAL FROM ODL EUROPE

Composite door innovator ODL Europe is highlighting the authentic appeal of its popular Craftsman Door Cassette Framing System which offers added value benefits for its customers.

Suzanne Nicholl, Head of Sales and Customer Services at ODL Europe, said: “The Craftsman Framing System is popular with customers looking to tap into the trend for traditional door detailing. The broad, flat profile frame has architectural styling and blends perfectly with our Craftsman door slab collection to create a superior door aesthetic.”

The Craftsman High Performance Door Cassette Framing System has been intelligently designed to blend perfectly with the finishing details on the door. It is available in nine architecturally correct and distinct designs, including square, oval and grid, while the optional dentil shelf adds a true craftsman aesthetic for exceptional character. Colourmatched screw hole covers ensure a high-quality visual result.

The Craftsman Door Cassette Framing System has been designed to combine robust durability with its aesthetic advantages. It has been manufactured from SMC-GRP in a woodgrain finish for long-lasting durability and is acceptable for moderate heat areas.

The system has been designed to add value to fabricators and installers too. It was developed for customers who do

not want to paint or stain the frame, and it is screw fixed into the SecureDesign board for straightforward installation. Suzanne commented: “Our 1930s-inspired Craftsman composite door designs remain popular as the trend for distinctive traditional styling continues. The Craftsman Door Cassette Framing System takes the aesthetics to the next level and delivers the authentically beautiful result homeowners want.”

The system is one of a collection of glazing cassette systems, each one perfectly designed to be easy to fit. With the unique, market-leading TriSYS® three piece frame system the outer frame and inner cassette screw together to hold the doorglass into place while the inner frame simply snaps on. Spotlights® contemporary glazing frames give projects impact, while maintaining light and security. Zeel® is a sleek, versatile contemporary glazing cassette that blends seamlessly into the door allowing the door glass to take centre stage. It’s the next generation of glazing cassettes. The collection is just one example of the pedigree you would expect from a business that has been adding value to building products and its customers’ businesses for over 75 years.

Suzanne concludes: “Whether it’s contemporary chic or classic style, our composite doors have something to offer. And when you choose products from ODL Europe, you also benefit from a longstanding pedigree and ODL Europe’s quality commitment. It’s a powerful proposition to support our customers.”

Tel: 0151 933 0299 – https://europe.odl.com

“The broad, flat profile frame has architectural styling and blends perfectly with our Craftsman door slab collection to create a superior door aesthetic.”

TEST OUR METAL

The choice of composite residential entrance doors in the UK market is, apparently, comprehensive. But they do tend to follow a very similar construction formula of GRP skins, over a timber frame; and either a timber core or more often than not, insulated with PU foam. The differences are actually even fewer, says Pioneer Trading’s Danny Williams: “The vast majority of door slabs are imported from the Far East by three companies, with a couple of other brands dominating doorset supply. Much of the difference between most of the resi doors out there is in the brand,” he says. Danny has been discussing his reasons for launching Gerda Engineered doors in the UK, becoming exclusive distributor for the brand that in mainland Europe, is well known and trusted. He reflects on what drove him to discover Gerda: “Many of the UK door brands offer decent quality although, a couple of those with the most powerful marketing presence, created significant issues for me as a fabricator and supplier to retail installers. So I did what I always do – seek an alternative.”

In doing so, he realised how little product differential there was: “Everything was ‘me too’, remembered Danny, “nothing really stood out. But we had this Polish-door fitter, Kamil, working for us at the time who kept on about this product that he had fitted dozens of, he said, and people loved them, and they were always perfect, and so on. And then our Operations Director Ray [Sinclair] chipped in that he knew the people at Gerda in Poland…and so I got in touch.”

Two things became obvious early on, explained Danny: “They are not the mainstream resi door that I originally went looking for; but they were totally different to anything else available in the UK…and the best engineered door that I had ever seen and touched. I had to have them…”

The difference is quite literally skin deep: “They are faced with steel or aluminium, on an aluminium chassis. This gives the doors a superb weight and feel that is simply not there with conventional composite doors. They need to be in showrooms…that is a prerequisite for installers that want to sell Gerda. The effect on homeowners trying resi doors in showrooms is that they will try the conventional door…then Gerda…and the difference is tangible,” insists Danny. “I have seen it many times now and customers will often trade up to a Gerda door, prepared to spend significantly more than on a conventional door.”

The price point is therefore upper mid-market, for which buyers will also enjoy significantly higher thermal and security performance. The class leading Gerda Altus door for example boasts an 88mm depth, three chamber reinforced aluminium internal construction with PU cores, with FUHR multi point security lock and hardware located into reinforced aluminium outer frames. Such features are typical across the range. An emphasis on security comes from Gerda enjoying a position as one of mainland Europe’s leading brands of locks and security hardware.

Thermal performance is also in the realms of that now being anticipated as a minimum requirement of the keenly awaited Future Homes Standard that will determine building

product performance in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from 2025. Both the steel and aluminium faced Gerda doors offer thermal transmittance as low as 0.74 W/ m2K for solid doors and 0.81 W/m2K for glazed versions, which is at or below the numbers being widely speculated for Future Homes. However, it is highly likely that the home improvement standards that are expected to follow, will be comfortably met by these figures, whilst few if any of the standard 44mm doors currently available in the UK, are likely to survive.

Danny’s Gerda Doors distributorship is in its second year of operation in the UK, allowing a real-world view of their reception by homeowners: “We have a decent geographical coverage throughout the UK and Ireland and, after facing such issues in my past, I will protect the territories of the installers we appoint. Gerda doors are a premium product and are rewarding our retail installers with excellent upsells. They tell me that buyers try out the doors, play with the locks, and of course, they know they are looking at something different. But…they are often surprised that the premium is so reasonable, for the additional quality and features. The market response has been superb,” says Danny. And whilst Gerda doors have not provided the mainstream alternative he set out to find originally, Danny has halted that search: “I think I was driven by frustration and even anger,” he admits. “And whilst there are so many brands and mainstream composites, it would have been swimming against the tide. I am focusing on Gerda now, as it offers something that is so immediately different, the doors sell themselves. It’s now important that we provide our installer customers and in turn, their customers, with faultless service.”

More information at: www.gerdadoors.co.uk.

That is the challenge from Danny Williams, whose Gerda entrance doors offer a serious alternative to conventional composites.

Danny developed the Hawkstone Door for the UK

U-Values as low as 0.51 W/m²K

THE PERFECT PARTNERSHIP, THE PERFECT DOOR

The Residence Door Collection by Apeer. Elevate your door offering to new heights.

– 120mm double rebated doorset

– 78mm quadruple glazing unit

– Triple weather seal

– Ultion 3* Cylinder as standard

– Ultion KeyTag with ‘Apple Find My’ as standard

– R9 and R2 9-chamber fully foiled outer frame

– Internal magnets for Wreath positioning

ENDURANCE® DOORS EMBRACES CURRENT COLOUR TREND NEW DOC L COMPLIANT SLIDING DOOR FROM ALUK

Endurance® Doors is enabling designconscious homeowners to enjoy solid, secure, and stylish exterior doors in a new and highly sought-after colour.

The business, which already offers customers a choice of 85 unique door designs in a palette of 19 different shades, is now manufacturing products in an attractive and on-trend claystone hue.

Russell Hensman, group marketing manager at Endurance Doors, explains: “At Endurance Doors, we’re proud to manufacture composite doors with a whole host of added and innovative features.

“These features include a profile that’s up to 10% thicker than most other composite doors for greater security and energy efficiency, a more sustainable solid timber core, and a unique moisture barrier system that prevents water ingression at the foot of the door which can cause it to swell and warp.

“But our focus isn’t just on practical performance. We also recognise that form is every bit as important as functionality. The introduction of our doors in a new claystone colour reflects that, as well as our wider appreciation of interior and architectural design.”

According to acknowledged colour experts, including interior designers and major paint manufacturers, the latest colour trends include basic neutrals, warm shades, and vintage inspired hues. These colours are all proving popular due to their ability to make spaces feel welcoming, calming and comforting.

Other en vogue colours include brown, beiges, and clay shades. These colours, because of their earthy tone, provide a sense

of stability and a connection to the natural world. They can add vitality and help make a space feel both cosy and energetic.

Summing up, Russell adds: “The impact exterior doors can have on a property’s overall aesthetic and level of kerb appeal cannot be overstated. As the part of a building which provides access to and from the interior, they are a natural focal point with a major role to play in creating a good first impression.

“Given this importance, Endurance Doors remains committed to expanding our portfolio and to offering homeowners levels of creative freedom that are second to none. We want to ensure we can offer customers the perfect composite door to suit their property, its surrounding area, and their own unique tastes.”

Tel: 01652 659259

AluK is continuing its ambitious new product development programme, with the launch of a stylish new inline sliding door system to replace its BSC94 slider.

The new AluK S140 has been developed in close consultation with customers, so delivers on all the key areas which matter most to both fabricators and installers – from ease of fabrication and minimal stockholding to slim sightlines and easy compliance with Part L.

The new door uses fewer profiles than the BSC94 and is available in both dual and triple track options, with a two-part triple track profile which is easy to fabricate and install.

The S140 also offers improved aesthetics over the BSC94, with a flush frame to sash sightline. Externally, the sightline dimensions are almost identical, making sure end users still get the sense of more glass and less frame which is such a key driver in sliding door purchases.

When it comes to Part L compliance, AluK’s new door system features enhanced thermal insulation and a triple glazing option so that it can easily meet the updated U-Value requirements for both new build and refurbishment. Double glazed, it achieves a U-Value of 1.3 W/m2K and triple glazed, that is reduced to 1.1 W/m2K. It also achieves a DER rating of A or B. New, adjustable and self-levelling rollers, engineered with a new low friction polymer, make the S140 easy to install. Cycle tested up to 100,000 times, they also leave the customer with a reassuringly smooth, easy to operate door for years to come. There are three-wheel and five-wheel rollers available depending on the weight of the sash, and

just two are required per sash, minimising fabrication and installation time. An added benefit is that no CNC machining is required for the rollers.

Fabricators can choose a soft closer with a bespoke AluK bracket which suites with the S140 sash profile, and have the option of white, black or anthracite grey handles as standard.

When the S140 system was previewed to customers last year, they were given the opportunity to give feedback and engage with the final stages of the development process.

Michael Williams, AluK’s Managing Director, commented: “This was part of our commitment to partnering with our customers so that we deliver the products and support packages that will benefit them the most in these challenging market conditions.”

He added: “We said last year that we would deliver a fully compliant Part L offering with both U-Value and WER/DER simulations so that they could win new business in both commercial and retail markets and that’s exactly what we have done.”

More info at: http://www.alukgb.com/s140

DOORCO SUPPORTS THE ASSOCIATION OF COMPOSITE DOOR MANUFACTURERS

Recognising the growth of composite doors in the UK market across home improvements, social housing and new build, the Association of Composite Door Manufacturers (ACDM) has renewed its mission to promote and protect the reputation of the product and integrity of the market for all stakeholders, and DoorCo supports this with renewed membership of the organisation.

Ian Glenister, DoorCo’s Technical and Sales Manager, explains more: “The Association of Composite Door Manufacturers (ACDM) was originally set up in 2002 and DoorCo has previously been associated with the organisation during that time. As the name suggests, the ACDM is our trade body that represents the composite door market to both consumers and government. Under the new leadership of Gareth Jones from Solar Fabrications Ltd along with the growth of the market, the ACDM is undergoing a revival with a new identity and renewed focus on their mission, and DoorCo is delighted to be supporting this revitalisation as a renewed member supporting from a technical and marketing perspective.

“The ACDM rebrand comes with a new a new strapline: ‘Setting the Standard for Composite Doors’. As the industry’s leading manufacturer of composite doors, DoorCo strongly

supports this along with their goals and objectives, which are strongly aligned to our own.

“DoorCo’s product development has always been focused on quality and we have led innovation in the market, right from the start. We always operate with integrity and with DoorCo, things like keeping up with current legislation is a given. For example, we were among the first to not only ensure our products comply with the updated PAS 24: 2022 standards earlier this year, but we made sure they futureproofed too. This sort of behaviour is vital to the reputation

of our product, and we’re determined to support the ACDM to ensure that best practice is standard across our market. They are our champions, driving quality, innovation and opportunity for our products is key to all our successes.”

Gareth Jones, ACDM’s chairman adds: “The ACDM was originally set up to develop a British Standard for composite doors across the industry. Today, the market is almost unrecognisable from those early days but the ACDM has maintained its presence and continued working to keep it in the best state possible. Our membership has also evolved to include system suppliers, component suppliers, installation and maintenance companies. Recognising the breadth of the sector today has led to a renewed focus on ensuring the composite door continues to lead the entrance door market, and having brands like DoorCo on board and inputting into our development, is vital to us delivering our mission to be a reference point for both members and the customers they deliver to.”

For more information on the ACDM, visit: https://www.acdm.co.uk/

For more information on DoorCo, visit: https://trade.door-co.com/

A FABRICATOR THAT WORKS FOR YOU

A FABRICATOR THAT WORKS FOR YOU

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.

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.

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.

Find out more about how we can work together www.glazerite.net T. 01933 443222 E. partnership@glazerite.net

Find out more about how we can work together www.glazerite.net T. 01933 443222 E. partnership@glazerite.net

Find out more about how we can work together www.glazerite.net T. 01933 443222 E. partnership@glazerite.net

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

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

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

HOW STRONG SUPPLIER PARTNERSHIPS ARE OPENING DOORS FOR GLAZERITE INSTALLERS

Glazerite UK Group’s Sales & Commercial Director

Jeff

This year marks our decade-long partnership with DoorCo, the UK’s leading independent manufacturer and supplier of composite doors. DoorCo’s high-quality composites have transformed what we are able to offer our customers, with our range going from strength to strength.

It means our installers can give their own customers a choice from more than 40 DoorCo composite doors, crafted in a range of traditional and contemporary styles.

Given today’s discerning homeowner, the fact DoorCo’s offering is available in 52 colours – with the option to colour match to any RAL - is another huge draw.

Our relationship certainly opens doors to new business for Glazerite’s installers, while

DoorCo’s proactive and engaging approach to marketing underpins our own marketing communications collateral such as social media content and brochures, which are available for use by our installers.

STAYING ON TOP OF TRENDS

With one eye on today’s customer desires and one on tomorrow’s demands, DoorCo’s offering keeps pace with current trends and meets future ones on style, glass and colour. According to their latest statistics, the top doors so far this year underline continued homeowner demand for traditional styles, with the likes of the Princess and Marquise remaining best sellers.

When it comes to colour, shades of grey remain strong, with Anthracite Grey, Slate and Agate top of the list. If customers do want an alternative, hues of green and blue come out on top, like this Marquise with Ultion Sweet furniture recently installed by Cumbriabased Martindale Windows (pictured). Meanwhile, homeowners are currently favouring simple or plain glass designs. By actively partnering with our suppliers, we are able to evolve what we offer our installers on additions like furniture and smart technology too.

STRONG PARTNERSHIPS

Our partnership with Brisant Secure is built on collaboration in innovation and adding value for our installers. It is a strong partnership, as demonstrated by our recently announced plans to offer Ultion Sweet door furniture as standard on all of our doors, at no extra cost to installers. Ultion Sweet appeals to end customers because it strikes the perfect balance of aesthetics and durability. What’s more, Ultion Sweet’s exceptional performance and unparalleled weather resistance come backed with a 20-year anti-corrosion manufacturer-to-consumer guarantee, which means homeowners register directly with Brisant, taking the pressure of potential (though unlikely) future call backs for our installers.

2023 has certainly heralded innovation, with the unveiling of the Ultion Sweet patio handle – the result of a joint project between Glazerite and Brisant. The handle seamlessly integrates with the rest of the Ultion Sweet offering and gives the homeowner peace of mind thanks to Ultion Sweet’s quality, style and durability. Brisant hasn’t stopped there either, with the recent introduction of a new urn-style door knocker to appeal to customers looking for a more traditional look.

POINT OF DIFFERENCE

With high security features essential and smart technology practically a must for today’s homeowners, the Ultion threestar cylinder we fit as standard is another differentiator. What is more, a simple upgrade gives homeowners access to Ultion Nuki Plus, which offers a host of clever locking features including smartphone control and fingerprint recognition, adding another point of difference for Glazerite’s installers. When it comes to choice, we don’t stop there – almost all of our doors are supplied using the high-performance Avantis multipoint locking system, which, with a simple upgrade, can be transformed into the Kubu smart technology offering. Like DoorCo, Brisant is proactive with its marketing. Partnerships with these industry leaders mean we are continually evolving our door and furniture portfolio to better support our installers. With such a huge range of choices on offer, you don’t need to look elsewhere for a fabricator ready and waiting to turn you into a best-in-class installer. www.glazerite.co.uk

Dunn shares how the fabricator’s relationships with DoorCo and Brisant Secure make a real difference for Glazerite customers.

“When it comes to colour, shades of grey remain strong, with Anthracite Grey, Slate and Agate top of the list.”

Product Portfolio

We focus on giving you the products and service you need, to help grow your business

CLASSIC HERITAGE DOORS – COMPLETE THE LOOK

Sheerline’s slim ‘steel look’ Classic Heritage Door is the perfect, stylish addition to the thermally efficient Classic aluminium window range. Featuring their signature ‘stepped’ look, these iconic doors feature a unique lockbox design, visible on both the interior and exterior, and are available as either single or French doors.

Perfect for both ultra-modern homes, focused on allowing in as much natural light as possible, as well as for period properties wanting to renovate for improved thermal performance and security, while retaining a buildings original charm.

Inspired by the Art-Deco movement as well as turn of the 19th Century industrial design, ultra-slim aluminium doors are increasingly popular with style conscious homeowners, looking to add the wow factor to their renovation or new build project, while creating a clear visual difference to the old products they are replacing.

A fully integrated part of its offering, Classic Heritage Doors are designed to perfectly match the rest of Sheerline’s stepped range. Allowing you to specify bi-folds and patios alongside either slim Classic or versatile Prestige windows to deliver a high-quality, consistent aesthetic across a project.

Available now, these stylish, secure, designled doors have sightlines as slim as 60.5mm to maximise views and flood interiors with as much light as possible. In addition, they are Part L compliant as standard as you would expect from Sheerline because of the use of the company’s proprietary Thermlock® technology.

Thermlock® uses an integrated multichambered system, which improves thermal performance when compared to systems that use polyamide thermal breaks, enabling the company to achieve high-performance U-values of 1.4 W/(m2K) when the Classic Heritage Door is double glazed, and an

OXTED HOME OFFERED NEW DIMENSION WITH INTERIOR STEEL DOORS

A+ Door Energy Rating. In line with the companies no nonsense approach to delivering high performance that is easily achievable.

This is an important feature for Sheerline’s customers and homeowners alike. This kind of commitment to energy efficiency will help the UK move towards the 2025 Future Homes Standard – a key part of the Government’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions in new and existing properties.

