Glass News May 2024

Glass is the perfect circular material due to its unlimited recyclability with no loss of quality. Public policy attention has focused on recycling and reusing container glass.

However, end-of-life flat glass products that are used in the construction, demolition, and renovation sectors (e.g., windows, glass doors, transparent walls, roof lights and mirrors), are more likely to end up in low value aggregates, be remelted for container glass, or be sent to landfill than be recycled for flat glass.

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have recently published a report proposing a number of policy initiatives to promote flat glass circularity in the UK. The report was based on a research project funded by the UKRI-ISCF Transforming Foundation Industries Network+ and implemented in collaboration with British Glass during 2023.

ENABLING FLAT GLASS CIRCULARITY IN THE UK

Findings show that turning flat glass waste into a resource depends on the balance of incentives, enforcement, collaboration, and awareness. Public policy and industry initiatives should aim at creating a market for cullet supported by an integrated value chain, adequate recycling infrastructure (including collection, transport, and reprocessing of cullet), appropriate economic incentives, and flat glass wastespecific regulations that would encourage recycling. As government action around flat-glass recycling in the UK is still in early stages, industry-driven initiatives should focus on collective action aimed at achieving greater coordination and awareness in the value chain, as well as promoting that cullet is treated as a resource instead of a waste material.

You can find the full report here: https://doi.org/10.17639/vhx7-re77

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IT MAY BE GRIM BUT THERE’S ALWAYS HOPE

They always used to say “It’s grim up t’north” but, by heck, isn’t it pretty grim everywhere? Constant grey skies, rain on most days, and it’s chilly. And it’s not just here. Whole bunches of my golfing pals fly south for periods of the winter…Spain, Portugal, Tenerife, Lanzarote – some even venture to south sea islands and places like New Zealand. OK, they pretty much all say it’s cheaper than being at home but they all also complain of grey skies and rainy days – and that applies to those who were expecting warmer climes while on a cruise. I even spoke to one of our better known trade PRs who, having chased the sun to Spain, found himself forcing himself to lie on a sun bed in 18 degrees C while the locals were sporting Puffa Jackets and fleeces. I’m not sure the colour he got was from embarrassment or frostbite ‘cos it can’t have been sunburn!

However, all is not bad. With spring here, and although our government is clueless and the alternative equally bad, suddenly things may be perking up. Is the economy recovering? Mortgages, a good indicator of what’s good and bad, have increased. Approved mortgages have increased by nearly 10% since January and rates on these loans are coming in at under 5%. Add to this a dip in house prices and things are looking up although one suspects the dip in prices is what they might call a ‘blip’. But inflation has come down from the 2.5 percent in February to 1.3 percent in March – a low since 2021. They are also saying manufacturing has grown for the first time since 2022, a recovery from the suspected recession that was indicated at the end of 2023 and, finally, the FTSE 100 went through the 8,000 barrier and, although dropping back again, the City expects the all time high of 8,047 in February 2023 will be broken soon.

Now this all sounds positive albeit in a small way. Can these improvements be sustained and are we all looking at a rosier future.? Let’s be positive and say yes! But we also have to remember everything else going on in the world: politics, wars, terrorists, a presidential election and a probable election of our own. It may be too soon to be able to keep a smile on our faces but with a bit of spring weather I’m seeing a lot of installer vans around and windows getting fitted but perhaps that’s just the time of year, after all, customer confidence is at a two year high. What does seem clear is that news, generally, is really depressing. I’ve pretty much given up on watching any form of TV news and

steer well clear of the BBC at all costs with their biased views and half-truths. Regrettably, the newspapers are much the same. Everything is either grim or celebrity related – or both! Funnily enough, if I want my spirits raised I look at social media, although that’s a bit of a generalisation. The only social media I view is LinkedIn. OK, some may say that all LinkedIn has is the fluffy stuff and there is some truth in that, but it does keep our industry linked together and talking to each other and there is some joy in hearing about the social interactions and not just marketing puff. What it comes down to is the importance of communication and that applies as much to our private lives as to the work environment. Fenestration, as an industry, has recovered from the lockdown years and, although I have no proof, I suspect that the dreaded WFH is pretty much null and void within most of our companies. Although there may be good reasons for an element of WFH, don’t we all benefit from face to face interaction? Isn’t it more productive to have ideas bounced off colleagues than doing everything in glorious isolation? One good idea can be enhanced into something so much better when debated among colleagues, after all, we can all be wrong or not able to see the whole picture and can benefit from input from others. So, can someone tell me why the civil service is still allowing all this ‘work from home’ instead of telling their employees to get into the office, or get fired? It seems that any people connected with government are a lily-livered bunch of wasters and I’m not sure why we put up with it. Man the barricades!

But perhaps we should end on an uplifting and hopeful note and put my negativity down to having just returned from our annual Easter holiday, with all 12 of us, including children and grandchildren, in a very wet Lake District - an area, much like any other, where post Covid profiteering is rife! I like Andrew Scott’s outlook being that in uncertain times opportunities abound. He says: “So as we enter the new financial year (for many) are you taking a cautious few steps forward or putting your foot on the gas and going for it?”

Chris

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY?

Email Chris at: chris@glassnews.co.uk

‘TIME

OUT’ WINNERS –MARCH!

Sudoku:

David McCabe, Scarva, N.Ireland Eye Spy: P Edmunds, Peterlee, County Durham

Spot the Difference: Mrs C O’Malley, Brighton, East Sussex

Crossword:

Will Lightfoot, KIWA Fire Safety Compliance, Aylesbury, Bucks

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

CONTENTS

4 Trade News

16 Installer Support

22 Ventilation Expert

24 Q&A: Epwin Window Systems

26 What Door?

42 Q&A: Garnalex

44 Hardware & Security

54 Trade News

73 BMBI

74 Roofing Expert

76 A Window Into Aluminium

80 Software Expert

81 Company Profile: Glazpart

82 Software & IT

83 Cold Calling

84 Women In Industry

85 Marketing

86 Careers & Qualifications in Fenestration

87 Time Out!

88 Find A Supplier

CONTACT DETAILS

Christina Lazenby

Managing Director / Advertising Enquiries

M: 07805 051322

E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

Emma Champion

Advertising Manager

M: 07508 263262

E: emma@glassnews.co.uk

Justin Lazenby

Finance Director / Press Release Enquiries

M: 07711 828710

E: justin@glassnews.co.uk

Chris Champion

Editor / Editorial Enquiries

M: 07850 267223

E: chris@glassnews.co.uk

Kate Carnall

Graphic Design

E: kate@glassnews.co.uk Deadline for copy: 16th of each month

THE FINISHING TOUCH FOR AGATE GREY AND BLACK WINDOWS AND DOORS

The latest Venetian integral blind colours which have been developed to respond to changing home décor trends offer important sales potential according to Ian Short, MD of Uni-Blinds® integral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass.

Ian says, “White window and door frames may continue to dominate sales in the UK, but the new kids on the block are undoubtedly agate grey and black.”

This is reflected in sales of Uni-Blinds® integral blind units, which are now available in both these colours within the Venetian range. Despite white and anthracite continuing to take the lion’s share of our sales, there is a noticeable shift to other colours as homeowners and architects experiment with different approaches to the look of their windows and doors.

Ian continues, “Innovation by profile manufacturers has provided end-users with easy access to high quality, visually appealing uPVC and aluminium systems which are gradually shifting the perception that frames should be white. The anthracite boom has certainly turbocharged this shift, which means it accounts for an estimated 10% of all uPVC windows installed, and the colour is the most popular in aluminium according to some fabricators and installers.

“What is particularly interesting to see is the greater variety of colours being chosen today by customers compared to, say, ten years ago, particularly when it comes to our Uni-Blinds®. All the bespoke integral blind units that we manufacture for customers are created using ScreenLine® systems from the global market leader, Pellini S.p.A. who have been extremely active on new colour development in recent years.

“The arrival of new ScreenLine® Venetian blind colours in agate grey (S120) and black (B160) during 2023, which are exclusively available in the UK from Morley Glass, was particularly welcome as they give homeowners the opportunity to complete their windows and doors with integral blinds for a fully ‘on-trend’ result. Other integral blind colours, such as silver (S157), anthracite (S159) and slate grey (S158), can also look amazing within coloured frames, but agate grey and black have made an instant impact in the market.”

WHEN TO CHOOSE AGATE GREY AND BLACK INTEGRAL BLINDS

Agate grey has been a popular alternative to anthracite for the past few years. Sometimes referred to as ‘Painswick’, it offers a more calming colour option versus the bolder greys given its hint of green, which makes it an excellent choice for homes with lighter coloured bricks or stone. For homeowners looking for timeless appeal, combining agate grey integral blinds with the same colour frames is an excellent choice. But it doesn’t always have to be about being complementary and colour-matching – agate grey blinds can also provide a contrasting look when installed into windows and doors with darker frames, such as black or anthracite, to achieve a statement look.

As a powerful colour, black Uni-Blinds® are suitable for use in both contemporary or traditional windows and doors. As with the other colour options, they can be used to achieve a complementary look with matching frames or to contrast, sometimes with very distinctive, even unique, results.

Morley Glass has seen the popularity of black window and door frames grow as the colour’s appeal has increased for all kinds of interior features and fittings, such as taps and internal door handles. They can look particularly striking in properties featuring rendered walls with a light finish, as well as with lighter brick and stone, and these are the types

of homes where the company sees the greatest appeal for black integral blinds, especially for ultra-modern styles such as bi-fold doors.

LOOKING AHEAD TO A MORE COLOURDIVERSE FUTURE

Neutral colours are undoubtedly dominating home décor trends at the moment, but that’s not to say a very different set of colours will not be in fashion in five or ten years’ time. The rise in popularity of black and agate grey windows and doors is partly a response to these changing trends, but also a reflection of the level of product innovation today in the fenestration sector versus previous generations.

Pellini S.p.A. has a team of colour specialists whose job it is to ensure the colours applied to the Venetian blind slats within all ScreenLine® systems are consistently high quality. This is crucial given the intense heat that can build up inside an integral blind unit in the strong summer sunshine, coupled with the impact of UV light, which means any new product must be able to stand the test of time to meet customer expectations.

Ian concludes, “The window industry is getting better all the time at creating products with lasting colour, whether that’s on integral blinds or frames, and that provides greater inspiration for homeowners looking to make their properties just the way they want them.”

Find out more about Uni-Blinds® integral blind colours at www.morleyglass.co.uk/available-colours.

Black Venetian Uni-Blinds® integral blinds have proved a popular choice since their launch in 2023

The full range of ScreenLine® Venetian integral blind colours now available from Morley Glass is perfectly suited to contemporary tastes whilst also being compatible with more traditional architecture

Agate grey offers a softer grey option for those seeking to carefully coordinate their décor with the integral blinds

DEKKO WINDOW SYSTEMS EMPOWERS TEAM WITH NEW 6S AREA CHAMPIONS

Leading trade fabricator Dekko Window Systems is proud to announce that nine of its employees have recently become 6S Area Champions.

These individuals have undergone extensive training in the 6S method, a powerful workplace improvement process that helps maintain a productive and safe environment.

The 6S method focuses on taking ownership of workspaces and implementing small, continuous improvements that add up to significant changes.

The six steps of the method include Seiri (sort), Seiton (set in order), Seiso (shine), Seiketsu (standardise), Shitsuke (sustain), and Safety, with the process involving decluttering work areas by removing unnecessary items, organising everything for easy access and efficiency, regularly cleaning and

maintaining workspaces, establishing consistent practices and procedures for smooth operation, making continuous improvement a habit by constantly evolving processes, and identifying and addressing hazards to create a secure work environment.

Sales Director Kurt Greatrex comments:

“By creating 6S Area Champions within the company, Dekko is empowering our team members to drive positive change. These experienced individuals will act as ambassadors for the programme, providing guidance, support, and

motivation to their colleagues.

“Our commitment to building a better workplace is exemplified through a dedicated team of 6S Champions who are driving positive change across the organisation, and I believe that these efforts will go on to enhance customer service to our valued customers.”

Dekko is a leading supplier of Deceuninck, Reynaers and Residence Collection products, having supplied high-quality uPVC and aluminium windows and doors to the trade for over 15 years.

www.dekkowindows.com

CONSERVATORY OUTLET BOOSTS ITS GREEN CREDENTIALS

Conservatory Outlet has taken a further leap towards being fully waste-free.

The manufacturer of windows, doors and living space products has implemented several additional recycling programmes over the past twelve months.

As a result, the percentage of materials being disposed of and sent to landfill now stands in the single digits – a reduction of over 20%.

Central to this success has been Conservatory Outlet’s decision to engage with various recycling specialists to review its waste management processes and make a series of marginal gains across the business.

This has led to more recycling points being installed at its 60,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Wakefield which allows for a wider range of materials to be collected and recycled.

As the recycling scheme expands, the aim is to be fully waste-free by the end of 2024.

Also, the company has created a dedicated on-site waste management collection point for its customers to use. This allows members of the Conservatory Outlet Premium Retail Network to send waste UPVC and materials back to the company to recycle on their behalf.

VEKA & PARTNERS: A STRONG TEAM

Conservatory Outlet’s Managing Director, Mick Giscombe, said: “It’s fantastic to see how as a business we’ve been cutting down on waste and increasing our recycling statistics year-on-year.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to a more sustainable future, we’re taking the lead and ensuring that there is no waste leftover from our manufacturing process.

“We’re talking about improving this scheme further and our team is looking at reducing that number to the point where we might even be recycling at a net gain in the near future.

“The focus on recycling is having positive benefits across the business, the environment and our customers.

“Many of our retailer partners talk about how green credentials are becoming more and more important to their customers, so being able to back up their work with our efforts as a sustainable and responsible manufacturer is only a positive thing.”

The VEKA Group once again proved it is an unstoppable force within fenestration with its industry-leading showcase at FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2024.

The UK team from VEKA plc joined VEKA AG and VEKA Group colleagues, partners, and customers from across its 40 global subsidiaries in Nuremberg from March 18 – 22 for a week of innovation, excellence, and networking. The show confirmed once again the remarkable strength of the VEKA Group, the importance it places on collaborative partnerships and its commitment to driving sustainability within the sector.

Thousands of attendees at the significant global window, door and façade construction trade show visited the PVCu systems company’s impressive 1000m2

exhibition space, complete with cuttingedge display technology, to view the exciting full range of products that the Group has to offer and speak directly to its experts.

Rooted in its renowned 50-year heritage of design, innovation, customer focus and manufacturing excellence, FENSTERBAU FRONTALE cemented VEKA’s place at the forefront of shaping industry-wide developments.

Attendees had the opportunity to see up close and demo a number of products and innovations including VEKA Fine Structure, which uses pioneering surface technologies for a power-coated aluminium look and feel, and the huge range of design surfaces and foils in the VEKA Spectral range. VEKA also displayed its new sliding systems, VEKAMOVE 76, and VEKAMOTION 82.

NEW GAME-CHANGING UK INNOVATION

The UK presented one of the three international showcases alongside France

and Denmark, introducing its latest ground-breaking product, created through collaboration with industry partners. Due to be officially launched in the UK in April, it is promised to herald a brand-new era for the window and door sector.

Additional highlights included VEKA AluConnect, VEKAFAST, smart home components from TEXINO, and a display from VEKA subsidiary, Digital Building Solutions (DBS).

FUTURE FRIENDLY FOCUS

With sustainability a major focus for VEKA, VEKA AG also spotlighted VEKA Umwelttechnik which is leading the way in plastic window recycling. This approach is mirrored in the UK through VEKA Recycling with a pioneering approach towards enabling a sustainable closed-loop system for the PVCu sector.

Neil Evans, Managing Director at VEKA plc, said: “FENSTERBAU FRONTALE is a major date in the international fenestration calendar. It provides a fantastic opportunity

for the entire VEKA Group to come together on a massive scale to showcase not only the innovation and quality that make VEKA who we are, but also just how strong the VEKA family is, which was emphasised throughout the show as ‘VEKA & Partners – a strong team’.

“VEKA plc would like to thank our colleagues at VEKA AG for inviting us to join them at the show. Continuing this theme of innovation in the UK, VEKA plc was delighted to be included within the international showcase. We’ve been working on something behind the scenes for a few years now, and we’re excited that we have a date set when we will officially unveil this in the UK – watch this space.”

For more information visit: www.veka.co.uk.

A COMMERCIAL ADVANTAGE FROM EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS

Epwin Window Systems is highlighting the benefits available to its Approved Commercial Partners (ACPs) via its Connect digital platform. One of the benefits that is proving particularly valuable, especially in terms of lead generation, is free access to Barbour ABI, the market leading provider of construction intelligence and building project leads.

The in-house Barbour ABI team tracks every planning application and thousands of non- planning projects across the UK to deliver valuable insight, up-to-date construction leads and industry data.  Its extensive construction database is regularly updated with relevant decisionmaker contact details, project stage and location, build values and the type of materials being specified on site to deliver the most up-to-date and relevant construction project opportunities from pre-planning through to sub-contracting.

Jonathan Reece, Head of Specification at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are serious about helping our ACPs succeed in the competitive commercial space and Barbour ABI gives them a valuable tool to do just that.”

In addition to free access to Barbour ABI, ACP members also have access to a wealth of technical information, professional services and marketing materials to help them grow their commercial portfolio. The scheme is underpinned by a skilled and experienced in-house team who can help navigate the commercial complexities of technical specifications, sustainability and building regulations.

There is professional assistance with tendering and PQQ writing to help fabricators submit compelling bids. Full technical support for commercial projects is included too, covering survey, design, drawing, structural calculations, stakeholders’ meetings and on-site installation. A comprehensive Commercial Training Programme is available that includes modules covering commercial law and site management. Regular Commercial Market Reports and a quarterly ACP newsletter helps keeps fabricators up to date with market opportunities.

Jonathan concluded: “Epwin Window Systems’ wealth of experience, knowledge and product quality is recognised and respected in the commercial sector. And the benefits of our ACP scheme underscore our commitment to adding value to our commercial partners.”

The Epwin Window Systems Approved Commercial Partner scheme is open to commercial manufacturers of Profile 22, Spectus, PatioMaster and Stellar systems. To find out more about the criteria for membership, contact Epwin Window Systems today.

Tel: 0808 101 4143  www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

CLEARVIEW HOME IMPROVEMENTS HOSTS A MENOPAUSE WORKSHOP

Clearview Home Improvements, the North West’s Premium Retailer and installer of windows, doors and luxury living space, has recently combined with a local lifestyle coach to host a menopause workshop.

Hosted by Anna Oakes, who is also a certified nutritionist, the event at Clearview’s Leyland showroom brought women from around Lancashire together to learn about the menopause in a close-knit and supportive environment.

Clearview closed the showroom especially for the event to provide a welcoming and private space for the session to take place.

As part of the session, Anna provided advice, mentorship and guidance on how the body naturally changes and what can be done during this transitional journey. The event also featured a workshop, an open forum where people could openly discuss their personal experiences, and a questionand-answer session.

Speaking about the workshop, Anna commented: “The menopause remains an under-discussed and underreported life experience. The event aimed to celebrate womanhood, our resilience, and help support individuals who are menopausal or perimenopausal.

“The menopause is an important topic that affects everyone in one way or another and something that family, friends and employers should be educated on.”

THE NEW LOOK BFRC

Founded almost 25 years ago to establish the Window and Door Energy Rating system for the UK, the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) strives to raise standards and drive performance across the fenestration industry. The scheme is now the most trusted rating provider in its field, providing strong foundations for where BFRC is going next.

Under the leadership of a new but extremely experienced management team, which includes Managing Director Richard Sellman and Technical Director Richard Bate, BFRC is expanding its offering to extend the credible, reliable and

knowledgeable service it provides to its members and the wider industry.

Richard Sellman explains: “It’s exciting times at BFRC. Our newly established team is working on widening the scope of our service offering in line with the growing demands on the performance and quality of windows and doors the market now requires. We’re also working on overhauling the brand, with our refreshed logo and a new look website coming soon.

“With ongoing debates on Part L and other Building Regulation requirements, the new look BFRC, which combines the organisation’s longstanding heritage with the teams wide-ranging expertise, will be

well placed to help enable the industry to comply with future requirements.

“As standards continue to evolve, testing and certification remain hot topics, which is why we are extending our position as the industry-focussed, independent, collaborative certification partner. 2024 will see a diversification of our service offering. We will soon be delivering our new look BFRC rebrand that includes a new website with extended member functionality.

Richard Bate concludes: “Richard and I are excited about what 2024 has in store for BFRC. We have ambitious plans to revamp the BFRC offering and provide our clients with services that enable them

The feedback from the workshop has been extremely positive, as Anna explains: “Many of the women who attended spoke about how they gained a new perspective on this phase of their life. Creating a private space allowed for some fantastic dialogue to help everyone who attended.”

Clearview’s CEO, Greg Kane, added: “We were delighted when Anna approached us about hosting the event. We immediately said yes and began working with her to ensure the morning was as successful and as well-attended as possible.

“We look forward to partnering with her again in the future and ensuring that members of our community can attend important and beneficial events like this.”

For more information about Clearview, please visit www.clearviewhome.co.uk.

To chat directly with Anna, reach out to her on Instagram (@anna.oakes.nutritionist) or by email: annaoakes8@gmail.com.

to meet their compliance and regulatory requirements. It’s an exciting time ahead and we look forward to sharing more news on developments as and when we can.” For more information or to contact the BFRC, visit https://www.bfrc.org/ or call: 0207 403 9200.

NETWORK

24 PEAKS IN 24 HOURS IN AID OF MIND

raising over £15,000 for charity last year by completing the National Three Peaks with just minutes to spare, Conservatory Outlet and its Network of

In a bid to up the stakes, figures from Conservatory Outlet and its retail partners will travel to Keswick in June from where they will attempt to scale the Lake District’s 24 peaks in just 24 hours.

Led by Conservatory Outlet CEO, Greg Kane, the group will walk over 28 miles and cover over 4,250 metres of elevation – that’s more than a marathon and equivalent to climbing Ben Nevis three times!

“After the success of last year’s fundraising efforts, we had to go even bigger,” Greg begins.

“This will be an incredibly tough challenge for us all. It’ll be as much of a mental challenge as a physical one but it’s something that we’re all looking forward to. We yet again

Retailers is unveiling its next fundraising effort: The 24 in 24 in ’24.

have a fantastic team taking part, with participants coming from across the United Kingdom to help raise money for our charity of choice this year, Mind.”

Founded in 1946, Mind is one of the most prominent mental health charities in England and Wales. Mind offers information and advice to people with mental health problems and works tirelessly to raise public awareness and understanding of these issues, as well as campaigning to improve the nation’s mental health services.

Speaking about the decision to pick Mind as the group’s charity of choice, Greg said: “Mental health issues can affect individuals and families in so many ways. Unfortunately, research shows that one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year.

“Mind does fantastic work and their work is incredibly important. We trust that you’ll support us in our efforts!”

The team will begin their challenge on June 4th going in a circular route before finishing the next day after climbing Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, Haystacks, Great Gable and 20 other named peaks in the Lake District

Greg ended by adding; “I often say that our Network of Premium Retailers is like a family. Events such as this showcase how strong we are and exactly what we can achieve by working together. There’s no doubt that we’ll spur each other on and we’ll not only complete this monumental challenge but raise a fantastic amount for such a fantastic cause whilst doing so!”

FLAT ' S IN FASHION

As the leaders in daylight solutions, we’re well-versed in the latest rooflight trends. And this year our flat glass is the must-have statement piece.

From stock to fully bespoke, linked units to electric opening, and even walk-on, we’ve got the most comprehensive range of flat glass products for all applications.

To see our exclusive range; visit www.whitesales.co.uk/flatglass or call 01483 917580

- 18 stock sizes in 3-5 days delivered to site

- Bespoke units from 3 weeks

- Fixed, manual & electric opening options

- Factory pre-glazed for faster installation

- Laminated inner pane & toughened outer pane as standard (double & triple glazing)

- Class 1 CWCT tested option

Specialist aluminium fabricator CDW Systems has announced that it is set to merge with its sister company, supplier and installer Clearway Doors & Windows.

Both businesses boast more than 30 years in the industry and in 2010 the Gloucesterbased CDW bought out the Cheltenhambased Clearway.

The merger will see Clearway become a division of CDW Systems, with Clearway continuing to be used for the supply and install side of the business, with all the trade supply coming under CDW.

All installation work will continue to be carried out from the Cheltenham site, with all manufacturing and production moved from Cheltenham to Gloucester. All sales and processing will move from Gloucester to Cheltenham while Gloucester will house a dedicated technical department.

The company is working towards getting everything in place by July 31 at the latest

and Managing Director Jeremy Phillips said: “This is an exciting move for both our customers and both CDW and Clearway. At present we manufacture different products at different sites, so customers are having to source some from one and some from the other which can be confusing.

“What this gives our trade supply side of the business is a much more straight forward offering and a much clearer picture for customers as they’ll be able to buy all our product range from CDW.”

The company has been informing staff, main suppliers and customers of the move and all have been positive, said Jeremy.

“Bringing the expertise of the group together instead of working as separate companies will make us more streamlined for customers and suppliers. With all administration brought together, we will have more personnel to process quotes and deal with queries, while having one centre of excellence for production will mean all our resources will be in one place, making us more efficient.”

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

NEW PREMIUM SHOWER AND WALL PANEL OPTIONS IN FREEFOAM GEO-PANEL® RANGE

The Geo-panel® range of interior wall panels from Freefoam Building Products has been updated with new premium finishes and marketing materials.

Five new high-quality finishes have been added to the Geo-panel® range, which includes contemporary matt concretes, classic marbles and diamond options. Three are tile finishes: White Gloss, Light Grey Gloss and Azure Gloss, which feature a routed groove for an authentic grouting effect. Meanwhile, Grey Quartz Matt and Grey Azure Matt are stunning full-panel options.

Geo-panel® can be fitted to any interior wall to quickly refurbish and restyle bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms – even home offices. Stockists and installers can now choose from Premium Wide panels, Classic Slim panels, and ceiling panels, plus a variety of high-quality PVC and aluminium trims for a perfect finish.

“We’ve upgraded the Geo-panel® range in response to customer demand,” explains Colin St John, Commercial Director for Freefoam. “The new designs are really high-end and more aspirational - perfect for homeowners who want to renovate or improve their properties in days rather than weeks. It’s easier to choose the right panel for different projects too. The new collection is supported with new professionally styled images, a stunning new brochure, swatches

and samples, as well as the Visualiser app on www.freefoam.com/geopanel-visualiser, which has been fully updated.”

The tongue-and-groove PVC sections in the Geo-panel® system are quick and easy to handle and fit. Designed to slot together in moments, they can be applied over almost any surface, with little preparation – and no grouting – required! With a wipe-clean surface, Geo-panel® provides a hygienic and fully waterproof finish that is lowmaintenance (wipe-clean!), and durable; guaranteed for 5 years.

See the full range at www.freefoam.com/ geopanel or call Freefoam on 0800 002 9903 to add Geo-panel® to your portfolio.

Sustainability is a big deal for every company in every sector. To the point that it’s actually quite hard to know whether a company actually cares, or simply knows that they’re meant to. Greenwashing is a phrase everyone has likely been hearing recently.

The antidote is evidence and action. Evidence not just of saying the right things, but of doing the right things at a corporate level. Window Widgets’ focus has been on doing just that - specifically by transforming how they deal with waste and using that as the first step of a long-term green strategy. In 2023, Window Widgets successfully diverted over 42 tonnes of PVC waste away from landfill - completing their first full year of being zero waste to landfill. In addition, they put a major emphasis on recycling a greater range of materials leading to the recycling of the following:

• 10 tonnes of cardboard

• 5.2 tonnes of aluminium swarf

• 21.7 tonnes of wood

• 1.6 tonnes of WE’EE and metal

But beyond the statistics, there’s also a more subtle attitudinal shift happening. In taking a greener attitude as a business, and making it a focal point of day-to-day operations, this is having a positive impact upon Window Widgets’ employees and how they go about their work and home lives.

Jade Nelson is Window Widgets Customer Service Manager and sustainability is a

part of her day-to-day work. She said: “We are continually looking at ways we can improve our efficiency and sustainability. By carefully planning our delivery days, driver hours and vehicle loads it means we can optimise space and stay as economical as possible.

“I think about sustainability all the time and try my best to keep my carbon footprint to a minimum. The way I see it, each time we choose to put some rubbish into the recycling bin as opposed to a normal bin, each time we remember to pick up our reusable water bottle rather than picking one up at the shop or even using a Tupperware container rather than wrapping our lunch in cling film, we make a difference.”

Window Widgets’ Sales Manager Sally Gingell is similarly environmentally conscious due to her consistent travel for work. She commented: “I plan my visits with customers accordingly, with a hybrid car I need to ensure I’m optimising my travel time and mileage. We have systems in place that can help plan this.

“We have an excellent recycling initiative at Window Widgets too. Ensuring we recycle our PVC and then use it in the production of many of our Window Widgets’ range. We’re also really keen to encourage our customers to improve their sustainability measures too. They could do this with reusable packaging, well planned deliveries, and offering their own recycling scheme for example.”

The industry leading manufacturer in innovative glazing solutions to the fenestration industry, Window Widgets, manufactures the largest range of universal ancillaries for all window fabricators and suppliers.

To find out more about Window Widgets, please visit https://www.windowwidgets.co.uk.

Jade Nelson, Customer Service Manager, Window Widgets

Sally Gingell, Sales Manager, Window Widgets

Glass Processing Demo Days 2024

Forel Spa, one of the world’s leading glass machinery manufacturers, have long prided themselves in presenting our latest technology and trade fairs across the globe.

In 2023 we attended our home fair Vitrum with the largest stand have had to date full of technology from glass processing to high-speed sealed unit lines. We will be repeating this later this year at the worlds premium trade fair Glasstec in Dusseldorf

However, it’s not always possible to visit fairs and spend the amount of quality time you want as well as discuss your needs and requirements. So, this year we have decided to invite the world to us and host a series of “Demo Weeks” which will be held at our factory near Venice, Italy. The aim of these events is to allow visitors and customers time to look in depth at the machinery they are looking to purchase, run specific demonstrations for them and most importantly allow them to see behind the scenes and meet the people responsible for the business.

In the UK Forel are primarily known for our IGU manufacturing lines but this is only half of the story, Forel produce some of the most advanced glass edging and processing CNCs in the market with sales worldwide.

Brian McDonald comments: “As a business we are keen to show our full portfolio of products to our UK & Irish customers and show how Forel can both enhance output and quality across all areas of glass manufacture.”

Visiting our HQ recently Brian has started to record a series of films showing the capabilities of the machinery and explaining their features, these can be easily accessed on the Forel YouTube channels as well as other platforms.

Brian further comments: “Although these videos are of great assistance to customers there is nothing like

Telephone: +44 1245 961736

physically seeing the machinery as well as being able to discuss and understand their attributes. That is why we are so keen for customers old and new to attend our demo days in Italy.

If this is something you would like to do, please contact me or any of my colleagues in the UK so we can make the arrangements.”

CONSERVATORY OUTLET HOSTS TWO SUCCESSFUL OPERATIONS CONFERENCE

Conservatory Outlet, the UK’s leading fabricator of home improvement products, is looking forward to hosting several more Network-wide events after its series of Operations Conferences has proved to be a real boost to its retail Network.

The events, held in both Glasgow and Birmingham, allowed members of the fabricator’s Premium Retail Network to come together to discuss industry-specific challenges, changes to Building Regulations, regional legislation, and other topics relating to their businesses.

As part of the round-table forums, Conservatory Outlet invited several guest speakers to present on a range of topics, including innovative new construction methods and other operational matters.

Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, Greg Kane, commented: “Our unique model allows for events like this to take place where everyone comes together without the fear of competition. The turnout for this year’s events in Glasgow and Birmingham was

phenomenal, with over 90% of our Retail Network represented by key personnel.

“These events allow everyone to share their knowledge and expertise and work as one to provide solutions that benefit all involved. They are an incredible tool and have a widespread positive impact across our Network of Premium Retailers.

Internal feedback scores from the two events have reached a 96% satisfaction level, with the attendees praising the organisation, locations and discussion topics. One such attendee was Stewart Kelly, the Managing Director of Eden Windows, who said:

“It was another fantastic example of the support that Conservatory Outlet provides.

“The guest speakers were informative, and the wide range of topics that we discussed covered everything from product design to health and safety to the structure of contracts. Being able to ask questions, get answers and see what similar companies to Eden are doing is extremely beneficial. It gives us attendees the chance to learn from

each other, share best practices and help each other improve.”

Plans are already underway for next year’s events, though the immediate focus is on the company’s upcoming Sales & Marketing Conference, which will be held at Old Trafford stadium later this month.

Greg ended by saying: “With our annual Sales & Marketing Conference on the horizon –and many more events planned through the rest of the year – we’re continuing to provide value-added benefits to our Network members to ensure that they will continue to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

“Conservatory Outlet isn’t just a manufacturer or supplier – it is so much more. We equip all our retailers with the tools and information they need to succeed.”

A HELPING HAND FOR SPECIFIERS FROM SFS

Despite the prevalence of design and build contracts across many construction sectors, there is still a high proportion of architectural practices, along with developer clients, which seek to achieve excellence in the specification and delivery of projects: whether in relation to targeting greater energy efficiency, the upper levels of BREEAM, enhanced whole life cost, or perhaps to meet site specific challenges.

In any of these situations, it is likely to be the outer envelope, and in particular the cladding system, which plays a pivotal role; and presents an area where consultants will likely seek greater support from manufacturers to ensure aspirations are achieved.  Inevitably, there is a balance to be struck between aspiration and cost constraints, including pressures to switch specifications as the programme evolves.

As a highly experienced specialist in the design and development of rainscreen cladding support systems, as well as carbon and stainless-steel fastening solutions, SFS Group enjoys excellent working relationships with a number of leading architectural practices, leading to the manufacturer’s involvement with a long list of landmark projects.

Andy Stolworthy, the Director of Product and Market Development for SFS, observes: “Not only is it advantageous for us to be able to engage early in the design process, to offer a consultative approach and optimise the outcomes; but the later that contractors attempt to change the specification, the higher the cost implications are likely

to be.  Ideally, adhering to the approved design parameters will enable goals to be achieved, whether that is on sustainability or particularly thermal performance, where sub-contractors are often tempted to try and switch specifications without rechecking the calculations. For example, switching away from our extruded aluminium brackets to folded ones will not only mean more of the cheaper ones are required to carry the load, but the increased points of contact with the main structure negatively impact the thermal performance.  Ultimately, the U-Value calculations are invalidated, while the labour element of the installation cost also rises.”

In contrast to most competitors which do not have staff fully dedicated to specifiers, SFS has two managers covering the North and South of the UK, who not only look to identify projects where they can directly add value, but who also liaise with the 12 Regional Technical Sales Managers, along with other members of the technical team.  This enables them to work directly with the

EDGETECH TALKS INNOVATION, AUTOMATION AND SUSTAINABILITY AT FENSTERBAU 2024

Quanex company Edgetech, leading manufacturer of warm-edge spacer bars, marked a successful return to the world’s premier fenestration trade show, Fensterbau Frontale.

design teams and material manufacturers, or OEMs, and key contractors.

Alluding to the crucial aspect of safety, Andy Stolworthy continues: “Some of the larger clients are keenly interested in their estates, and also the longevity of the properties they develop, but most prefer to deal with manufacturers solely through the design process. And this distancing can result in inappropriate fall protection systems being installed. Ensuring safety for those involved with long term maintenance or later adaptations of a building is paramount; particularly with regard to specifying robust horizontal lifeline systems for fall protection. Our lifeline systems are integral to the secure and efficient maintenance as well as installation of building envelopes.”

From its unrivalled ConnectSuite® on-line design tools, to the delivery of half a dozen RIBA certified CPD seminars and other types of support, strategically structured to provide add value.  SFS is committed to going above and beyond to help create stand-out structures.

He concludes: “In order that occupants can enjoy buildings which are safe and comfortable to live in – where the firestopping and the rest of the detailing is right – where condensation does not form around all of the window openings or other issues occur – we have to ensure we engineer them correctly.  Ultimately, we are here to help ensure the best outcome for any project we are involved on.”

For further information, call 0330 0555888 or visit https://uk.sfs.com/

Fensterbau attracts thousands of glass and glazing professionals from around the world to see cutting-edge technology, meet colleagues from throughout the industry, and discuss the challenges and opportunities the sector’s faced with.

This year, it provided a valuable platform for Edgetech to showcase its commitment to excellence, innovation and sustainability.

Global Market Director Mike Moran comments: “Fensterbau was a fantastic chance to connect with colleagues and customers from throughout the industry.

“It was hugely encouraging to see the innovation and expertise on show, and hear first-hand the sector’s commitment to ever greater sustainability and performance more generally.

“I look forward to collaborating with our global team to drive Edgetech and Quanex forward.”

Automation was another frequent topic of conversation at the event, as Mike explains:

“We’ve seen a significant rise in demand for automated spacer application in recent years, as the sector adapts to rising costs and a worsening skills shortage.

“For a growing section of our industry, automation is being increasingly being seen as the future.

“In the years ahead, we’ll continue striving to help the sector become as innovative, efficient and sustainable as it can possibly be.”

For more information, please call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk

SALES AND MARKETING: THE FOUNDATION OF A PROSPEROUS BUSINESS

As part of their installer journey benefits package, the Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) offers comprehensive sales and marketing support to help members achieve better sales. Here, DGCOS Chief Executive, Faisal Hussain, discusses what that support looks like.

According to reports, there are more than 12,000 companies in the UK installing doors, windows and conservatories (Insight Data, 2022) and it’s safe to assume that the vast majority of them know their products well. However, the key to showcasing this knowledge and expertise is selling, and this is where some installers may struggle.

Business that is gained through word of mouth is the dream and those that keep full pipelines from this are fortunate. They have built a good reputation in their area, thanks to their expertise, and business is good. However, what happens if this pipeline starts to slow down, or you want to broaden your sales and grow? Perhaps you are a new business looking to make your mark? Also consider the challenging market: increasing product costs and the cost of living has impacted greatly on cash flow, for example, and it’s vital that business owners have the know-how to manage these challenges before they start to affect their sales, and their mental health.

All these challenges can be addressed with a sales and marketing strategy but it’s often an area where many installers can struggle so it is an area we work closely on with our members to support them.

PROVIDING A ROAD MAP

Every member of DGCOS has full access to a range of benefits, laid out in a comprehensive framework of six areas where we can offer support. We call them

our Installer Journey Benefits because they are designed to provide a roadmap, guiding members through the labyrinth of challenges and opportunities they face. Our aim is to ensure that our members are free to do what they do best: install quality door and window products. Sales and marketing support is one area that is widely accessed by our installer members.

SALES OBJECTIVES

No business is complete without a sales funnel and to get a sales funnel, you need to set yourself some clear sales objectives. What do you need to earn, what sales do you want to achieve by when?

We work with our installers by asking these sorts of questions and then helping to define their objectives.

MARKETING OBJECTIVES

The next step is to support the sales funnel with marketing to help generate leads. How are you going to get the money in? Where will the leads come from? And in most cases, where do you start with marketing?

With DGCOS, not only can we support making these decisions, but we can also offer marketing materials that members can leverage. From being listed on our website for lead generation, to content creation, to George Clarke as DGCOS Brand Ambassador, our marketing support is wide reaching and made to help members get their message out.

CONVERTING LEADS

Once the leads start coming in, the next and most crucial step is converting them to sales. When you meet with potential customers, your experience, expertise, and knowledge will likely shine through; however, sometimes closing a sale is more than reassuring your customer that you are reliable. Introductions to finance lenders/ brokers, information on government grants and schemes, and payment protection options are just some of the benefits of being a DGCOS member. Also if you’re not confident in the process, there’s sales training available too.

KEEPING CUSTOMERS HAPPY

Once you have an order book and understand service levels, effectively communicating and customer satisfaction are crucial not only for getting paid but also for building and maintaining the good reputation I mentioned earlier. Ultimately, this reputation is the best sales and marketing tool every business can have.

PROVIDING A COMPETITIVE EDGE

Having a good reputation as an installer advocate and consumer champion is something that DGCOS strives for every day. We do this by providing our members with the support and services they need to be successful and in turn, making sure consumers have quality installers to work in their homes.

Being a member of DGCOS is a badge of honour that our members wear proudly and that consumers can rely on, giving DGCOS members a competitive edge in the market. For more information, visit https://installers.dgcos.org.uk/ Read the Insight Data report here https:// www.insightdata.co.uk/news/the-glazingindustry-is-consolidating-fast/

THE LOYAL FAMILY

The two biggest assets in any company are its staff and customers. Without either, there is no company. Selecta Systems Sales Director Andy Green talks about why building strong business partnerships and loyalty in business are so important, whilst thanking four customers and a number of employees who have each surpassed over 30 years of partnership with Selecta.

Andy is a prime example of business loyalty, with himself amassing over 33 years’ service at Selecta, a company that has long been known for being the family and independently owned PVCu systems company. Starting out in 1982, the business has grown, building an established customer base supported by a team of experienced, knowledgeable and time-honoured employees, as Andy explains.

“Over the last six months, we have had four customers surpass 30 years of loyal partnership with Selecta. Reaching this milestone in todays market, is a fantastic achievement and one that is very much appreciated by everyone at Selecta. To mark each customers 30 years with Selecta, we presented them with an award as part of that recognition.”

30 YEAR PARTNERSHIPS

In Tyne & Wear we have Richie Wardle, owner of Fairview Windows North, who celebrated their 30-year partnership with Selecta by stating, “The industry has changed a lot over the years, but I’ve always felt that we’ve been in good hands with Selecta during this time. Even though we are some 190 miles away from Selecta, we’ve built up some key relationships with people there, a crucial element in ensuring that our business continues to run smoothly.”

Goldstar Trade Frames in Aldridge, West Midlands, was originally started by Mick Simms and is now run by his

“Over

the last six months, we have had four customers surpass 30 years of loyal partnership with Selecta. Reaching this milestone in todays market, is a fantastic achievement and one that is very much appreciated by everyone at Selecta.”

daughter Claire Simms. Entering their 31st year as a Selecta partner, Claire commented, “We genuinely feel ‘part of the family’ and Selecta are and have always been a perfect fit for our business. Being local to our premises has always been a bonus, providing ourselves with greater flexibility in terms of when we have needed that extra bit of help!”

Another customer with over 30 years of partnership is Kiwi Windows in Coventry. Colin Whelan was at the helm when Selecta originally set them up, but the business is now run by his son, Jamie Whelan and daughter, Vanessa Whelan. Jamie said, “We’ve always been a family run business, in similar ilk to Selecta. Our company ethos and values very

much match that of Selecta, with the focus always on providing a quality product and a first-class service.”

West Midlands based Allwyn Windows has also surpassed 30 years of partnership with Selecta. Owner, Wayne Lloyd commented, “Selecta have always ticked all the boxes for us as a business. Quality products with superb service and support backed up by a fantastic bunch of people who go out of their way to help! I can’t believe it’s been 30 years!”

Andy Green remarked, “With almost 300 customers on our books, we have a number of those who have been long-term Selecta partners. In fact, 47.7% of our customers have been Selecta partners for over 10 years, with just over 10% accounting for 20 plus years. We’re very proud of the loyal customer base that we have created at Selecta. This kind of devotion and commitment also extends to our staff, demonstrating the businesses stability, continuity and solidarity. Hence why the #bepartofthefamily business strap line is so fitting and apt.”

Recently, Purchasing & Stock Control Manager Mark Roberts and Marketing Manager Mark Walker celebrated 30 years of service and association with Selecta. They join a 30year club consisting of Andy Green, Maria Lawrence, Kevin Clark, Carl Garr and Dean Taylor, which is an amazing feat by all. Together with this there is also a strong contingency of staff who have over 20 years under their belt, with another 14 who have reached that milestone. These kind of numbers truly demonstrate the vast array of knowledge and experience within Selecta and the overall strength and stability of the business.

Andy concludes, “I firmly believe that if you provide a quality product, complimented by a flexible and personal support service, whilst operating your business with transparency, trust and honesty, it will breed loyalty.”

Claire Simms and Andy Green, Goldstar

Jamie Whelan, Richard Reeves and Colin Whelan, Kiwi

Richie Wardle and Matt Blake, Fairview

Wayne Lloyd and Andy Green, Allwyn

The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) now has two and six year registration options available to installers to reduce excess financial burden on companies.

Faisal Hussain, Chief Executive, explains:

“We have seen through our mediation process how much time it can take for installers to deal with customers when the guarantee is not clearly worded and consumers believe that they are covered for everything. Installers then often end up meeting some or all of the costs to replace components. Within building regulations, under Competent Person Schemes, an installer self-certifying only has to provide six years’ financial protection for customers, and the same for consumer protection.

“Often a customer believes that if anything goes wrong with any part of their installation, they are covered for replacements for that 10-year period, but that is incorrect. Frames may be covered for 10 years, but as per manufacturers’ warranties, individual units or smaller items like locks and handles, are often only covered for 5 years. Issues such as condensation may well not be covered at all.

“In the spirit of clarifying this confusion, DGCOS now offers 2 and 6 year registration

options for installers. They are more cost effective, so can reduce the financial pressure on a business, yet members who opt for a shorter registration receive the same installer benefits as if they were taking the full 10 year option, which is still available. They also make it easier for an installer to explain to a customer exactly what is covered and for how long. The six year option is ideal for covering panes and units; the two year option for smaller items such as locks and handles.

“The 10-year registration is always going to be available, particularly if installers are members of FENSA, who are required to offer this longer timeframe.

“However, our shorter registration options offer benefits for both installers and customers; they help reduce the time installers spend on unnecessary call-backs; reduce the financial burden on the industry as a whole, while still meeting requirements.”

For more information about DGCOS and membership packages and benefits, visit installers.dgcos.org.uk.

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CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR INSTALLERS FROM DGCOS

DGCOS has launched its installer brochure, outlining the key benefits of being a DGCOS member, in an easyto-access format. Aimed at potential member companies, the brochure clearly explains the details of the support installers have access to when they are DGCOS members.

Faisal Hussain, DGCOS Chief Executive, explains more: “In light of recent enquiries from companies who are looking to become DGCOS members, we have produced a brochure for anyone who wants to see what our organisation can offer.

“In order to fulfil our role as a consumer protection scheme, we need to ensure that our members are supported in every way possible, to raise standards, minimise come backs, and boost their reputation and therefore their order book.

“To do this, we have outlined the exclusive benefits that members gain access to when they are part of DGCOS. We can help in every part of the installer journey across six main touchpoints, with over 30 separate benefits that are available for installers to access whenever they need to. So that installers can focus on what they do best – installing quality doors and windows – we offer support services in the following areas:

“In order to fulfil our role as a consumer protection scheme, we need to ensure that our members are supported in every way possible, to raise standards, minimise come backs, and boost their reputation and therefore their order book."

• Getting started: From introducing members to manufacturers and distributors, to introducing members to Competent Person Schemes to help you comply with building regulations, and more.

• Marketing & Digital: Scheme marketing materials available, opportunities for consumer leads via the Scheme website, and more.

• Selling: From introductions to finance brokers/lenders, to exclusive one-toone sales training, and more.

• Installing: From paying for the members’ Competent Person Scheme building regulations notifications, to assistance available when members experience growth spurts, and more.

• Customer Service and Satisfaction: From advice on how to avoid complaints, to mediation and conciliation for the members and their customers to help settle any disputes that may arise, and more.

• Annual Review: From documentation assistance to help members comply with legislative requirements, to annual health checks to keep the members business up to date, and more.

“While our installer benefits package is listed on our website, this new brochure is easily accessible in a hard copy format.”

If you would like a copy to find out more about how you and your business could benefit from being a DGCOS member, call 035 053 8975, email info@dgcos.org.uk or visit https://installers.dgcos.org.uk/.

ASK THE EXPERT VENTILATION

Dean Bradley, Sales Director of Glazpart. Dean tells us why Glazpart is a key supplier to the fabricators and installers to help them ensure that windows and doors are manufactured and installed safely and securely and meet with the building regulations.

VENTILATION

Post-pandemic and postBrexit, the UK’s glass and glazing sector is facing multiple challenges. Whether it is compliance with regulations and getting ready to meet the Future Homes 2025 Standards, through to delivering the perfect finished job to meet homeowners’ satisfactions or simply balancing stock levels with operational costs, Glazpart is there to help fabricators and installers across the supply chain.