Roger Hartshorn, Sheerline’s CEO, said: “Back in 2019 we launched our very first products from the Classic range. It was the culmination of years of experience, hard work, and a desire to change the aluminium industry to make it better – more reliable, stylish, secure, and sustainable.”

“The fact that we have completed the Classic range with our new Classic Heritage Door shows how far the Sheerline brand has come in a short space of time. It reflects our ability to be versatile and agile, to create design-led products that remain practical, stylish, and sustainable. We go above and beyond what our customers expect of us and continually challenge the aluminium industry so that it is better for all our customers across the UK,” he added.

Fabricators are invited to contact the Sheerline team directly to discuss adding this product to their sales offering. They can call the team on 01332 978000 or email info@ sheerline.com. Alternatively, visit the website to view the new Classic Heritage door range: www.sheerline.com/classic-heritage-door

The owners of a large late-Victorian property in Surrey have completed the renovation and extension of their home by bringing style and light to the interiors through the installation of fully glazed steel-framed doors, supplied and installed by a member of the Steel Window Association (SWA).

The contract on the six bedroom house in the popular town of Oxted was carried out by Godstone-based Govette Windows, a long term SWA member, well experienced in working with main contractors and architects across the country.

When the client contacted Govette Windows, they had already built two new wings to the 1900 house - one single storey and the other two-storey, increasing the total floor area by 100 square metres under permissible development rights.  Following a tour of the company's showroom, a survey of the original openings allowed an accurate quote to be provided, which led to the order being placed.

The client, Adrian Lees Jones, commented: "My wife was keen on having the look of classic steel doors and after doing a bit of research online we found a local company - Govette Windows in Godstone, so we went to look around their showroom. The sales manager was very helpful and really the main decision was over the colour and, after some consideration, we went with the black."

"Four of the doors are installed in the old part of the house rather than the new additions, and we've just ordered a fifth.  The steel frames look completely different to timber or other alternatives, with slim sections, but have a really substantial feel, and they are very well made."

All of the doors were fabricated using the classic W20 steel profiles and polyester powder coated in a RAL 9005 Pure Black paint finish. They feature B870 handles from Steel Window Fittings on rose black plates in a brushed brass finish with standard latch mechanisms and are single glazed with 6.4mm laminated glass.

The Steel Window Association's membership covers the whole of the UK with the different companies offering various areas of expertise including the capacity to carry out large scale commercial new-build contracts, repair and maintenance work or detailed ‘replica refurbishment' in conservation situations.    For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visit  www.steel-window-association.co.uk  or call 020 3475 8049.

DHF OFFERS SUPPORT TO MEMBERS IMPACTED BY LONDON’S ULTRA LOW EMISSION ZONE

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has today restated its commitment to members affected by the upcoming extension of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). This commenced on 29th August. The extension will significantly impact a multitude of business sectors including construction, and therefore a number of DHF members.

The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 day of the year (except 25 December) and has been implemented in a bid to make the capital’s air, cleaner. The zone currently covers all areas within the North and South Circular

Roads (with the exception of the A406 and A205). If a vehicle does not meet the ULEZ emissions standards, the driver will pay a £12.50 daily charge to drive within the zone. Currently, this applies to cars, motorcycles, vans, minibuses and specialist vehicles (up to and including 3.5 tonnes). Lorries, vans or specialist heavy vehicles (all over 3.5 tonnes) and buses, minibuses and coaches (all over 5 tonnes) do not need to pay the ULEZ charge.

In addition, owners of non-UK registered vehicles will also need to meet the ULEZ emissions standards or pay the daily charge.

Although support is currently available, for example, a £110

million scrappage scheme has been launched to help fund the purchase of new vehicles that are ULEZ-compliant, and under the new scrappage fund, sole traders and tradespeople working for a micro-business (those with 10 employees and under) have been granted extra provisions of between £5,000-£9,000 to help transition to a low-polluting or EV alternative, nevertheless, paying a £12.50 daily fee for vehicles not meeting minimum requirements equates to more than £3,000 a year per vehicle.

“Whilst we fully support the need to cut emissions and protect the environment, we urge the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, to consider

alternative ways to limit the impact that ULEZ will have on businesses in the construction industry including that he reassess this extension,” explains DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens.

“The planned extension will seriously impact the income of construction businesses, and at a time when inflation remains very high and customers are delaying or cancelling projects due to higher costs and limited budgets, this will make the commercial environment even more challenging,” she continues.

DHF cannot stress enough the considerable impact, not just

on construction businesses, but on all businesses that have a legitimate reason to travel into the Ultra Low Emission Zone, and we hope that alternative options will be considered that prioritise small-to-medium-sized businesses operating in the capital.”

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AFTER THE HONEYMOON

Announced at the FIT Show, the ‘marriage’ between two of the industry’s most prominent brands – The Residence Collection and Apeer - was unprecedented. Now that the wedding breakfast is over, we peek through the net curtains to see if all remains domestic bliss.

The announcement at the FIT Show that the company that effectively created the flush sash replacement window sector, The Residence Collection, was teaming up with composite door maker Apeer, was hardly controversial but it was nonetheless intriguing as the first such tie up between two independently successful, well known, previously unassociated brands that anyone could remember.

Both already had, for example, had windows and doors in their respected product ranges so why would they need each other? Each had their own existing sales and marketing efforts and mostly distinct customer bases, with products that largely appealed to different socio-economic consumer groups; The Residence Collection distinctly pitching to the owners of higher end, traditional homes, whilst Apeer’s UK manufactured doors were pitched to a broader market, with sales that placed them at an estimated 6th place amongst British and Irish doormakers.

That each had something to offer the other was only discovered when Andy Jones joined New World Developments, parent of Apeer Doors and put in a call to The Residence Collection’s Sarah Hitchins to say: ‘I’m here!’. And, proving that timing is everything, Sarah and her colleagues had been looking at revising their entrance door offer. Sarah takes up the story: “We wanted to add an entrance door range that fully complemented our timber replacement windows. Our customers are typically in upmarket properties but always with a strong requirement for authentic styling and, at our typical price points, the highest performance. We wanted a door that stood out to our customers, who are demanding and decisive in what they require for their homes.”

Andy brought in the driving force behind New World Developments, owner of Apeer, managing director Asa McGillian. Asa has long harboured a desire to produce the ‘ultimate’ residential door

and quickly understood – and built upon – the specification that Sarah outlined as their ideal Residence Collection entrance door: “Asa not only understood what we wanted it was as if he had such a door already designed,” she explained. “He added a number of details that have taken our original specification to become ‘The Residence Door Collection by Apeer’.”

From Apeer’s point of view, The Residence Collection offered Asa the opportunity to make his ambitions real: “I have always been fascinated by the Passive House project and have used its standards to set performance goals for our doors and windows. In the real world of course, whilst we have always produced doors and windows that offer class-leading performance, commercial reality must be considered. But with The Residence Collection we had the opportunity to design and manufacture an entrance door without commercial restrictions because the brand is purchased by homeowners that simply want the best for their homes. And that is what we have given them.”

With U values as low as 0.51 W/m2K, with every door in the range below 0.75 W/m2K, performance figures improve on Passive House thermal performance requirements and are, believe the partners, the best performing entrance doors that are commercially available in the UK today. And by some margin. The rest of the specification is also impressive: Doors are presented in a 120mm format, itself exceeding anything else generally available currently, including traditional, contemporary, and stable door designs. Even the glass units where relevant are extraordinary: 78mm quadruple sealed units as standard. Construction is of GRP skins around a high-density PU core, reinforced with aluminium anti-cut through security mesh. Every door, including skins and glass units, will be manufactured by Apeer at its 120,000 feet2 Ballymena factory.

Specification from the outset will be comprehensive, to include nine standard colours (seven grained and two smooth), with the availability of full sidelights and toplights at launch, with half lights and others to follow. Standard specification also includes weather deflectors and Stormguard thresholds. Indication of the thought that has gone into the presentation

of these doors to lift the detail above the norm, for a typical Residence Collection customer that expects more includes high quality hardware and furniture throughout, with nice touches such as Ultion KeyTagequipped, trackable keys.

If FIT Show was the backdrop to the marriage, how has marriage in the real cut and thrust world of the UK glass and glazing industry been since? It is still early days say Sarah and Asa, but with promising signs: “Our Residence Collection retailers have responded very positively,” reflected Sarah, “not least because the Residence Door Collection by Apeer provides them with a range of entrance doors that at least

matches the windows they are selling and installing. We have the trust of a customer base that is quite distinct from the wider home improvement market. They find us because our products are exceptional for homeowners looking for an authentic timber replacement, and now we have a door that fully complements the windows. We are told that our homeowner customers immediately appreciate the difference. Early days still but we are picking up sales.” For Apeer, Asa tells a slightly different story: “The partnership was always going to mean different things to Apeer,” he says. “We are benefitting two-fold: our direct connection with The Residence Collection brand is putting us in front of a different B2B audience, and we are enjoying the halo effect of our partnership. Of course, we benefit directly from the sales being generated by our partner. But not only are we getting serious sales enquiries direct from installers we have never dealt with previously, they are also talking to us about other products in our range. It’s win-win.”

At the time of writing, we are barely over the honeymoon, but the partnership has already delivered a game-changing range of resi doors that have, at the least, drawn a new line in the sand; door makers glibly talking about 0.8 W/m2K as a benchmark for U values for the home improvement market post Future Homes, will have to think again. 0.51 W/m2K will take some beating. www.apeer.co.uk

“We wanted a door that stood out to our customers, who are demanding and decisive in what they require for their homes.”

automatic locking via magnets immediately on closing the door with key opening

834 automatic locking via magnets immediately on closing the door with key opening

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881

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t. Peterborough: 01733 393330

t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557

t. Peterborough: 01733 393330

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e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

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CARL F GROUPCO PROVES THAT MORE THAN MECHANICAL IS A VALUABLE GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

Independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco’s is proving that ‘More than Mechanical’ presents a valuable growth opportunity, with sales volume of its electronic and automatic door lock ranges increasing by almost 60% in recent months. But Managing Director John Crittenden says the growth may not have come from where people expect.

He explains: “It’s tempting to think of electronic and automatic lock ranges as niche products for high-end Grand Designs-type projects. But that’s far from the case. Our biggest growth sectors are in school, commercial and housing association settings, which provide opportunities for significant contracts for our customers.”

The most popular products in Carl F Groupco’s SmartSecure electronic and automatic lock range are FUHR’s autosafe 833, autotronic 834 and multitronic 881.

The FUHR autosafe 833 provides immediate security for main entrance doors of residential or public buildings. It is a reliable multipoint locking system that combines automatic locking functionality to protect a property from

AVIA SECURE SMART DOOR LOCK ACHIEVES DHF TS621:2018 ACCREDITATION

unauthorised access from the moment the door is closed. Unlocking from the inside is easy by operating the lever handle.

The FUHR autotronic 834 offers a practical hybrid solution for multiple occupancy buildings, or dwellings that require the security and convenience of an automatic lock and the advanced functionality of an electromechanical lock with access control entry.

John says: “We are finding that the 834P variation is particularly popular with schools and commercial projects. It offers automatic locking from the outside on closing, with access control opening – but what sets it apart, is the unique panic function that provides emergency escape too.”

The FUHR multitronic 881 is an electronic, fully motorised multipoint locking system with

integrated panic function suitable for main entrance doors in residential and non-residential buildings. The dual motor engages all locking points when the door is closed, including the deadbolt. It provides the end user with the convenience of multiple access control options to gain access, including key fob, fingerprint or even via an app on a smart phone.

Carl F Groupco has long led the way in promoting the benefits of electronic and automatic door lock options through its SmartSecure range. And as these insights show, the products have broad appeal and bring valueadding opportunities for fabricators and installers alike.

Tel: 01733 393 330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk

The testing criteria for this latest standard was introduced by the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) following growing demand for a trusted, third-party certification of residential smart and electronic door locks.

To achieve DHF TS621:2018 accreditation, locks are subjected to a series of rigorous tests designed to accurately simulate a criminal attack. These include an assessment for general vulnerability, including resistance to drilling as well to dust and moisture, plus the provision of an interior mechanical override due to function failure or power loss, as well as their capacity to withstand an electromechanical attack.

SLIM AND SLIMMER

Hardware manufacturer, VBH, has announced that its popular range of greenteQ Clearspan hardware for aluminium bi-fold doors has been expanded further.

Clearspan is part of VBH’s Lifestyle range, which includes hardware systems for bi-fold, lift/slide, inline sliding and tilt/slide doors. In its standard form, Clearspan is a slim hardware system that is currently available to suit many of the leading aluminium profile systems. The addition of the Altro variant means that many fabricators and installers now have access to an even slimmer hardware option.

Altro works in conjunction with the existing Clearspan locks and magnetic catches, as well as Alpha, Securifold and Coastline handle options for the passage door and a choice of Aspire, Centrefold and Slimfold handles for the intermediate locking points.

Although Altro’s hinges and running gear are slimmer, VBH advise that, at 120KG per sash, the weight capacity is the same as that of the standard system.

Dan Powell, Head of Brand at VBH says, “We developed the Altro variant in response to feedback from customers who wanted to see even less hardware on their bi-folds. It runs just as smoothly as the standard Clearspan system, but provides a finished article that is less hardware/more door.”

This includes a test to demonstrate compliance to European Council Directives on PIN codes, access cards and biometrics as well as resistance to malicious remote or electronic manipulation from a third-party device.

The award-winning Avia Secure multi-point lock, which boasts a number of advanced, smart features, is also PAS 24:2016 approved and is part of the Avia Secure family of smart security products, many of which have also achieved a number of respected security accreditations.

The Avia Secure smart casement handle for instance, which is available in a range of finishes, is Secured by Design approved, while the Avia Secure smart socket, which allows users to programme remote scheduling or monitor energy usage, comes with BSI approval.

All products in the Avia Secure family, which also include options for a smart sash fastener and smart window & door sensors, plus a state-of-the-art PIR motion sensor, are also fully compatible with Apple’s HomeKit and the Apple operating system, which is widely regarded to be the most cyber secure ecosystem available.

Mighton Products Chairman, Mike Derham, commented:

“From its inception, we recognised how important it would be for the Avia Secure multipoint smart lock to offer an unbeatable combination of electronic and traditional, mechanical security.

“Smart enabled devices have become increasingly popular with consumers in recent years, and are now integrated in one form or another into most people’s homes. These can range from smart speakers to smart TVs but smart locks are a slightly different proposition because they need to offer more than just added convenience.

“Homeowners need to be able to trust that they are robust enough to actually secure their property,” he continued.

“With the latest DHF TS621:2018 accreditation, combined with existing PAS 24:2016 approval and compatibility with Apple HomeKit, our customers have a huge advantage with which to maximise sales opportunities to tech hungry consumers.” www.mightonproducts.com

Altro is available in a choice of black and white finishes and is supplied with the greenteQ 10 year performance and surface guarantee as standard.

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

The Avia Secure smart door lock from Mighton Products has been awarded DHF TS621:2018 accreditation, further underlining its class leading combination of electronic and mechanical security.

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PARTNERSHIP FOR GROWTH

Liam Kelleher, Unity Doors’ Commercial Director, and Daniel Openshaw, UAP’s Internal South Account Manager, discuss the drivers behind their evolving partnership and the importance of collaborative working.

For more than 25 years, Unity Doors has been manufacturing composite doors for a wide range of clients, including housebuilders, housing associations and distributors. The company began working with UAP eight years ago, initially sourcing a small number of products for its doorsets. Since then, a focus on collaboration and quality has seen the partnership strengthen and evolve.

“We operate in a market heavily focused on compliance, so understanding third-party accreditations and what it means to achieve them is central to our business as well as UAP’s,” explains Liam. “UAP provides door hardware products which are accredited in their own right, and also tested within our doorsets to meet the highest quality standards.”

ADAPTING TO CHANGE

Reflecting its commitment to quality, around 90 per cent of the doors manufactured by Unity Doors have the Secured by Design (SBD) accreditation meaning products must meet certain standards such as PAS 24. An update to PAS 24:2016 required doors to be fitted with a letterplate meeting the TS008:2015 security standard set by the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF). This was aimed at preventing key fishing and unlocking the door through the letterplate while still allowing items to be posted freely.

“When the PAS standard changed, it was a race against time to find a product which would ensure compliance without causing us any downtime,” reflects Liam. “There were several letterplates on the market that met the new rules, but weren’t practical. We

found most were too heavy or bulky, with many protruding too far from the door.”

To address these issues, Unity Doors looked to UAP for a solution, leading to the supply of the Soterian TS008 letterplate and a turning point in the partnership.

Designed inhouse by UAP, the Soterian TS008 consists of an internal flap projecting only 35mm from the door’s surface, ensuring the letterplate lies within a straight line from the hinge side of the door to the handle. This enables the door to fully open while preventing the letterplate from causing damage to the interior wall.

“We worked closely with the Unity team to listen to their specific needs and concerns,” adds Daniel. “The Soterian TS0008 not only ticked the right boxes in terms of compliance, but offered a more aesthetic and user-friendly product for Unity Doors’ clients and end users. Importantly, we were also able to provide matching hardware such as door handles and numerals, and it was this wider offer which paved the way for us to significantly bolster our partnership.”

A TWO-WAY STREET

Within the last four years, the relationship has evolved further with UAP now working with Unity Doors to supply a vast range of door hardware.

“We have built a partnership based on trust and collaboration,” says Liam. “Too often companies will develop a product for our sector without asking the door manufacturers for their advice or opinion. UAP on the other hand, are quick to share information and that has really helped to strengthen our relationship.”

A focus on customer feedback has seen UAP evolve the design of its letterplate with the launch of the Soterian Slim TS008 letterplate, which projects just 14mm from the

door surface. Accredited by SBD, the product has also achieved the Certifire certification so can be safely installed in timber FD30 fire doors without the need for further testing.

“We have worked with Unity Doors to conduct extensive fire and security testing on the Soterian Slim within its doorsets,” explains Daniel. “The quality and aesthetics of the product have been well received so we are now working towards supplying this product on all the company’s new SBD doors.”

A STEP AHEAD

As legislation continues to change and safety standards become more stringent, both businesses agree that a proactive, collaborative approach will be at the heart of future growth.

“We operate in a fast-paced environment so for any partnership to work, there has to be a focus on the future and a willingness to adapt,” says Daniel. “Having foresight and flexibility on both sides is therefore essential.”

“As a business, we have to keep evolving to stay one step ahead of changing rules and expectations,” adds Liam. “To do that successfully, we need partners who, not only provide the right products from a commercial perspective, but the service to match, including a reliable supply chain and great communication from the top down. UAP has proven it can meet that criteria and this will be key to the relationship’s long-term success.” www.uapcorporate.com

Danny Openshaw

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KUBU SETS THE STANDARD FOR SMART SECURITY WITH IASME & EMPLAS

Kubu, the fenestration industry’s premier smart security specialists, has been working hand in hand with the innovative multipoint lock manufacturer, Avantis Hardware, and the multi-award-winning fabricator, Emplas, to integrate their patented technology into a groundbreaking new window lock that is truly worthy of such a prestigious partnership.