VENTILATION

Since June 2022, when Building Regulations (Approved Document F) changed, it has become compulsory for companies to meet the ventilation requirements. Fabricators and installers have found that trickle vents are the easiest, most practical and most economical solution for compliance. Well in advance of the changes, Glazpart had done the research, consulted with industry experts, customers and policy makers and then invested in the machinery and tooling

to expand the award-winning Link Vent range to include the Link Vent 4000, ready for the legislative changes.

The Link Vent has great flexibility and can be used on all types of windows and doors including timber windows as the Link vent has rounded ends to allow for easy installation on timber. The Link Vent is available in either screw or clip in fixing types - the design eliminates the need for end caps whilst the clip fix design (Pawl’s) allows for a fast and simple vent installation.

HOMEOWNERS

With smart design, easy fitting, and functionality Glazpart’s Link Vent is a must for fabricators and installers across. However, one the Link Vent’s greatest advantages is its vast choice of 1000s of colours and decorative finishes.

Homeowners are more discerning than ever and meeting their demands can be challenging particularly if they desire heritage windows with timber or aluminium frames. In such situations, Glazpart’s Premium Link Vent range has become the best choice for the perfect finish.

Earlier this year, Glazpart created handy packs of either ten canopies or internal vents to help companies only buy the stock they need (rather than tie up cash in excess stock) and add more value, both in terms of revenue and kerb appeal for homeowners. The premium finishes available in the new handy sized packs are the Premium

Woodgrain range, Premium Vac Foiled range, Premium Sprayed Colours, Super Matt Finishes.

TRIPLE GLAZING

Future Homes 2025 will likely see triple glazing as the de facto glazing product for new build. One of the main issues with triple glazing is the additional weight of the sealed unit caused by an extra pane of glass. The extra weight has an impact in transit, installation and more importantly for fabricators during the window manufacturing process.

To ensure the weight of the IGU (Insulated Glass Unit) is supported and handled carefully during window installation, the right flat packers are vitally important to avoid product damage and also for employee safety.

When manufacturing a triple glazed window or door, the extra weight can be best managed by using Glazpart’s extensive range of 34mm to 50mm wide flat packers (often referred to in the standards as setting or location blocks).

Colour coded and fully integrated, Glazpart’s comprehensive range of glazing

accessories includes, flat -packers, frame packers, bridge packers, run-up blocks, glazing shovels and corner protectors. The glazing accessories are all designed to work together for all glazing types both double and triple.

AVAILABILITY

One of the recurring issues facing companies in the supply chain is the immediate availability of components, which is why Glazpart always keeps healthy stock levels to supply demand. The glazing accessories and trickle vent ranges and ability to manufacture bespoke plastic products ensures that Glazpart is a “one stop shop” for window fabricators and installers. To find out more about Glazpart’s products please contact the Glazpart sales team dbradley@glazpart.co.uk or visit www.glazpart.com.

Our TOTAL70 window and door system achieves the highest possible energy ratings and performance. The unique compound with a smooth gloss finish ensures that your windows retain their pristine appearance for years to come meaning they will never warp, rot or need repainting.

Windows. Reinvented for modern life. window.rehau.com enquiries@rehau.com Tel: 01989 762600

Q&A: EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS

COMMERCIAL ADVANTAGE

In a series of industry spotlights, Glass News caught up with Jonathan Reece, Head of Specification at Epwin Window Systems, to find out more about what the systems company’s Approved Commercial Partner scheme has to offer commercial contractors.

Your Approved Commercial Partner (ACP) scheme helps fabricators and installers benefit from your position in the commercial sector. Can you tell us more about the commercial side of your business?

Our Commercial operation has been a part of our business for over 50 years. Our Profile 22 and Spectus brands are well-known in the sector, and we are also gaining traction with Stellar Aluminium. Across the board, our commercial projects continue to increase at a healthy rate.

Our ability to help the sector meet the most demanding specifications is reflected in our longstanding commercial track record in addition to our 10+ years of partnerships with several local authorities, housing associations and private developers. We’re also an Associate Member of the Modular and Portable Building Association (MPBA) to increase our support in offsite and Modern Method of Constructions (MMC).

We first launched our Approved Commercial Partner (ACP) scheme in 2008 to help our fabricators capitalise on this presence. Since then, it has grown and evolved to meet the diverse needs of our commercial customers.

The ACP stands out from the competition as it offers a complete end-to-end commercial solution, supporting members from the drawing board to project completion. Our stringent adherence to rules and guidelines provides architects and specifiers with the added reassurance that ACP members are professional businesses that actively contribute to the success and integrity of every project.

I KNOW YOU HAVE ALWAYS SUPPORTED FABRICATORS, SPECIFIERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS, BUT WHAT SPECIFIC SUPPORT DO ACP SCHEME MEMBERS GET?

We offer a complete end-to-end solution which has been tailored specifically to help ACP members retain and grow a strong presence in the commercial space. From initial project concept to final job completion, our comprehensive support encompasses every aspect of the project’s journey. This includes professional expertise in assisting with tenders, and documentation. In addition, we offer full technical support from our expert inhouse team covering survey, design, drawing, structural calculations, stakeholders’ meetings and on-site installation. There is a comprehensive commercial training programme in place and we also produce regular commercial market updates reports and a quarterly ACP newsletter to help keep members up-todate with what’s happening in the sector. Following project completion, we will also promote commercial project case studies across relevant media platforms to help support additional new business efforts and promote the expertise of the ACP member.

Epwin Window Systems has always been known for quality PVC-U products, but has your aluminium offering made your offer more compelling for both specifiers and architects?

Stellar brings the same exacting quality and standards that commercial specifiers know and trust in Profile 22 and Spectus to an aluminium system. The system is Part L compliant by design and is easy to fabricate and install. Its slimline aesthetics and market-leading slim sightlines are also popular in the commercial space. It means architects and specifiers get product versatility from Epwin Window Systems when they want to incorporate both PVC-U and aluminium into a commercial project.

All of our resource is sourced in the UK and the material is extruded by our aluminium partner. Both powder coating and rolling in thermal breaks are completed in-house in our stateof-the-art, 160,000 sqft aluminium finishing plant ensuring the highest quality of product is produced every time.

All your partners are looking for security, low maintenance and thermal efficiency. Do all your ranges provide the confidence that specifiers are looking for?

Absolutely. Epwin Window System understands the importance of security, low maintenance and thermal efficiency for our partners. That’s why every system in our

On-site training in fabricator's factory

Luna R automatic profile lamination machine

portfolio, including Stellar, is manufactured to provide the confidence and technical reliability that specifiers seek. Every system in our PVC-U and aluminium portfolio complies with the requirements of Part L, Part F and PAS 24:2022. They can all meet Secured by Design standards too.

Our award-winning system credentials including marketleading U-values and high security protocols ensures our ACP partners have the best in thermal efficiency windows and doors to gain a competitive advantage in the commercial market.

While the products themselves are important, the ability to supply countrywide is key, especially in the commercial world. How does Epwin Window Systems ensure this?

We operate from an 18-acre site which includes a 300,000 sqft warehouse and distribution centre and our aluminium finishing plant. It has the capacity to hold over 5,000 stock lines and uses the latest technology including a robotic pick system.

Equally impressive is our PVC-U extrusion plant where we have invested in the latest in cutting-edge extrusion technology including two Luna R automatic profile lamination machines, which had further increased our foiling capacity. The machine’s flexibility and intelligent technology can wrap even the most complex of profiles whilst delivering exceptional product quality.

Throughout our operation, everything is purposely designed to improve logistics and continually optimise efficiency at every level.

Sustainability is becoming more and more key in securing contracts. How are you dealing with recycling?

We’ve always been committed to sustainability and we’re taking the lead in the sector on the road to net zero. We were the first UK systems house to achieve the VinylPlus® Product Label. We also hold ISO 14001: 2015 accreditation and we are certified to BRE standard BES 6001.

In 2022, we acquired Poly-Pure, a leading UK materials reprocessor that recycles post-consumer and post-industrial PVC building materials, including PVC-U window frames. The acquisition was the first step of an ambitious recycling programme that will shortly see us begin offering customers a collection service for PVC-U frames and factory off-cuts.

As part of our manufacturing process, we recycle waste bar length into RCM (recycled composite material). We launched RCMs in 2009, which are made up of 100% recycled PVC-U and provide the perfect blend of product performance and sustainability. More recently, we introduced a new 150mm cill incorporating a co-extruded recycled section to the base. This year, we will introduce multiple new mainframe tools. They will incorporate a recycled core that won’t be visible when manufactured. This is following a significant programme of investment in our

mixing and extrusion capabilities to support additional recycling of mainframe products.

For Epwin Window Systems, sustainability is a businesswide initiative with a cradle-to-cradle approach, completing the PVC-U recycling loop.

As a fabricator of Epwin products I would, of course, want to be part of your ACP scheme. How do I qualify to be considered suitable to be a partner?

ACP members have to meet certain criteria to ensure we continue to deliver the highest standards to the sector. They need to manufacture more than 150 frames per week. They must have relevant qualifications – membership of Constructionline, CHAS, Fensa, Certass and Secured by Design, as well as PAS 24 and BS 7412 accreditations. They must, of course, manufacture Epwin Window Systems to exacting standards and only use Epwin Window Systems

approved and accredited components. They need to be able to demonstrate commitment to recycling and reducing waste. They must also commit to attending to a commercial awareness programme.

To apply, visi: www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk/ fabricator/approved-commercial-scheme/

Finally, if I’m successful, how will I be connected to the scheme? Is there a portal and what sort of material and help can I expect to find there?

Once a customer is an ACP member, they will receive a certificate, which is renewed each year and provides evidence they meet the scheme’s robust criteria and gives peace of mind to specifiers.

The ACP scheme bridges the gap between traditional commercial support methods, such as specification assistance via call or email, and modern digital customer experiences through Connect our award-winning centralised hub providing access to materials, services and construction leads. In addition, our team updates the portal with fresh construction leads approved by Specification Managers on a weekly basis where all documents and links for application are conveniently provided for a seamless user experience. ACP members have the freedom to proceed independently, collaborate with Specification Managers, or receive ad-hoc support from our team.

It all adds up to a comprehensive commercial support solution designed to empower ACP members with a seamless and efficient process from start to finish. www.epwinwindowsytems.co.uk

Recycling plant

Extrusion plant

Calculation and design service

WHICH DOOR?

As demand for aspirational home improvement products continues, Steve Cross, Director at Mercury, discusses two popular aluminium door options that are helping installers and builders capitalise on the trends.

In recent times, there has been a notable shift in consumer preferences towards aspirational living. Homeowners are increasingly inclined towards maximising open-plan living areas with abundant natural light. A crucial component of this home vision is the choice of doors which is why there has been a surge in demand for aluminium bifold and sliding doors.

In selecting the ideal door for any project, numerous factors often come into play. These include personal preferences, space constraints, aesthetic considerations and functional requirements. Both door styles present distinctive advantages, so working with an established aluminium fabricator who can provide valuable insight and expertise to guide the decision-making process makes good business sense.

Here at Mercury, we keep our finger on the pulse when it comes to product trends to ensure our customers have the best-in-class products to take advantage of all market opportunities. As a specialist aluminium window and door fabricator, we offer our customers the reassurance that they are working with an expert business when

it comes to manufacturing high-quality aluminium sliding and bifold doors.

ALUMINIUM SLIDING DOORS

The simplicity of the design and the linear movement of the façade means that aluminium sliding patios deliver on the trend for light-filled apertures than any other door option.

The construction of aluminium sliding doors allows for wider glazed panels, up to 3000mm wide, and fewer vertical frames to break the view.

Aluminium sliding doors have long shaken off their dated 1960s association and remain a popular choice for all types of properties. It’s the combination of visual appeal and sheer practicality that is so appealing to homeowners and it’s a key selling point for installers and builders.

We manufacture the New Visoglide Plus Sliding Door which offers contemporary aesthetics and delivers on the trend for large glass areas. The door also delivers superb

energy efficiency and thermal retention and achieves a U value of 1.4 W/m²K (1.0 centre pane) and 1.1 W/m²K (0.7 centre pane). The sliding door has a slim interlock option and is Kitemark and Security tested to PAS24:2022. Available as inline sliding or lift and slide options, the Visoglide Plus Sliding Door has quick-glaze beads for fast installation along with a co-extruded gasket sash. Available in a choice of standard and non-standard colours including dual colours and a unique range of textured finishes to complement all tastes.

ALUMINIUM BIFOLD DOORS

The Visofold 1000 Slimline Bifold door delivers the slimmest sightlines to make the glazed areas even larger. With a range of opening configurations to suit all applications, the easy to operate door system is capable of opening up an entire wall, yet presenting a contemporary, glazed façade when closed.

The thermal break technology delivers enhanced thermal performance and energy efficiency and the door is Kitemarked and security-tested to PAS 24 standard.

Available in a choice of standard and non-standard colours, including textured finishes, the Visofold 1000 Slimline Bifold door packs a punch in bifold door design.

EXPERT MANUFACTURE

All our aluminium doors are manufactured at our two dedicated aluminium manufacturing centres in Gloucester. The multi-site operation includes state-of-theart fabrication at every level, delivering a superior product finish that allows our customers to upsell with confidence. Every

door is precision manufactured to order using top-quality components by our highly skilled internal teams and comes with a ten-year guarantee for the reassurance of unparalleled quality. And to support our customers further, we have made a sizable six-figure investment in automated machinery which helps us to offer a competitive turnaround from order and recruited several high-level appointments to our talented 60-strong team internal team. Aluminium sliding and bifold doors are the practical solution to creating the living spaces that homeowners now seek. Installers who highlight the advantages and combine this with exceptional service are best placed to capitalise on the opportunities. And in Mercury you have a reliable aluminium door partner who can help you do just that.

For more information visit www.mercuryglazing.co.uk.

Offering three-sectional glazing, which seamlessly combines with the modern appeal of the flush door design.

• Elegant, modern flush aesthetics

• Available in any RAL colour

• Complemented with a choice of contemporary glass designs

• Suites with the TriSYS® Modern framing system

• PAS 24 compliant

• 10 year warranty

HOW GLAZERITE’S DOORS OPEN UP OPPORTUNITIES FOR INSTALLERS

Michelle Wright, Head of Group Marketing for the Glazerite UK Group, shares how the trade fabricator’s doors portfolio can help installers win new business this Spring.

Though showing some resilience, the UK housing market saw prices fall in March for the first time in six months. With uncertainty around interest rates, many homeowners are staying put and looking to renovate their current home into their forever home. In fact, statistics show that one in five are planning a major home renovation this year so it’s the ideal time for installers to ramp up their marketing and showcase their portfolio.

It doesn’t have to be a large-scale replacement job either, as small changes can make a big difference to the home. Consumers looking to marry their desire to renovate with sustainability aspirations or smart tech and security might be lured by the prosect of new doors. We have a range

of different options on offer from the likes of VEKA, Deceuninck and DoorCo.

Spring is always a popular time to market patio, French and Bi-folding doors. With longer, brighter days and summer around the corner (if it ever stops raining that is!) homeowners are starting to venture outside to tidy up their outdoor space. From traditional printed brochures to social media content like aspirational images, Glazerite supports installers with marketing collateral that can be used to showcase the range of doors on offer and appeal to those homeowners looking to transform their property.

Our portfolio also includes the ever popular VEKA patio door. Available as in-line sliding or tilt and slide, patio doors maximise natural light and ventilation while offering a high security specification, excellent weather protection and superior thermal insulation. Homeowners can choose from sculptured or bevelled and a choice of colours and glass.

Alternatives include the always-aspirational, multi-configuration VEKA Bi-Fold, which remains popular with homeowners looking to fully open up their space. Meanwhile the classic VEKA French door is versatile enough to connect interior spaces as well as

Michelle Wright

providing a classic transition to the garden, like this stunning installation in Scotland from leading windows and doors specialist, and Glazerite installer, Nuview.

Nuview fit a range of uPVC and aluminium doors and windows for customers across Stirling, Glasgow and Central Scotland. Nuview’s Mark Notini explains: “Many customers are looking to improve on energy efficiency as well update the style and colour of their doors. We can help them get the look they want, underpinned with thermal efficiency and security they need thanks to the range available from Glazerite.”

Drawing homeowners’ attention to the hardware finishes available is also a good way to lure prospects looking to freshen up their homes. We’ve partnered with Brisant Secure to introduce the Sweet patio handle, which offers unparalleled weather resistance and the ultimate in style, just like the Sweet furniture we offer as standard on composite doors. When it comes to composites, today’s homeowner isn’t afraid to mix traditional styling with modern features such as this recent Nuview install of a Marquis 2 composite in Anthracite Grey, which is complemented by Sweet hardware in Gold and the Birchwood glazing option.

Our DoorCo portfolio uses a range of aesthetic designs, colours and glazing options to appeal to every customer, including some exciting traditional and contemporary door style additions like the brand new Eaton. DoorCo has also added more decorative glass options like the delicate bevelled heart and flower motif of Blossom and the art deco-inspired Speakeasy.

Today’s homeowner might be style, security and environmentally-conscious but they’re also time-poor too. When it comes to marketing to customers, it’s also worth reminding homeowners of the low maintenance, thermally efficient and durable benefits of uPVC and the range of warranties on offer, such as Glazerite’s 10-year guarantee.    www.glazerite.co.uk

PLATINUM44 – STYLE AND SUBSTANCE FROM HÖRMANN TRUEDOR

With one of the most comprehensive selections of composite doors on the market, Hörmann Truedor has invested in a range of additional products which provide something different for installers and consumers alike.

Their new Platinum44 is an attractive, contemporary steel door which has been designed to provide installers with a high-performance door at a competitive price point.

The door leaf of the Platinum44 is manufactured with an insulated polyurethan core and a galvanized steel surface which makes it resistant to twisting and warping. It is set within a steel reinforced PVC outer frame and is fully accredited meeting Building Regulations parts M, L and Q.

The door features the unique Colourcoat Prisma textured surface from Tata Steel, a revolutionary threelayer coating system which provides a robust yet beautiful finish, providing the highest standards for corrosion and UV resistance.

The result is a door that is low maintenance, able to withstand the test of time and will continue to look good for years to come.

With a 44mm thick door leaf, high security multi-point locking systems and Kinetica 3-star locking cylinders – Platinum44 has been extensively tested against all forms of attack and has achieved Secured by Design accreditation.

The doors are available in two design styles - the ultra-modern, sleek Flush Design and the Slatted Design featuring additional horizontal grooved detailing on the doors surface. They are supplied with either a textured or smooth satin finish, in a choice of Jet black, Anthracite grey or White with colour-matched frames. A comprehensive range of

glazing options, hardware and brushed stainless steel accessories enable consumers to create a door of their dreams.

Gareth Burgess, Sales Manager for Hörmann Truedor comments, “Platinum44 represents a real opportunity for installers to offer the market a high-quality steel door at a competitive price.

“As with all Hörmann Truedor products, the door is manufactured in the UK at our IG Doors plant in South Wales, utilising short supply chains and local suppliers wherever possible.

“This results in a sustainably manufactured door packed full of additional features and benefits, all backed by the well-known and trusted Hörmann brand.”

To find out more about Hörmann Truedor Platinum44 doors visit Platinum44 steel doors - IG Doors (www.igdoors2023.co.uk) or call 01530 516868.

NEW A SPACE TO CREATE

VIRTUOSO DOORS SETS NEW STANDARD FOR COMPOSITE DOORS WITH GROUNDBREAKING NO-BOW GUARANTEE

Virtuoso Doors, a leading player in the composite door manufacturing sector, is making waves with its latest groundbreaking initiative - the No-Bow Guarantee. This revolutionary assurance is poised to redefine industry standards by addressing a longstanding challenge that has plagued the composite door sector for years - door bowing.

Composite door slab bowing has been a persistent issue, causing frustration among end-customers, industry professionals, and tradespeople alike. Virtuoso Doors recognised the benefits to its customers of addressing this serious and costly issue and embarked on an extensive research and development journey to find a solution.

Following months of detailed engagement with much valued suppliers and customers and after conducting rigorous testing, Virtuoso Doors proudly introduced the No-Bow Guarantee, effective April 2nd, 2024. This new guarantee provides customers with the ultimate peace of mind, knowing that their doors are engineered to withstand the test of time without succumbing to bowing issues. In the unlikely event that a Virtuoso door bows, the company will promptly replace it and contribute £200 towards reinstallation costs, reaffirming its commitment to finding a “fit and forget” model for its customers.

Mark Davenport, Commercial Director at Virtuoso Doors, emphasised the importance of the No-Bow Guarantee in addressing a longstanding pain point within the industry. "We recognised the urgent need to tackle the pervasive issue of door bowing, which has long been a frustration for both customers and industry professionals," said Davenport.

“Our No-Bow Guarantee underscores our unwavering dedication to delivering superior quality and ensuring that our customers receive doors that surpass their expectations in terms of durability and performance.”

"Our No-Bow Guarantee underscores our unwavering dedication to delivering superior quality and ensuring that our customers receive doors that surpass their expectations in terms of durability and performance."

In addition to its groundbreaking No-Bow Guarantee, Virtuoso Doors boasts an extensive range of product choices and finishes, catering to diverse tastes and project requirements. With a commitment to offering a huge variety of styles and many customisation options, Virtuoso Doors ensures that customers can find the perfect door solution for their customer’s homes or projects. Whether customers prefer the timeless elegance of traditional doors or the sleek sophistication of modern styles, Virtuoso Doors has something to suit every aesthetic preference. From panelled doors to sleek, minimalist designs, the possibilities are virtually endless. Whether customers need custom-sized doors or unique design features, Virtuoso Doors can work with them to bring their vision to life.

Moreover, Virtuoso Doors offers a variety of finishes and colours to complement any architectural style or design scheme. From classic white and black finishes to bold and vibrant hues, customers can choose from a diverse palette of colours to create a bespoke look for their doors. Additionally, Virtuoso Doors offers a range of wood grain finishes, providing the warmth and texture of natural wood without the maintenance requirements.

But the customisation options don't end there. Virtuoso Doors also offers a range of hardware options, allowing customers to add the perfect finishing touches to their doors. From traditional door handles and letterplates to contemporary hardware designs, customers can personalise their doors to reflect their unique style and preferences.

For an added layer of support Virtuoso’s excellence extends beyond their products to their dedicated and ultrafriendly support team based in Follingsby, Gateshead. The experienced team members are committed to providing unparalleled service and assistance to customers at every step of their journey. Whether you have questions about our products, need advice on customisation options, or require assistance with an order, Virtuoso’s support team is always ready to help with a warm smile and expert guidance. With their extensive knowledge and genuine dedication to customer satisfaction, their team members ensure that every interaction with Virtuoso Doors is a positive and rewarding experience.

With the comprehensive 10-year guarantee covering all Virtuoso doors, glass, and hardware, customers can trust

“For an added layer of support Virtuoso’s excellence extends beyond their products to their dedicated and ultra-friendly support team based in Follingsby, Gateshead. The experienced team members are committed to providing unparalleled service and assistance to customers at every step of their journey.”

in the durability and performance of their purchases. This commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is at the core of Virtuoso's ethos, ensuring that customers receive the highest quality products and service.

For more information about Virtuoso Doors and its innovative No-Bow Guarantee, visit https://virtuoso-doors.co.uk/.

LOOKING BEYOND THE HEADLINES WITH STELLAR

Epwin Window Systems’ new Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door is setting a new benchmark in compliance, innovation and aesthetics. This is the view of Phil Parry, Technical Director at Epwin Window Systems who encourages fabricators to look beyond the headlines when it comes to identifying the standout qualities of aluminium sliding doors.

Phil explains: “Most aluminium sliding patio doors use a dummy sash to create the fixed pane. The Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door is different because we have opted to remove the dummy sash on the fixed pane and utilise a direct glazed fixed light. It’s a technical innovation that makes a compelling difference. It not only enhances thermal efficiency but also ensures compliance with Building Regulations, including Part L, in both new build and extension projects.”

Phil continued: “Moreover, the removal of the dummy sash results in sleeker sightlines and an increased glazed area, further elevating the door’s slimline aesthetics and contemporary appeal, even in smaller apertures.”

As you would expect from an Epwin Window Systems’ designed product, fabrication and installation processes are streamlined with the Stellar Inline Sliding Door. By reducing the number of manufactured parts from three to two, it saves time, material costs and ultimately adds value to the bottom line. And like all products in the Stellar arsenal, installation is made effortless with patented knock-in glazing beads, ensuring a swift and neat finish.

Epwin Window Systems’ meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the Stellar Inline Sliding Door’s design. Phil said: “The 35mm slim interlock has been given a lot of consideration. Rather than the typical ‘wet glazed’ solutions, we opted for a simpler, cleaner dry glazed bonding solution which means that if the glass is ever damaged, it’s much more straightforward to replace than comparative door systems.”

Each sash can be up to 1675mm wide, so there are fewer sashes and wider glazed expanses. And because the outerframe seamlessly aligns with the sash, the door delivers a flush appearance that perfectly suites with other products in the Stellar Aluminium range. It’s available in 2, 3, and 4-pane configurations with a maximum total width of 6500mm, so it’s the solution for the largest of spaces.

Thermal efficiency is similarly impressive. Intelligently designed polyamide thermal breaks deliver a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K with 28mm double glazing and as low as 0.9 W/ m²K with triple glazing. At the same time, effective seals and bespoke design features provide class-leading performance to BS 6375 standard.

Phil concludes; “The Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door epitomises Epwin Window Systems' commitment to design excellence. It represents a shift from superficial headlines to a deeper appreciation of what truly sets a product apart.” Tel: 0845 340 3968 – www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

ALUK BSF70 GETS NEW HANDLES AND A NEW CILL

ALUK has announced some significant enhancements to its popular BSF70 HI bifold door, designed to give customers even more choice and flexibility.

There is now a surface-mounted lift and turn handle available as an alternative to the more traditional pop-up T handle, and a new easy to install integrated cill.

The new easy to operate, easy to fit lift and turn handle provides what AluK says is the ideal combination of value, aesthetics and functionality and comes in white, black, silver, chrome and anthracite grey to suit any of the BSF70 HI colours.

The integrated cill uses the existing nose projection from AluK’s premium F82 bifold and gives the iconic BSF70 HI a new look with a two part profile for the first time. Because it is added last, the cill eliminates any potential damage on site. It also means, for the new build or extensions market, it removes the need for the builder to cut out

the existing brick course to achieve a level internal floor finish with a rebated frame.

Russell Yates, Managing Director of AluK, commented: “We’re continually improving and enhancing all our products to keep pace with customer demand and a changing market.

“As we’ve already shown with the launch of the Quik Clip clip-in bead for the BSF70 HI, even with our bestselling products there’s no room for complacency as we constantly look to stay ahead of the competition.”

More details at: https://uk.aluk.com/

“As we’ve already shown with the launch of the Quik Clip clip-in bead for the BSF70 HI, even with our best-selling products there’s no room for complacency as we constantly look to stay ahead of the competition.”

ODL EUROPE LAUNCHES THE NEW REDFORD CONTEMPORARY DOOR

ODL Europe has further expanded its contemporary door range with the introduction of the new Redford Door. The Redford Door is characterised by its three-section glazing, which seamlessly combines with the modern appeal of the flush door design.

Suzanne Nicholl, Head of Sales and Marketing at ODL Europe, said: “We are excited to introduce the Redford Door as the latest addition to our extensive lineup of contemporary door designs. Its innovative three-section glazing and flush door design taps into the trend for contemporary doors and offers elegant modern detailing throughout, giving our customers a valuable upsell opportunity.”

The Redford Door is available in any RAL colour, giving homeowners the freedom to tailor the door to perfectly complement their home’s unique style and personality. Furthermore, the company has developed a range of

exclusive contemporary glass designs to complement the door. And for the best in streamlined door aesthetics, the Redford Door suites with the newly launched TriSYS® Modern cassette framing system which offers flush, sleek styling.

Suzanne said: “The new TriSYS® Modern cassette has a sleek, lowprofile aesthetic with a subtle texture that blends seamlessly with the new Redford Door. Together, they deliver the best in flush door aesthetics.”

As with all of ODL Europe’s composite doors, the Redford Door has a pedigree customers can trust and allows installers to fit with complete confidence too. The door offers a wealth of features that provides exceptional strength, an outstanding finish, PAS24 security and come with a warranty of up to ten years.

Suzanne concludes: “The Redford Door is a further example of how we continue to work with our customers to develop the products they need to help lead the way in the composite door market.”

The Redford Door is now available to order.

Tel: 0151 933 0299

Market leading System 10-35

Commercial Door and Framing goes from

strength to strength

Metal Technology’s System 10-35 Hi / Hi+ Commercial Door and Framing has been recently enhanced to include:

New structural mullions

Auto door pro les

New concealed closer options for wider and heavier doors

New Mag and electric lock solutions to suit standard and PAS24 security applications

New rebated door option for anti- nger trap stiles as well as additional pull handle and threshold variants.

handle

PAS 24 Security Tested U values as low as 1.0W/m2K

Multi-Point Locking + Mag Locks

Panic Exit (Push Rail or Touch Bar)

GERDA: DOORS WITH A DIFFERENCE

Residential doors have gone from being a oncein-a-lifetime replacement purchase to a lifestyle-driven home improvement. But in a saturated market, how do you offer a door that truly does stand out from the crowd?

This was the question Danny Williams, Managing Director of Essex-based fabricator and installer Pioneer Trading, first asked himself five years ago. He’d been in the business long enough to see replacements peak in the noughties and millennium, after which installers struggled to find a homeowner who hadn't already updated their doors and windows in a package once-and-done deal.

“Homeowners back then viewed replacing doors and windows as a one-off expense,”

recalls Danny. “A replacement set of windows and doors would see out their days, which in turn meant the days of door installations would also be numbered. But then the industry pivoted, offering a wider range of doors and windows designed to reflect discerning lifestyle choices, tempt buyers and offer more than ever before: better security, improved efficiency and enhanced style. And with further improvements being made and more options being offered year on year.”

Twenty years on, and now the industry has hit a new challenge. When every new door offered to the market purports to perform better, look better and last better than all the others, how does an installer genuinely offer anything new that can stand out in this crowded market?

STEEL-ING THE SHOW

For Danny, the answer was to be found in Poland and specifically in Gerda doors: aluminium and steel faced residential doors, created in contrast to the GRP and u-PVC

"While Gerda is a household name in mainland Europe, and a market leader in residential front doors there for over 35 years, we’re the first to offer Gerda to the UK, with doors that offer something truly different in a market that has become over-crowded variations on a theme."

skinned composite doors that dominate the UK residential door sector.

“Gerda doors are robustly constructed to ensure longevity and durability,” says Danny. “They’re unmatched when it comes to resisting rotting and warping, ensuring your front door remains beautiful for years to come.”

Weather-proofed for Eastern European winters, Gerda doors offer exceptional engineering and quality, with thermal transmittance as low as 0.74 W/m2K for solid doors and 0.81 W/m2K for glazed versions. “Which means they’re ready for whatever the market and Building Regulations throw at us, probably for the next five years or more.”

And they’re secure – as you’d expect, coming as they do from a company that also manufacture padlocks, bicycle locks along with door hardware. “With expertly created hardware and innovative and advanced locking mechanisms and reinforced aluminium outer frames, these doors surpass industry standards to provide homeowners with the utmost protection,” says Danny.

“Altogether, Gerda doors offer a level of quality, security and aesthetic appeal that really is an a league of its own. These doors are far higher spec than anything else on the UK market, price-for-price.”

EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTION IN THE UK

Pioneer Trading is the exclusive partner to supply and distribute Gerda residential doors designed for the UK market throughout the country. They first showcased the doors at the FIT Show in 2022, where interest was high.

“While Gerda is a household name in mainland Europe, and a market leader in residential front doors there for over 35 years, we’re the first to offer Gerda to the UK, with doors that offer something truly different in a market that has become overcrowded variations on a theme,” says Danny.

“That FIT Show was our first opportunity where we were able to let people see and try Gerda doors for themselves: the heft of the weight – our class-leading Altus door boasts a depth of 88mm – and the smooth operation of the locks and handles. Nothing beats getting to feel and touch these doors in the flesh. It’s a level of quality that sells itself.

“Now we’re offering Gerda doors nationwide, via our meticulously curated network of approved trade partners across the country who are committed to offering the highest service levels to customers. Together we’re determined to offer a level of service along with the unparalleled craftmanship and innovation that is a Gerda door to give homeowners a front door experience which really is set apart from all the rest.”

Tel: 01245 362236

www.gerdadoors.co.uk

STAND OUT IN A SEA OF MEDIOCRITY

Installers looking to thrive and not just survive in 2024, need to stand out in a significant way according to Asa McGillian, managing director of New World Developments and manufacturer of Apeer residential doors.

Traditionally as we move into Spring and Summer the window and door industries get busier. Homeowners start to feel more positive in the (occasional) lighter, brighter days, and the prospect of entertaining friends in the home and garden comes back to life. This Spring will be a little different though. The market will pick up, but the economy is still fragile and with a General Election looming there is an air of ‘wait and see’. Furthermore, the Future Homes Standard and lack of resulting uplift in u-values in Document L legislation, hasn’t given homeowners a new reason to buy. It’s not all doom and gloom though. For those who have access to products that are truly better than anything else available on the market, and a proactive supply partner, this market backdrop could offer a huge opportunity.

As is often the case when the market flattens, there are still pockets of growth and opportunity available if you know where to look. At the moment those pockets lie

with products that outperform the market in terms of thermal performance and products that have been designed for the more affluent customer happy to spend more on high quality home improvements. Unfortunately, a lot of suppliers don’t deliver the highest quality products, unless legislation forces their hand, so those that have these better options available will stand out and do well.

AIM HIGH

At Apeer we don’t believe in waiting for legislation, we want to deliver the very best products we can, now. I have long been an advocate of the work of the PassivHaus Institut which since its formation in the ‘Nineties’ has provided a framework of sustainable design standards for buildings. It sets 0.89 W/m2K or better for residential doors. After years of arduous work, we are now able to meet and even exceed those standards in products that are still aesthetically attractive and at various price points.

At the FIT Show last year, we launched the Residence Door Collection by Apeer which offers an impressive 0.51 W/m2K for its solid doors, proving just what is possible now. Epitomising the Apeer approach to providing the highest performance/price balance possible at every level, our research

“I have long been an advocate of the work of the PassivHaus Institut which since its formation in the ‘Nineties’ has provided a framework of sustainable design standards for buildings. It sets 0.89 W/m2K or better for residential doors. After years of arduous work, we are now able to meet and even exceed those standards in products that are still aesthetically attractive and at various price points. “

& development department has applied the aesthetic surface coating technology developed for the Silka range, with many of the high-performance characteristics of The Residence Door Collection in our new range. And our Kärben Hybrid Aluminium Entrance Door Collection, believed to be the first residential entrance doors ever to use carbon fibre in its construction, offers a u-value of 1.1 W/m2K. Kärben uses the ultra-strong yet light weight material as reinforcement, presented as a set in a Silka aluminium frame. Also offering the unique, surface texture of Silka, the aesthetics of this range belie the toughness and thermal performance on offer.

SENDING A CLEAR MESSAGE

With these products and the rest of our impressive range, we want to send a message to the market, loud and clear, that higher performing products than the required 1.4 W/m2K are not only possible, but they are also available now and affordable. We have worked hard to ensure we have higher performing options at every price point under the Apeer brand, with each of our performance options guaranteed to provide the stated performance.

With the lack of direction from legislation, it is time for the window and door industry to take control of its own destiny and meet the requirements of the future now. We should be manufacturing the highest performing products possible, not products that just scrape through the minimum requirements. However, as most of the industry is only making windows and doors that meet current legislation and according to our research often are not even doing that, there are huge opportunities for installers that want to aim higher, and for homeowners that want better than mediocre.

www.apeer.co.uk

Asa McGillian

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.

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.

COMING SOON FROM DONCASTER

DoorCo’s new Doncaster facility was recently announced as the new home of DoorCo Manufacturing and centre for Innovation. DoorCo Operations Manager, Mark Towers reveals more what’s to come from the new facility.

Doncaster represents a sizable shift for DoorCo. The new factory is the fourth stand-alone facility in the UK supporting our overseas operations and has seen a significant investment in infrastructure, team and machinery. The result is a new home for a dedicated manufacturing and R&D facility that gives us greater flexibility to create, test and trial more products, right here in the UK.

The expansion is a natural progression for DoorCo enabling us to grow, gain more control of our manufacturing processes here and have more space for innovation, something we are fully committed to continuing and in fact, doing more of. Our commitment was also endorsed by our recent ‘Most Innovative Business’ win at the UK Manufacturing Awards. The award recognises our work on the recent INNOVATiON Week marketing campaign which saw us launch over 10 new products

and supply chain updates in just 5 days. Engineering and creativity are qualities we pride ourselves on, so to have been awarded this title is a real badge of honour for us and sets a great benchmark for 2024 and our Doncaster plans.

DOORCO MANUFACTURING

DoorCo Manufacturing is a new arm to the business being run out of Doncaster to work alongside our overseas partners in the production of our growing composite door portfolio. The additional space in Doncaster allows us to have a UK-based location to produce new products on a full-time basis and we’re in the final stages of bringing its first creation to market: a new solid core composite door.

NEW BRAND MADE IN THE UK

In addition to our two current door slabs, we recognised there was an obvious opening for the addition of a new product that is accessible for the whole market. Making it in the UK in Doncaster and having total control of the process was a natural choice.

The new door’s construction is a timber core finished with Thermoplastic CoolSkin technology. As with all DoorCo slabs, the new door will be made to fit any profile on the market, making it a versatile solution for our network.

The new slab will be available in existing styles including 6/4 combi, flush, farmhouse, as well as two new exclusive designs just for this range, which means it can create all the favourite DoorCo designs, and more. The product will be made in Doncaster and prepped, if required, in Macclesfield and distributed along our normal supply routes. The product collection will also come in over 15 standard colours.

SUPPORTING OUR OTHER BRANDS

DoorCo is already the proud owner of three unique brands in the industry: ORiGINAL – the UK’s favourite foam-filled choice; GRiPCORE, the superior solid core option that combines timber, foam and aluminium in its core to deliver impressive strength and performance; and FLiP, our exclusive

and versatile glazing cassette system. The new door is designed to bolster our current portfolio with a cost-effective solid core choice that performs well.

Establishing the new Doncaster site and the new door product is a project I have been working on behind the scenes for some time, so it’s great to see our plans coming together and being able to share them with the market. We’re in the final stages of bringing this to market now and it is due to go into full production very soon.

Dan Sullivan, DoorCo MD concludes: “The expansion into Doncaster has been a great move for DoorCo. We’re delighted to welcome a new team to the DoorCo family and to add a new door to our portfolio of brands.”

“We’re passionate about innovation and having a space in the UK where we can research, develop, test and create is such a great next step for us. The new solid core door is just the first example of what’s to come and we’re excited to see the new brand in production in the space very soon.”

“The expansion into Doncaster has been a great move for DoorCo. We’re delighted to welcome a new team to the DoorCo family and to add a new door to our portfolio of brands.”

Mark Towers

FEATURES

AESTHETICALLY APPEALING

Colour matched external cill as a standard.

Gerda doors are available in widths ranging from 840mm to 1130mm, offering a broader selection compared to other doors that typically start at 950mm wide

ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE

Faced with steel & aluminium for superior durability and resistance

RC3 lock with 13 locking points, you can also upgrade the fuhr lock on the Thermo Prime Range

Pre-drilled holes supplied with a fixing kit for easy and convenient installation.

UNMATCHED SECURITY

State-of-the-art security features with burglary resistance accreditations PAS24 as a standard

Revolutionary Smart Tedee Lock controlled by your phone

EXCELLENT THERMAL PERFORMANCE

Exceptionally energy-efficient, thanks to a unique thermal division that enhances the natural insulation

U- values exceed the current and forthcoming

Building Regulations with values of 0.74W/1.3m2k

10yearguarantee as standard

1-3 Red Barns, Warners Farm, Howe Street, Great Waltham, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 1BN

tEDEE SMART LOCK

Contemporary design, fast and simple to install. Innovative USPs and highly competitive price points combine to make light work for your projects.

LET’S TALK ABOUT SHEERLINE’S S2 CONSERVATORY ROOF SYSTEM…

Editor of Glass News, Chris Champion, finds out about the Sheerline S2 Conservatory roof system and talks to the company’s Design Project Manager, Jon Crohill. He is one of the key managers in the R&D department and specialises in roofs, designing and creating the S1 and SheerVent® products.

It’s not easy to keep up with you guys at Sheerline – there seems to be a constant stream of new products! I’d got my head around the S1 lantern that had been a winner at the 2022 Installer Awards, but can you explain the S2?  It looks as if the lantern has grown into a full conservatory roof…

The S1 Lantern Roof has been extremely well received in the marketplace, and so the natural next step was to build on this success, which we’ve done in many ways. As well as achieving SBD accreditation – making the S1 one of the most secure lanterns in the UK – we’ve added intelligent ventilation in the form of SheerVent®. The launch of the separate S2 Conservatory Roof system is another example of how we’re committed to offering customers a complete range of products.

You’ve explained how the S2 is a developed K2 roof, but can we talk about those developments?

For those of us in our sector who have been involved with roofs, it was a well-known

system with a loyal following. But in its later years, the development ceased, and we all know that continuous development is key to the long-term success of any system.

The groundwork in place made K2 the ideal roof system to pick up and redevelop, with input from customers so we could learn about the changes and enhancements they wanted to see in the future. We went through every component, assessing it to see if any improvements could be made, and bringing it in line with what homeowners want from a modern glazed extension.

This means it has been enhanced structurally and aesthetically, it’s now easier to install, and we’ve simplified the system, so there’s less stock to hold for fabricators, while also making it easier to manufacture, using Sheerline ‘know-how’ developed over years of real world experience.

What do you see as being the winning features on the S2?  Is it the slim lines or those customisable options such as the variable internal pelmet and aluminium gutter shroud?

Obviously, those features you’ve mentioned are the standout features and are in line with what consumers want and arguably expect, as is demonstrated by current market trends within the window sector. But for me, it’s also the additional spanning capacity – we

have seen increases of over 20% in the structural values of key components.

Add to that SheerVent® (Sheerline’s intelligent roof lantern ventilation system, which offers a massive step-forward in design and quality compared to the roof vents available for other systems), and you’ve got a clean, contemporary aesthetic, bringing glazed roofs up to date with added wow factor.

With the demand for multi bifold doors and patios…the big areas that give access to outside, do you have a solution with the S2 to allow for pretty much whole sides of a conservatory being open?

In a word; yes! We liked what Prefix Systems had done back in 2009, with the introduction of the Multi-Beam to enable larger spans for bi-folding and sliding doors.

Working with them we created our own Eaves Beam Bolster that offers marketleading spanning capabilities bringing the outside in. It’s a well-designed, attractive feature that enables homeowners to create a year-round outdoor living space, indoors. It also doesn’t add to the height of the eaves beam so it’s easy to integrate into almost every roof configuration.

I see you provide a choice of multichambered PVCu cappings or aluminium.  Can you explain the reasoning and the advantages of either or both options?

Thermal efficiency is arguably more important than it has ever been before, so having a chambered glazing bar and ridge top cappings makes sense for so many reasons.

Aside from the fact they’re designed to increase the U-value thermal performance over single skin PVCu cappings (seen

Jon Crohill

on other systems), they also increase weathering stability and rigidity.

The aluminium offering is very interesting, as this is intended to take us into the newly evolving full aluminium glazed extension market, where Sheerline users have the ability to specify the full package.

What are the pitch parameters that can be achieved with the S2 roof?

The S2 roof is available from 2.5°- 30° on lean-to roof styles and 15-37.5° on typical ridged designs. The system can accommodate varying pitch differences of 10° over a hip and 15° over a valley, which is impressive.

What do fabricators do about guttering, downpipes etc.?  Is there a recommended solution?

As a company designed around making life as easy and straightforward for customers as possible, we also supply all the downpipe and guttering required – which is the proven Polypipe range, most installers will be familiar with.

I’m intrigued by SheerVent®.  That product has been around for a little while but seems a perfect fit for the S2 roof’s ventilation. Was that the intention all along and SheerVent® was designed to go with the S2, or was it a happy accident?

SheerVent® offers such obvious advantages to glazed roofs that we knew as soon as we launched it for S1 lanterns, we needed to create a version that worked with S2 roofs as well. SheerVent essentially brings lantern and conservatory-style roof ventilation in to the 21st century.

Both the 28mm version used in the lantern and the 24mm version designed for S2

benefit from intelligent automation to make life easier and more comfortable for homeowners. Both are designed to eliminate the weak points that are prone to leaking in standard vents, and both avoid the clumsy, protruding looks of lesser vents.

What colours can you offer for the S2 conservatory roof?

We offer standard colours of White (RAL9003), Black (RAL9005), Anthracite Grey (RAL7016), Brown/Rosewood (RAL8017), plus bespoke options (RAL or BS colours) to match existing products.

I believe you offer a ‘gutter shroud’.

What is that exactly and what does it achieve?

It is an aluminium cornice detail that hides the rainwater gutter system. As well as giving the conservatory a look more typically associated with an orangery, the gutter shroud system can be used to externally dress an internal pelmet, which can further enhance the overall aesthetic as it can house down-lighting or speakers, etc.

As an installer, where can I obtain the S2? Is it available through multiple fabricators or just through specialist roof companies?

We have two partners, Prefix Systems and SupaLite. Both are fabricating the S1 and S2 systems and have provided Sheerline with a lot of feedback on what roof focused developments could come next (watch this space!).

Based on a really successful first year, we are looking to grow our roof fabricator network as we have done with our window and door network. Potential partners are invited to contact the team directly to find out more.

What happens about design? Is there software available for this?

Sheerline has partnered with PST to create a bespoke software package to design both simple and complex roofs, ensuring

accurate and concise manufacturing information is available for fabricators and installers. The last year’s seen this bed in well.

Is there help available in the way of technical support if I need to ask specific questions or need help with design or software?

In short, yes. We pride ourselves on offering exceptional customer service through our window and door specialists, and the S2 is no different. We have roof specialists available to offer support as and when they’re needed.

How thermally efficient is S2?

The roof is as good thermally as it can be – the S2 is the only roof with both a chambered glazing bar and ridge top caps. But the overall thermal performance is influenced less by the roof system, and more by the glazing used.

Our roof glass partners can supply warm edge spacer bars and a centre pane with a U-value of 1.0, with a 24mm DGU. As the roof offers excellent structural stability, we can also glaze the roof with 36mm TGU if required.

This, of course, means the U-values drop dramatically. And when you balance this with solar control to reduce heat build-up, the internal roof environment is better managed through the four seasons.

Are there any specific advantages to using SheerVent® as opposed to any other roof vent?

In a word, yes. Most roof vent options currently available rely on PVC-u muntin bars and don’t glaze directly into the ridge baffle. This can cause areas of weakness that, over time, can fail and leak. Plus, many options are bulky, sitting proud of the frame.

SheerVent® overcomes this, offering reliability without the risk of leaks because of the option to glaze directly into the ridge or wall plate. Plus, it was designed to sit lower than traditional vents, improving the overall aesthetic, achieving the familiar slim, sleek, stylish look associated with Sheerline’s products.

In addition, the larger openings SheerVent® can achieve enable air circulation and ventilation much more efficiently than traditional options.

You describe SheerVent® as ‘Discreet Intelligent Ventilation’. Can you explain this?

Discreet because it sits a lot lower than traditional ventilation options offering a sleek aesthetic. And intelligent for several reasons. Customers can choose automatic powered actuators, which can be paired with a range of discreet sensors that monitor for rain, wind, and light for the ultimate in hassle-free ventilation.

Finally, can we expect further developments to S2 or is this now a complete product?

A firm yes. The S2 chassis is a great platform to allow Sheerline to bring further developments and options to ensure we stay ahead of the competition. As you can probably imagine, we have a lengthy product development list across all our product groups. Continuous development of both this system and our other products is important to us, as well as listening and learning from our current and future customers. For us, this is the best way to ensure our products remain the best in the market.

Tel: 01332 978000

info@sheerline.com

THE SMART CHOICE FOR HOME SECURITY

We talk to Mike Derham, chairman of Mighton Products, who explains why Avia Secure is leading the way in the increasingly popular smart security sector.

Mike, we’ve seen a rise in the number of smart hardware options on the market, and a growing number of fabricators adopting the technology. What’s driving this trend?