The recent launch of the ‘Intellect™ by Avantis’ multipoint shootbolt window lock represents the culmination of over 12 months of technical and technological advancement and helps to cement Emplas as a frontrunner in the ongoing smart journey in our industry.

To create this truly secure lock, it was imperative to ensure not only first-class PAS24 accredited physical security, but industryleading cyber security too.

The world of smart devices is littered with standards and

accreditations, some more credible than others, that range from battery life expectancy to encryption strength - making it ever more difficult for an installer to know who to trust when choosing their smart partner.

The IASME Consortium is an independent accreditation body - officially recognised by the UK Government and Secured By Design - that works alongside a network of almost 300 expert organisations across the UK to advise and certify organisations of all sizes in both cyber security and counter fraud.

More specifically, the IASME IoT Cyber Scheme has been developed so that companies providing internet connected products and services - such as the Kubu smart sensors and app - can demonstrate their products have achieved the appropriate standards and that their products and services have been independently assessed against all 13 provisions of the

world-leading consumer IoT security standard - ETSI EN 303 645 - far exceeding the mandatory 3 provisions currently being legislated by the UK government.

Kubu is the first product of its kind to secure IASME Level 2 IoT Accreditation (the highest level possible) for all devices, sensors and software, which perfectly complements the SBD and PAS24 accreditations already obtained for the Avantis ‘Works with Kubu’ door and window multipoint lock ranges.

Ryan Bromley, co-founder of Kubu Smart said: “It’s a testament to the integrity and innovation of both Kubu and Emplas that we’ve taken such a solid stance against the unverified ‘smart standards’ that are currently being touted in the UK hardware industry.

“We conducted a lot of research into various accreditation bodies before selecting IASME as we wanted to ensure our systems were independently subjected to

the most stringent tests available. We passed with flying colours, which just goes to prove that you can always be sure you’re secure with Kubu.”

Jody Vincent, sales director at Emplas, added: “We were the first company to introduce Kubu Smart technology to the UK market on our doors, and are proud to be continuing to provide our customers with incredible sales differentiators by being the first to add such an innovative and fully cyber security accredited window lock to our range too.

“There have been various smart offerings emerging in the window and door industry recently, but it would have been reckless for us to put our customers at risk by choosing to integrate a technology that doesn't seem to understand the importance of the risks associated with internet connected devices.

“Kubu has set the de facto standard for cyber safety in our industry, meaning we can be certain that our customers, and our customers’ customers are always fully protected.”

GROWING HARDWARE SALES DEMONSTRATE STRENGTH OF COMMERCIAL AND SOCIAL HOUSING MARKETS

Carl F Groupco is commending an upturn in sales of its tilt & turn and reversible hardware ranges because of what it reveals about the industry more widely.

Julie Warner, Product Manager at Carl F Groupco, said: “Tilt & turn and reversible windows are popular in commercial and social housing settings. Increased sales of hardware for these types of windows mean more contracts are rolling out, which can only be good news for the industry.”

Volume sales of Carl F Groupco’s Roto ranges are particularly strong, in some cases up by over 60% year on year. Julie commented: “Many of our customers insist on only fitting Roto products because of the intelligent functionality their products offer.”

The Roto NT Tilt and Turn Hardware system, for example, is suitable for timber, PVC-U and aluminium profiles of up to

150kg sash weight. The system can be used to achieve the most demanding security, operating convenience, durability and design requirements. A wide range of

components and accessories makes custom window solutions possible, including additional security features to achieve PAS 24 accreditation and even the option for automation.

Roto’s FRH UNI range of reversible window hardware has been designed with multistorey public, commercial and domestic buildings in mind. The sash and frame details are the same for all window variants, allowing styles to be fitted without changing profile routing and ensuring a uniform aesthetic appearance on all window styles. With additional security features the system can achieve PAS 24 and can also provide an emergency egress escape opening (providing building regulations are met).

Alongside the quality of the products, Carl F Groupco customers also benefit from the strength of the company’s relationship

with Roto. Carl F Groupco collaborates with the manufacturer on continuous product development, helping to give UK fabricators and installers the hardware features they need. The Roto and Carl F Groupco teams support fabricators through their hardware transition as well as specification, testing, software set up and production optimisation.

As Julie highlights, increased sales of hardware for commercial and social housing projects are a good reason to be encouraged. But it’s clear that fabricators and installers choose Carl F Groupco as their hardware supplier because of the value-added benefits on offer.

Tel: 01733 393 330

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

www.smartsecure.co.uk

www.carlfdirect.co.uk

DHF ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF ‘TECHNICAL TUESDAY’

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has announced that, this month, it has launched a pro-active social media campaign entitled, ‘Technical Tuesday’ across all of its social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter & LinkedIn.

So, what does ‘Technical Tuesday’ mean?

Each Tuesday, its social media posts will comprise informative content regarding standards, legislation, best practice, and safety messages relevant to the six industry sectors

that DHF supports and serves, namely, Locks & Building Hardware; Doorsets; Industrial Doors & Shutters; Domestic Garage Doors and Automated Gates. To raise further awareness of the federation and its objectives, DHF will share this content into third party Facebook forums.

“The aim of ‘Technical Tuesday’ is to inform and educate members and non-members and doing this on our social media platforms is a great way to

communicate with a wider audience,” explains DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “By using the hashtag #Technicaltuesday, Technical Tuesday content can be viewed and shared with our followers, and beyond. Although the campaign is relatively new, we have been delighted with the response thus far and hope this continues.”

DHF has almost 1700 followers on Twitter (now rebranded ‘X’), 1000 followers on

Facebook and just shy of 3000 followers on LinkedIn. In the past, its engagement and interaction on its social media platforms has proved hugely successful.

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CE OR UKCA? YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

If you read the BBC and other media reports on what they called ‘the government’s post-Brexit climbdown’ on CE/UKCA marking, you might have thought it meant we could all relax and continue using the EU’s CE product safety symbol indefinitely.

Unfortunately, that’s not the case. While CE marking will still be allowed on most manufactured goods including machinery, PPE and low voltage electricals moving forward, it will not be allowed for construction products after 30 June 2025. So, the switch to UKCA marking is currently very much still on for companies in this sector.

I’ve already had a few customers calling me to check this, so here’s my round up of the FAQs which hopefully will help:

Why are construction products not included in the climbdown?

Partly, it’s because Construction Product Regulations are the responsibility of Michael Gove’s

Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) rather than the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) which covers the 18 product areas included in the latest announcement.

The official reason given by the DLUHC why construction products were not included is that they want to ensure that ‘the testing regime for construction products in Great Britain is effective and inspires public and market confidence’.

What does that mean in terms of timings?

Unless we get further information from the DLUHC, timings are

unchanged for construction products, so we can all still use CE marking until 30 June 2025. But, from that point onwards, products will need be tested, certified and labelled to UKCA.

What action do UK businesses need to take?

We’ve known about the impending UKCA requirements since about 2020 so I would expect most businesses to be well on the way to completing the switch by now. Certainly, Mila now has UKCA marking on all our previously CE marked products, and we have retained the CE mark as well because we also sell many of these products into Europe and the UKCA mark is not recognised there.

What’s required is a Certificate of Conformance from a UK ‘Approved Body’ for UKCA (or an EU ‘Notified Body’ for CE). The likes of Element and BSI are established as both types of Bodies which makes life easier, and you simply choose which Certificate (or both) you require depending on where your products will be sold.

UKCA essentially follows the same EU Harmonised Standards rules and regulations as CE marking (although, they’re now known as UK Designated Standards). However, because there is currently no mutual recognition agreement between the UK and the EU, from a fabricator’s perspective, any AVCP3 characteristic previously tested by an EU Notified Body still needs to be retested by a UK Approved Body for it to be UKCA marked.

Are the rules still different in Northern Ireland?

Yes. The CE mark was always due to remain in Northern Ireland under the terms of the Brexit agreement and that will continue to be the case, as well as the addition of a new UKNI mark (equivalent to UKCA). Businesses there must use the UKNI symbol for products coming into Great Britain (when using a UK

Approved Body) or the CE mark on its own to access NI, GB an EU markets when using an EU Notified Body.

Is there likely to be another U-turn?

All we’ve heard from the DLUHC so far is that it will set out its proposal for reform of the construction products regime ‘in due course’. The construction industry is lobbying hard for a U-turn on CE marking, but while the DLUHC is still grappling with the Hackitt report and the Building Safety Act, it seems low down on their list of priorities. As things stand, we all have to push ahead with the switch to UKCA marking as planned. However, it is perhaps worth nothing what the Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake said in the DBT press release announcing the U-turn: “Industry has long been concerned that the full introduction of UKCA labelling would be damaging by erecting a barrier to trade and adding administrative burdens and cost.”

Get in touch for more help and advice via: 01327 312400, sales@mila.co.uk, or at: https://www.mila.co.uk/

By Strafford Cooke, Technical Director, Mila

TECH TALK with Strafford Cooke, Technical Director, Mila

Strafford Cooke, Technical Director, Mila

KOMBIMATEC OFFER “MORE ACCURATE” MANUFACTURING FOR VISTA PARTITIONS LTD

With the demand for

and

productivity, the installation of the AMC308 3 Axis CNC Machining Centre proved wonders for Vista Partitions Ltd.

Vista Partitions Ltd is a manufacturer and supplier of glazed office partitioning and acoustic single & double glazed doors, supplying products to the UK, UAE & Egypt. The business was established in 2019 offering demountable partitions designed to meet the needs of today’s modern workplace environments.

The business identified that they needed more accurate machinery – and it soon became a necessity. With years of industry knowledge behind them, Vista Partitions Ltd were familiar with the machines that Kombimatec could offer, having supplied them

JADE ENGINEERING STEPS UP TO THE MARK FOR ROYAL WARRANT HOLDER SELECTAGLAZE

Bespoke secondary glazing specialist and Royal Warrant holder Selectaglaze has continued its relationship with Jade Engineering with the purchase of two bespoke punch tools to process the company’s heavier-duty profiles. Designed to repeat precise operations with consistent accuracy, one of the tools is installed on a bench designed and manufactured to match the height of the company’s existing transfer tables.

to businesses worldwide since they opened their doors back in 1984.

Vista were keen to purchase a compact machine, explained their Director Lynette Willard – and the AMC308 3 Axis CNC Machining Centre was perfect for working their aluminium profiles, adding cut-outs and threaded holes for their hinges, locks and handles. With the use of the AMC308 3 Axis CNC Machining Centre, this improved the manufacturing process significantly – it became “much smoother and more accurate” resulting in customer satisfaction from their client base.

The machine was developed by Kombimatec for both aluminium and PVC-U profiles and provides extremely high levels of accuracy and reliability. Vistas’ machine was configured with a 5HP Electro-spindle and ER32 collets with speed adjustment from 0 to 18,000 rpm, to easily work extruded aluminium and light steel profiles. The machines’ bed rotates 180 degrees allowing the tool head to work on three sides of the profile as well as intermediate angles when necessary.

Another benefit, explains Kombimatecs’ Director, David Parsons, is the quick-change tool system and tool cabinetallowing different tools to be pre-loaded and switched by the cnc as required. This makes cycle times quick and efficient, freeing up operators to attend to other tasks.

For further information or to arrange a product demonstration contact Kombimatec Machines direct on 01582 562218 or email sales@kombimatec.com.

Previous commissions by Selectaglaze included an initial single punch tool, followed by an end miller that replaced a previous machine from another source that became increasingly unreliable. All of the machines have been commissioned to continue the philosophy of Head of Production for Selectaglaze Duncan Saunders, who believes that high quality preparation during the early stages of production of the company’s highly regarded secondary glazing, ensures consistent quality throughout the manufacturing process and even during installation.

“Selectaglaze is the UK’s leading specialist in the design, manufacture and installation of secondary window systems, with particular expertise in providing sensitive and

PRESTIGE ALUMINIUM INVESTS IN CUTTING-EDGE MACHINE TECHNOLOGY FROM HAFFNER

Aluminium fabricator Prestige Aluminium has just invested in a Fom Industrie FMC 120 Machining Centre from Haffner to support its rapid expansion.

The cutting-edge machine was delivered at the beginning of August and was up and running just 48 hours later, so is already helping the company to increase its manufacturing output and improve efficiencies.

Prestige Aluminium was founded less than twelve-months ago. This is the second machine the team has purchased from Haffner underscoring its commitment to delivering the best in aluminium manufacturing processes.

Gavin Taylor, Managing Director of Prestige Aluminium, said: “We purchased a double mitre saw from Haffner

when we began manufacturing earlier this year. We were impressed with the quality and support of the Haffner team, especially Bryan Dando, so we didn’t hesitate to turn to Haffner for our latest purchase.”

The FMC 120 Machining Centre is a state-of-the-art solution offering advanced features, including high speed machining and precision drilling. It features three controlled axis and a worktable with pneumatic positioning at 0°, 90° and 180°. Its automated capabilities reduce manual intervention and significantly accelerate production output, helping Prestige Aluminium manage the increase in demand for its products.

Prestige Aluminium, which is based in Bishop’s Stortford, manufactures the multi-award-winning Stellar aluminium system from Epwin Window Systems.

Bryan Dando, Commercial Director at Haffner, commented: “We were delighted to hear from the Prestige

effective solutions for historic and heritage buildings,” explained Duncan. “Precision is a crucial element in all of the processes of the company.”

Duncan, who had worked with Jade Engineering previously at other firms, is impressed by the company’s commitment from initial enquiry and overall support, to commissioning of the equipment:

“Once again Jade Engineering didn’t disappoint,” said Duncan. “Suk Singh, Jade’s Engineering Technical Manager, proved very knowledgeable and offered helpful technical advice in a process that also involved input from Selectaglaze operators from day one. This ensures that they are satisfied with the selection and how the chosen machinery makes their work easier and with consistently high quality.

“Jade’s team are proper engineers, handson, and service all the way through has been spot on with good advice, good knowledge. Service, machines and back up all excellent - we supply a specification and drawings of what we want to achieve and Jade designs the tools and machines around that. Drawings returned, samples sent and tested and when agreed, machines and tools supplied - a painless operation,” concluded Duncan.

Aluminium team so soon after their first investment. Expansion is always noteworthy but investing for the second time in 10 months demonstrates the strength of Prestige and the quality of their Stellar products.”

As market demand for high-end aluminium products continues to rise, the new Fom Industrie FMC 120 Machining Centre is already adding value to Prestige Aluminium’s operation and further positions the company for sustained business growth.

Tel: 01785 222421 – www.haffnerltd.com

improved accuracy

to increase

Problem? Solved.

Problem? Solved.

We design, innovate and manufacture precision tooling and specialist machinery for PVCU and Aluminium Systems Professionals and Fabricators. We deliver practical solutions to complex machining challenges for leading global extruders, operating to the very highest service standards in close partnership with our customers.

We design, innovate and manufacture precision tooling and specialist machinery for PVCU and Aluminium Systems Professionals and Fabricators. We deliver practical solutions to complex machining challenges for leading global extruders, operating to the very highest service standards in close partnership with our customers.

We make what you need, to make windows and doors.

We make what you need, to make windows and doors.

STILL PLENTY OF REASONS TO INVEST BY IAN LATIMER, MANAGING DIRECTOR, EMMEGI (UK)

Rising

IRISH MARKET DEFIES EXPECTATIONS

As I see it, there are several very good reasons for that:

UNDERLYING CONFIDENCE

Growth in aluminium continues to outstrip PVC, and, despite the most recent figures from the housing market, there is still underlying confidence in the commercial market and in higher end retail in particular. Certainly, our enquiries are fairly well spread from PVC businesses making the decision to add aluminium products to their output for the first time, all the way up to large façade manufacturers.

AIA

While the Super Tax Deduction benefit might have finished in March, the AIA (Annual Investment Allowance), which includes plant and machinery, is still in place for all qualifying business expenditure. The AIA limit is now set at £1m – and looks likely to stay at that level for the foreseeable future - so fabricators are still taking advantage of the fact that any machinery investment below that limit can be offset against their taxable profits, saving them between 19% and 25% depending on their corporation tax threshold.

INTEREST CAN BE SET AGAINST TAX

The AIA obviously isn’t the only tax incentive continuing to encourage machinery investment either. Those fabricators who choose to finance their investment can also set the full amount of interest they pay against their corporation tax bill.

CASH IS KING

We work with trusted partners to help businesses access finance for their machinery investments, and they are telling us that the cash is king mantra has

never been more relevant than it is at the moment. Interest rates might have risen for borrowing, but they’ve also risen for saving as well, so many businesses who do have cash available are choosing to hold onto it and opting for finance instead, successfully offsetting at least some of the interest they are paying against interest being earned.

INTEREST RATES NOT AT RECORD LEVELS

Anyone with a mortgage knows that interest rates have risen at remarkable speed over the past year, but as we keep being reminded by the Bank of England, historically, they are still fairly low. It is only since 2009 that we’ve got used to rock bottom rates. The fact is that, for 31 of the 36 years between 1973 and 2009, interest rates were well above their current level of 5%+.

I’ve got some figures from our funding partner which show the typical monthly repayment costs over the years on a £100,000 machine, repaid over 5 years (not allowing for inflation):

• 1990, interest rates at 15% = £2916

• 2000, interest rates at 8% = £2333

• 2005, interest rates at 6% = £2166

• 2022, interest rates at 4.5% = £2041

• 2023, interest rates at 6% = £2166

All the indications from the wider economy and the Bank of England suggest that interest rates won’t be coming down any time soon, so lots of fabricators are clearly judging that there’s little reason to postpone their investment.

INVESTMENT STILL PAYS OFF

The commercial benefits for fabricators in automating their operations, and adding more machining capacity or capability, obviously remain as compelling as ever. The cost savings and efficiency improvements that they can achieve via machinery are arguably more valuable than ever when competition is fierce, and margins are under pressure.

Emmegi (UK) is in a great position to help fabricators who want to invest with a comprehensive range of machines to suit every factory and every budget, backed up by practical and resourceful partners.

For more details, get in touch via: 02476 676192 or sales.uk@emmegi.com.

While confidence in the UK window and door sector has been hit by the impact of high inflation and rising interest rates over recent months, the Irish market continues to defy expectations - with a government committed to house building and an economy enjoying an ongoing Brexit dividend.

That’s turning out to be very good news for Emmegi (UK), and we are seeing demand for our range of aluminium and now PVC-U machinery in Ireland almost at record levels.

Emmegi (UK) has had a direct presence in Ireland since 2015 when I was first recruited to head up sales. Prior to that the UK sales team serviced the Irish market, but Emmegi (UK)’s Managing Director Ian Latimer recognised that this was a market with huge potential that needed its own locally based team.

At that point, Ireland was still recovering from the highly damaging 2008 economic crash, but the country’s favourable corporation tax policy was attracting huge amounts of inward investment and lots of US multinationals were setting up and driving demand for commercial and office space as well as homes.