Absolutely, it's fascinating to witness this shift towards smart security. There’s lots of research to show that homeowners are increasingly drawn to the convenience and enhanced protection that smart devices offer.

That includes a recent survey from Neighbourhood Watch that revealed 39% of respondents opted for external cameras, while 30% embraced video doorbells. What's more, a staggering 75% integrated some form of smart device into their properties.

The survey also highlighted a prevalent fear of increased crime rates and potential break-ins. These concerns underscore the urgent need for robust security solutions, whether traditional or smart-enabled.

With a surge in new smart security products, what should installers be aware of?

It's crucial for installers to recognise the varying standards and specifications among these products. Some may offer reduced security performance, while others are compromised by the fact that they come with additional subscriptions to ‘unlock’ their full features.

This is something that can be particularly off-putting for homeowner customers who are already signed up for multiple subscription services. It may also contribute to subscription ‘fatigue’, where consumers cancel subs in order to reduce their outgoings – significantly reducing the effectiveness of any smart devices that are linked to them.

What principles guide Mighton Products in developing smart security devices?

At Mighton, we firmly believe in three core principles: combining the best of smart technology with traditional security design, ease of installation and a zero-subscription model.

The Avia Secure range is designed to meet the stringent requirements of PAS:24 2016 and it includes our marketleading smart lock, SBD approved smart casement handle, smart sash fastener, window and door sensors, plus a motion sensor and smart socket.

Crucially, all these are battery powered and can be easily retro-fitted, which means installers can upsell them without having to worry about spending too much additional time fitting them – or worse, getting an electrician in to hard wire them.

In addition, they can sell the various options independently or as a complete package. One customer may just be interested in the Avia Secure door lock, another might want a complete home security solution. With Avia Secure, installers have a flexible, market leading offer for all scenarios.

Smart hardware may be a growing market, but some homeowners are still reluctant to invest as they are worried about the reliability of smart devices. How does Avia Secure address these concerns?

Our Avia Secure products adhere to the highest reliability and security standards. For instance, the Avia Secure smart lock received the IoT Breakthrough Award for Home Security Product of the Year in 2020, thanks to its advanced features.

With 256-bit encryption for secure data transfer, it complies with the UK Government's code of practice for consumer IoT (Internet of Things) and ETSI TS 103 645 Consumer IoT security technical specification.

Of course, not all homeowners will have heard of the IoT Breakthrough Awards or will be aware of government standards for smart security – but one brand that most people will recognise is Apple.

And that’s important, because we have worked exceptionally hard to ensure Avia Secure is compatible with Apple HomeKit and Apple devices.

We have had to complete an incredibly rigorous testing programme in order to meet the criteria for Apple’s operating system, and that is widely regarded as the most secure – and user friendly – in the world.

So, homeowners can rest assured that Avia Secure offers the highest levels of security, but they will also appreciate the association with Apple. It’s a premium brand, one that’s more likely to be associated with users at the top end of the retail market – a key demographic for home improvements at the moment.

Installers can also then sell on the ‘seamless’ convenience of being able to use Avia Secure via iPhones, iPads and even Apple watches.

In a nutshell, what advantages does Avia Secure have over other smart security systems?

Avia Secure is a beacon of trust in the smart security landscape. It provides assurance with cutting-edge technology, uncompromising security, and effortless installation.

For homeowners seeking peace of mind in an everconnected world, Avia Secure sets a new standard in smart home security.

www.mightonproducts.com

Mike Derham

WINKHAUS UK’S INNOVATIVE DOUBLE DOOR SOLUTIONS

Door and window specialist Winkhaus UK is dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of multi-point locking systems, tailored to meet the requirements of our customers. Delivering a modern mix of security and style, our Double Door solutions are no exception, with a range designed and tested to provide a lock that’s suitable for every eventuality. Designed with versatility and flexibility in mind, our double door multi-point locking systems are tested to comply with PAS:24 and the Police Secured by Design initiative.

SINGLE HANDLE DOUBLE DOOR LOCKS

Compatible with all Winkhaus’ multi-point locking systems, FAB is a high security slave door with an integrated two-way lever which engages two heavy duty shootbolts for robust security. This eliminates the need for an additional handle and cylinder, making it the ideal solution for a sleek, modern double door design. With sizes ranging from 1853mm to 2880mm that suit French doors and main entrances with side panels, FAB caters to modern design and accessibility needs.

DOUBLE HANDLE DOUBLE DOOR LOCKS

Our other slave door options maintain a classic appearance with handles on both the slave and masterlock.

Winkhaus’ FGTE is suitable for composite and timber double doors, compatible with our Thunderbolt and Cobra multi-point locking solutions, and has the capability for door designs exceeding 3 metres in height.

Similar to FGTE but crafted for aluminium doors, UGTE features a U-rail and accommodates a diverse range of door sizes, and integrates with Winkhaus’ Thunderbolt, Cobra and Trulock multi-point locking systems.

Tailored for double doors with a dummy mullion, FGTI is a locking system compatible on timber, aluminium and UPVC constructions. FGTI uses the Cobra masterlock, consisting of two high tensile steel hooks, latch and deadbolt and incorporates shootbolts on both the slave and master doors, ensuring its security. Lever operation facilitates the engagement of 25mm throw hooks, ensuring smooth system operation.

Like all our multi-point locking systems, Winkhaus’ Double Door range features our innovative Nano Protect coating as standard, which protects the hardware from corrosion and the ability to recover from everyday wear and tear. Our high-quality locking solutions are produced in our state-of-the-art facilities in Germany for uncompromised security.

For more information about our Double Door solutions, please visit our website: https://www.winkhaus.co.uk/en/

THUNDERBOLT: THE 5-POINT LOCKING SYSTEM ESPECIALLY DESIGNED WITH INCREASED TOLERANCES FOR DOOR INSTALLERS

With over 150 years’ experience in producing locking systems, Winkhaus UK is a market leader producing innovative security solutions to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s rapidly changing security and ease of use requirements.

Winkhaus’ Thunderbolt multi-point locking system is specifically engineered with increased tolerances in mind, to streamline the process for door installers. The 5-point locking mechanism features twin deadbolts in the upper and lower positions, each measuring 20mm long and 8.5mm thick, Thunderbolt provides security and peace of mind for homeowners and tenants.

Thunderbolt is operated by a lever or key turn which activates the bolts within the locking system, along with a deadbolt which is deployed by turning the key in the cylinder to add

an enhanced level of security. Thunderbolt’s heavy duty keeps are manufactured using high grade steel, plated to comply with Grade 5 corrosion resistance requirement of BS EN1670 European Standard. The multi-point locking system is extremely easy to install and can be used with a range of doors including composite, timber, aluminium or UPVC.

TOLERANCE AND STRENGTH

The Thunderbolt multi-point locking system features specifically designed twin nickel plated alloy deadbolts which are chamfered to allow a high degree of fitting tolerance for door installation. Engineered alloy sprung latch and nickel plated steel deadbolt provides the Thunderbolt with maximum strength in the centre of the door, and the deadbolt shape, with up to 2 mm adjustment to compensate for any misalignment of the door during and after installation.

Designed to harmonise with Winkhaus’ XR6 one star profile cylinders and armorShield two-star cylinder protection, Thunderbolt is compliant with Police ‘Secured by Design’ and passes the rigorous PAS24 security standard. Tested to 100,000 cycles at Winkhaus’ dedicated in-house laboratory, the sprung gearbox helps prevent handle ‘droop’.

Like all our multi-point locking systems, Thunderbolt features our innovative Nano Protect coating as standard, which protects the hardware from corrosion and the ability to recover from everyday wear and tear.

‘FAMILY OF LOCKS’: INTERCHANGEABLE SOLUTIONS

Thunderbolt is part of Winkhaus’ ‘Family of Locks’ range, which makes it easier for fabricators and installers to interchange one of Winkhaus’ locks for another based on customer requirements. Using the same routing as AV4, Thunderbolt, TruLock and autoLock AV2 can be fitted to all door materials and interchanged on-site, thereby reducing the time spent by, and cost of, property services and maintenance contractors.

THUNDERBOLT HERITAGE

The Thunderbolt Heritage is a Key Turn Activated multipoint locking system which houses the cylinder at eye-level position, perfect for modern or traditional doors with ornate or architectural long bar or traditional pull door hardware. Featuring all the benefits of the Thunderbolt, this locking system lends itself perfectly to more contemporary designs, such as long bar pull handles, and is suitable for timber and composite doors.

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

Winkhaus Meiningen is a state of the art design and manufacturing facility dedicated to our locking solutions, where our team designs, develops and produces solutions that focus on quality, durability, ease of use and also offer the ability to tailor solutions to meet your requirements.

Winkhaus mechanical locking systems have a long tradition and have always stood for high levels of functional safety, user-friendly convenience and reliable protection. Our mechanical technologies can be used for a range of buildings from individual entrance or apartment doors to larger offices and buildings.

To learn more about the features and benefits of our Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt Heritage locking solutions, visit our website, https://www.winkhaus.co.uk/en/ Thunderbolt, or contact marketing@winkhaus.co.uk.

Thunderbolt™

The 5-Point Locking System especially designed with increased tolerances for door installers

With two twin bolts in the upper and lower position, the Winkhaus Thunderbolt™ locking system has 5 deadbolts as standard, giving high security and peace of mind. The Thunderbolt™ locking system is extremely easy to install and can be used with a range of doors including composite, timber, aluminium or PVCu.

Key benefits:

+ 20mm throw twin deadbolts

+ Weather seal compression adjustment in the keeps

+ Heavy duty steel keeps

+ Latch and centre deadbolt

+ High performance gearbox

+ Prevents handle droop

MERGING TRADITIONAL HARDWARE WITH SMART TECHNOLOGY

As homeowners seek to integrate cutting-edge technologies into their daily routines, the demand for smart home devices is on the rise. Nonetheless, this doesn't indicate the demise of traditional hardware. Instead, it can serve as an additional layer of security, providing fabricators with an opportunity to introduce smart security options alongside established methods.

With Statista reporting that the global smart home market is projected to reach a value of 17 billion USD by 2028, it's evident that the trend for smart home technology isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Given the efficiency, convenience and security that connected home technology is enabling, it is no surprise that people are turning to smart security to protect their homes and loved ones. However, it is important to note that hardware is not becoming obsolete, as homeowners may still prefer to incorporate traditional security methods. Fabricators and door and window manufacturers have an opportunity to meet rising consumer demand by integrating new smart features with reliable hardware, offering solutions that blend innovation and tradition.

Using innovative measures like biometrics, app activation, voice recognition and Bluetooth provides users with convenience and secure protection for their home. However, homeowners comfortable with sturdy mechanical solutions may look towards manufacturers to twin ‘smart’ and ‘hardware’ for a holistic approach to their door security. In instances like this, implementing a smart door security solution like ERA’s TouchKey system can offer both contemporary and conventional methods of security in one. Offering five distinct entry methods, including fingerprint recognition, the ERA Smart Home app, geolocation, voice activation, and a hidden key override. The advanced biometric technology within the TouchKey handle enables the storage of up to 50 fingerprints, giving users swift and hassle-free access to their property. When using the ERA Smart Home app locally, TouchKey can be unlocked with a simple touch or when connected to an ERA smart hub, can be unlocked remotely from anywhere.

From the app, e-keys can provide timed access to authorised individuals, such as family members, while personalised voice command offers a convenient hands-free unlocking option. Similarly, once activated, geolocation technology allows the system to unlock the door when a recognised smartphone's Bluetooth connection is within range of the handle.

The TouchKey solution also includes an auto-fire mechanical lock and security cylinder, providing an exceptionally secure and adaptable way for customers seeking trusted mechanical locking, coupled with the protection and convenience of modern technologies.

For further information on ERA TouchKey, visit www.eraeverywhere.com or contact the sales team at 01922 490 000 or email info@eraeverywhere.com.

HARDWARE & SECURITY

UAP MAXIMISES SECURITY WITH NEW SMART LOCK FEATURE

UAP has launched a new patented feature which sees the IONIC become the first electronic door lock to detect different forms of attack.

Created thanks to haptic technology, which uses sensors to sense/detect the heat and vibrations, the innovation alerts the homeowner via their smartphone if there is any attempt to break in or risk of vandalism. If the door is kicked, if a drill is used on the lock, or if someone tries to gain access without using the IONIC App or key fob, the homeowner will be notified immediately. The technology can also detect heat, so will send an alert if there is a fire outside the door or if a blow torch is used.

Launched in 2023 following four years of research and development, the IONIC is the first in a series of smart products to be launched by UAP’s Fullex-ai brand.

Commenting on the new feature, David Jennings, CEO of UAP, said: “We developed the IONIC’s haptic technology based on customer feedback which signalled a growing demand for more robust security covering all eventualities.

“Although most electronic locks provide a very safe option there are still vulnerabilities, which we have resolved with this new feature. Homeowners can now benefit from an unrivalled electronic lock that is always on guard.”

The IONIC’s high levels of security add to a range of features designed to improve the

experience both for both fabricators and the end user.

No complex wiring is needed to install the lock with a setup that mirrors the Fullex Autolock. Unlike other electronic locks, the IONIC also has an integrated power supply and allows wireless charging. A wireless unit, which fits easily to a door frame, connects to a control unit and powers the lock.

Providing flexibility, the homeowner can set up new users and a wide range of time settings using the IONIC App. It is also possible to set up one-time-only access for workmen and to add and delete users at the press of a button.

Available in anthracite grey, chrome and white, the IONIC can be paired with rose handles to complement interior design briefs. Alternatively, it can be installed with classic door handles on a backplate or high security front door handles.

www.uapcorporate.com

25 YEAR FURNITURE GUARANTEE FROM VBH

VBH, the hardware specialist behind the greenteQ range, has announced a brand new guarantee that covers the greenteQ residential door, patio door and window furniture range for up to 25 years.

The popular greenteQ furniture range has now been split into two separate groups. The stainless steel architeQ range covers furniture for residential doors and patio doors, with the mainstream greenteQ Suite covering the same but with the addition of window furniture.

The surface finish on greenteQ Suite products has been increased to 20 years, with a 25 year guarantee available on architeQ furniture.

In addition to these extended guarantee periods, where the guarantees really stand out is that, for what they term ‘qualifying customers’, VBH will deal with any claims directly with the consumer, leaving the fabricator and installer free to do what they do best; make and sell windows and doors.

VBH advise that they are able to offer these guarantees based on what they describe as greenteQ furniture’s “excellent performance in test lab conditions, and real-installation experience.”

Head of Brand at VBH, Dan Powell, says, “Two big headaches reported by manufacturers and installers are firstly, having to send an engineer to site to investigate

CARL F GROUPCO COMMENDS SECURED BY DESIGN MEMBERSHIP

Leading independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has long been a member of Secured by Design. CEO Owen Coop is clear about the importance of the scheme to the business and its customers.

He said: “We have supported the Secured by Design initiative for many years. As a hardware distributor, safety and security components represent our core product offering and this scheme brings far-reaching benefits that we, and our customers, value.”

As well as being a Secured by Design member, Carl F Groupco is also an authorised supplier of Secured by Design products from Cotswold, FUHR, GT Window Products, Hoppe, Kenrick, MACO, Roto, Siegenia and Yale.

Carl F Groupco’s Secured by Design membership is just one example of its commitment to initiatives that add value to its customers’ businesses. It holds up to £5.5 million of stock, offering a next day delivery service with a target OTIF rate of 98%. The company operates nationally, including to the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands, from distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld. Alongside its extensive hardware portfolio, it also offers a value-added consultancy service, testing support and works with its customers’ fabrication teams and manufacturing partners

“Product quality, first class service and industry knowledge sets us apart as a leading hardware distributor. Our membership of Secured by Design, enhances our ability to uphold these core principles and ensure that product security standards keep pace with emerging crime trends.”

and rectify a problem and, secondly, being unsure as to what the guarantee on a particular product or finish actually is! It really isn’t as simple as it should be. We have made our guarantee as transparent as possible. Depending on the product, it’s 20 or 25 years, and we will take care of the whole claim and replacement process direct with the consumer for qualifying customers, so they can fit greenteQ and forget.

“As well as taking the hassle out of dealing with any claims, the 20 and 25 year terms give everyone in the supply chain absolute assurance that greenteQ furniture is built to last, and that VBH, as the furniture manufacturer, will stand by the product. Our aim is to help installers turn enquiries into sales.”

VBH advise that many qualifying companies are already taking advantage of the ‘fully serviced’ guarantee, with many more in the pipeline. They urge interested companies to get in touch to discuss the details directly.

VBH can be contacted on 01634 263263 or by email at sales@vbhgb.com.

to scope new hardware solutions and ensure smooth transitions to new ranges.

Owen concluded: “Product quality, first class service and industry knowledge sets us apart as a leading hardware distributor. Our membership of Secured by Design, enhances our ability to uphold these core principles and ensure that product security standards keep pace with emerging crime trends.”

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

REALLY SMART SMART HARDWARE

For every home, without the faff

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

TOTAL HARDWARE LAUNCHES

APEX DOOR HANDLE

Leading hardware supplier Total Hardware has just launched its premium-quality Apex door handle. Available in inline lever/lever, offset lever/pad and offset lever/lever, the new Apex door handle delivers an elegant yet robust design and displays the combination of superior quality and product excellence that Total Hardware’s customers have come to expect.

The Apex range of premium quality hardware demonstrates Total Hardware’s expertise in delivering modern and stylish hardware design, and the new door handle is no exception. The Apex door handle features an improved method of fixing the lever or pad to the backplate to ensure product durability and for a sleek, modern aesthetic, the backplate has been reduced to just 28mm. Additional material surrounds the cylinder hole to avoid cylinder slippage and the handle is fixed spring assisted, guaranteeing horizontal handle alignment after every operation. For convenience, the Apex door handle is supplied with screws and spindles suitable for door thicknesses of between 38-72mm.

For reassurance, the handle has been tested to BS.EN2007 Grade 5 affirming its resilience and durability in various environmental conditions. A 10-year mechanical and surface guarantee is available on powder-coated finishes, and a 5-year guarantee is available on plated finishes.

The Apex door handle is available in a choice of nine finishes: white, black, chrome, gold, satin silver, flint, tungsten, anthracite grey and antique black.

Commenting on the introduction of the new Apex door handle, Chris Pell, General Manager at Total Hardware, said: “The quality and durability of the Apex door handle is immediately evident. Its elegant aesthetics and superior functionality are already exceeding our customers’ expectations and we are delighted to be launching it onto the market.”

With more fabricators and installers looking for the perfect combination of quality, style and product reliability, the new Apex door handle is ticking all the right boxes.

The Apex door handle is now available from stock. Tel: 01332 432255 – www.totalhardware.co.uk

CARL F GROUPCO’S MY CFG STREAMLINES THE HARDWARE BUYING PROCESS

Leading independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has reported a rapid increase in the number of users of its innovative online platform, My CFG. Launched in August 2022, My CFG was designed to make the hardware buying process as seamless and efficient as possible for its customers. Clare White, Marketing Manager at Carl F Groupco, explains: ”In today’s digital age, online purchasing has become second nature in both our personal and professional lives. Recognising this trend, we tailored My CFG to meet the evolving needs of our trade customers by offering a wide range of functions, including online ordering, access to account information such as invoices and statements, pricing and secure payment options. From the start, we have ensured that the platform delivers tangible value through a user-friendly interface and seamless processes. With the number of users doubling in the past twelve months, it is pleasing to see our customers embracing the platform’s many features and comprehensive functionalities.”

The easy-to-navigate platform works across desktop and mobile devices and users can access the portal 24/7/365. Orders are linked directly to Carl F Groupco’s ERP system which speeds up processing times and ensures there are no administrative errors.

Luke Handyside, Factory Manager at Addspace Construction Ltd, said:

“My CFG has changed the way that we purchase our hardware from Carl F Groupco. We can order anywhere, anytime and have access to our customised product list and pricing. It’s made purchasing hardware less time-consuming and less of a chore.”

Despite the undeniable benefits of My CFG, Carl F Groupco remains committed to the importance of human interaction in building strong customer relationships. Andrew Price, Regional Sales Manager for SouthWest England at Carl F Groupco, said: “My CFG helps our customers, but it also helps us too. Steve Lee, our Internal Sales Co-ordinator, and I have more time to deliver valueadded support to our customers

where we can provide our technical expertise. We have built our reputation on outstanding, above and beyond customer service and My CFG is not a replacement but an extension of that service commitment.”

Carl F Groupco places a strong emphasis on providing a proactive customer focussed service which extends to bespoke labelling, repackaging into hardware sets and breaking down box quantities for additional flexible support. The company also offers product testing support to its customers, ensuring a seamless process from product selection and sampling to manufacturing, testing and post-test advice. In addition, the company will utilise its relationships with hardware manufacturers, collaborating on product development to help give fabricators and installers the hardware features they need for the UK market.

Clare concludes: “The growing popularity of My CFG is testament to Carl F Groupco’s dedication to meeting and exceeding customer expectations by providing exceptional service and support, both online and offline.”

Tel: 01733 393 330

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

In today's competitive market, fabricators are constantly seeking ways to streamline operations and reduce costs without sacrificing quality.

AT Precision, a leading supplier of hardware components, offers a compelling solution, helping businesses achieve both financial savings and environmental responsibility.

The Durham-based company stands out for its commitment to delivering high-quality hardware at competitive prices. By switching to AT Precision, fabricators can potentially achieve significant material cost reductions without compromising on performance or durability.

"At AT Precision, we understand the pressure fabricators face in today's market," says Sales Director Michael Hewitt. "That's why we're committed to offering high-quality hardware solutions at competitive prices. We want to help our customers succeed by delivering excellent value for money."

SUSTAINABLE MANUFACTURING FOR AN ECO-CONSCIOUS FUTURE

Beyond cost savings, AT Precision prioritises environmentally responsible practices, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable building products.

The company utilises recycled materials in their manufacturing processes and recently launched a new inhouse recycling scheme, demonstrating their commitment to reducing their environmental footprint.

"Sustainability is a core value at AT Precision," says Michael. "We're constantly looking for ways to minimise our environmental impact, from using recycled materials to implementing efficient manufacturing processes. We believe in offering products that are not only cost-effective but also environmentally responsible."

READY TO MAKE THE SWITCH?

AT Precision offers a win-win proposition for UK window and door fabricators. By partnering with them, businesses can achieve cost savings through competitive pricing, while also aligning themselves with the growing demand for sustainable products.

Contact AT Precision today to learn more about their extensive range of hardware solutions and discuss how they can help your business thrive.

Visit www.atprecision.co.uk

Apex Door Handle

• Modern, stylish and slimmer aesthetics

• Available in inline lever/lever, offset lever/pad and offset lever/lever

• Improved method of fixing lever/pad to the backplate to ensure product durability

• 10 year mechanical and surface finish guarantee on powder-coated finishes

Available in nine finishes The premium-quality Apex Door Handle delivers an elegant yet robust design helping fabricators and installers differentiate their offer.

Black | White | Antique Black | Anthracite Grey Satin Silver | Tungsten | Flint | Chrome | Gold

GGF TO PROMOTE GLAZING INDUSTRY AT APPRENTICESHIP AND EDUCATION EVENT

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is pleased to announce that it will be promoting the industry at the Apprenticeship and Education Event in Birmingham on the 25th of April. The event attracts over 6,000 school and college students who are looking to be inspired about their future.

John Mannell, Technical Officer & Training Manager at the GGF, explains why the organisation has decided to exhibit at the event: “It is estimated that the construction industry needs an additional 50,000 skilled workers, including from the glass, glazing and fenestration industries, to meet the Government’s net zero objective, so it is imperative that we play our part in attracting new talent to the sector.

“The Apprenticeship and Education Event will be the first apprenticeship fair we are attending this year, with another following in October and is suitable for school children from the age of 10 years old, right

through to college students who are considering the next step on their career path, whether that’s further education, training, or employment. The glazing industry has so many different jobs to offer across installation, manufacture, human resources, marketing, and sales, to name just a few, it is important that we are represented at these sorts of events. And if students of school leaving age want more information about jobs available now, they can access the industry Jobs Board that sits on both the GGF and FENSA websites.”

John continues: “As the most influential trade

association in the industry, with GGF members making up over 60% of the sector’s £4 billion annual turnover, we are well positioned to raise awareness and represent the sector. Also, with our own Skilled Pathways Scheme already in place, we have an inside working knowledge of apprenticeships that we can share with the young people attending apprenticeship fairs.

“We’re confident we can play our part in helping the construction sector to meet the Government targets, but we do need to make the most of as many opportunities like this as we can to get there.”

MAINTAINING

U-VALUE WITH SXP SINGLE PLY MEMBRANE PANEL FASTENERS

SFS Group Fastening Technology has launched an innovative new range of single ply membrane fasteners, in three sizes featuring a unique selfcoring washer design, with a choice of two head drives and hardened drill points plus two types of slimline drive bar and other benefits; all aimed at giving the installer full confidence in securing the widely used, triple layer, insulated panels.

SFS’s new SXP range is being introduced in three variants with the 25mm SXP2 intended to secure panel overlaps, while the 35mm SXP5’s proportionately longer point is for drilling into light-gauge steel, and the 47mm SXP14 delivers the greatest drilling capacity to tackle heavy gauge steel.

Produced in stainless steel with either Torx or Hex drive, all three have thread-free or free spin zones which prevent over-driving while also avoiding the fastener being loosened through vibration or thermal movement.

Crucially, the carefully engineered self-coring

washer cuts a clear pathway through the insulation layer to avoid any unnecessary damage and help maintain the thermal integrity of the panel.

Product Manager Francesca McGibbon commented: “Our new SXP range represents a significant advancement on our previous offering for securing single ply membrane panels with the SXP2 being the new variant: a clamping fastener or ‘stitcher’ for panel overlaps. Our range has been designed for optimised performance in their specific application, thus providing an effective solution for all your needs. Originally, the fasteners used a Torx drive, but we have now added a Hex drive so there’s more flexibility and, therefore, greater confidence for installers.  Then, because of the way that the SXP range is designed, it achieves a much cleaner entry through the membrane, thanks to the self-coring washer.

Essentially its ‘corkscrew’ motion achieves a clear passage and minimum disruption to the insulation, which helps maintain the U-value of the roof build up.”

SFS's Product Manager Francesca McGibbon: "Our new SXP range represents a significant advancement"

Trialling of the product, which has been developed specifically for the UK market, has produced positive reactionsThe SXP range is further supported by having secured an EPD while the SXP5 and SXP14 carry FM approval.  SFS Group Fastening Technology can provide full specification and technical support for the new range as well as data sheets and other supporting literature while sample packs are also available.

For further information, call 0330 0555888 or visit https://uk.sfs.com/

BUILDING THE BP COMMUNITY AT GLASS CONFERENCE

Our Innovation Roundtables in conjunction with VBH GB Ltd are another great example of getting key players together to advance the industry.

I had barely touched down back in the UK after visiting the Fensterbau exhibition in Nuremburg when news broke of the new Glass Conference organised by some of the industry’s leading organisations – FIT Show, GGF and FENSA.

I knew that Business Pilot needed to be involved, and within half a day of the announcement we had agreed to a top sponsorship spot – sometimes you must act on instinct.

We already know that conferences are ideal places to discuss challenges facing the industry, discover new opportunities, and network with key players across the sector. The trade press were also very quick to get behind the Glass Conference, a move that often precedes successful events.

Most importantly for us, Glass Conference will – via FENSA – appeal to installers, who are the people who use

We already partner with FENSA and our API allows installers to register their installations from within Business Pilot in a matter of seconds with just a few clicks. There is no need to re-enter any details, which reduces errors, saves time, improves profitability, and does wonders for customer relations.

As a result of initiatives like these, we have a growing group of installers who share ideas and best practice with each other – we call it the BP Community. Glass Conference fits very comfortably with our brand, and we know that our association will also benefit the event and its organisers. Our relationship with the FIT Show is a hallowed one. We launched Business Pilot at the exhibition in 2019 and have benchmarked our success alongside each iteration ever since. Supporting their conference is quite simply for us, a no brainer.

Business Pilot is an active supporter of industry events, especially those that bring people together to network and offer new opportunities. Glass Conference promises to offer a unique mix of networking, professionalism, and education that fills our criteria and more! We can’t wait to see everyone at Telford in October.

To find out more please visit www.businesspilot.co.uk, email  info@businesspilot.co.uk or call 0333 050 7560.

Business Pilot’s MD Elton Boocock explains why he was the first to pick up the phone when the FIT Show, FENSA and GGF announced their new Glass Conference in October.

Business Pilot. The agenda at Glass Conference will offer advice and information that will benefit them.

Introducing Hardware

The home of exceptional window and door hardware

Dynamic Hardware combines hardware expertise and experience a relentless focus on excellence to give you the products that make the difference . The 40 years’ industry experience of the leadership team means we know what it takes to be a supply partner you can rely on.

QUANEX BUILDING PRODUCTS TO ACQUIRE TYMAN, CREATING A COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS PROVIDER IN THE BUILDING PRODUCTS

INDUSTRY

Quanex’s Acquisition of Tyman creates a comprehensive solutions provider in the building products industry, which on a pro forma basis generated approximately $2 billion of revenue in the fiscal year ended October 31, 20232.

Tyman’s family of brands includes highly regarded names that boast wide customer bases and offer product solutions in the window and door hardware, commercial access solutions, and seals and extrusions vertical segments for residential and commercial users across its North America, UK and Ireland, and International divisions. Together, the combined company will have global scale and leading positions across an enhanced offering of differentiated engineered components.

“This transformative acquisition accelerates our journey to becoming ‘BIGGER’, creating a leading supplier of building products with a more diverse geographic footprint, product offering and customer base,” said George Wilson, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quanex. “With significantly enhanced scale, we are looking forward to fully optimizing our portfolio of products and assets to position Quanex as a comprehensive solutions provider for our customers. Importantly, we expect employees of both companies to also benefit from increased opportunities as part of a larger organization with expanded engineering, design and manufacturing capabilities.”

“As one company, we will have an enhanced financial profile grounded in attractive margins, strong free cash flow and a healthy balance sheet, that will enable us to invest in organic and inorganic growth opportunities to deliver superior returns for investors. The

Experts in Hardware

creation for both Quanex and Tyman shareholders and enhanced market offerings for our customer base,” Wilson concluded.

Nicky Hartery, Tyman Chairman, stated in the formal 2.7 announcement released this morning, “This transformative and complementary transaction will strengthen the enlarged business for the benefit of all our customers, employees and other stakeholders. In the context of a rapidly evolving North American marketplace,

of their holding in cash at a significant premium to the prevailing share price while also participating in the future upside of the enlarged group3. Today marks the beginning of an exciting next chapter for Tyman and our talented employees, and we look forward to joining with Quanex to deliver future growth and success.”

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MIDLOTHIAN COUNCIL FRAMES PASSIVHAUS HOMES OF THE FUTURE WITH REHAU PVCU

With housing providers under pressure to deliver affordable housing that meets the UK’s net zero targets, new developments must be both environmentally conscious and consumer friendly.

Midlothian Council built Passivhauscertified social homes in two of its newest developments. With windows playing a fundamental role in achieving the levels of airtightness, insulation and overall efficiency required in a Passivhaus building, close attention was paid to the material choice, style and U-value of the frames.

Passivhaus is a tried and tested methodology that provides a range of solutions to deliver net zero ready homes. To achieve optimal comfort levels for occupants, the standard ensures homes use very little energy for heating and cooling, relying on high levels of insulation and airtightness, and a MVHR unit.

TACKLING FUEL POVERTY WITH SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPIONS

In 2020 Midlothian Council, the local authority for Midlothian, Scotland, committed to building new Passivhaus social housing, and set this out in its housing design guide. The main aims of the project were to help the council meet wider net zero targets while tackling the issue of fuel poverty and improving the provision of comfortable housing.

The first two developments assigned were Buccleuch Street in Dalkeith – one building housing six flats, and Burnbrae Road in Bonnyrigg – two buildings encompassing a mixture of retail and residential properties.

Knowing that achieving such rigorous standards would be no easy feat, the council appointed Smith Scott Mullan Associates, an Edinburgh-based architectural practice, and industry leader of sustainable design practices. Their team of dedicated professionals now includes six certified Passivhaus designers, two PAS2035 coordinators, and two accredited conservation

architects. Leading the project was Claire Cockburn, Senior Architect and certified Passivhaus designer and Jarek Gasiorek, Architect and Certified Passive House designer. Specialist Passivhaus consultant, Graham Drummond, was also appointed as part of the team to advise on specific areas such as window material choice.

THE BURNBRAE ROAD CHALLENGE

Burnbrae Road brought with it its own set of technical difficulties. The twoblock project in Bonnyrigg, delivered by contractor Flemings Buildings Limited, comprised a mix of residential and a retail unit which required a customised Passivhaus certification process. While all 20 homes were to be designed to achieve Passivhaus certification, the retail unit was only required to have a Passivhaus compliant envelope with double-glazed windows and steel security doors. Due to this unique challenge, the Passivhaus certifier, WARM, and Passivhaus Institute had to agree on a customised certification to make the project a reality. The average U-value targeted at design stage was 0.83 W/(m2K), across a total of 48 windows.

THE BUCCLEUCH STREET CHALLENGE

The project at Buccleuch Street followed a similar specification to Burnbrae, and was delivered by contractor Morris and Spottiswood. This was to develop a new

block of six flats and the refurbishment of a nearby existing building. However, the site was constrained and involved competing demands. The need for fire safety, structural stability, and space to house the mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system (MVHR) created conflicting needs that required adaptable solutions. The average U-value targeted at design stage was 0.87 W/(m2K), across a total of 32 windows.

A NOT-SO-COMMON SOLUTION

Despite the plethora of nuances across each project’s design, two things were nonnegotiable when it came to the windows –the thermal efficiency and the maintenance conditions. A variety of options were considered in early technical workshops between Graham Drummond, Smith Scott Mullan Associates, and contractors. PVCu was agreed upon as the material of choice due to its low maintenance properties and more cost-effective price point against alternatives like timber. Graham then went on to recommend REHAU’s GENEO Passivhaus windows based on his previous experience with the product and its niche ability to meet the rigorous technical specification – unlike many other PVCu alternatives in the market.

Specialist fabricator, and one of a handful in the UK who can manufacture windows to this specification, GRM Windows, was then appointed, after a tendering process, to supply the final product across both sites: the REHAU GENEO Tilt and Turn: 86 mm profile depth utilising RAU-FIPRO X – a fibre composite extruded profile, with six chamber systems and triple gasket sealing. All 80 windows were supplied with anthracite grey exterior frames to match the modern design of the homes, and all Secure by Design certified for additional resident safety.

Midlothian Council was keen to involve REHAU and GRM’s expertise in all stages of the development process across both sites, from design to fit. Project Manager, Neil Davidson commented: “The REHAU and GRM teams have been an integral part of the design and build process across both multi-faceted projects. The windows met Passivhaus standards and the REHAU team’s technical expertise informed many decisions throughout the build.”

Richard Gambling, Managing Director at GRM added: “The main challenge on this project was balancing all aspects of the design. By working in close collaboration with our glass supplier, we were able to test the GENEO to PAS 24 at a specific size for Buccleuch Street. We also achieved around 44dBA reduction on one elevation at the same time as meeting thermal and solar gain requirements of the Passivhaus design team. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support from REHAU – all queries from the designers and contractors were solved accurately and quickly.”

FRAMING SOCIAL HOMES OF THE FUTURE

Thanks to airtight seals and membrane features, not only were sustainability targets met, but noise attenuation parameters were also maintained. Due to a local social club next door to the Buccleuch Street site, these windows were designed to an even higher specification to provide residents with peace and quiet inside their homes.

Alongside the use of other technologies including solar photovoltaics, heat storage, and electric heating, the projects were some of the first Passivhaus triumph of its kind in Scotland and have set a very high standard for the future of social homes.

Neil added: “Across both projects, the REHAU team provided technical insight throughout the design process that will be transferable for those working on site in future Passivhaus projects.”

On the success of the Passivhaus project, Samsara McDonald, Commercial Sales Manager at REHAU said: “It’s testament to the REHAU team that we were chosen as the supplier for this first of its kind project in Midlothian. Passivhaus requires some of the highest industry standards to be met and REHAU products do just that. We know that our products speak for themselves with unbeatable U-values and the capability to address a range of project needs, but our team’s expertise and knowledge is what really sets us apart.”

For more information on REHAU’s GENEO Tilt & Turn windows, see: https:// shorturl.at/vzBJS.

True authenticity comes from a blend of heritage styling and modern performance.

Single features may grab attention, but a true heritage sash window is designed to ensure the seamless integration of all its parts.

Everything has to work together: slim overlapping putty-line profiles, a 35mm midrail, heritage chalk finishes, seamless ornate sash horns, true mechanical joints, deep cills and innovative balance chamber covers, to name but a few.

Add to that a 1.2 W/m2k u-value without specialist glass, and you have a true conservation-grade sash window with outstanding modern performance.

Only Roseview’s Ultimate Rose sash window delivers all this. Because it’s more than a sum of its parts.

VEKA UNVEILS OMNIA: THE NEXT GENERATION OF FENESTRATION

One suite of doublerebated and doubleflush extrusions for every application, that’s fit for the future and easy to produce and install – OMNIA introduces a brand-new era for fenestration.

VEKA plc has proudly unveiled an industry-first innovation which marks a trailblazing, quantum leap in PVCu fabrication.   Designed and developed in close collaboration with its customers and partners, the launch of OMNIA signals the next generation of fenestration, encompassing the needs of the whole industry and end users.

VEKA says that OMNIA is no ordinary profile system. It’s a pioneering new suite of extrusions for double flush windows and doors that offers homeowners a complete flush look across all their windows and doors, retaining authentic detailing inside and outside the house, from just one suite of profiles.

As a double-rebated, doubleflush system it offers a range of possibilities across casement windows and tilt and turn, plus residential doors and French doors – meeting the highest energy, weather, and acoustic performance standards.

The collaborative design and development process, which has taken place over four years, has enabled VEKA to completely revolutionise the fabrication and installation process through working closely with its partners to create something that the industry truly needs and is excited for.

OMNIA’s co-extruded PCE gasket and cost-effective mechanical jointing techniques streamline production and its futureproof 70mm depth makes the practicalities of placement and removal simple.

The UK precision engineered suite also exceeds energy efficiency requirements set for 2025 building regulations, making it beneficial for reducing the energy cost of homeowners, and its subtle shadow line will offer the highquality and highly desirable aesthetic appeal customers are looking for.

The man behind OMNIA is VEKA’s Design and Development Manager, Phil Gregory, who said: “It’s incredible to finally introduce OMNIA to the world after four years of development. The reaction has been amazing so far.   “We’ve built more than five decades of market-leading experience and expertise into OMNIA and it is the right design at the right time. There are so many reasons to choose OMNIA.”

Neil Evans, Managing Director of VEKA plc, described OMNIA as a game-changer, saying: “OMNIA is a product we have invested a significant amount of time, dedication, expertise and money into, and we are excited to bring it to the market.

“VEKA is renowned for marketleading designs, and this suite is exactly that. OMNIA captures the essence of VEKA, with the product incorporating the kind of innovative vision, with a sustainable and collaborative legacy, that has defined our company for generations.”

OMNIA was first showcased at last month’s VEKA partner event in Burnley and at the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE event in Nuremberg, Germany, and VEKA’S customers have been hugely complimentary of the new suite.

Simon Holt of Consort Ltd said: “[OMNIA is great] because it’s a first – nobody else has done it. That’s the biggest thing. It’s different. And I want to be first as a fabricator.”

With his colleague, Andy Miller adding: “It’s a fabulous product. Classy. No compromise.”

Andy Jones of New World Developments Ltd said: “It’s exactly where the market needs to be. The only flush system designed from scratch. A complete system.”

And Roy Frost of Listers Central Ltd praised the product for being in the ‘sweet spot.’ He said: “We make 3,000 windows a week across different sectors so, for us, this new product is absolutely in the sweet spot.  Modern design, nice gaskets, double rebated –lovely. We like it.”

VEKA plc is a leader in the design, development, and extrusion of PVCu door, window, and conservatory systems. Demonstrating engineering excellence for over 50 years’, it employs more than 400 people from its UK manufacturing facility based in Burnley, Lancashire, and proudly supplies the market’s most specified PVCu systems in the world.

PREMIER WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

After seeing an advert in a local magazine, the husband-and-wife team of Paul and Caroline Chenery took a chance. They jotted a telephone number down, had a conversation and started Premier Windows & Conservatories.

That was in 1989, a year that saw the debut of Sky Television on British television screens and the first proposals of what a ‘world wide web’ could look like.

A lot has changed in the years since.

But Premier hasn’t changed a great deal. Sure, the premises are now bigger and its customer base is now far larger than it was in those early days, but the Oswestrybased installer of windows, doors and living spaces has remained committed to providing a truly first-class service and ensuring the company is family-run.

“Since starting the company all those years ago with my husband Paul,” Caroline begins, “we’ve ensured that Premier has a real family feel. Even with our growth and expansion, we’ve kept family front and centre.

“We think it’s incredibly important to do so at a time when that’s becoming increasingly rare in the industry. It also allows us to blend those family values with our ethos of improving every home; it’s something that really resonates with our customers.

After enjoying further growth, Premier relocated to bigger showrooms twice – first in the early 1990s and then again in the

late 2000s. In 2008, the company joined the Conservatory Outlet Network, enabling them to benefit from an exclusive product range, marketing support and further investment in their Oswestry showroom

Today, Premier stands as the sole Premium Retailer in the area, having just been audited and accredited by the Yorkshirebased manufacturer.

“We’re thrilled with the ongoing support of Conservatory Outlet,” Caroline continues.

“They’ve helped us a great deal, enabling us to grow and get to the point where we can celebrate 35 successful years as a family business.”

“Looking to the future, Premier’s focus will always be the same it has been: transforming homes, providing the best service possible and putting family first.”

It’s with the future in mind that Caroline has recently announced that she’ll be following in the footsteps of her husband Paul and taking a step back from the business they founded 35 years ago.

However, Premier will remain within the Chenery family as Paul and Caroline’s eldest son, Ben, will continue to run the business. Ben started his career as a fitter, before becoming General Manager in 2013 and then becoming a Director four years later.

Ben will be joined in the day-to-day running of Premier by his wife, Kelli, who recently joined the company after working in HR for a nationwide company. She’ll be responsible for the day-to-day management of the office and will become the first point of contact for customers, whilst Ben will continue overseeing Premier’s installations and the operations side of the business.

“I’m delighted that Kelli has joined Premier Windows & Conservatories,” explains Ben. “Premier has been a family business for the past 35 years and as we celebrate this important milestone, I’m glad that we’ve ensured Premier will continue to be familyowned and family-run long into the future.”

Speaking about Premier’s 35th birthday and the change of management Conservatory Outlet CEO, Greg Kane, commented: “We feel extremely privileged to have worked with Caroline, Paul and Premier since 2008 and witnessed their incredible growth over the years. Premier has stood the test of time to become the best installer in the area.”

Greg added: “I wish Caroline a very happy and well-deserved retirement and I’m thrilled that with Ben and Kelli at the helm, they’ll continue to provide their customers with a top-class service. I look forward to many more years of a successful relationship with them.”

FLAT’S

IN FASHION

WHAT’S THE NEXT BIG THING IN ROOFLIGHTS?

Interest online, customer enquiries and sales at daylighting specialist Whitesales all point to the fact that it’s flat rooflights which are currently setting the trend in the rooflights market. The company has even put a catwalk built entirely of flat rooflights at the centre of its new ‘Flat’s in Fashion’ marketing campaign to emphasise the shift they are seeing amongst consumers towards the sleek and contemporary flat rooflight and away from the more traditional looking roof lantern .

Figures from the Whitesales website reveal a 133% rise in the number of views of its em.glaze flat rooflight range over the past 12 months, and sales enquiries are currently running at 80/20 in favour of flat rooflights over lanterns.

Sioned Yates, Whitesales’ Marketing Director, says it’s largely younger and more affluent customers who are expressing a preference for the clean lines and sleek finish of the em.glaze products: “We’ve seen in the latest round of consumer research from Keystone that younger consumers are more likely to want glazing in the roof, and these seem to be the people driving the current trend.

“No home makeover show or home improvement magazine is complete at the moment without the inclusion of a flat rooflight, and that’s obviously great news for anyone selling or installing our products.”

Karl Grandfield, Whitesales’ Sales Manager adds: “This is a trend which has actually been building for the past 4 or our 5 years in the premium end of the market and now we’re seeing it filtering down to the mainstream as well. A flat rooflight gives a property a minimalist, contemporary look which lots of buyers love. And there’s the big advantage of

course that a flat rooflight doesn’t interfere with the view from bedrooms above – and that’s definitely a factor for buyers in smaller homes.”

Whitesales’ customer Will Bull from Rooflights and Atriums agrees that demand is increasing for flat glass: “Whilst contemporary roof lanterns still remain a popular choice in some applications, Rooflights & Atriums Ltd have seen increased demand in 2024 for flat glass from people wanting a more modern feel for their space. Flat glass generally offers more choice with glass specification, options to suit all budgets, better security and the potential to captivate the popular architectural vision of having huge single panes of glass. The ‘flat glass’ solution remains as popular as ever.”

Sioned adds: “If you need any more evidence of the trend, you only have to look at the number of new suppliers trying to get into the flat roof market. When companies who have made their name manufacturing lanterns start developing and marketing flat rooflights, you know that flat’s definitely in fashion.”

Karl Grandfield is keen to point out that, for installers, flat rooflights are actually

an easier and lower risk proposition than lanterns. He explains: “Products like our em.glaze flat glass rooflights are supplied preglazed, so there’s no on site assembly required. All that fitters have to do is fix the rooflight to the upstand –which we can also supply. And there’s no chance that they will leak because there are three separate barrier methods in the glazed section, which means no costly remedials.”

Whitesales is helping customers make the most of the trend towards flat rooflights with the launch of its em.glaze Economy rooflight alongside the existing em.glaze Premium. The Economy version, which can actually work out cheaper than the equivalent sized lantern, features CWCT Class 3 glazing rather than the walk-on CWCT Class 1 glass in Premium, and aesthetically the only thing that distinguishes the two options is that the Economy is non-fritted.

The em.glaze rooflight range is available in a range of ventilation and glazing options and up to 18 stock sizes delivered to site in just 3-5 days, backed by the full Whitesales sales and service package.

More details are at: www.whitesales.co.uk

Ben Chenery, Director of Premier Windows & Conservatories

SIEGENIA PUTS ON TECHNICAL TRAINING DAY FOR KEY PARTNER

Three members of staff from one of SIEGENIA’s largest and longest-serving distribution partners, Carl F Groupco, took part in valuable refresher and new product training in March.

Led by SIEGENIA’s Technical Manager, Joe Ward, and assisted by members of technical and sales staff, Carl F Groupco management and sales colleagues were given a crash course on the German hardware company’s TITAN tilt and turn window and HS PORTAL lift and slide door gearings as well as on KFV multipoint locks via a mix of classroom presentations and practical demonstrations and exercises. It was also a great opportunity for members of staff from both companies to catch up and further strengthen relationships.

Commenting on the training day, John King Sales Director at Carl F Groupco, said, “As an independent hardware distributor, we rely on maintaining positive working relationships with our manufacturer partners. Team training days such as those

we recently took part in at SIEGENIA allow our team to stay well-informed of latest product developments and therefore best advise our fabricator customers.”

This training is part of a wider programme that SIEGENIA UK has been rolling out to its distributors over the last couple of years, with approaching 100 hours’ worth

of sessions having already taken place. The training days have been introduced in order to keep up strong customer service levels between SIEGENIA, their partners and ultimately their fabricator customers.

SIEGENIA’s Technical Manager, Joe Ward, said, “Product knowledge is key to a successful partnership. With constant

EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS IS LEADING THE WAY ON SUSTAINABILITY

Epwin Window Systems is demonstrating its ongoing commitment to prioritising sustainability in a series of initiatives that promotes eco-friendly practices throughout its operation and supply chain.

Ray McGrady, Commercial Director at Epwin Window Systems, says: “Here at Epwin Window Systems we understand the moral and commercial imperatives of sustainability. It’s reflected in everything from our smallest actions to our strategic business decisions and investments – and it has been for many years.”