With this in mind, Emmegi (UK) initially focused on the established facade companies that were building that new commercial office space and we enjoyed a lot of success. At the same time, the Irish window and

door market was starting to shift more towards aluminium products, so our timing was just about perfect.

Our approach continues to pay dividends. For instance, it was Alucraft, a leading commercial glazing specialist based in Dublin, that earlier this year took delivery of the very first new model Satellite XTE supplied by Emmegi (UK). And it came almost 20 years after Alucraft bought their first CNC, a Satellite XL, reflecting our strong, ongoing relationship. Interest rates are rising here just as they are in the UK, which is having some impact on the housing market, and we both face similar skills shortages and recruitment issues. However, the government’s commitment to increasing the housing stock, backed by incredibly strong corporation tax revenues, means there is still an underlying confidence that the future looks bright.

Part of that confidence certainly comes from the benefits we continue to see from Brexit – particularly in the North of Ireland. While it’s a divisive issue politically in the North, there’s no denying the Brexit dividend. Because of its unique position having a land border with an EU nation and being part of the UK, companies based in Northern Ireland can easily sell into both markets. We have seen our customers McMullen Facades and Clarke facades diving into the export market with huge success.

The underlying strength in the Irish housing market also gives us plenty of scope to market the Someco brand of pvc products, which now come under the same umbrella brand as Emmegi (UK). We have already sold our first Someco SVL4H/2A welding and cleaning line and this is being delivered soon along with some 5-head inline welders. I feel strongly that Someco could be a game changer for us.  As well as the breadth and quality of our machine range, much of our success in Ireland comes down to our engineering department. Managed from the head office in Coventry by Wayne Hunter and Tracy O’Callaghan, our Irish based technicians Paul Adams and Paul Gleeson have established themselves as a dynamic team fully committed to their clients. Over 90% of the time one of the guys will be on site within 24 hours of a problem developing to resolve any issues and that service is warmly appreciated by all our customers.

The engineering team and I also of course work hard to build strong relationships with systems companies like AMS, Reynaers and Profile Systems. Understanding the technical aspects of each individual system means we can easily tailor our machines to suit the specific requirements of their fabricator.

The past 8 years have been hugely successful for us here and, going forward, customers can expect more of the same. More details at: https://www.emmegi.com/en/home

By Jim O’Connell, Sales Manager, Emmegi (UK)

interest rates and the end of the Super Tax Deduction tax incentive are probably not the best combination for encouraging machinery investment, but we’re actually seeing a remarkable degree of resilience in the aluminium market.

ALL CHANGE!

To describe Jade Engineering as one of the most crucial elements in the world of window and door fabrication, for once is not public relations hyperbole. For without the tooling and specialised machinery manufactured by the firm, frames simply do not get manufactured.

Again, despite the potential for overstatement, the fact is that virtually every PVC-U window and door frame produced in the past 15 years or so and to this day, has been made using tooling manufactured by Jade at its HQ, which is set in the heart of Coventry’s metal-bashing district, Bayton Road. Jade also now produces most of the tooling used in aluminium frame manufacture.

In any other sector, such dominance might raise eyebrows. But at Jade Engineering, the responsibility is worn like a badge of honour, one that must be protected at all times, says Adam Jones, who with partner Sean Mackey has overseen the company’s phenomenal growth to this position

during their ownership: “We understand the responsibility we have as the primary supplier of tooling to the window and door industry and that without our products, production can be adversely affected. And therefore, we work especially hard to ensure that we don’t let our customers down.”

Customers that Adam confidently believes includes every PVC-U frame maker in the UK and Ireland and most of those now making aluminium windows and doors: “We work with every systems company in the UK who turn to us whenever they take on a new fabricator,” explains Adam. “So we know the drill, what is required, and we have the patterns for every single tool required to produce every single frame style on our database. Which means that we can and do respond very quickly when a systems supplier calls to tell us they have set a new fabricator on.

“In turn, “continues Adam, “unless the fabricator is a new start up, a rare thing in PVC-U frame making but occasionally with aluminium, the fabricator will be an existing

customer, so we are usually familiar with their machinery list. With that knowledge we get to work quickly and with minimal input.”

The announcement by its parent company that Duraflex would be wound up, added considerable pressure however, admitted Adam: “In our position, in the shadows really, we can very quickly spot trends and anomalies in the market and it was clear some time ago that something was going on with Duraflex. However, that information is kept strictly within our walls,” he stressed, “but it does help us to gear up when it becomes obvious that changes are taking place.”

However, whilst there were omens, Jade could only respond to actual demand: “After the formal announcement was made about Duraflex there was an inevitable rush,” said Adam, “and whilst many fabricators had been in discussions with other systems companies, others were clearly caught unawares. Quick decisions had to be made in the wake of the announcement…and the

‘phones were ringing off the hooks…” Orders are being fulfilled and, whilst demand has been quadrupled, Jade has been able to respond. For some, the changeover created an opportunity to review their manufacturing strategies: “This is typically a time for some fabricators to take a look at the bigger picture and introduce other changes, “reflects Adam, “so whilst it isn’t as simple as buying a new machining centre off the peg, due to the lead times for brand new kit, they might look at the production line, buying used CNCs for example, or even a standalone single purpose machine, to free up a bottleneck. It can be all sorts of things. But that is when we are also asked for our professional advice. And that makes it very interesting as we love a challenge.”

Whilst the surge in business that the demise of Duraflex has brought their way is good for the bottom line, Adam says they do not welcome the loss of such key brands: “The number of PVC-U systems companies supplying the market has reduced dramatically during the past twenty years and there is no doubt that the market was overserved. But not anymore. When a company like this falls by the wayside it isn’t good news for the industry overall.

“We are always handling planned system changes and gearing up for new products by existing systems suppliers which keeps us on our toes,” explained Adam, “as well as a continuous tool replacement cycle for fabricators. And this year we also introduced a sharpening service that allows tools to be refurbished three or four times before being recycled, which helps fabricators keep their overheads down in the face of other costs rising.”

Whilst the loss of Duraflex has brought a boost in revenues for Jade, in another sense it has created significant disruption to the company: to its plans to consolidate operations into a new 30,000 feet2 building, located just around the corner from the present HQ: “This has thrown us completely,” admitted Adam. “But we had to take care of business first and make sure everyone is up and running with their new systems. Then we will take care of ourselves.”

JADE ENGINEERING has been working all hours after the rug was pulled from systems house Duraflex. Glass News visited the Coventry toolmaker to see how the firm is coping with unprecedented demand caused by fabricators switching systems.

Adam Jones - Demand is up four fold after the Duraflex crash

Jade Engineering will move into a new 30,000 feet2 headquarters building - when they have completed the current surge in demand - Sean Mackey (left) with Adam Jones

TOMMY TRINDER HITS 450 SUBSCRIBERS

From start up to scale up,

Tommy Trinder celebrate as the 450th window company signs up to Framepoint®.

“In a demanding market, it’s the desire to stand out from the crowd which is continuing to fuel growth for Tommy,” says founder and CEO Chris Brunsdon. “Work isn't just coming through the door anymore and installers are looking for an edge; something to impress customers and keep those conversion rates up. Framepoint® is built to help installers sell with wow – it's proving to be the tool for the job.”

The value of work quoted by installers on Framepoint® is on the rise too; over £155 million of supply and fit work was quoted via the platform in the month of July, more than 35% up on July 2022. High average quote values are a feature too with quote values climbing towards £7400 over the last three months, says Chris;

“We are seeing premium materials making significant market gains; aluminium and timber combined now account for 40% of everything quoted by installers. And when it comes to PVCu, Framepoint® subscribers are managing to get a bit more on every job by routinely showing off value-added features such as foils, dual colours, dummy vents, mechanical joints, flush casements, dummy peg-stays and surface mounted bars in a visual and compelling way.”

Tommy Trinder report that more than 55,000 homeowners have received a quote generated by Framepoint® so far this year and, notably, around half of them were provided with visualisations to accompany

their quote; “Homeowners are expecting a more complete buying experience and the makeover tool, where installers provide a mockup to the homeowner of their new windows in situ, is becoming a standard part of the quoting process,” Says Chris. “Scruffy, cobbled together quotes just don't cut it with today’s discerning purchasers. Customers want to see exactly what they are getting; they want to try before they buy.”

Installers can find out more about Framepoint® and book a free demo at www.tommytrinder.com.

TOUCH ROLL OUT WELL UNDERWAY

The much anticipated roll out of the Business Micros Group’s new TOUCH software platform is well underway, with lead generation, quoting and ordering systems now live at 10 big name businesses.

CompDoor, Frames

HIGH PRAISE FROM EUROCELL FOLLOWING SUCCESSFUL 13YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH PST

Leading software solution provider PST is celebrating a 13-year partnership with industry giant Eurocell, having helped the renowned uPVC manufacturer streamline operations and drive efficiency across its product lines for over a decade.

Since 2010, Eurocell has been utilising Virtual Shopfloor, PST’s innovative manufacturing-based software that allows fabricators to choose from a library of 3D model templates or create custom designs from scratch using a free form tool.

Matt Rick, Eurocell’s Conservatory Roof System Technical Manager, comments: “The main reason we approached PST was due to the positive feedback from their other customers, and since then, we’ve been using Virtual Shopfloor for our conservatory roof system. We also now use it for our garden rooms and LUMA, our recently launched roof light product.

“Virtual Shopfloor has brought numerous benefits to Eurocell’s operations, and one of the notable advantages is the significant reduction in processing time. Previously, we would generate multiple quotes for a single contract when clients requested various colours and materials. With Virtual Shopfloor, these options are combined and presented on a single sheet, resulting in substantial time saving.

“Additionally, Virtual Shopfloor enables seamless custom integration. When progressing through a contract status, the software automatically generates export files for purchase orders of third-party items, eliminating the need for manual data entry and further enhancing efficiency.

“The way in which the Virtual Shopfloor interface is structured is completely different to anything else we’ve used in the past. Previous products we’ve used have been dated and have had minimal focus on driving the development on the roofing side – PST’s software is better in terms of the visuals and manufacturing output, and

is capable of producing more designs which enables us to achieve a higher flat pack capability.

“It’s not just the product that has benefitted us, but working with PST too. With previous software suppliers, we often found that the programmers had no engineering experience, and information was often lost in translation. With PST, we work directly with Managing Director Neil Travers, an engineer by trade who understands exactly what we’re after and makes the communication process much more efficient.

“PST’s customer-focused and agile approach has played a big part in Eurocell’s growth –not only has Virtual Shopfloor given us an incredible advantage through streamlining our conservatory roof department, but it has also enhanced our design and production capability.

“Partnering with PST back in 2010 has been an extremely worthwhile investment for Eurocell. The company’s software solutions are second to none and have made a huge difference to our manufacturing processes, saving us time, money and hassle.

“The future looks bright as we continue to utilise more of PST’s functionality through our customer base whilst continuously introducing new products.”

PST Managing Director Neil Travers adds: “To have partnered with such an industry-renowned company like Eurocell is a huge achievement for PST, and to have successfully delivered a product that helps to streamline their manufacturing, improve customer satisfaction and enhance effective communication for 13 years is a privilege. At PST, we’re constantly evolving to meet ever-changing market demand, and as we grow, we hope our relationship with Eurocell continues to flourish for many years to come.”

For more information or to sign up to a 14day free trial, visit www.pstonline.co.uk.

Direct, Heritage Trade Frames, Listers, Portico Doors, Sliders UK and Universal Composite Doors are amongst the fabricators already using TOUCH Portal, with Selecta Systems joining the group of PVC-U systems houses.

Richie Thornton, Director at Business Micros

Group company The Consultancy, which is key to the operational roll out of TOUCH, said:

“We’ve put a huge amount of effort into getting the implementation of TOUCH Portal right for fabricators and ensuring that real time product and pricing options are accurate.

“Most of that hard work is now done and we’re concentrating on getting TOUCH deployed as quickly and extensively as we can. We’ve got 20+ more fabricators already lined up to go live during the second half of 2023 and, after the success of FIT Show, many more waiting to be added in 2024.”

TOUCH is a fully integrated end to end software platform capable of taking a sale all the way from initial online lead to quoting, ordering, manufacturing and delivery. It’s fully compatible with Business Micros’ Evolution manufacturing and EvoNET business management software and comes in different modes to suit the needs of fabricators and installers. All the details on the system are at: https:// store.bm-touch.co.uk/

The WinCo Installation App is a brand-new innovation from The Window Company (Contracts) which gives commercial clients access to live data and reporting on all of their window and door installation projects.

The bespoke app documents surveys and installations in real time and automatically integrates all the data generated from the teams on site with the company’s 50,000+ record project database and backoffice systems.

It has transformed the efficiency of the business by eliminating vast amounts of paperwork and manual processes and streamlined many of its quality management systems. But, more significantly it has created a standout feature for The Window Company (Contracts)’ clients right across the social housing replacement and new build sector, who can now see live status updates and sign off projects electronically.

Like other installers, the company previously relied largely on paper driven processes, including printed forms for surveying, job

sheets, Point of Work Risk Assessments (POWRA) checklists and inspections. Fitting teams sent pre- and post-installation photos via email or WhatsApp and admin staff at the office had to manually collate the photos and input the data.

The new WinCo Installation App has replaced all of that. All the surveying and inspection forms, job sheets, and POWRA checklists are integrated within the app and surveyors and fitters simply work through the forms on their mobiles on site. They upload the before and after photos as they go and all the data is allocated in real time to the project database.

Mark Crane, Group Commercial Director at Breyer Construction is impressed: “The new app is a great demonstration of the kind of innovative thinking that sets a subcontractor like The Window Company (Contracts) apart from the rest. The app has clearly been designed with the needs of customers as well as fitters in mind, and the before and after images, electronic sign off and live reporting functions are already proving particularly useful.”

Katie Thornton, Director of Compliance and Administration at The Window Company (Contracts) added: “As a business which prides itself on efficiency, we recognised that there was a better way to document our installations. But, even after extensive research, we were unable to identify a sectorspecific, cost-effective, commercially available app that had anything like the capability we required. We wanted to be able to collate data for jobs simultaneously and store it automatically on our internal database systems. We therefore decided to create our own app – starting initially with a version for our fitting team and customers and progressing to the fully integrated end to end solution that we have now."

More details on the company’s service is at: https://thewinco.co.uk/

BESPOKE APP DELIVERS LIVE DATA AND REPORTING ON WINDOW AND DOOR INSTALLS

ALUPROF OFFER COLOUR OPTIONS

BY MAGS HERBERT - ALUPROF NATIONAL SALES MANAGER

Often overlooked in home improvement schemes, the garage door plays a big part in the ‘kerb appeal’ of a property, whilst adding both security and insulation to any home. The ‘Rolling Shutter Door’ option offers some of the best USP’s in the choice of garage doors and the current offer from Aluprof UK does not fail to impress.

Rolling shutter doors have been used for many decades in security and insulation of both homes and commercial properties. In particular roller shutters have been used

extensively on the continent in helping to keep homes cool by offering an extra layer of insulation, whilst keeping solar radiation out. In the UK roller shutters are often seen on commercial premises for additional security, but, rarely on residential properties due to our cooler temperate climate. Growing in popularity today is the colour coated aluminium roller shutter lath which offers a combination of good looks, security and insulation.

Rolling shutter garage doors from Aluprof UK are available in a wide range of lath combinations and sizes to suit any project. For security applications, extruded aluminium lath widths of 41mm, 55mm and 77mm are available. For insulation, pressed aluminium ‘compact’ laths with foam fillers are available in widths of 52mm, 55mm and a ‘classic look’ of 77mm. All six lath profiles are available in a wide range of colours from stock in the UK.

Homeowners use of colour has changed over the last few decades as fashion

changes. Typically in the 1980’s browns were most popular for garage doors, moving to whites in the 1990’s. More recently we have seen the choice of dark grey, anthracite or even black for fenestration by homeowners which reflects the dominant colour currently used in commercial construction. There is also a further colour which has seen growth over the last decade and that is ‘Chartwell Green’ which reflects the charms typically seen in an English cottage.

As fashion changes, so do the stock profiles in the UK to meet customer demand. At the moment popular lath colours include, ‘Goose Wing Grey’ (RAL 7038), ‘Aluminium Grey’ (RAL 9007), ‘Quartz Grey’ (RAL 7039), ‘Satin Grey’, ‘Graphite’ and ‘Metallic Grey’. Most of these popular colours are available across the range of lath systems and sizes.

Each of the systems supplied by Aluprof come in a wide range of colours available from stock in our Altrincham distribution facility. All colour coated foam filled laths are supplied with an additional ClearCoat specification for the highest quality and sustainability that offers a thicker, harder wearing and abrasion resistant finish. Some of the stock finishes include woodgrain options such as rosewood, golden oak and walnut which available with matching boxes and guide channels. All extruded aluminium profiles are powder coated in to the highest standard and also include Decoral woodgrain finishes, again all available from stock from our Altrincham distribution facility. Aluprof’s manufacturing plants in Poland are proud to be licence holders for the application of both QUALICOAT and the QUALIDECO

powder coatings, which are well recognised across the globe.

Aluprof UK are pleased to announce that three further new colours have recently been launched to supplement the range of lath profiles available from stock, these are Slate Grey (RAL 7015), Duck Egg Blue and a Metallic Graphite finish, further information is available on demand.

A recent move by some local authorities is the ban on the installation of external plain steel roller shutters on high streets. The preference for some of these local authorities and their planning departments is the installation of discrete colour coated roller shutters installed behind the glazed facade. Whatever the requirement, support from Aluprof trained and experienced technicians can help with project detailing and provision of such systems. Depending on the location requirement, Aluprof can quickly supply both lath size and colour options to create an aesthetically pleasing solution.

Complete specification support is available direct from Aluprof UK. Further information about roller shutter systems and specification support is available through the company’s website at www.aluprof.co.uk or direct from their UK head office in Altrincham by phoning +44 (0) 161 941 4005.

Mags Herbert, Aluprof National Sales Manager

“More recently we have seen the choice of dark grey, anthracite or even black for fenestration by homeowners which reflects the dominant colour currently used in commercial construction.”

The sky’s the limit With

all new em.glaze skyvu.

Introducing the most advanced roof lantern on the market, available from the UK’s number one daylight solutions provider.

The em.glaze skyvu has been engineered with ultra-safe installation features, flexible glazing options, exceptional thermal performance, and a highly desirable contemporary design.

To find out more about the all-new em.glaze skyvu roof lantern, scan the QR code below, visit whitesales.co.uk/skyvu, or call 01483 917580.

WIN £10 CASH PRIZE!!

Circle three differences in the boxes below, fill in your contact details 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. Entry deadline: 20/09/23.

NEW COLOUR PROGRAMME NOW IN PRINT

Under the new corporate design that was unveiled in 2022, Kömmerling have just produced a new eight-page colour programme detailing the latest proGrain and proSmooth finishes including both stock and special order options. Other profine brands including Greenline and Warmcore versions will also follow shortly.

With over 65 options in total and including a RAL 7016 base grey material for the C70 and flush sash – this equates to one of the larger colour and woodgrain selections in the PVCu window and door industry. In addition, there are detailed delivery classes and further ordering details highlighted for Kömmerling’s network of manufacturing and installation partners.

format for customers and is the first in a complete new range of literature that is being rolled out across the next few months. For further information please visit www.profine-uk.com, e-mail enquiries@profine-uk.com or telephone 01623 579200 for a free copy of the 2023 colour programme.

There’s also a dedicated site for KÖMMERLING at www.kommerling.co.uk. You can also follow them on social media platforms @profineuk and @kommerling_uk.

Name:

Address:

Kevin Warner, sales and marketing director of profine UK and Kömmerling commented: ‘This new colour programme represents what we believe is a strong product proposition across all of our PVCu and hybrid window and door systems. The proSmooth and proGrain options reflect current design trends alongside a number of distinctive luxury foils too. This information has been carefully presented in a useful

The answer is automation. With a fully-automated IGU line, you can make your output quicker, more consistent and higher quality than ever before – and Edgetech will be on hand to help you every step of the way. Plus with recent changes to capital investment tax, investing in the future of your business is even more cost effective.

A TIMELESS CLASSIC: SHEERLINE’S NEW DESIGN DRIVEN CLASSIC HERITAGE DOOR REVEALED

look provide a consistent aesthetic inside and outside the home.

These living spaces often have standout features, such as a roof lantern or kitchen island. They use clever lighting and neutral colour palettes with the occasional pop of colour, or natural textured feature to create a calm yet practical living space.

In recent years, a key design aim of these extensions has been on ensuring they are bright, airy living spaces that maximise natural light. Sheerline has been helping homeowners and architects, designers and developers to create this kind of aesthetic throughout the home with its awardwinning range of stylish yet sustainable aluminium products.

Customers can choose thermally efficient aluminium windows, roof lanterns, and doors (including the Lift & Slide Patio, Bi-Folds, a Composite Door Frame, and now, the Classic Heritage Door) from two perfectly coordinated ranges. The Classic Heritage Door is the latest addition that’s ideal for homeowners that want to allow in as much natural light as possible, in a product with authentic period charm.

So, why choose Sheerline’s new Heritage Classic Door? What design options does it offer? And what features? We’ll explain everything you need to know in this article.

DRIVEN BY DESIGN

Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door offers a versatile timeless appearance, so it looks just as at home in a traditional period property or Art Deco-influenced home as it does in a minimalist, ultra-modern living space. And it looks great in homes embracing modern industrial décor because of the slim ‘steel look’ aesthetics.

Several elements contribute to the authentic heritage style that can easily be achieved with this product. For instance, the pocket feature to the interior and exterior of the lockbox and Sheerline’s signature ‘stepped’

To allow as much natural light as possible to flood the space, the product offers slim sightlines of between 60.5 to 73mm depending on the choice of outerframe. Single and French Doors are available, in internal or external styles, which are manufactured from the same components, to reduce stockholding requirements. Maximum sash sizes of 2.2m x 1m can easily be achieved, for wide French doorsets. While these design features are unique to the Classic Heritage Door, it shares many innovative features with Sheerline’s other products, as they are all built around a common, high-performance platform. This ensures these slim aluminium doors are stylish in design, without compromising on security, thermal performance or ease of fabrication.

PERIOD INSPIRED, BUT WITH ALL THE MOD CONS

The period inspired lockbox may be inspired by the Art-Deco movement as well as turn of the 19th Century industrial design, but that’s the only part of this thoroughly modern system, that has its roots in the past. With bang upto-date thermal technology the Classic Heritage Door is Part L compliant as standard because of Sheerline’s proprietary Thermlock® thermal breaks, which leave polyamide alternatives looking outdated and tired.

Because of Thermlock®, the product offers U-values of 1.4 and an A+ Door Energy Rating when double glazed. This level of thermal efficiency is increasingly important to homeowners as they look to reduce their energy consumption.

It is also important to builders, as increasingly stringent regulations are introduced as the UK government focuses on its Net Zero goals. As with every Sheerline

product, it is available in a selection of standard colours, but custom and dual options are available on short lead-times. In addition, aside from completing the Classic range, the Classic Heritage Door can easily be mixed and matched with any Sheerline product. This includes colour matching and the same styling to ensure a consistent aesthetic is achieved throughout a multi-product project.

THE FUTURE? IT’S STYLE, BUT WITHOUT COMPROMISE

In the past, homeowners had limited options. All that was available were products that didn’t match and weren’t thermally efficient – they were lacking in so many ways. But with the range of products we now offer, this scenario is now a thing of the past.

Consumers have far greater choice, not just in terms of the number of products available, but also colour choices and styling options. A consistent aesthetic can be achieved throughout the home because Sheerline products match and look good, consistently.

Sheerline’s products are uncompromising in style and aesthetics, features and benefits, security and sustainability – everything a thoroughly modern system should offer as standard. The Classic Heritage Door encompasses all this and more, offering a timeless design.

Find out more about the versatile Classic Heritage Door and view the complete Sheerline range via the website here: www.sheerline.com or call 01332 978000 to speak to the team directly.

By Ben Hartshorn, Classic Door’s Lead Designer

Choosing to transform a property with an extension or kitchen renovation to create an open plan living/dining space is not a new trend – this has been a popular option for several years. But what has changed is the quality of products available to help homeowners achieve their unique vision.

Ben Hartshorn

A +

DOUBLE GLAZED U-VALUE

DOOR ENERGY RATING

MODPLAN FURTHER EXPANDS FACTORY CAPACITY TO MEET FLUSH SASH DEMAND

Leading trade fabricator Modplan has completed a significant plant expansion, further strengthening the production output of its PVC-U Flush Sash windows. The new 220sqm dedicated manufacturing centre has increased production output by over 50%, underscoring Modplan's commitment to delivering the products its customers need.

Heidi Sachs, Managing Director at Modplan, said: “Our focus is always to give customers the products they need to remain competitive. The popularity of Flush Sash windows has been steadily rising due to its timeless aesthetics and the ability to seamlessly complement a variety of architectural styles. With more consumers exploring high-end products for their homes, demand for this window style is showing little signs of diminishing, and our increased capacity will support demand and improve our manufacturing efficiencies too.”

Modplan manufactures the popular Veka Halo Flush Sash window in a choice of welded and mechanical transom options. The versatile window sits flush within its frame and mirrors the elegant window style of the 19th Century, making

VEKA RECYCLING OPENS NORTHERN HUB, INTRODUCES GLASS COLLECTION PILOT SCHEME

it a popular choice for heritage and conservation projects too. The windows are manufactured to meet precise project requirements and are fitted with Yale hardware incorporating night vent function dual cams as standard with the option to upgrade to Yale Lifetime Security with hinge protector. An enhanced option also upgrades the window to Secured by Design Certification.

The Flush Sash windows are currently available in 30 colour options including authentic woodgrain finishes. And with plans to further extend the colour and design options available, Modplan is confident its customers will have a further competitive advantage. Heidi said: “With increasing consumer demand for higher value products, colour is a key differentiator to add value to the sale. Our colour and enhanced selection of window styles will give our customers a compelling market offer.”

The new Flush Sash factory extension is the latest in a series of manufacturing investments which has also seen Modplan expand its multi-site operation to an impressive 166,829 sqft. Heidi said: “We continually invest across the business to ensure we deliver the best in manufacturing efficiencies. All of our fabrication plants deliver state-of-the-art manufacturing and the highest quality output, ensuring we deliver the best customer experience.”

Production expansion is always noteworthy, but Modplan’s level of investment makes them a reassuring partner for any installer, something that is reflected in their rapidly expanding business.

Tel: 01495 246844

www.modplan.co.uk

MERCURY ACHIEVES SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE ON ITS LEAN MANUFACTURING JOURNEY

Leading specialist fabricator Mercury has successfully reached its first milestone as part of its lean manufacturing journey, establishing a dedicated metrics room that is now an integral part of its multisite operation. This accomplishment is marked by the company's first 'GREEN' day across all three manufacturing factories, a remarkable achievement after just 12 weeks of implementing the strategy.

Alan Hockey, Manufacturing Manager at Mercury, said: "The establishment of the metrics room and the successful realisation of our first 'GREEN' day across all factories signifies our dedication to continuous improvement and operational excellence. This is just the beginning of our journey to deliver even greater value to our customers and uphold our reputation as a leading specialist fabricator."

Mercury's commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement has led to the launch of its lean journey. Establishing the metrics room plays a pivotal role in this endeavour, serving as a central hub for data collection and manufacturing analysis. By leveraging data-driven insights, the company aims to optimise its manufacturing processes, enhance efficiency, and ultimately deliver continued value to its customers.

Alan commented: “The system evaluates performance metrics against predetermined thresholds, categorising them as either 'REDS' for areas that require attention and improvement or 'GREENS' for areas that meet or exceed targets. This approach enables the company to focus its efforts on areas that will yield the greatest impact on efficiency and quality”.

He continued: “Achieving our first 'GREEN' day across all three factories marks a significant milestone in our lean journey and demonstrates the effectiveness of the new metrics room and the commitment of the entire team.” Mercury is a trusted name in the fenestration industry, known for its commitment to delivering a high-end product portfolio to support all market sectors. Products include aluminium windows, sliding doors, bifold doors, designer doors, aluminium sash windows, curtain walling and internal screening. They are also a longstanding Spectus vertical sliding sash window fabricator and manufacture both standard and mechanical joint options.

With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, the company continues to set new standards for excellence and continuously evolves to meet the everchanging needs of the market.

The achievement of the first 'GREEN' day is a testament to Mercury's determination to pave the way for a leaner, more efficient, and customer-centric future.

Tel: 01452 383344 – www.mercuryglazing.co.uk

As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to drive the efficiency and sustainability of its PVC-U recycling service, VEKA Recycling has opened a Northern consolidation hub, whilst also introducing IGU collection through a pilot scheme.

Based in Burnley, Lancashire, the VEKA Recycling hub will consolidate material collected throughout the north of England and Scotland, resulting in full loads that will then be transported on to the company’s Wellingborough headquarters for processing. Material including old PVC-U windows as well as virgin offcuts from frame fabricators producing windows and doors manufactured from a variety of systems, will be collected and sorted at Burnley, before being moved on in bulk by VEKA Recycling’s fleet of vehicles. This will further improve the logistical substantiality of the process, which for VEKA Recycling is already impressive due to the central UK location of its processing plant.

The hub will also facilitate the collection and drop-off of material using smaller vehicles in the Burnley and surrounding areas, providing a convenient and inexpensive way of disposing of old frames for local installers.

In a further initiative designed to improve the ease by which installers may present old frames for recycling, VEKA Recycling will also be introducing a pilot scheme to collect old IGUs with the frames,

a move that is expected to significantly boost the number of frames returned for processing. The cullet will then be returned to a glass manufacturing partner to be made into new flat glass, which uses around 30% of recycled material in its manufacture. The scheme will be customised to customers’ needs, thus further simplifying the process of returning material for recycling.

Commenting on the initiatives, managing director of VEKA Recycling Ltd Stuart Stockley said:

“VEKA Recycling processes everything collected in the UK at its Midlands processing plant, the most advanced in Europe. In itself this is more efficient than many other recyclers because it reduces the miles driven to return the old frames to the point of recycling. Plus the complex process of turning the old frames into new polymer is completed within the same facility. Often, the material is processed in a number of stages, at different plants. We do everything in house.

“The return of old insulated glass units as part of the disposal process is a big step forward to take hassle away from our customer simplify the return of material,” added Stuart.

“The recycling of old PVC-U window and door frames has long been established – VEKA built the first plant for the purpose as far back as 1993,” he explained. “But whilst we are experts in the processing of PVC-U, today there is far greater emphasis on holistic sustainability. These initiatives further address that requirement.”

COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AT WARWICK NORTH WEST SEES PROMISING PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SOVINI GROUP

Since opening its doors in 1998, leading trade supplier Warwick North West has prided itself on not only supplying quality windows and doors, but on service, product innovation, values and ethics.

It’s why the company is proud to announce its partnership with fellow Bootle business

The Sovini Group, a leading provider of housing, maintenance, and construction services across the North West whose commercial profits support social and notfor-profit businesses in the local community. The Group has a unique end to end supply chain that offers a complete range of services including waste solutions, asbestos removal and commercial scaffolding.

Warwick North West will be supplying The Sovini Group with a range of windows and doors, including Modus, a seven-chambered casement window that can achieve a U-value of 0.8.

Warwick North West Director Greg Johnson comments: “Helping the community has always been important to us, and is a value we share with The Sovini Group. We’re incredibly proud to have partnered with them and look forward to our growing success.

“Warwick has been operating for 25 years, and in that time we’ve invested in marketleading PVC and aluminium products, our own in-house IGU manufacturing unit, and most recently, a new £550,000 Schirmer cutting and machining centre.

“This continual investment has seen us reach a position where we’re able to successfully provide companies like The Sovini Group with the quality products and services they need. We’re particularly proud to be able to offer them our innovative and low U-value Modus window, which will help them meet their commendable goal of achieving net zero carbon.”

Head of The Sovini Group Procurement, Ammi Williams commented: “The Sovini Group is committed to procuring the best services and products for our customers, at the best value. We ensure Procurement across the Group is open, fair and transparent.

“The Sovini Group owns, manages, and maintains over 14,000 homes through an active and growing development programme. That is why we are committed to procuring the very best service and products for our customers, at the best value – something which we are delighted to have achieved

with Warwick North West. They provide a timely and professional service, and most importantly, a shared community focus.”

Greg concludes: “We’re so pleased that The Sovini Group chose Warwick North West for their requirements – it’s a real testament to our hard work and dedication, as well as to the investments we’ve made over the years.

Think you know Liniar...?

“Looking forward, we hope to be more than just a supplier for The Sovini Group – we want to be part of their unique supply chain, creating a sustainable and collaborative partnership for many years to come.”

For more information, visit www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk and www.sovini.co.uk.

L-R – John McDonough, Warwick North West Sales Manager; Alan Evans, Director of Operations at Sovini Trade Supplies; and Warwick North West Director Greg Johnson.

JADE ENGINEERING GOES INTO OVERDRIVE TO SUPPORT EX DURAFLEX FABRICATORS COVENTRY TOOLMAKER REPORTS QUADRUPLING OF DEMAND AS FRAME MAKERS RUSH TO SWITCH SYSTEMS

Coventry-based Jade Engineering says it has ‘gone into overdrive’ to provide former Duraflex fabricators with new tooling and production advice, as they are forced to switch systems suppliers following the announcement made in June that the Gloucester-based systems company would be closed.

As the UK window and door industry’s primary manufacturer of tooling for the production of PVC-U and aluminium window and door systems, Jade Engineering was the first point of contact by systems companies and fabricators, following the announcement. It has been a busy time, said Jade’s Adam Jones: “As soon as the

announcement was made, we received calls from systems companies and fabricators, who required new tooling as quickly as possible to switch systems whilst maintaining continuity. Fortunately, we manufacture the tooling for every system so were able to respond immediately,” said Adam. “We are working overtime to keep up and generally, we are keeping ahead of demand.

“We don’t like to see the loss of any company,” he added, “especially one that has been part of the window and door industry since its very early days. But the reality is that the former Duraflex fabricators had to move on and quickly and whilst we are flat out, we are doing our best to ensure that the

SHELFORCE TARGETS ANOTHER RECORD YEAR

Window and fire door manufacturer Shelforce is targeting another record year after posting turnover of more than £5.8m for last year.

That figure was just under a 50% increase on the previous year, and Shelforce is on track to hit the £8m mark this year.

After receiving The Kings Award for Enterprise in Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility) in April, the highest official UK award for British business, as well as and the ‘Most Significant Service Improvement’ award at the first ever Housing Awards, it has been a brilliant 2023 so far.

And Howard Trotter, Business Manager of the Birminghambased company, is under no illusions as to the reasons why the company is continually going from strength to strength – it’s a combination of a fantastic product, hard-working team, and the seal of approval from King Charles.

“To be on schedule to hit another record year in terms of turnover is fantastic,” said Howard. “Our order book has

been healthy thanks to our Fireshel 30-minute fire, smoke, and security resistant door, for which we have had to increase manufacturing capacity to produce more than 200 fire doors a week due to demand.

“Our success is also down to our team, who work unbelievably hard to get the product out of the door on time. And, of course, being awarded The Kings Award for Enterprise in Promoting Opportunity has attracted attention from potential clients, including other local authorities and housing associations. It has enhanced our reputation further, and you can’t put a price on that.”

Alongside new machinery to help cope with demand, Shelforce has also invested £10,000 in a new software system and new phone system to help increase efficiency, and its full-time team.

“With almost 35,000 fire doors to replace in Birmingham, demand is set to remain both high and constant,” added Howard. “Our investment means we are set up to cope

transition to whatever system they move to, happens as seamlessly as possible.”

Adam added that production advice was inevitably required in addition to the supply of new tooling: “Most changes are seamless with the systems companies working hard to ensure that their new customers get up to speed quickly. But now and again we are asked to resolve specific issues relating to working with new profiles, new tools and so forth and others are taking advantage of the switch to re-evaluate their production lines. We are used to such things of course,” said Adam, “just not so many at once. It is a tremendous challenge, but we are pleased to be supporting fabricators as they change.”

with that, and continue our core values, which are to provide the best products and services to our clients and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.”

Shelforce specialises in supplying high quality windows, doors and fire doors to local authority building projects, including Birmingham City Council.

To find out more, call Shelforce on 0121 603 5262 or visit www.shelforce.com.

FENTRADE REPORTS IMPRESSIVE YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH

Despite a fluctuating market, specialist fabricator Fentrade Aluminium has reported a 35% year-onyear growth, a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to product choice and customer satisfaction.

Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s Director, said: “Our year-on-year growth reflects the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional aluminium fenestration solutions to our customers. Sales of our inline and lift/slide aluminium sliding doors have grown 36% and 34% respectively, which contrasts with our bifold sales which remain on par with the previous year. These figures support industry trends with the upturn for wider sliding doors.”

Whilst the growth is impressive, the company remains steadfast in its ambition to further elevate its offerings and expand its reach. Chris said: “We continually evaluate our products to ensure we offer the widest range of aluminium solutions to support all market trends. As such, we will soon launch the new Document L compliant S140 inline sliding door from ALUK, giving our customers a wider selection of cutting-edge solutions for their door projects.”

In line with its customer-centric approach and to support demand, Fentrade has made several key internal appointments.

Chris said: “Investment in the fabrication team and the internal sales support ensures we continue to provide a seamless and efficient service to our expanding customer base.”

Fentrade is an active Council for Aluminium in Building member and a respected name in the aluminium fenestration industry, offering a comprehensive range of high-quality aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling

and shop front solutions. The company’s dedication to quality manufacture and customer satisfaction has positioned it as a preferred choice among builders, contractors and installers.

Chris said: “We are immensely proud of the growth that Fentrade has achieved over the past year. It has been both organic and driven, with existing customers increasing their order volumes whilst our presence at FIT Show 2022 and 2023 and our targeted marketing campaigns have yielded new customers.”