As Ray says, Epwin Window Systems has had a clear sustainability focus for many years. It has recycled waste bar length into RCM (recycled composite material) as part of its manufacturing process since 2009 and in 2018 it was the first UK systems house to achieve the VinylPlus® Product Label.

To support the reduction of the built environment’s operational emissions, Epwin Window Systems offers the widest portfolio of fully integrated thermally-efficient window and door systems. Ray comments: “Our systems help fabricators and installers to deliver the thermally efficient solutions the market – and the world – needs.”

The company is stepping up its commitments too.

In 2022, it acquired Poly-Pure, a leading UK materials reprocessor that recycles post-consumer and post-industrial PVC building materials, including PVC-U window frames.

It recently introduced a new 150mm cill incorporating a co-extruded recycled section to the base. This year, it will introduce multiple new mainframe tools that will incorporate a recycled core that won’t be visible when manufactured.

Also coming soon is an ambitious recycling programme that will see customers being offered a collection service for PVC-U frames and factory off-cuts which will be taken to new regional recycling hubs.

Ray comments: “The recycling programme marks a stepchange for the industry and it’s something that only a company with the size and scale of Epwin Window Systems could take the lead on.”

He concludes: “As our past, present and future initiatives show, Epwin Window Systems understands the critical importance of sustainability and actively takes the lead on advancing it. Our approach is the responsible way to play our part on the road to net zero – and delivers valuable commercial advantage to our partners at the same time.”

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

innovation at SIEGENIA it is important to provide technical updates and training to our partners to implement new and improved solutions to their customers. With a wide product range suited to the timber, PVC and aluminium sector these training sessions give both our internal team and distributors confidence to attack all areas of the market.”

Training opportunities will continue to be offered to the company’s main partners at least annually in order that skill and knowledge levels remain current and at the expected high level, new product innovations are communicated and so that partners feel confident selling the SIEGENIA and KFV ranges, which can sometimes be considered a niche product.

www.siegenia.com

A LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP FOR A HUSBAND-AND-WIFE TEAM

Dorset-based Total Window Repairs (TWR) has been a continuous Sternfenster customer for the past 13 years.

“TWR is a family run business with family morals, and the fact that Sternfenster is also a familybusiness is one of the main things that attracted us to them,” TWR co-owner Darren Andrews said.

“We see a real mix of projects around here. We’re quite rural, so we do lots of cottage installations, and for those projects, the Heritage Flush PVC-U window is a winner – it replicates the original style of the building while providing all of the durability benefits that come with PVC-U.

“But equally, we’re also seeing some character properties wanting to add a modern twist, and the aluminium bi-fold is one of our favourite products to recommend for that. It’s such a simple system to install and use, and it works every time – we’ve never had a problem with one,

even after years and years of installing them!”

Co-owner Georgie said: “We’re a relatively small company, so it’s really important that we’re organised and know when everything is coming in.

“I use SF+ every single day – as soon as I log on to the computer, it’s the first thing I load up. I can check what orders we’ve placed and the delivery times, and I can then keep our customers updated too.”

Sternfenster’s SF+ system shows the live status of quotes, contracts and deliveries. It also has a library of downloadable training and marketing material, accreditations and technical data. A live production capacity feed provides real time data on the capacity of individual products, and gives installers an overview of the fabricator’s production schedule from the moment an order is placed.

The product range is supported by Sternfenster’s professional delivery team, which wins praise from Darren.

“The day before a delivery is due, we get given a two-hour slot, and then on the day, the driver will call half an hour before he reaches us,” he said.

“The drivers are all great; they’re always helpful, like if I need a hand unloading, they will always help. They bend over backwards, which is something you don’t get from many companies these days.”

For more information visit www.sternfenster.com email sales@sternfenster. co.uk or call 01522 512525. Alternatively, join the conversation on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/ company/sternfenster

“We also use EasyAdmin everyday too. It shows us lots of different reports so we know where we are with our sales and profits, and we can also use it to input quotes and get a speedy price back to the customer,” Georgie said. “We love it!”

LUCY & MARK TAKE UP KELLY’S HEROES CLIMB KILIMANJARO CHALLENGE

Two members of the DoorCo team – Lucy Daniels & Mark Towers – have signed up to be Kelly’s Heroes, taking on the challenge to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in September to help support that charity’s work in raising mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

Mark Towers tells us more about the challenge: “DoorCo has always been supportive of the charity, and it has been the focus of our fundraising for a number of years. This year, Dan Sullivan (MD) is taking on the cycle challenge across the Pyrenees. I wanted to do my bit but I am not a cyclist. The Kilimanjaro challenge suits me better because it is walking, and although I anticipate it to be really tough, it should be attainable for all levels of fitness and age. Being part of a team with a shared goal who will support each other, and the stunning scenery will help us along to way, too. I have heard the hotels on the mountain are not 5* though, which could be difficult!

“Of course, raising awareness of the mental health challenges we hear more and more about, particularly in the younger generation, is the biggest incentive. I have been fortunate to not have lost anyone close to suicide, but I have children in their early 30’s and we are now more aware of the challenges that they face, which we may not have had to. Having a charity like Kelly’s Heroes available to for anyone to access is important, as you never know when one of your own family may need help. “I am not the fittest person in the world and trying to build up the stamina to achieve our goal of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on the

Machame Route in 6 days, is a challenge in itself. I am very aware that we are representing a great charity and that we are asking for sponsorship money, so I do not want to let the team or the charity down.

“My training at the moment is building stamina on hikes around the woodland and moors (with large hills - not mountains) close to my home. I am about to sign up to the gym and the team are also planning organised hikes before we depart.”

Lucy Daniels adds: “Trekking up Kilimanjaro is most definitely not something you turn down if you have the chance – I am 100% up for the challenge! It’s something I never thought I would have the chance to do so I am really going to make the most of the experience. Like Mark, I am most looking forward to the views and the memories we’ll make, but I am dreading the cold!

“For me, it’s also all about the charity. Kelly’s Heroes is such a great cause and the help they provide is nothing short of amazing. Challenges like these are a great reminder that charities are reliant on donations and fundraising events to continue their amazing work.

“The work Kelly’s Heroes does is incredible. Mental Health is still a taboo subject for many people. We need to encourage people to speak up more to enable support from those around us. Kelly’s Heroes does a great job with spreading the message that ‘It’s Ok not to be Ok’. More people suffer with mental health than we realise and even those who seem happiest can have their struggles. The charity offers both educational courses and personal help for those in need, providing a ‘Listening Ear’ 7 days a week on their website for those struggling.

“For my training, I am lucky to live in the Peak District and I have plenty of routes to walk with the dog - Snowdon, Scafell Pike & the Yorkshire peaks are all scheduled in the diary. Alongside this I do CrossFit 5x per week to keep as fit as possible.”

Lucy & Mark are working hard to build up their fitness and raise awareness of their upcoming challenge.

Please support them if you can: https://www.justgiving.com/team/doorco-kilimanjaro

METAL TECHNOLOGY

Metal Technology design and manufacture bespoke fin, creating a striking façade for the NESS Energy from Waste facility.

Located in East Tullos, Aberdeen, the NESS Energy from Waste facility processes non-recyclable waste from Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray Councils and treats it cleanly, contributing electricity to the national grid and providing heat for Torry Heat Network, which, in turn, supplies low cost heating for schools, care facilities and social housing nearby. Designed and fabricated by TITAN Facades, the facility will provide a long-term, sustainable solution for nonrecyclable municipal solid waste with the ability to process 150,000 tonnes of waste per year

Utilising System 22 Brise Soleil, Metal Technology Ltd designed and manufactured a bespoke 3-part, hinged, 400mm+ vertical fin, which overlays Metal Technology’s System 17 High Rise Curtain Walling.

The red and green architectural fins create an attractive façade, contrasting the aluminium roof’s curved, futuristic structure. Metal Technology’s System 10-35 Hi/ Hi+ Commercial Doors were also installed in the project.

For more information and technical detail on Metal Technology’s architectural glazing systems, visit metaltechnology.com.

TRIO OF SENIOR PRODUCTS USED IN NEW NOTTINGHAM RESIDENTIAL SCHEME

Three is the magic number for Senior Architectural Systems as solutions from the manufacturer’s extensive range of aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling help complete The Barnum - a new residential development on Nottingham’s Queen’s Road.

Designed by Franklin Ellis Architects, and built by main contractor Graham Construction, the new nine storey building has been developed by Blockworks, a joint venture between Bloc Group and Network Rail. The project, which is one of the largest recent developments in the city, has been built

on what was a vacant site next to Nottingham’s railway station, helping to regenerate the wider area and provide a boost to the local rental market.

Senior collaborated with specialist installer Duplus Architectural Systems to

specify three of its most popular products, including its award-winning PURe® window system which has been installed throughout the 345 individual apartments. Producing exceptionally low U-values thanks to its patented thermal design, both tilt/ turn and casement window styles have been used.

Safety and security throughout the development has also been enhanced through the use of Senior’s SPW501 aluminium commercial door. This high performance, thermally broken polyamide aluminium framing system is ideal for busy environments and is available in multiple configurations and designs. On the ground floor communal areas, the façade design has benefitted from Senior’s slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system.

For more information, please visit www. seniorarchitectural. co.uk or search for Senior Architectural Systems on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

ALUMINA – AN ALUMINIUM DOOR SYSTEM BREAKING NEW GROUND

Designed and developed by the same experts behind its renowned window system, Alumina stands as leading systems house Liniar’s premium aluminium door lineup.

The Alumina range comprises bi-folding, French, and residential door options, and has been crafted to make seamless coordination of aluminium and PVCu products into a wider project much easier.

With a background in design, development and fabrication, Secondary Operations Director Daryl Fradley explains how the Alumina system simplifies achieving consistent results when working with aluminium alongside other materials.

FOILED FINISH, UNIFIED APPEARANCE

Daryl explains, “Alumina is ideal for larger openings due to its strength and can handle sashes up to 1.2m wide by 2.5m high, with door sets up to 8.5m wide available for supply in flat pack format. Many customers are looking to open up entire walls with either bi-folding or French doors, and need a solution that fully complements the project’s other windows, doors and roofline regardless of their material.

“As Liniar foils the aluminium profile used for Alumina at the same state-of-the-art onsite lamination facility as its complete range of PVCu windows, doors and roofs and sundry products you get a perfect colour-match.

“There are many woodgrain options available, so Alumina can complement traditional timber too. And Alumina doors offer a sleek, flush finish, making them the

perfect complement to Liniar’s PVCu flush sash window ranges. When combined, a similar look to traditional timber can be achieved, but with all the low-maintenance and thermal benefits of the Liniar range.

“What’s more, we can deliver bespoke colour combinations across Liniar’s Alumina and PVCu ranges, allowing installers to offer customers highly personalised products. Foiled aluminium also provides a ‘warm touch’ finish which drastically reduces the cold, metallic feeling users often find off-putting about aluminium doors. And whilst foiled aluminium does present various advantages, Alumina is also available in White, Black and Grey plain powder coated finishes.

“Besides the colour-matched options, all the detail on Alumina is exactly the same as Liniar’s PVCu sculptured windows and door system too, so a building fully fitted with Liniar windows could have matching largescale aluminium doors.”

SIMPLE ORDERING, EFFICIENT INSTALLATION

Daryl continues, “Alumina can either be supplied in bar length profiles, or readymade kits comprising the full door minus glass, ready to go straight into the aperture.

“We provide the glazing unit sizes, enabling installers to use their local supplier. There’s a flexible bead option available, which requires no wedge gasket and takes a third of the time to fit compared with traditional aluminium beads, while also significantly reducing the risk of scratching or damaging the frame during installation.

“All this simplifies ordering, reduces labour costs and makes for quick convenient installation.”

CONCEALED VENTILATION, HIGHLY SECURE

Changes to Part F of the Building Regulations came into effect in mid-

2022 making the provision of adequate ventilation stricter and, in many cases, forcing the use of unsightly trickle vents on windows and doors.

Daryl explains, “With the Alumina system, externally concealed ventilation can be accomplished using an innovative 40mm add-on. This makes compliance with Building Regulations easily achievable, without spoiling the doors’ sleek appearance with trickle vents visible from the outside.

“Alumina also offers high levels of security, having been tested to PAS24 and receiving Secured by Design accreditation. The Alumina bi-fold also beats the minimum requirements for both air and water tightness by more than double – even with a low threshold.”

Daryl concludes, “Liniar has designed and developed an extremely attractive, versatile aluminium system that is well suited to both residential and commercial projects. As part of the team responsible for fabricating Alumina kits, I can honestly say we take great pride in ensuring every door leaving the factory is finished to exacting standards.”

To find out more about Alumina visit http://alumina.liniar.co.uk/

“Alumina also offers high levels of security, having been tested to PAS24 and receiving Secured by Design accreditation. The Alumina bi-fold also beats the minimum requirements for both air and water tightness by more than double – even with a low threshold.”

CONSERVATORY OUTLET HOSTS SUCCESSFUL SALES & MARKETING EVENT AT OLD TRAFFORD

Leading premium retailers from across the fenestration sector gathered at Old Trafford in Manchester last month to attend Conservatory Outlet’s latest Sales & Marketing Conference.

Held annually, this event brings the network of retailers, alongside respected industry figures, Conservatory Outlet’s sectorleading marketing team and digital agency, as well as key business partners together to discuss the latest trends and strategies that are shaping the home improvement market.

With the former European Champion’s pitch as the backdrop, presentations covered a wide range of topics including the highly anticipated launch of Conservatory Outlet’s Premium Retailer campaign and an overview of marketing trends and analysis from leading digital marketing agency, DigitalKOG.

Additional presentations focused on unique product demonstrations and insights, sales techniques and how best to maximise new and emerging sales and marketing channels. All presentations and speakers were chosen to allow attendees to learn, network, and gain practical knowledge to drive business growth.

Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, Greg Kane, reflecting on the conference’s success, remarked: “It was great to see so many people join us in Manchester, and I’ve

“This year’s Conference has been our highest-rated and highest-attended yet. We put a great deal of effort into designing a tailored agenda, covering both macro and micro topics relating to both sales and marketing.”

received nothing but praise regarding the content and the team’s organisation.”

“This year’s Conference has been our highest-rated and highest-attended yet. We put a great deal of effort into designing a tailored agenda, covering both macro and micro topics relating to both sales and marketing.”

Andy Hill, Director at TWC Home Improvements, adds: “It was a fantastic event. The case studies presented by Conservatory Outlet and DigitalKOG were extremely useful, the external speakers were

engaging and there I learnt today that I can take back to my business.

“Working with Conservatory Outlet allows us to attend these events and gain new insights and analysis about products, services and the wider market that we simply can’t get anywhere else.”

The Sales & Marketing Conference followed in the footsteps of two widely successful Operations Conferences in February. It will continue to be supported by the company’s ongoing monthly marketing and social media training, as well as our well-attended

best practice sessions that have a more operational focus.”

Additionally, Conservatory Outlet has also announced it is expanding its Sales Training programme in a bid to further enhance its retailer’s sales teams.

“It’s an exciting time to be part of the Conservatory Outlet Network,” concludes Greg.

“Both leads and sales are up year-on-year across the Network and we’re working hard to ensure that our Premium Retailers can continue outperforming the competition.

“Events such as this give our customers the ideas and strategies they need to succeed and we look forward to helping them grow their market share further.”

Tel: 01924 231829

SHEERLINE LAUNCHES NEW WOODGRAIN FOILING SERVICE

Sheerline has announced the launch of a new woodgrain foiling service that introduces an authentic wood effect option across the company’s entire aluminium range of windows and doors, including the popular Prestige Lift & Slide Patio Door and Prestige Bi-folds.

It’s the ideal option for homeowners who already have wooden or wood-style frames and want a perfectly matched product that offers the hard-wearing, highsecurity, and slim profile offered by aluminium, but with a wooden aesthetic.

Partnering with the industry leading supplier of laminated foils, Renolit, Sheerline is offering eight foils from stock, covering the most commonly used colours. All produced at Sheerline’s vertically integrated manufacturing site –customers can have the best of both worlds. Capturing the ‘Scandi look’ inside, and combining it with a hard wearing, low maintenance architectural aesthetic for the exterior.

Available in just 10-days from order for fabricator customers, this agile service is yet another way that Sheerline is raising the bar in the world of aluminium. Dual colours and combinations with powder coated finishes are also offered in the same timescale.

A full range of bespoke foils are also available on a slightly extended 15-day lead-time. Ideal for customers looking to

INNOVATIVE BASE SCREENS SPEEDING UP CONSTRUCTION PROGRAMMES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Base Structures are announcing a new offering from its tensile fabric experts, Temporary Weatherproof Screening, promising to speed up building programmes and mitigate against weather delays on site.

Base Screens are a new product that provide a unique and efficient solution for weatherproofing requirements on construction sites. Quick to install and demount, they are customisable to meet specific site conditions, which presents contractors with the chance to remove conventional cladding from a programme’s critical path. This accelerates the construction schedule and allow teams to progress with fit out works, staying ahead of any delays that the changing climate may bring.

Andy Traynor, Director at Base Structures and Head of Installations and Health & Safety, said: “Our in-house expertise and engineering capabilities mean that we can design, manufacture and erect temporary weatherproof screens very quickly and to fit an existing structure, safeguarding construction works from external elements.

By installing screens early in a project, we can provide a bespoke solution to ease the installation, movement and removal of the screens at various points in the building programme at specific fixing points. This means that there’s no requirement for scaffolding, minimising any potential for damage to works that have already been completed.

We’re delighted to have been able to offer this innovative solution to several happy clients across the country, and with an increase in this kind of work, Base Structures are well placed to help teams find solutions to keep building programmes on track despite the rainfall and weather challenges we’ve seen this springtime.”

Base Screens are made of PVC fabric that can cover large areas. They’re durable, easy to clean, fire retardant and a low-risk option, offering a less labour-intensive and safer solution than other more traditional weatherproofing options.

Base Structures have produced case studies of their work in this area, which can be found via the links below:

• Project Resilience - Base Structures

• Engineered Temporary Weather Screens

• Dublin Terminal 2 Temporary Works Screens

They have also produced a blog post detailing some of the benefits of adding weatherproof temporary screens to your next building project.

differentiate their offering, or to meet an exacting client’s vision for their home.

The new service has been launched in time for Spring/ Summer 24 to reach homeowners who are planning renovations for 2024. The company appreciates the fact that upgrading existing windows and doors is often the quickest ways to change the overall look of a home.

Ross Hartshorn, Technical Production Director, commented: “We recognise the fact that Scandi and wood-effect styling have grown in popularity over the past few years, both from an aesthetic and lifestyle perspective. We want to help homeowners achieve their dream home style while keeping things straightforward for fabricators and installers.”

“The latest innovation from Sheerline very much reflects our ethos of increasing customer choice, but without compromising on the things that are important; inbuilt security, warm cosy homes, a stylish aesthetic, and sustainability,” they added.

To find out more about Sheerline’s new woodgrain foiling service, call 01332 978000 to speak to the team directly. Alternatively, email info@sheerline.com or visit the Sheerline website: www.sheerline.com.

PREMIER ARCHES AND NORTHWICH GLASS DELIVER WINNING COMBINATION FOR ARCHED FRAMES

Having operated on the three core principles of excellent manufacturing, clear and honest customer service, and a ‘make life easier’ offering for customers, leading arched frame fabricator Premier Arches has successfully forged many successful partnerships with leading manufacturers, installers and trade counters over the years.

One of these is Cheshirebased installer Northwich Glass, a family-run business that shares a commitment to exceptional manufacturing quality and customer service.

“Since opening our doors in 1959, Northwich Glass has relied on extensive experience to find reliable partners who can deliver exceptional products and support,” says Sales Manager Andrew Jackson.

“For us, customer satisfaction is paramount, and partnering with Premier Arches has allowed us to offer our clients a wide range of high-quality

arched windows and doors, with the confidence that they are always expertly crafted.

“Their focus on quality and service aligns perfectly with our own values, their instant online pricing and ordering system has saved us valuable time, while their fully fabricated and glazed options have minimised any hassle and disruption.

“In today’s competitive market, it’s crucial to offer our customers exceptional products and a seamless installation experience.

Premier Arches has become a trusted partner of ours, and I would certainly recommend them to any company looking for a reliable supplier of beautiful and functional arched uPVC products.”

Since 2015, Premier Arches has manufactured and supplied high-quality arched, angled, gable, circular and entirely bespoke windows and doors in a wide range of leading systems, offering a full service to fabricators,

trade counters, installers and local builders, saving them both time and money.

“We are delighted to partner with a company like Northwich Glass,” comments Managing Director Sean Greenall.

“They are an established installer who share our commitment to exceeding customer expectations, and by providing them with our high-quality products and service, we’re happy to help them deliver outstanding results for their own clientele.

“We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Northwich Glass and many others like them, working together to provide exceptional arched solutions for countless satisfied customers in the future.”

www.premierarches.co.uk

www.northwichglass.co.uk

MADE TO MEASURE BY FORCE 8

Specifying an arched frame can be daunting, especially when it comes to determining the radius measurements. A single incorrect dimension in the wrong place could lead to a costly mistake, resulting in an arched frame that doesn't fit—a nightmare for installers. Such a scenario might prompt installers to decline work or seek assistance from a more experienced installation company, potentially losing out on additional work and profit. Force 8 offers a straightforward solution: they will handle the measurements for you on the first order and demonstrate how to specify an arched, curved, or unconventional shape frame simultaneously.

First-time customers who are uncertain about the process can benefit from the assistance of an experienced Force 8 technician for their initial arched frame order, regardless of their location. "We can guide them through the measurement process, ensure accurate dimensions, assist with completing and processing the order, and provide helpful advice," comments Lisa Mottershead, Operations Director at Force 8. "We are constantly seeking ways to enhance our customer service, and while this may seem like a simple idea, we believe it will resonate with many customers and demystify the process. It’s a practical solution for a common problem, which is what we are all about here at Force 8"

The company has been at the forefront of profile bending for over 35 years, transforming the process into an art form. They remain one of the few PVCu bending companies capable of bending a full length of

profile, resulting in a superior finish without breaks or weld marks. This achievement is attributed to their use of a hot oil method, rather than the conventional hot air system, which although more challenging, yields a seamless arched frame that is aesthetically pleasing, which is particularly evident with a foiled finish, plus its structurally stronger. To witness this process, visit the company's website at www.force8.uk where you can view a video showing the whole process.

Over the past three decades, Force 8 has concentrated on two main profile selections: Veka and Halo. Their focus on Veka profiles is driven by its versatility, offering a diverse range of sections suitable for bending profiles for different window or door installations. By specializing in Veka and Halo profiles, Force 8 has been able to streamline their operations. They've made investments in cutting-edge software, state-of-the-art CNC machinery, and a precision milling machine dedicated solely to Veka.

Force 8 founder Dennis Sumner emphasises, "Achieving our level of quality bending would be unattainable if we were bending multiple profiles and constantly changing settings, tooling, formers, and software. We prefer to be true masters of our craft, rather than jacks of all trades. This approach also

enables us to maintain an extensive inventory of Veka and Halo profiles, ensuring a consistent availability of a wide array of sections, which would be nearly impossible with multiple profile brands and sections."

Dennis further explains, "A significant number of arched frames are ordered alongside our arched composite doors, which often require a longer lead time compared to standard composite doors, typically around 7 weeks. However, we've invested in two CNC machines equipped with software specifically designed for curving composite doors. Ordering both arched frames and doors together ensures a perfect match. Additionally, we operate our own paint spraying shop. These investments enhance the company's control over quality and facilitate much shorter delivery times."

With over 30 years of industry experience and a committed workforce, Force 8 has solidified its position as a leader in the field, to find out more, visit their website: www.force8.uk Our new brochure will be available towards the end of May 2024 to register for a copy please email victoria@force8.co.uk.

GGF AND FENSA JOBS BOARD PLAYS MATCHMAKER FOR THE INDUSTRY

As the shortfall in skilled labour continues to be an issue for the fenestration industry, the GGF and FENSA are pleased to announce that their combined jobs board is helping to match companies with vacancies to fill, with suitable candidates.

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) and FENSA officially launched the jobs board in February and just a few months on are pleased to report that the forum is being populated. Chris Beedel, Head of Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations at the GGF explained: “In the relatively short time the jobs board has been live, it has seen 54 jobs posted and 40 applicants looking for work and we are confident that these numbers will continue to grow.