During the past twelve months, Fentrade has also introduced several new products including the Reynaers CP130 sliding door and the SD70 Heritage door system from Jack Aluminium. Chris said: “We want to help our customers secure a key market advantage and both products have proven popular with retail installers as they offer the high-end aesthetics that today’s discerning consumers are looking for.”

With a strong business foundation and further new products planned for later this year, Fentrade Aluminium is poised to continue its upward growth trajectory.

Tel: 01633 547787 – www.fentradealuminium.co.uk

LEKA SYSTEMS EXPANDS PARTNER SUPPORT WITH ONSITE 7

Conservatory roof innovators Leka Systems has extended its support to fabricating and installing partners with the introduction of Onsite 7 software. This effective software empowers fabricators and installers to stay in control of their businesses by managing all aspects of the customer journey, including lead capture.

Rhys Hoddinott, Managing Director at Leka Systems, commented. “Onsite 7 is an easy-to-use job management software that offers comprehensive visibility into the entire customer journey, from initial enquiries to project completion. It also gives customers real-time access to track

leads generated through our national consumer lead campaign. This invaluable feature allows businesses to promptly respond to potential customers, ensuring no opportunity is missed.”

Leka Systems is a progressive company in the conservatory roof industry, renowned for its innovative and high-performance products. The range of solutions covers all conservatory roof options and includes the patented lightweight Leka Warm roof, which is perfect for retrofitting or new build conservatories, the Leka Orangery system, the Leka Xi modular building solution and the Leka carport and canopy system.

As well as a value-added product range, Leka fabricators and installers also benefit from a comprehensive training programme to understand the product and the broader marketplace. Combined with proactive sales, comprehensive marketing support and access to Onsite 7 software, it all adds up to a compelling offer. Rhys commented: “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 work. We run various homeowner campaigns to ensure

FREE GREY ON WHITE PROMO FROM PREFIX

With demand for their new Sheerline S2 glazed roofing system already high, Prefix Systems has announced a summer promotion in the way of offering a free upgrade to the on-trend grey on white colour combination for all unglazed, PVCu roofs.

S2 is a new development that has been two years in the making and both Prefix and Sheerline believe that this will help reignite the glass roofing sector, thanks to a radical re-design that takes inspiration from contemporary design thinking, with added structural capability for larger spans. With

a complete aluminium window and door offering under the Opal brand, there’s the option for a complete aluminium glazed extension package too.

An integrated bolster solution at the eaves and one that also seamlessly integrates with the glazing bars, ensures that S2 is designed with larger projects in mind. There’s also the offer of thermally broken aluminium glazing bars, while further design credentials are realised with the internal pelmet and aluminium gutter shroud options.

Chris Baron, director at Prefix Systems commented: ‘While the response to the launch of S2 has been monumentally positive, this summer’s free upgrade to grey on white is a further incentive to specify the Sheerline S2 glazed roof. There’s also the benefit of an award-winning support programme from all of our branches including Pavilion Systems, regardless of project complexity.’

For further information please visit www.prefixsystems.co.uk or contact the head office for a free brochure pack including details on S2 on 01254 871800,

brand awareness and develop a pipeline of new business enquiries for customers that will now be accessible through Onsite 7. It’s a market-leading package of benefits for our customers.”

Tel: 0800 773 4040 – www.lekasystems.co.uk

alternatively you can e-mail: marketing@prefixsystems.co.uk. You can also follow them on social media @prefixsystems. Terms and conditions apply to the free grey on white upgrade.

EMBRACING SUSTAINABILITY: RETHINKING HEAT SOAK TESTING’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Though seemingly harmless, these inconspicuous "seeds" hold the potential to cause catastrophic spontaneous fractures in toughened glass items, presenting serious safety concerns. To address this critical challenge, the longstanding solution has been the utilisation of Heat Soak Testing – a controlled heat cycle applied to finished products to stimulate the growth of these seeds. While this destructive testing method reduces future instances, it comes at a considerable cost in terms of energy consumption.

As Performance Glass Processing (PGP) embraces its mission to transform the glass industry through sustainable practices, understanding the environmental implications of conventional testing methods is vital. Let us delve into an enlightening statistic that unveils the carbon footprint associated with a year's worth of daily heat soak testing cycles.

THE CARBON FOOTPRINT DILEMMA

To comprehend the substantial environmental impact of daily heat soak testing, PGP has looked at energy consumption over the course of a standard working year for a business of our size. By considering the UK's average carbon intensity for grid electricity (as of September 2021), estimated at approximately 0.233 kg CO2 per kilowatthour (kg CO2/kWh), we gain insight into the magnitude of carbon emissions resulting from this practice.

CALCULATING ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION

Taking into account a daily electricity consumption of £180 (for heat soak testing) and an average electricity cost of £0.32/

kWh, the staggering daily usage adds up to 562.5 kWh. Scaling this consumption to encompass five working days per week, the weekly total reaches 2,812.5 kWh. Extrapolating this data to span a full year, the accumulated energy consumption for daily heat soak testing totals an astonishing 146,250 kWh of electricity.

REVEALING THE CARBON EMISSIONS

Multiplying the annual electricity consumption (146,250 kWh) by the UK's average carbon intensity (0.233 kg CO2/kWh), we arrive at an eye-opening revelation – approximately 34.07 tonnes of CO2 would be released into the atmosphere each year just for one company such as ours. This figure serves as a compelling reminder of the considerable environmental impact stemming from conventional testing practices.

UNVEILING THE TREES' EQUIVALENCE TO CLEAN UP THE CO2

To add a tangible perspective to these carbon emissions, we explore the equivalent carbon absorption capacity of trees. Based on an average tree's ability to absorb 22 kilograms of CO2 annually, we can calculate its equivalence. Dividing the total emissions (34.07 tonnes CO2) by the annual CO2 absorption rate per tree (22 kg CO2/year), the heat soak testing process is equivalent to the carbon absorption capacity of a remarkable 1,548.64 trees over the course of a year (for a business our size).

PIONEERING A GREENER PATH

Acknowledging the pressing need for sustainable practices, PGP stands committed to leading the industry towards a greener future. The innovative Heat Soak Policy adopted by PGP exemplifies this dedication. By pushing for glass products with a thickness of 6mm or less to be exempt from heat soak testing, PGP actively minimises unnecessary energy consumption and reduces its carbon footprint.

A COLLABORATIVE PURSUIT

As PGP sets out to revolutionise the glass industry, collaboration with like-minded professionals is essential. Engaging in constructive dialogues, sharing best practices, and embracing innovative approaches, the industry can collectively mitigate its environmental impact. Together, we can forge a sustainable and responsible glass manufacturing ecosystem.

CONCLUSION

The statistics unequivocally underline the significance of embracing sustainable practices in the glass industry. Conventional heat soak testing carries a considerable carbon burden, emphasising the urgent need for alternative approaches. Among these, exploring other equivalents to conventional testing methods becomes imperative, as they can potentially mitigate negative impacts on the environment. This demands a collective reevaluation of our testing methods and a commitment to choosing the best glass production practices that align with eco-friendly principles. In doing so, we must steer clear of opting for cheap imports that often come with hidden environmental costs. It's essential to recognise that although adopting these sustainable alternatives might take longer to manufacture, the long-term benefits for both our planet and our industry are undeniable. Additionally, optimising heat cycles specifically for thicker glasses offers a promising avenue to reduce energy consumption and further enhance the environmental sustainability of our processes. As PGP takes the helm in this transformative journey, our company not only pioneers innovation but also showcases that product excellence and environmental preservation can seamlessly coexist. As we embark together on this path towards a brighter, greener future, let us inspire positive change and through our collective efforts, leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

www.PerformanceGlass.co.uk

During the meticulous manufacturing process of raw glass, even the tiniest impurities, such as Nickel Sulphide, may silently find their way into the final product.

ACHIEVING A DAILY ‘ON TIME IN FULL’ DELIVERY RATE OVER 99.4% IS MORE THAN JUST OUR TYPICAL DAY. THIS MAY SEEM SIMPLE BUT MEANS CUSTOMERS GET WHAT THEY WANT, WHEN THEY WANT IT. IT’S A MATTER OF FACT AND ONE OF THE THINGS THAT MAKES US DIFFERENT.

INDEPENDENT NETWORK MEMBER CELEBRATES WIN AT WHICH? AWARDS

Leading PVCu systems manufacturer VEKA plc is delighted to be celebrating Vantage Windows and Doors success at the Which? 2023 awards.

The Glasgow-based Independent Network member picked up the prestigious ‘Which? Trusted Trader of the Year 2023’ award in a ceremony held in London earlier this month, sharing the stage with other award winners on the night, including household names LG, Mercedes-Benz, Google and Jet2.

The Which? panel of judges selected Vantage Windows and Doors from over 5000 contenders, and praised the Scottish firm for its consistently positive customer reviews, as well as for the work it does in the local community and for charity.

Tim Taylor, Commercial Director of VEKA plc commented: “We would like to congratulate Vantage Windows and Doors on their achievement. They provide an exceptional service to their customers, alongside products that are backed by the Independent Network Insurance Backed Guarantee, which gives homeowners that extra level of protection when choosing an installer for their windows and doors”. www.veka.co.uk

NEW WINDOW TO THE WORLD FOR ADSA

The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) has launched its new website, boasting improved functionality with a brand-new look and feel.

The site has been produced to maximise user experience, with slicker mechanisms for booking courses and events, a member search facility with postcode and mapping features for customers to find products and service providers.

The association’s online presence, www.adsa.org. uk has been developed to reflect its current activity: extensive learning and development content, industry news and updates and independent compliance assessment services.

It offers a fresh new look, with a rolling home page and enhanced connectivity through third

party app integration for improved booking/ payment processes. It also incorporates social media feeds.

The site has greater clarity and is more intuitive: the online membership application process has been fully digitised and course/event bookings have a Microsoft Outlook calendar interface to allow users to sync events with their own diaries.

ADSA has also included a shop… by public demand. Members asked the association to produce a range of branded workwear which can be personalised with company/name alongside their ADSA credentials.

The clothes range, which includes tee shirts, polos, shirts, fleece jackets and work trousers, has been produced using environmentally friendly/ sustainable materials.

A VALUE-ADDED FABRICATION PARTNER IN REGAL ALUMINIUM

Profits from the sale of branded merchandise will be reinvested into learning development – benefitting members in all respects.

Ken Price, ADSA’s Managing Director, said that the redevelopment of the site provided a chance to “review, refocus, and plan for the future”.

“The previous iteration of the site was functional but had started to look a little dated. We wanted to present a new window to the world which said more about the organisation we have become, was easier to use and provided members with new added benefits.

“We think that we have achieved that with a platform that has the scope to incorporate new initiatives and digital services as they continue to be launched.”

Installers looking to maximise the opportunities in high-end aluminium and PVC-U should look no further than Regal Aluminium. Managing Director Jason Bamford says: “The breadth and depth of our portfolio of industry leading brands combined with the hands-on tailored support we provide means we are a valuable partner for ambitious installation businesses.”

Regal Aluminium’s portfolio includes highend aluminium and PVC-U windows and doors including an impressive collection of heritage-styled products, making it a go-to option for installers keen to offer a mix of premium quality solutions. All aluminium products are fabricated by skilled operatives in the company’s state-of-the-art facilities in the East Midlands. Jason says: “Our aluminium and PVC-U products offer the best mix of performance and aesthetics for today’s discerning homeowners, all manufactured to the highest of standards.” The quality of the service is matched by the quality of the business support and Jason highlights the benefits this brings. He says: “With Regal Aluminium you get tailored marketing support and business development input. I’ve developed several businesses over my 34 years in the industry

Think you know Liniar...?

and I’m keen to use my experience to work with businesses that want to move to the next level.”

As well as the tailored support, installers can expect exceptional service as standard. Jason says: “We know the outstanding level of service the trade needs – and we’re proud to deliver it. Customer service is in the DNA of Regal because we know how important it is.” Regal Aluminium supplies to the commercial, trade and domestic sectors. It’s a sister company to Regal Windows and Doors, a family-run business with a history stretching back over 30 years.

It was recently bought by Jason, one of the industry’s most familiar faces. It’s clear that the combined experience of Regal and its new Managing Director will make it a very attractive option for installers wanting to open up opportunities in high-end aluminium and PVC-U.

Tel: 01773 483090

www.regalaluminium.uk

TOTAL70C QUALITY FRAMES FOR LUXURY CARE HOME LIVING

When care home provider

Northcare looked to build a new luxury property on Glasgow’s south side, they wanted nothing but the best for everything. Given the scale and bespoke requirements of the project, the company turned to commercial windows specialists Hadrian Windows Systems to fabricate and install all frames required.

Established over 30 years ago, Northcare Ltd (Northcare) is a care home provider that owns and operates facilities in the South Lanarkshire, Glasgow City, East Renfrewshire and Edinburgh areas. When the company began building its latest home ‘Balmoral’ in 2021, in the affluent Giffnock area on Glasgow’s south side, the need to ensure all aspects of the build met the level of quality associated with Northcare was key. Purpose-built as a ‘five star’ luxury care home, Balmoral was constructed to differ from the traditional concept associated with such facilities. With the building being designed and decorated to the highest standards and twisting the traditional and the modern, residents’ comfort was prioritised above all else.

Consequently, when it came to window specification, the home’s designers wanted to ensure as much light could pour into the property as possible, giving its rooms and communal areas a light and airy feel while ensuring optimal thermal comfort. This meant a variety of windows and frame sizes were required, from those for residents’ rooms to larger lobby glazing.

FINDING THE RIGHT WINDOWS PARTNER

Given the scope and scale of the project, Northcare were unable to find a nearby fabricator or installer to carry out the window works. This led the company to look further afield for a company that could take on the project and work alongside other construction professionals progressing

the build. After a detailed scoping exercise, Northcare found Hadrian Window Systems (HWS), a commercial glazing fabricator and fitter based in Blaydon-on-Tyne.

The company’s experience carrying out projects a distance away from its Northeast base was a key consideration for Northcare, as John Bowen, Installation Manager at Hadrian Window Systems, explains. “We regularly work at a national level, so the distance from Blaydon to Giffnock wasn’t a concern for us. However, as with any project of this nature, there were always going to be challenges to overcome.

“Given the build’s start in August 2021, fallout from COVID lockdowns remained a concern due to their effect on supply chains. Because of this, project planning was less straightforward than usual, especially over distance and when it came to fitting in with the larger construction site’s workflow.”

CLOSE COMMUNICATION

He continued: “We had to work and communicate closely with other trades and Northcare themselves to ensure our installation team was ready and available on site when they needed to be. This involved working in concentrated bursts to ensure we were flexible enough to accommodate any disruption to any other professionals onsite. We’re happy to say this approach was very effective at combatting practical issues caused by COVID.”

With communication key and longer lead times expected, the HWS team needed to ensure the full support of their suppliers

if the project was to run smoothly. As the company enjoyed Authorised Partner status with polymer provider REHAU, it was well-placed to smooth over any potential COVID-induced disruption.

“Hadrian Windows Systems’ status as a REHAU Authorised Partner demonstrates that our two companies share high standards of service and professionalism,” says Gary Cameron, Area Sales Manager for REHAU UK. “As our over-20-year partnership has grown stronger, Hadrian’s made the decision to become an Authorised Partner and specialise in the installation of REHAU products, which we’ve been thrilled to see.

“Of course, their specialising in REHAU products and polymer puts the onus on us, the supplier, to ensure consistent provision of materials to the site, to specific deadlines. While potential COVID disruption did have to be addressed on this particular project, I’m pleased to say that by working closely together and establishing lead times well in advance, everything ran smoothly.”

SPECIFYING THE PERFECT WINDOWS

A key consideration across the Balmoral project was that HWS’s window designs had to account for the difference in ventilation regulations between England and Scotland. As the Scottish Technical Standards stipulated more background ventilation, diverging from the England & Wales Building Regulations used at the time, the HWS team worked closely with REHAU to adapt their existing designs.

Specifically, HWS adapted all frames provided by REHAU to include glazedin trickle vents to allow for the higher air circulation stipulated by the Scottish Technical Standards. REHAU’s TOTAL70C frames comprised the majority of frames for the project, having been selected for their energy efficiency rating, which can achieve up to 0.8 W/m2K, thereby exceeding regulations set out in Part L of the Future Home Standards.

Similarly, the sealed, double-glazed units considerably reduced outdoor noise, allowing occupants to better relax undisturbed. This was an especially important consideration given the building’s leafy suburban location and proximity to the busy Kilmarnock Road. Given how close it was to this busy thoroughfare, the fact the TOTAL70C frame has achieved the PAS24

security accreditation was also a standout feature on this particular build.

The frame style options also available with the TOTAL70C allowed for a variety of casement designs, including in the care home’s reception and lobby areas. All windows were provided in REHAU’s Anthracite Grey smooth finish with white on the inside, further mirroring Northcare’s commitment to twisting the modern and traditional.

ASSISTING IN INSTALLATION

A further consideration that HWS took into account on this project was that Balmoral’s architectural design meant the supplied TOTAL70C solutions would be installed vertically and stacked three stories high. This presented a challenge for HWS to ensure the structural strength of the windows and eliminate the possibility of frames expanding or settling incorrectly. Traditional couplers were therefore not suitable to the task, as they would not be capable of bearing the larger glazed sections required.

“Of all the aspects of this project that could have potentially caused us difficulties, the stacking of the bigger frames stood out,” John said. “However, what could’ve been a headache proved to be anything but –following consultation with REHAU and working with Northcare’s architectural team, we were able to use T-spar expansion couplers that had greater wind and dead load capabilities. As a result, we were able to give the larger glazed sections greater wind resistance while mitigating any issues that could have come from fitting with larger vertical loads.

He concludes: “Overall, we were very happy with how the installation at Balmoral went, and so was Northcare. In fact, the quality of the works provided can be seen in the fact that they want to work with us in the future on additional care home projects, which has been really encouraging to hear.

“Our experience with REHAU fitting frames for this particular project has also inspired us to look into further works of this kind up and down the UK. Their assistance, coupled with the confidence we have that they will always promptly supply frames of the highest-quality, gave us the peace-of-mind we needed during what could have been a complicated project.”

For more information about REHAU’s TOTAL70 window system, see: https://tinyurl.com/3zf48hhe.

Future Homes Standard: Preparing UK housing for 2025

Research into market readiness and the fenestration industry’s role in a new era of building regulations.

With REHAU’s extensive knowledge and expertise, you can deliver projects that not only comply with regulations but also exceed expectations in terms of performance, aesthetics and sustainability.

www.rehau.uk/intheframe enquiries@rehau.com Tel: 01989 762600

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Leading trade fabricator

Modplan is celebrating 50 years in business this year. Glass News caught up with Business

Founder and CEO David Burles and Managing Director

Heidi Sachs to take a look back at the company’s impressive five-decade tenure and discuss their plans for the future.

Can you tell me how Modplan started and the business background?

The business was started as a DIY and light builders’ outlet in South Wales back in 1973 under the trading name of Burles DIY. The business was set up by an ambitious nineteen-year-old David Burles with the support of his mother, Mrs Burles, looking after the accounts.

Throughout those early years the business continued to expand, fuelled in part by the introduction of the 1970’s Welsh Home Improvement Scheme where consumers

could apply for grants to improve their homes. As such, we set up a joinery factory offering made to measure timber windows and doors called Burles Joinery.

When did the company move into fenestration?

The company first moved into the fenestration market in the early 1980s when we started to manufacture single-glazed aluminium windows for the Welsh retail

market. The first aluminium factory was established and began fabricating windows using the GKN Scope aluminium system. In 1983, Heidi Sachs joined the business as Office Manager. And in the same year, we spotted a new opportunity and moved into PVC-U window fabrication manufacturing a WH Smith 50mm, two chamber window system. A new PVC-U factory was opened with just one twoheaded welder to support the fabrication process.

In 1988, we opened a window and door accessory business to support local trades and opened our first National Plastics trade outlet.

When did Modplan first enter the market?

It wasn’t until the early 1990’s that the Modplan brand came to the market. This was the result of an acquisition of Modplan Home Improvements Ltd, Swansea. By 1996, PVC-U had gained traction and we took the decision to form a partnership with VEKA as the quality of the Germanic system was over and above the market offering of the day.

How has the business changed since then?

Over the years, the company has continued to expand and evolve. National Plastics grew into chain of 35 trade counters which we subsequently sold to the Epwin Group. We have a presence in the Scandinavian outdoor living market. We invested in and introduced the Leka System of innovative, lightweight solid roof solutions. Our partnership with VEKA UK stretches back over 25 years and we also partner with retail and leisure group Leekes, and systems supplier Liniar.

Today, we are a multi-million-pound turnover trade business manufacturing a comprehensive range of PVC-U windows, doors and conservatory roofs. We operate from four impressive manufacturing sites in Abercarn, Gwent, housing eight fabrication plants and covering over 165,000 sq. ft. We employ over 250 people.

The business was founded by the Burles family. Is it still family owned?

Yes. The business was founded by David Burles and is now co-owned with Managing

Director Heidi Sachs. Together we are still actively involved in Modplan and remain focussed on driving the business forward whilst developing additional businesses within the Burles Group portfolio. David’s mother, Mrs Burles who began the business journey with him in 1973 only stepped down from Modplan when she reached the age of 92!

What is the secret of your 50-year tenure?

Whilst on paper our 50-year history looks impressive, like all businesses Modplan has weathered some challenging times, including several economic downturns, the miners’ strikes and high interest rates, not to mention today’s cost-of-living crisis.

ahead of the market curve and to offer our customers a quality portfolio supported by a proactive partnership ethos. It’s an approach that means many customers have been with us for decades.

The second is the strength and longevity of the team over the years. David and Heidi’s formidable 40-year partnership has been instrumental to the company’s success. Vital too is the wider team – in fact, there is over 1,700 years of experience in the business, which adds incredible value.

Fifty years is an incredible milestone, but it’s clear the company is still ambitious for the future.

The first is the ‘Modplan Mission’ – the laser focus on continually exceeding customers’ increasing expectations. We strive to stay

Absolutely. We have a growing business portfolio and we’re looking forward to continuing the Modplan journey with our customers and our team. We are delighted to be celebrating this important business milestone. It’s an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come – but also where we want to go next. Here’s to the next chapter of Modplan.

www.modplan.co.uk

In our opinion, surviving and thriving despite the challenges is down to two things.

LINIAR TO DOUBLE IN SIZE WITH AMBITIOUS GROWTH PLANS

Liniar, the UK’s leading PVCu systems company and a subsidiary of Quanex, has announced ambitious plans that will double the size of its single-site, purpose-built headquarters in Derbyshire.

Group Managing Director Martin Thurley confirmed that work has already commenced on the site to build a new 350,000 ft² warehouse and manufacturing facility. Once complete (Q1 2025) this will boost Liniar’s impressive facilities even further and future-proof the business for the next 15 to 20 years.

“When visitors come to Liniar HQ, they always comment on how amazing the site is – from the extrusion hall to the lamination building to the twin mixing plants, up to and including our already vast warehouse,” Martin comments, “and once our extension

plans are complete, we believe we’ll have the largest and most efficient single-site extrusion facility in Europe.

“Our philosophy has always been to maintain sufficient capacity headroom to allow us to grow as quickly as our customers grow, so even though we still have plenty

of space and capacity today, we’re already planning for the next phase of exciting multi-year growth plans.

“The new warehouse facility will incorporate state-of-the-art, semi-automated storage, picking and loading solutions. Not only will this provide efficiency benefits, it will

create an even safer working environment by significantly reducing manual handling and eliminating pedestrian and FLT interaction.

Martin continues, “Liniar is also implementing a Solar PV strategy this year which will see solar panels installed on all existing and new buildings. We’ve made fantastic progress over recent years in significantly reducing our CO2 emissions by over 70%; this £multi-million investment will further accelerate our plans to be carbon neutral by 2025.”

These site expansion plans follow on the back of Liniar’s most recent site development project, the addition of a multi-million-pound mixing plant which opened in March this year.

Martin explains, “We’re lucky to have a parent company like Quanex. The whole team believes in what we do and they have absolute faith in our future growth plans. Investment at this level doesn’t usually come easily, and we certainly don’t take it for granted – but with Quanex behind us, we know we’re in safe and ambitious hands.

“Whilst we’re extremely excited to be doubling the size of our operation to almost 800,000 ft² and future proofing the business for many years to come, we’re also conscious that we remain the same organisation and it’s ‘business as usual’ for customers. We continue to follow the same model that’s got us to where we are today in terms of Service (99% OTIF), Quality, Innovation and being easy to deal with.

“Liniar truly is a big business in terms of size, scale and ambition, but we’re not ‘big business people.’ It’s especially important that we convey this and continue to practice this philosophy for our employees and our customers’ benefit as we continue to grow. Put simply, we’re bigger not different, and we remain as approachable as ever.”

Martin Thurley, Group Managing Director

Aerial shot of Liniar site including the new mixing plant

Artist’s impression of Liniar’s new warehouse

SYSTEM HOUSE, FABRICATOR AND INSTALLER, WORKING IN HARMONY

Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, reports from a training day organised by fabricator, Pearl Window Systems.

You’re a fabricator, so your customers are installation companies, builders, developers and the like. Is it enough to make a great window or door? What separates you from the other fabricators fighting for the business?

I had the good fortune to find out, first hand, some of the things that appear to sort the ‘wheat from the chaff’ by being invited to Liniar’s manufacturing facility and headquarters at Ripley, Derbyshire. Hold on, Liniar is a system house or have they sneaked in to fabrication on the side? Perhaps I should explain: my invitation came from Pearl Window System’s Jeff Walsh, to attend a training day for a new customer that was being held at Liniar, the system used by Pearl Window Systems. Liniar has a very impressive presentation area together with a vast showroom that displays the full range of Liniar products and, for a fabricator to be able to make use of these facilities to present to their own customers, is a great way to educate the customer with the array of products available to them.

What surprised me was a good turn out of around 20 people who had come to Pearl’s training day. What impressed me more was the fact they were all from one company! Yes, it was a day devoted to Yorkshire Windows and they had welcomed the opportunity with open arms and had, literally, brought the whole company with them. Yorkshire Windows had shut down

for the day, although I did notice that there was the odd ‘phone call, so their customers had not been left out on a limb!

It makes a huge amount of sense. Yorkshire Windows had just become customers of Pearl, so what better way for everyone in the company to understand the products and the advantages of moving to their new fabricator than involving everyone in the company? A works outing – although lacking a charabanc and the singing in the back seat going home!

Liniar’s Group Sales Director, Nigel Bishop, opened the proceedings by welcoming everyone and giving a brief history of Liniar but, more importantly, an insight into their plans for the future which includes vast investment in buildings in excess of 350K ft², plant and machinery including significantly expanding their inhouse recycling facilities. The new warehousing planned is indicative of the high aspirations they have set themselves for further growth to the business which will see Liniar exceed £200M in turnover in 2027 (£77M in

2017). Nigel emphasised the importance of sustainable growth and how the company, now with Quanex’s full backing, has continued to invest in its infrastructure and people. 2023 & 2024 will see a further £15M investment in the operation including a new mixing plant and Solar PV. The fact that Liniar takes recycling seriously and has been a waste neutral manufacturing facility since 1994 - is heading to be carbon neutral by 2025 and has headroom for future growth helps Yorkshire Windows realise that picking a Liniar fabricator in Pearl Window Systems was the right choice. Pearl’s Jeff Walsh then went through the training element of the day. Yes, it involved

products and the opportunity to view the vast range in Liniar’s showroom, it also touched on Zero90, the future proofed system that will match up to anything thrown at the industry, in the way of U Values, by the Future Homes directive that will probably apply from 2025. However, this training was more about what Pearl’s Approved Installer Scheme provides in the form of benefits to aid the sales process and what the homeowner gains from buying form the Approved Installer. Marketed under the Signature Collection label, this Collection has one very significant advantage and that is the tie-in with CORGI Fenestration which provides an extended warranty scheme direct to the homeowner plus a one form online completion to register an installation, negating the FENSA and Certass routes for registration.

The marketing support offered by Pearl to its installer base is impressive with much of it tailored and branded to individual installer company requirements. But the really impressive part, for me, is the simplicity

Tooling explained

One of the mixing plants

Pearl’s Jeff Walsh introduces the training session

of everything – getting rid of form filling and paper with Pearl adopting technology to provide apps and portals that are accessible through laptops or smart ‘phones to pretty much run the business. No more fenestration registrations or insurance backed guarantees but the benefit of extended homeowner warranties plus the Signature Collection of fully suited windows, doors and conservatories. What’s not to like? The list of benefits is legion: just look at Pearl’s website, but the nub of it comes from just one registration by the installer, and Pearl looks after the rest. Every window is trackable – a QR code identifies the individual item and records the list of parts involved. So, in the case of a breakage or the need to renew a

part, a simple scan of the QR code makes replication of the item a doddle!

Everything is transparent for both the installer and the homeowner even to the point of a TripAdvisor type rating scheme run by CORGI giving homeowners the confidence to buy. Another boon for the homeowner, but also for the installer, is a Homeowner’s Guide that Jeff Walsh gave out and described at the training session. To say it’s comprehensive is no exaggeration. It’s a 36 page book of guidance for the Homeowner to look after the products installed. So often the installer is called back to a job simply because the homeowner has not looked after the product installed – it’s time consuming and expensive. With this book there really is no excuse for the homeowner not maintaining products correctly. It even takes them through all the individual warranties, shows them how their products are QR coded and how to trace them back to source. Then its off to the

maintenance of products: cleaning, lubrication, drainage and do’s and don’ts of every kind, and there’s also QR codes to scan to access full CGI maintenance videos for certain items. After the session, the Yorkshire Windows staff were let loose in the showroom where they could see and try the vast range of windows and doors and, to complete the day, they were given a guided tour of Liniar’s facilities so they could see, first-hand, how the process of making profile is achieved from start to finish.

As a non-aligned observer of the day, I can only say that it seemed to be of great value to all concerned. The Liniar people are always the perfect hosts; Pearl’s team, led by Jeff Walsh, had set up a brilliant introduction to their installer scheme and demonstrated the importance of system house, fabricator and installer all working together for the greater good.

It was educational and enjoyable: just a shame there was no charabanc and singing on the way home!

Silos mark Liniar’s new mixing plant

The extrusion lines

“Every window is trackable – a QR code identifies the individual item and records the list of parts involved.”

A CAPTIVATING SHOWCASE FROM EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS

Epwin Window Systems has announced the completion of its cutting-edge customer showroom and meeting centre at its Telford headquarters. Spanning approximately 200 sqm, this exceptional facility showcases over 21 products across its PVC-U and aluminium systems, reaffirming its commitment to product excellence.

Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Windows Systems, said: “The new showroom marks a significant step forward in providing customers with an immersive experience, allowing them to explore the depth and scope of our product offer whilst interacting with advanced technologies. Each displayed product is accompanied by an identification plaque with a direct link to the corresponding page on the Epwin Window Systems’ website, providing immediate access to comprehensive information.”

As you would expect from Epwin Window Systems, the attention to detail is evident at every level and includes the latest innovative solutions. Gerald said: “To highlight the integration of smart technologies, selected products within the showroom have been fitted with Yale SensCheck, that has been purpose-designed to support the growth in smart

home products. The Yale SensCheck is the latest integrated smart window and door lock sensor and visitors can see first-hand the benefits of this technology on windows and doors.”

As part of the extensive project, Epwin Window Systems has also introduced three new customer suites, tailored to facilitate efficient and engaging interactions. These suites offer flexible capacities to accommodate various group sizes, from smaller meeting points to largescale presentations. Gerald said: “To enhance the collaborative customer experience we have also added two touchscreen TVs in the customer suites which are preloaded with product and service presentations. And a state-of-the-art projector with a 3-metre-wide screen adds a cinematic dimension to presentations and discussions too.”

Visitors are provided with a helpful showroom guide to assist them on the journey, ensuring they make the most of their experience and gain a comprehensive understanding of the offerings on display. And for customers who cannot attend in person, an immersive

360-degree tour is available allowing customers to experience the showroom from the comfort of their own devices.

The completion of the state-of-the-art showroom and meeting centre represents Epwin Window Systems’ ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of excellence in the industry.

Gerald concluded: “Our new showroom and meeting facility provides customers with an immersive and informative space which is already proving popular with visitors to our Telford headquarters.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968 – www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

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

NEXT STOP LONDON –

MADE FOR TRADE CAPITALISES

ON NATIONAL HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOWS THAT ARE PROVING BUSIER THAN EVER

All three pioneering Korniche products will be on show to the trade and public at the next event, taking place in London this Autumn.

Following on from a rapturous reception at the 2023 FIT Show that saw not just a standout product unveiling but also an in-house fundraising challenge en route, Made for Trade are gearing up for more of the same at the Homebuilding & Renovation Show London, coming up on September 22nd- 24th.

Taking place at London’s ExCeL, the regional variant follows hot on the heels of a hugely successful national version of the event back in March. Here, a 9% increase in footfall was recorded from the previous year to generate some 26,000 people on site - proving that the housing renovation market is far from seeing doom and gloom but still stronger than ever here in the UK.

The success of the National event made a notable impact on MfT’s year; providing not only sales and leads to many of the Made for Trade customers in the Midlands area, but also getting the multi-award winning Korniche product range in front of thousands of new customers. MfT are now able to utilise the next in the programme of busy H&R events to introduce the new Flat Rooflight to the industry and attendees of the London exhibition, where the reception is expected to be just as positive as at its FIT Show launch.

The Korniche Flat Rooflight takes all the USPs and attributes on which the brand has made its name in the industry, and applied them to a flat glass system in order to meet consumer and trade demand for such a high quality engineered product with Korniche’s unrivalled ease and speed of fitment. The aesthetic appeal mirrors that of the Bi-Folding doors and Roof Lantern, with a sleek and ultraslimline profile alongside the highest thermal efficiency –something buyers want to see now more than ever.

Made for Trade have once again invested further in nationwide promotion for the Korniche brand for the benefit of trade partners and are set to join at the ExCeL with a significant display, and more product placement than ever. MfT will look forward to having the full three-product range: the new Flat Rooflight joins the display alongside the Roof

Lantern and Bi-Folding door in single, patio, four and five leaf configurations. The MfT stand layout is designed in such a way that the market-leading and multi-award winning benefits to both the homeowner and their trade installer are clear to see to save time, hassle and money; truly a win-win component for extensions and home builders.

As per the FIT Show in May, Korniche and Made for Trade brand ambassador Mark Millar will again be on site in support of the pioneering North East company at the London exhibition. The TV presenter and recognised tradesman with be meeting new and existing customers and helping to promote the trio of Korniche products - of

which he has first hand experience - to consumers, before he makes an appearance on the event’s ‘MasterClass Stage’ on Saturday 23rd.

As consumers continue to request Korniche by name to their builders and installers, The Homebuilding & Renovating Shows are the ideal platforms at which to showcase Korniche products to homeowners in a position to invest in their own self-build projects and upgrades; further building the brand in a way that works for both parties.

Are you a London-based installer or trade retailer, or homeowner looking to plan a new project? With proven sales success UK-wide as trade partners realise the consumer-led benefits of Korniche engineering, this is one show that really cannot be missed – head to the ExCeL in September to see the products for yourself and speak to the Made for Trade team to see why Korniche is the brand for you.

the heritage ColleCtion

Superbly crafted aluminium windows, doors and internal screening giving your business a competitive advantage:

Suitable for refurbishment and renewal projects, including sensitive planning areas.

Modern high-performance replacement for traditional steel windows and doors.

Slim sightlines with traditional aesthetics.

Interior Screening options creating light and airy internal environments which complement our heritage window and doors.

Document L Compliant.

Tailored marketing support and business development packages available.

To discover more, contact the team today

01773 483090

sales@regaluk.co.uk

www.regalaluminium.uk

from Regal Aluminium

BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING INDEX

Q2 VALUE SALES UP +7.6% ON Q1, WITH VOLUME UP +11.3%

The latest total value sales from Britain’s Builders’ Merchants from BMBI showed that quarter-on-quarter sales climbed +7.6% in Q2 2023 compared to January to March 2023. Growth came from stronger volumes (+11.3%) as prices were -3.3% lower.

QUARTER-ON-QUARTER

Six of the 12 categories had higher value sales quarter-onquarter, with seasonal category Landscaping (+47.3%) out in front, followed by Heavy Building Materials (+9.0%). Timber & Joinery Products (+2.1%) grew more slowly than merchants overall, while Plumbing Heating and Electrical (-12.2%) and Workwear & Safetywear (-12.7%) were the weakest categories. With four less trading days in the most recent period, like-for-like sales were +14.8% higher.

QUARTERLY SALES, YEAR-ON-YEAR

Q2 2023 was down -4.1% on Q2 2022, with no difference in trading days, as volumes fell -13.5% with price inflation of +10.9%. Value sales increased in nine of the 12 categories in Q2 2023 compared to the previous year with Renewables & Water Saving (+44.4%) significantly ahead of the rest.

JUNE SALES, YEAR-ON-YEAR

Total value sales for June were +2.6% ahead of the same month in 2022, helped by two extra trading days this year. Volume sales in June 2023 fell -5.4% year-on-year and prices rose +8.4%. Two of the categories had their highest-ever monthly value sales: Decorating and Heavy Building Materials. Nine of the 12 categories sold more. Like-for-like sales were down -6.8% year-on-year.

AND PRICES DOWN -3.3%

For the full report, Expert comments and Round Table Debates, visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel

GfK’s Merchant Panel includes national, multi-regional and regional merchants such as Buildbase, Jewson, Travis Perkins, EH Smith, Gibbs & Dandy, MKM and Bradfords. GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data represents more than 80% of the value of the builders’ merchant market. GfK insights can trace product group performance and track relevant features. GfK can also produce robust like-for-like market comparability, tailored to the requirements of an individual business.

The Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI)

The BMBI is published every month, in print and online. A full quarterly report is available every three months. The BMBI is a brand of the Builders Merchants Federation. Launched and produced by MRA Research, it uses sales-out data from GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel. BMBI includes a panel of leading industry Experts, who speak exclusively for their markets.

LAST 12 MONTHS

July 2022 to June 2023 sales were the same as July 2021 to June 2022, with one less trading day in the most recent period. However, this parity masked a drop in volume -12.7%, which was offset by prices increasing +14.5%. Nine of the twelve categories sold more with Renewables & Water Saving the best performing category (+43.4%).

BMBI’s Expert for windows and Doors, Rob McGlennon, Managing Director of Deceuninck UK said: “Our research shows that homeowners are buying sustainability when they can. Sixty six percent would choose windows and doors with a higher level of recycled content over one with

a lower level of recycled content for the same level of performance and cost. Only 2% would choose a product with less recycled content.

“Sustainability is important to all homeowners, but it’s increasingly important to tomorrow’s buyers.

Sixty eight percent of the 25-34 year olds who took part in our survey said they were more likely to buy windows and doors that they saw as more sustainable.

“Homeowners often don’t know which products are more recyclable, or their recyclable content. For instance, while research shows that 50% of homeowners think PVC-U is the window and door material that’s the most energy efficient, only 14% know that it’s 100% recyclable at end of life. We all have much to do to get our message across.”

“Sustainability is important to all homeowners, but it’s increasingly important to tomorrow’s buyers.”

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When modern meets traditional, the Aluminium Vertical Sliders from Mercury offer the best of both worlds . As Vertical Slider manufacturing experts, we have the experience and in-house manufacturing expertise to support you with all projects.

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• Suitable for residential and commercial projects

• Flush opening with no projection into or out of the building

• Low line glazing gasket

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

We talk to Deceuninck Aluminium’s Director Nigel Headford about how your choice of aluminium supplier can open doors in the future.

When Deceuninck Aluminium launched its Decalu88 Bi-Folding Door in 2019, it was the right product at the right time, Director Nigel Headford believes, reflecting the way market demands were changing.

“The fundamental appeal of the Decalu88 Bi-folding Door – in 2019 – was that it was one of the most thermally efficient aluminium doors on the market, with a modern aesthetic to match,” Nigel says. “Fast-forward almost five years, and it is still one of the most thermally efficient aluminium doors on the market, but market demands have continued to evolve, and homeowners want more.”

Nigel explains how many PVC-U fabricators made their first moves into the aluminium sector by offering an aluminium bi-folding door.

“At the time it was an easy upsell,” Nigel says. “PVC-U bi-folds have never had the same appeal as aluminium, so homeowners buying a house of PVC-U windows would often choose an aluminium bi-folding door.

“But over the last couple of years, these drivers have changed. Instead of adding on a bi-fold, homeowners are more likely to take a whole house approach to refurbishment, and suite all products in one system. So, if it involves a bi-fold, then the choice of system is almost certainly going to be aluminium.”

Deceuninck Aluminium, Nigel says, has always had one eye on this emerging trend, and has designed a suite of products to match including, most recently of all, the Decalu88 Flush Casement Window.

“Having that suite of products is crucial,” Nigel says, “but where we win further plaudits is with the modular approach – we’ve kept stockholding to an absolute minimum.

“Beads, for example, are uniform across all products in the Decalu range, which not only means that less money is tied up in stock for fabricators, but there is less chance for error on site. Also, because those beads are pre-gasketed, hours can be shaved off a typical install.”

Nigel reflects that one particular success story for Deceuninck Aluminium was the Decalu163 Lift-and-Slide door.

“While PVC-U never really made it in the bi-folding world, it has always had a strong foothold in patio sliders,” Nigel explains.

“So, when we designed the Decalu163 Lift-and-Slide, we had to blow people’s expectations out of the water.

Deceuninck Aluminium’s ultra-energy efficient Decalu163 Lift-and-Slide Door can achieve U-values as low as 1.3W/m2K double-glazed making it Part L-compliant for home improvement without having to go to triple-glazed units, saving installers a massive amount of weight in handling.

The aluminium lift-and-slide door is also Part L newbuild-compliant, achieving U-values of as low as 0.8W/ m2K, which also means that it will meet the expected standard for newbuild from 2025 in the Future Homes Standard, in its current configuration. This is achieved using advanced preinserted thermal inserts.

“You talk to any fabricator of aluminium doors, and they are left scratching their heads at how they can meet the building regs because their current suppliers are one step behind,” Nigel said. “Not only do we have an ultra-energy-efficient solution, but the Decalu163 also allows designers to go to town on size.”

The Decalu163 uses a specially designed and highly engineered operating mechanism. This means that each sash can accommodate weights of up to 400kg, maximising design reach.

Individual sashes can be manufactured to 3,900mm by 2,500mm, which gives the Decalu163 Lift-and-Slide the design potential to be comfortably manufactured to span openings of up to 4,000mm by 3,500mm long on a single track; 4,000mm

by 7,000mm on a twin track; and 4,000mm by 10,500mm on our triple track option. In common with Deceuninck Aluminium’s wider offer, dual-colour and marine grade finishes are offered – as standard – simplifying pricing and guaranteeing performance regardless of where it’s fitted.

“Homeowners want bold, energy-efficient statement pieces, and installers want to fit and forget while maximising earning potential,” Nigel says. “The Decalu163 fits that brief.”

Nigel argues that launching Deceuninck Aluminium with a bi-folding door that defied expectations was the best strategy. And now they are extending that design approach across all products is not only winning market share but opening-up new opportunities for their customers.

“Those fabricators who chose Deceuninck Aluminium when we only had a door offering, are now coming back to us wanting the whole range,” Nigel says. “And because we involved them in the design process, those products are exactly what they want.”

For more information call 01249 816 969, email deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com or visit www.deceuninck.co.uk.

Flush Casement Window

The aluminium system with the slimmest sightlines on the market

• Flush and Fully Flush

• Pre-gasket System

Slimline Bifold Door

Expertly crafted and exceptionally designed from high end aluminium.

• Slim Sightline of 117mm

• Easy Glaze knock in beads

• Adjustable slimline lock style

• Quick installation

• Part L Compliant

• Choice of colour options

We offer a dedicated and focused trade supply service, providing fabricated aluminium doors, windows, bifolding doors and a range of quality commercial systems.

Extensive Choice Products are available in a wide choice of colours and finishes.

CONTACT US TODAY

For more information or a quotation:

Telephone - 01895 271061 | Email - tradesales@capitalwindows.co.uk Visit - www.capitalwindows.co.uk

Our Promise

The highest quality and best experience for every customer.

DANNY WILLIAMS ‘COLD CALLING’

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

“’There’s lots of stories being bandied around about ex Duraflex fabricators flapping because they’re worried about matching their profile prices. We pride ourselves on quality of product and installation whilst Duraflex installers have often undercut us. This has left me wondering if I shouldn’t change my frame supplier and just sell the cheapest I can get, whatever brand that might be. Have I been missing a trick?”

RS (Retail Installer, South West England)

If selling or buying anything was just down to buying or selling the cheapest RS, then very few of us would remain in business and it would be as simple as listing your prices wherever you thought your customers were looking. You wouldn’t need salespeople, that’s for sure.

But the strange concept of choice ensures that competition not only survives, but it also positively thrives.

Selling anything based upon being the cheapest is hardly new; for years I have been ranting about how too many people at all levels in this industry are so willing to give it away, even when they absolutely do not need to. Read my recent observations on how the big IGU makers sell hi-tech quality glass units for peanuts, despite there being less competition than at any time in the industry’s history…because of course, so many processors have gone bust.

Although you would assume that they are cutting edge in everything they do RS, some of the largest frame makers in the industry

are surprisingly backwards in their approach to pricing. According to the industry’s leading software provider, the vast majority of volume fabricators that use price as a key selling point, calculate their quotes using matrix pricing rather than cost plus, the method that we use.

Matrix pricing uses pre calculated prices which is simpler to determine but does not accurately cost out each job – it is convenient but lazy. We insist upon costplus, within which every job is accurately and individually costed. We know therefore, what the margin is for every job. The problem for those using matrix pricing is that when costs and volumes vary, losses are easily incurred and compounded. It is the same for installers. Every job is different and one price for all is asking for trouble.

I was always under pressure to drop prices, including from my sales team who would frequently use ‘we’re too expensive Danny’ as an excuse for not closing sales. So I created a spread sheet for them to understand, with the actual cost and margin recovery using data calculated using our cost plus and management accounts software. This proved to them that if we discounted just 10 percent for every client, we would need to bring in 80 percent more work to stand still: why would we want to do that?

‘You’re only saying that because you’re never the cheapest Danny’ I hear you say. But I am never the cheapest because I am able

to calculate what everything costs me to do what I do, and keep doing it, to enable my customers to give their customers great products and service. In fact, so good am I after 35 years of doing such calculations, that when I see someone out there selling the same products that I do at a considerably lower price, I know that they cannot possibly keep doing it for any length of time. It is simply against the basic laws of economics. Being the cheapest doesn’t do anyone any good in the long-term…even companies for which the sole reason to buy from is price, will themselves be undercut eventually –there is always another cowboy out there that just wants to grab as much of the cake as they possibly can, before they too go pop.

Selling on price alone strips a company of everything except that one element. By selling on price alone, it removes their ability to develop any other aspect of its business, simply because it cannot afford to do so. As soon as another company sells the same or even similar products cheaper, that company has lost its only USP. And even on a retail level, gaining a reputation for being the cheapest will alienate you from a large part of your potential market because people associate ‘cheap’ with ‘poor’. And the reason they do this is because invariably, cheap often results in failure, if not total, then at least of some key aspects of that supplier’s service.

At my level, as a fabricator, I understand that my installer customers may leave me at the drop of a hat. To a degree I am protected from that happening too frequently, because my primary supplier Deceuninck is careful about who they take on as a fabricator, filtering out any company that has a clear policy of selling products cheaply, before they do so. Which means that I am very happy to compete head-to-head on every other key element of competitive business: product

quality, order-to-delivery turnaround and after-sales support. And that most crucial element of all: digging a customer out of the brown stuff, whoever’s fault it might be. I assume RS that you have gone through the process of calculating how much more business you will have to bring in at your new, cheapest ever prices in order to make a profit, compared to what you do now. Extra sales generated simply on you being the cheapest…which in itself will be from a reduced catchment, because lots of people are suspicious of paying the lowest price, especially on such a crucial element as their home.

In this day and age RS, the old cliché of a good reputation taking years to create, but a bad one overnight, has never been truer, thanks to Facebook and the like. Whoever you buy from must be able to provide you with great products, with reasonable lead times and of course, at competitive prices. And you also need to know that when the inevitable cock up happens, they will fall over backwards to help you resolve the problem, even if it’s because your fitter dropped a frame and broke it.

The irony of selling at the lowest price is that not one single customer will expect any less from you than if they had paid top dollar. And should they ask you why are you so much cheaper than anyone else, do you tell them that your service levels are poorer, that your lead times are longer, or that should there be a problem, they are likely to have to wait a bit longer for you to come and fix it?

Of course not.

And there’s the rub: the whole deal is based on lies, hardly the best way to conduct business RS, is it? Get better at what you do, not cheaper. There’s a reason all those fabricators hung on as long as they did.

* Danny Williams is managing director of Chelmsford based Pioneer Trading and has been involved with all aspects of the windows and doors industry for 35 years. His activities include manufacturing a full range of windows and doors in PVC-U and aluminium, an IGU facility, retailing and commercial contracting.

“Being the cheapest doesn’t do anyone any good in the long-term… even companies for which the sole reason to buy from is price, will themselves be undercut eventually – there is always another cowboy out there that just wants to grab as much of the cake as they possibly can, before they too go pop.”

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU...

Your education and the subject or activity in which you excelled?

During my time at school, I found a love for sports, excelling in football and golf. The passion for sports led me to pursue a college course in Sports Psychology. At the age of 18 I embarked on a journey to South Africa to continue my love for sports and becoming a professional golfer.

Your favourite sports or interests?

I have a diverse sports background, excelling in both golf and football. I showcase my skills on the football pitch by representing Harvest

Football Club in the Hampshire Premier League. I am also part of the Friends Fighting Cancer (FFC) charity where I regularly play in fundraising events. FFC is a non-profit organisation that hosts fundraising activities to benefit local families. They aim to raise a lot of money and have fun doing it, this is why Window Warehouse is the main charity partner who sponsors this cause as part of their commitment to giving back to the community.

Someone or something that inspires you?

Family life is just as important to me as my career is, being a dedicated family man to my wife and 6-month-old daughter. My biggest inspiration is my dad, Malcolm Cake. Malcolm started Window Warehouse 37 years ago and has built the company into what it is today. His presence in the industry and all that he’s achieved inspires me.

YOUR CAREER...

When and how did you join this industry?

I joined the company 10 years ago, as a salesman , but before this spent my summer holidays off college helping out around

THIS MONTH: Remi Cake Operations Director, Window Warehouse

Starting as a Fabricator in his family business, Remi’s journey at Window Warehouse exemplifies his remarkable ascent to becoming the Operations Director.

family business; however, we have grown to supply the whole of the South Coast. We pride ourselves in customer service and high quality and hope to continue this as the business continues to grow. We have worked on our most revolutionary project to date, our Window Warehouse app. The app is all about streamlining our customers processes, making life easier for the installer.

AND YOUR FUTURE...

the company. From starting off spending Saturday mornings working with my dad, I am proud to say I have worked my way up within the company from a Fabricator in the factory, Sales Coordinator, Sales Manager, Sales Director and now Operations Director. My current position as Operations Director means I am overseeing the day to day running of the business from the point of sales right through to production.

Your greatest achievement?

It’s been amazing to be part of the expansion of Window Warehouse, seeing it go from 40 to 90 members of staff in the space of 3 years. We still hold the values of a small

What would you like to do if you weren’t in this industry?

I couldn’t imagine not being in the fenestration industry as I have been committed to it for 10 years, but if I had to choose an alternative path it would be a career as a professional golfer.

A particular ambition?

I aspire to demonstrate that with commitment to delivering quality products and services you can build a successful business with dedicated staff and a positive workplace. I want Window Warehouse to be the best it can be, continuing to maintain our strong relationships with our customers. I am very proud of all the staff and their continuous efforts to keep Window Warehouse a reliable company with high quality and service.

The way you want to be remembered?

Following on from my dad’s success I hope to be respected across the industry just as he has been. I hope to continue all the success of Window Warehouse, withholding our customer relationships and providing the service and quality we pride ourselves on.

If you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email

SASH WINDOWS ARE JUST THE START...

As the original timber-alternative sash window manufacturer we know that making the most authentic and innovative sash windows is just the beginning...

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

NEW APPOINTMENT

SHEERLINE EXPANDS SALES TEAM TO CONTINUE GROWTH SIEGENIA ADDS EXPERIENCE TO ITS SALES TEAM

SIEGENIA has hired a new Regional Sales Manager to cover Scotland and the island of Ireland.

Neil O’Hanlon joined the company in June and comes with a wealth of experience having run his own joinery business in Northern Ireland for nearly 30 years. Neil will be providing sales and technical support to customers across Northern and Southern Ireland as well as seeking to attract new business. He will also

NEW APPOINTMENT NEW APPOINTMENT

join the company’s sales consultant in Scotland to provide extensive support there as part of an extremely experienced and knowledgeable team.

SIEGENIA’s General Manager for the UK, Ryan Thompson, said, “It is great to have Neil on board.

We are sure that with his product knowledge in timber, technical skills and contacts he will be a great asset to us, not only in terms of upholding

HAFFNER FURTHER STRENGTHENS SERVICE RESOURCE WITH NEW ENGINEER APPOINTMENT

Following rapid expansion in Ireland and Scotland, leading machinery innovators Haffner Ltd has announced the appointment of David Carruthers as Service Engineer. With over two decades of experience in the window industry, David's expertise is set to further elevate Haffner's technical service support in Northern Ireland and the UK.

Award-winning Haffner, with its decades of experience, is a renowned provider of high-quality window and door machinery solutions. The

company's commitment to innovation, precision, and customer satisfaction has established it as a trusted partner for fabricators across the industry.

Haffner has the largest and most comprehensive machine portfolio in the industry today.

It is the exclusive UK supply partner of Graf Synergy, which offers seamless welding technology and patented welding techniques. It is also the sole UK agent of Haffner Machinery, which designs innovative and high-quality engineered products at

SIEGENIA’s high service levels, but also in terms of new business acquisition. Scotland and Ireland are extremely important markets to us and pivotal in our growth plans so it was important to us to have high quality personnel to look after these regions”.

To help make their innovative, thermally efficient aluminium range available to more installers, homeowners, and specifiers across the whole of the UK, Sheerline have expanded their Sales Team with some new key appointments. Further strengthening the companies reach North and to the South West. With the imminent launch of their slimline Classic Heritage Door, Sheerline now offers truly whole house solutions, allowing fabricators and installers to offer easy-to-understand, fully compliant products that share a unified platform. To help spread the message of just how good aluminium can be, Howard Hirst joins Garnalex as Area Sales Director –North. Howard brings with him a wealth of experience and looks forward to helping existing customers realise their growth ambitions, as well as expanding Sheerline’s network northwards. He will also cover the North of Wales. Also strengthening the Sales Team is Martin Hepburn, who started as the Area Sales Manager covering the West Midlands, South Wales and South West at the beginning of July.

planning. He’s spent the past five years as the Commercial Sales Manager (Trade and Retail) for Reynaers.

Tony Basile Sheerline’s National Sales Director, comments: “These new positions, working alongside Paul Greenaway who covers London and the South East, are key to helping us deliver the service levels we are committed to, for each and every Sheerline customer.”

Roger Hartshorn, Sheerline CEO, also said of the new appointments: “It’s fantastic to welcome Howard, and Martin onboard. Having worked with Howard at both Eurocell and Liniar, I’m confident that we will continue to achieve our ambitious growth targets. It’s good to have him back in the family!”

competitive industry prices. And it’s the strategic UK partner for FOM Industrie, which combines the latest aluminium fabrication machine technology with quality, skilled engineering, and competitive prices.  Backing up the comprehensive machinery offer is a team of industry experts committed to adding value to customers’ fabrication set ups.

Tel: 01785 222421

www.haffnerltd.com

No stranger to the fenestration industry, Martin brings with him over 30 years’ of experience in commercial management, business development, and strategic sales

“With these new appointments, we’re combining the best of tried and tested with new blood to create a strong and experienced team with a depth of knowledge from across the industry. That we’re able to attract and retain such talent is a testament to our commitment to our people, products, and customers,” he added. To find out more about Sheerline and its’ new products, visit the website here: http://www.sheerline.com, Alternatively, contact the team on 01332 978000 or email info@sheerline.com.

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

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