“We created the jobs board because our members told us they were struggling to fill vacancies, and yet we knew there were also plenty of people looking for work. The board that sits on both the GGF and FENSA websites holds current job vacancies as well as profiles of candidates that are looking for work. The system actively matches job seekers with positions that are suited to their skillset and requirements. Of course, the more companies and people that use the jobs board, the more useful it will become as a resource.

“GGF members can post jobs on the board for free, but non-members can still use the facility for a fee. Meanwhile individuals looking for work are notified when new jobs matching their criteria are posted, or when new relevant training courses are launched.”

Chris concluded: “We are pleased to be able to offer a solution for both the companies looking for the skilled workforce they need to survive and thrive, as well as the individuals that are investing a lot of time and effort into finding the right job for them. Allowing the two communities to find each other more easily is a great step forward for the industry."

DOORCO WINS ‘MOST INNOVATIVE BUSINESS’ AT MANUFACTURING AWARDS

Renowned for their innovative nature, UK’s leading composite door supplier, DoorCo, is excited to announce their recent win as ‘Most Innovative Business’ at the 2024 Manufacturing Awards.

A national competition run by the UK Business Awards, this category saw entries from manufacturing businesses from across various industries with DoorCo coming out victorious for their recent INNOVATiON Week campaign.

Ellie Pool, DoorCo’s Marketing Manager tells us more: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have been recognised as one of the UK’s most innovative businesses in the manufacturing space. Engineering and creativity are qualities we pride ourselves on, so to have been awarded this title is a real badge of honour for us.

“The award recognises our work on the recent INNOVATiON Week marketing campaign which saw us launch over 10 new products and supply chain updates in just 5 days.

“From our new taller, wider door Eaton to the re-engineered version of GRiPCORE, the updated FLiP glazing cassette system, new standard colours, fresh glass designs and more, our social media channels were flooded with news that week which then extended into the press.

“During the application process for the award, we were able to demonstrate tangible success from the campaign including engagement and sales which when combined with the actual innovation of the products themselves, helped us bring home the trophy.”

DoorCo continue to demonstrate their passion and skill for innovation with the launch of their new door range which will be made in their new manufacturing facility in Thorne, Doncaster. The brandnew solid core door will be finished with ThermoPlastic skins will be available in a range of DoorCo’s most popular blank styles and two new styles just for this range. For more information, call 01625 428955 or visit: https://trade.door-co.com/

INNOVATION INSPIRES FAIR VISITORS

With lively conversations, a high volume of visitors to the stand and enthusiastic customer feedback with regard to their new room comfort innovations, the SIEGENIA GROUP was extremely satisfied with the course of FENSTERBAU 2024.

From 19th to 22nd March the company presented the experience of 360° room comfort at its exhibition booth with the aid of a wide range of innovations, highlighting its ambition to create healthy, convenient and smart spaces with futureoriented solutions. Under the motto “SIEGENIA. 360° Future”, the company also demonstrated the close connection between pioneering products and systems, tailored services and low-resource processes. The SIEGENIA GROUP received promising feedback from customers and interested parties during the four exhibition days. “As this is an important industry get-together, we used FENSTERBAU for the presentation of new solutions and concepts to distinguish ourselves on the market and push the industry forward. This was confirmed by our customers in numerous conversations and the bustling atmosphere at our exhibition booth”, is the conclusion of Guy Muller, Head of the Market & Customers Business Division at SIEGENIA. "Visitors to our booth were also persuaded to visit us by our inviting booth concept and the open manner in which we approached them during the days of the trade fair – personal, genuine, authentic. The high motivation of our team was simply fantastic. This was exceptionally well received by our customers."

A WHOLE HOST OF ADVANTAGES: THE DRIVE AXXENT LS

The reaction of booth visitors to the DRIVE axxent LS, the new motorised drive from

SIEGENIA for lift and slide elements was enthusiastic. Christoph Scheuring, PORTAL Product Manager, outlines: "The exhibit was constantly frequented by interested parties throughout the course of the entire trade fair." The DRIVE axxent LS combines concealed design with speed, extremely quiet operating noise and easy fabrication for window manufacturers and installation companies equally. It can be installed in lean profile systems without the need for widening or wall openings. Another benefit is the rechargeable battery pack, meaning that an electrician is only required for the connection of the construction element to the building electrical system. "The added

value for our customers was immediately detectable. Nobody wanted to miss the market launch – according to the feedback of many - because the DRIVE axxent LS is a perfect solution from the perspective of end users.“

POWERFUL INNOVATIONS FOR ENTRANCE DOORS

The new solutions for KFV door systems also generated huge interest. The highlights here included the new automatic multipoint locking system BS 3700 with its integrated self-adjustment – a really unique feature. It means inconvenient readjustment

on site is not required throughout the entire life cycle of the door. Booth visitors also judged the robust release technology and the modularity, teamed with a wide range of upgrading options, to be extremely efficient. As well as the new concealed door hinge axxent 750 ALU with its high load capacity of 180 kg, the sensor door handle, shown as a prototype, attracted a lot of attention.

OPENING RESTRICTORS: COMFORT AND SAFETY IN RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

Opening restrictors in focus: at FENSTERBAU the TITAN and ALU product groups appealed with well-conceived solutions that represent the highest standard of comfort, safety and longevity. “For many customers, the trade fair was the first opportunity to experience both the comfort and safety opening restrictors, and the new 90° opening restrictor in accordance with the DOEB Directive”, reports Alexander Maier, TITAN Product Manager. "The upshot was very promising. Especially in public buildings, but also in private residential construction, where windows and doors are often treated roughly, especially by children, the 90° opening restrictor offers customers significant added value. This also applies for the safety opening restrictor, which complies with the requirements of DIN EN 13126-5 application class 5/6 and is therefore suitable as a restrictor for child safety in private homes as well as in public buildings.”

FOCUS ON SMART LIVING

The highlights at the exhibition booth also included the smart house exhibit with central locking system and the demonstration of SIEGENIA’s intelligent room comfort scenarios: yet further evidence of the trailblazing position that SIEGENIA currently occupies on the market, which received an excellent response at the fair from potential partners.

If you would like to find out more about any of SIEGENIA’s new products, contact their UK office on 024 7662 2000 or at info-uk@siegenia.com.

BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING INDEX

The latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report, published in April, shows builders’ merchants’ value sales were down -4.7% in February compared to the same month a year ago. Volume sales dropped -7.5%, while prices increased +3.1%. With an extra trading day this year, like-for-like sales were down -9.2%.

Year-on-year

Eight of the twelve categories sold more than February 2023 with Workwear & Safetywear (+18.3%) the leading category. Miscellaneous (+10.2%) and Decorating (+6.2%) also did better than merchants overall. But two of the largest categories – Timber & Joinery Products (-6.4%) and Heavy Building Materials (-7.9%) - were down. Renewables & Water Saving (-20.9%) was the weakest category.

Last three months

Total sales in the three months December 2023 to February 2024 were -4.7% lower than the same three-month period a year ago. Volume sales were down -7.4% and prices

climbed +2.8%. With two more trading days this year, like-for-like sales were -8.0% lower. Six of the twelve categories sold more with Workwear & Safetywear (+14.4%) ahead of the rest. Renewables & Water Saving (-20.4%) was the weakest performing category.

Month-on-month

February total value sales increased +4.8% compared to January 2024. Volume sales increased +8.1% and prices were down -3.1%. With one less trading day in February, like-for-like sales were up +9.7%. Eight of the categories sold more month-on-month with Landscaping (+17.0%) well ahead of the rest. Heavy Building Materials (+5.8%) and two small categories, Renewables & Water Saving (+7.1%) and Services (+6.6%) did better than total merchants. Plumbing Heating & Electrical (-2.1%) and Workwear & Safetywear (-4.2%) were the worst performers.

Rolling 12 months

Total merchant sales in the 12 months from March 2023 to February 2024 were -5.5%

lower than the same period the year before (March 2022 to February 2023). Volume sales were -12.5% lower and prices were up +8.0%. With an additional three trading days in the most recent 12-month period, like-for-like sales were down -6.7%. The three largest categories - Heavy Building Materials (-4.8%), Landscaping (-10.4%) and Timber & Joinery Products (-13.3%)all sold less.

For the full report, including comments from the BMBI’s panel of leading industry Experts, please visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

GfK’s

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 92% 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 Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) appears every month, in print and online. A full quarterly report is published every three months. The BMBI is a brand of the Builders Merchant 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.

Limitless

PORTAL HS provides the best outlook for a light and barrier-free life.

SIEGENIA Window systems · Door systems · Comfort systems

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

Deceuninck HS476 / Monorail LS

PVC GEALAN S8000 / S9000

Rehau Geneo / Synego

Aluplast HST 85

Available in timber and the following PVC profiles: Schüco CT 70 / LivingSlide / ThermoSlide

Profine Premidoor 88 LUX / 76

Salamander evolutionDrive / ID

Veka Topline / SLIDE 82 / MOTION 82

ASK THE EXPERT ROOFING

Lee Marson, Operations Director at SolarFrame Limited, discusses how he overcomes the low mood of the industry amidst the chaotic market.

ROOFING AND GLAZING IN A CHAOTIC MARKET

“With the industry in such a fragile state and seeing the demise of industry giants around us, it would be so easy for fenestration companies to let the turbulent market conditions interfere in business making decisions. At SolarFrame, we refuse to let this happen. When business slows down, we do the opposite – we put our foot on the gas.”

From marketing efforts right through to making changes in the factory to improve efficiencies, we put everything into improving business rather than accepting the demise in demand. It’s something that

we have always done since we opened our doors in 2008, and thus far it has served us well as we continue to be Yorkshire's premium manufacturer and distributor of windows, doors, conservatories, orangeries, and single-storey extensions.

In 2019, following the purchase of a brand new 22,000 square foot factory, SOL Conservatory Roofs was launched as

a sister company to the brand, allowing us to have a specialist team dedicated to the manufacturing of conservatory roof products. SOL Conservatory Roofs and SolarFrame now work hand in hand to provide a complete one-stop shop service for all things roofing and glazing. Making us unique amongst the trade, the two companies supply complete orders in one delivery, to any UK mainland address; making us the perfect trade partner for all things roofing and glazing.

Another thing we always pride ourselves on is excellent service, and we endeavour to never let our standards slip. Our in house quotation assistants work hard to offer same day quotes, plus fast, flexible delivery to help you attain a seamless installation. Our advanced computing and quoting systems allow us to provide technical drawings

with every quotation – keeping our customers safe in the knowledge that the products they’re ordering meet their exact requirements.

We offer full UK mainland delivery, with our dedicated and customer focused transport team. We endeavour to always go above and beyond the standard, and so we will deliver the insulated internal plaster boards and internal finishing materials on the same delivery, making every order and delivery a hassle-free experience for our customers. Our drivers will arrive at a pre-arranged time to perfectly suit our customer’s installation schedule.

Never one to slow down, in March 2023 we launched an Approved Installer Scheme to support our customer base, introducing a mass of support including marketing and branding guidance, design support, and assisted fits for complicated installations, and in November we opened a SOL Training Centre, so that we can support new customers wanting to introduce solid roofs to their product range. Since the introduction of the Installer Scheme and Training Centre, SOL has welcomed 22 new Installers to the mix within the last six months. The scheme aims to provide every SOL and SolarFrame customer with the highest level of expertise, product quality and customer care.

NEW THERMALLY EFFICIENT ALUMINIUM CASEMENT WINDOW FROM STERNFENSTER

Sternfenster has launched its new Alitherm 400 casement window, which achieves a Window Energy Rating of A with a double-glazed unit, making it fully compliant with Building Regulations for refurbishment projects.

The Alitherm 400 can achieve a U-value of 1.2W/m2K with a triple glazed unit (with a centre-pane U-value of 0.8W/m2K), making it ideal for newbuild properties.

The 70mm thermally broken aluminium window also boasts leading weather performance, successfully passing: BS EN 1026 (air permeability); BS EN 1027 (water tightness); and BS EN 12211 (wind resistance). It also comes with a flush sash option and can meet PAS24 or Secured By Design requirements thanks to optional sash claw locks.

The Alitherm 400 window is available in lead times as short as five days.

“Since 2017, when we invested in our new aluminium facility in Lincoln, we have been a leading fabricator of aluminium windows and doors,” Sternfenster’s Sales Director Nathan Court said. “Importantly, we applied modern PVC-U fabrication techniques to aluminium window production, giving our customers access to a valuable market, but at a competitive price point and far shorter lead times than traditional alternatives.

“Partnering with Smarts to manufacture their Alitherm 300 window was a key part of this strategy, and the new Alitherm 400 window continues our journey of creating new opportunities for window retail businesses.”

The new Alitherm 400 window comes with Sternfenster’s new QUICKglaze knock-in glazing bead with co-extruded gaskets, which helps reduce time spent on site because less time is spent hunting for parts, and installation is very swift – potentially shaving hours off a job.

The Alitherm 400 casement window comes with additional features that help meet the many demands homeowners place on new windows. These include dual colour options, trickle vents, triple glazing up to 38.8mm, and mega egress hinges if the window needs to offer a fire escape route.

“The Alitherm 400 window was designed to be a modern standard window that will appeal to most homeowners in most situations, offering profitable opportunities for window companies in the process,” Nathan said. “But the final sale often comes down to individual choice, and that is where our new window shines.

“Top of this list are the flash sash option, PAS24/Secured By Design compliance and dual colour. These are comfortably met by the Alitherm 400, making it the ideal aluminium window option for window companies to have in their portfolio.

AT PRECISION REVOLUTIONISES BI-FOLD MANUFACTURING WITH HIGH-PERFORMANCE ALUMINIUM PROFILE

AT Precision, a leading supplier of hardware components, is proud to announce a groundbreaking expansion of its product portfolio. The company has officially launched the brand-new Everglide aluminium profile range for bi-folds, offering fabricators a one-stop shop for all their bi-fold door needs.

This much-anticipated launch signifies a significant milestone for AT Precision. The new Everglide aluminium profile range is meticulously designed and manufactured inhouse, featuring impressive specifications, such as a U-value of 1.5W/m²K and Document L compliance.

Offering maximum sash dimensions of up to 1,200mm wide and 2,500mm high, the profile

offers exceptional design flexibility, and with a maximum sash weight of 100kg, is perfect for larger bi-fold door applications.

Glazing options of 24mm, 28mm, 32mm, or 36mm are available, and with typical sightlines of 132mm, the profile offers a sleek and contemporary look for modern architectural trends.

A COMMITMENT TO BI-FOLD EXCELLENCE

Since its inception in 2020, AT Precision has established itself as a trusted provider of bi-fold door hardware. The company’s Everglide hardware range encompasses rollers, top guides, pull handles, cleats, and shootbolt handles – all meticulously designed for

exceptional performance. Additionally, the Everseal range of high-quality gaskets further enhances the functionality and aesthetics of bi-folding door systems.

“Both the Everglide hardware and Everseal gasket ranges are known for their affordability and compatibility with most major systems,” explains Sales Director Michael Hewitt. “Being manufactured inhouse allows us to offer competitive pricing, potentially saving fabricators thousands of pounds annually.”

AT Precision’s dedication to evolving its product portfolio goes beyond just hardware. Over the past year, the company has introduced a range of plastic ancillaries, high-quality espagnolette

“And we support our customers by giving them full visibility of the process via Sternfenster-Plus (SF+) and EasyAdmin.”

EasyAdmin allows businesses to produce professional quotes very quickly for homeowners. It also allows window installation companies to have complete oversight of their profit and loss. This information is updated daily and allows business owners to see the health of their accounts in real time.

EasyAdmin works with SF+, which improves communication with customers and gives them greater insight into the fabricator’s manufacturing capacity.

The new Alitherm 400 casement window is available now from Sternfenster.

For more information visit www.sternfenster.com email sales@sternfenster.co.uk or call 01522 512525. Alternatively, join the conversation on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/sternfenster

window handles, and the innovative Ingenious Duplex MPL from Ingenious Locks. This strategic expansion ensures fabricators have access to a comprehensive selection of bi-fold door components.

Michael explains: “Previously, the only missing piece was the actual aluminium profile and glass. With the launch of the Everglide aluminium profile range, we’ve addressed this gap definitively.”

A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR STREAMLINED BI-FOLD DOOR MANUFACTURING

The introduction of the Everglide aluminium profile range makes AT Precision a truly comprehensive bi-fold door solution provider. Fabricators can

now source everything necessary to manufacture high-performing bi-fold doors from a single, reliable source.

Michael concludes: “The high-quality profile is easy to work with, making AT Precision a one-stop shop for all your bi-fold needs. Simply add the glass, and you’re ready to go!

“By offering exceptional bifold door hardware, highperformance aluminium profile, and readily available customer support, AT Precision empowers fabricators to streamline their operations, save time and money, and deliver exceptional bi-fold door solutions to their clients.” For more information, visit www.atprecision.co.uk.

PURe® innovation

Senior’s innovation recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise

Our thermally-efficient, patented PURe® system is fully Part L compliant and available in choice of window styles and door options for both residential and commercial projects.

Senior’s innovation recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise

Winner of a King’s Award for Enterprise (Innovation) 2023.

Our thermally-efficient, patented PURe® system is fully Part L compliant and available in choice of window styles and door options for both residential and commercial projects.

Winner of a King’s Award for Enterprise (Innovation) 2023.

STAYING AHEAD OF THE CURVE WITH SHEERLINE’S IN-HOUSE PROFILE BENDING SERVICE

Sheerline’s commitment to continual investment has seen the installation of a £270,000 TIM-ING Profile Bending Machine at its’ Derbyshire HQ. As a result, the company is offering a new specialist profile bending service, enabling fabricators to order perfect arched, curved and round windows.

This latest expansion of capabilities is all part of Sheerline’s strategic commitment to continual investment, ensuring its’ facilities remain technologically advanced, and helping the company’s customers to stay ahead of their competition.

TIM-ING’s equipment offers some of the most advanced bending machinery for aluminium and PVC profiles in the world. There are 3D cameras within the machine, which enable it to be automated for efficiency and to ensure repeatable quality.

This announcement coincides with a growing demand for arched windows. Sheerline understands that properties with character and heritage features require specialist solutions that ensure homeowners

can renovate properties sympathetically, without compromise.

Sheerline prides itself on offering bespoke services to its fabricator partners, because it understands how important it is for fabricators and installers to be able to match their customers needs’.

In addition, customers can choose from standard, custom, or dual colour choices without increasing lead-times. Providing an agile, robust service by keeping everything in-house, from aluminium extrusion to painting, and now profile bending.

Sheerline’s Technical Production Director, Ross Hartshorn, said: “This announcement, and the installation of our specialist profile bending machine, is another step in our strategic investment plan that ensures we stay at the forefront of the aluminium industry – it’s one of the things that differentiates us from other manufacturers.”

“There’s a reason we’ve gained a reputation for being an industry leader in such a short period. We aren’t afraid to take on historical challenges and offer solutions that benefit our customers.” he added.

To find out more about Sheerline’s new inhouse profile bending, customers are advised to speak to their Sales Manager directly. Alternatively, contact the team via email on info@sheerline.com or call 01332 978000.

UN RECOGNITION FOR REYNAERS’ SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY

Reynaers Aluminium UK has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting environmental initiatives and regulations following the company’s global sustainability strategy being recognised by the United Nations.

The UN has awarded Reynaers Group the SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) Pioneer label for its ambitious sustainability work. Through the international certificate, the UN recognises companies that have adopted effective current and long-term sustainability initiatives.

Since 2022, all the company’s long-term sustainability commitments and goals have been documented in its sustainability strategy Reynaers Act, focusing on reducing carbon emissions in both direct and indirect operations.

Whilst the recently released consultation documents relating to the Future Homes Standard revisions in 2025 has given the industry mixed news, Reynaers continues to

underline its commitment to developing innovative solutions to support sustainable building design. This includes creating systems with improved thermal efficiency and increasing the number of Cradle to Cradle products it manufactures.

Technical Director at Reynaers Aluminium UK, John McComb is also the company’s sustainability champion, which sees him take an active part in developing systems that are fit for the future demands of the UK market, including leading the technical team in adapting European systems to meet UK specifications.

He said: “It’s great to see the work that Reynaers is doing to support more sustainable practices, and to create systems that will support sustainable building design, recognised at such a high level.

“Reynaers is committed to testing, innovation and constantly improving the performance of its windows, doors and façade systems, including thermal

efficiency. With a team of technical experts both at the global headquarters and here in the UK, the company is continually working to reach its sustainability goals - and those of the wider UK and global communities, including upcoming changes to building legislation.

“This approach is evident in the latest generation of Reynaers’ products, created with sustainability in mind, including the MasterPatio sliding door, which is Cradle to Cradle certified and made with recycled materials; and the MasterLine 8 and 10 systems, which offer Passive House levels of insulation without compromising on aesthetics.

“Through Reynaers Act, we lay out our commitment to a more sustainable way of working and this recognition is another step forward.”

YOUR ALUMINIUM PARTNER FOR SUCCESS

As the industry witnesses a surge in demand for high-end aluminium products, Dekko Window Systems is at the forefront, strategically bolstering its aluminium offering and forging strong partnerships to deliver exceptional solutions to its customers.

We speak to Aluminium Sales Manager Paul Schofield…

Having spent over 16 years in the window, door, and conservatory markets, I recently joined Dekko as an Aluminium Sales

Manager, tasked with spearheading growth within the company’s premium aluminium division from Reynaers.

Dekko’s commitment to innovation excellence is evident. Our 2022 acquisition by Inwido, a leading European group, coupled with the launch of a groundbreaking fully seamless window, signifies a company on a progressive path. This dedication extends to our longstanding partnerships, including our nineyear collaboration with Reynaers.

Further solidifying Dekko’s commitment to cutting-edge aluminium solutions is the recent addition of the Reynaers Curtain Wall 50 façade to our product portfolio, an innovative system that provides architects and installers with unmatched design freedom and maximum transparency for their projects.

The product expansion follows on from the addition of the Decalu 88 bi-fold, entrance door, lift and slide patio door, and flush casement window to our portfolio, further equipping our customers to get ahead in a very competitive market.

At Dekko, we understand the growing preference for aluminium within the industry, and with a growing product portfolio, a focus on innovation, and a commitment to strong partnerships, we are well-positioned to capitalise on the aluminium boom.

Dekko stands ready to meet the growing demand for high-end aluminium products. With a commitment to innovation, a continuously expanding aluminium portfolio featuring the latest advancements, and strong partnerships with industry leaders like Reynaers, we are confident in

providing our trade customers with the tools they need to excel in the aluminium revolution.

Visit www.dekkowindows.com.

Give your sales a lift

ASK THE EXPERT SOFTWARE

Ab Initio’s Rhonda Ridge, creator of AdminBase, talks about the real need for installation businesses to make a change and improve efficiencies to stand any chance of capitalising on the remaining market opportunities.

THE MOMENT OF TRUTH IS HERE, GET BETTER OR GET LEFT BEHIND

The word data often leaves people feeling cold and running for the hills. It certainly doesn’t sound sexy enough to save the day in these turbulent market conditions. And yet, harnessing data correctly is one of the only things an installation business can do that will improve processes and efficiencies, and therefore generate huge benefits across the entire organisation.

As the head of a business analytics group in North America said: “A little bit of the right information at the moment of truth is worth far more than all the information in the world two weeks after the fact.” Installation companies need facts at their fingertips to respond quickly and effectively to the challenges coming their way.

It is always important for a business to keep track of which aspects of the company are working well, and which are not, but in more challenging market conditions this becomes even more critical. There is less room for error. Whether it’s spending money on the wrong marketing tactics, dropping the ball with a valuable lead, or miscommunication with a customer, home improvement companies can’t afford to make mistakes. They need to be firing on all cylinders 24/7 to keep existing customers happy and win over any new business there is to be had. So, how exactly can an installer management system like AdminBase help?

REPORTING FOR DUTY

A good management system such as AdminBase will integrate data from all areas of the organisation so that everyone can access the information they need when they need it, without the need to enter data multiple times into different databases. It will also easily generate reports on any aspect of the business that can then be viewed at any time.

Setting and staying on top of KPIs is particularly important when the market is challenging, to make sure the operation is running at maximum efficiency. Installation businesses can easily review KPIs within AdminBase, without having to spend time exporting data to Excel to create separate reports. The system presents key

information in easy-to-read charts and can show for example, which marketing tactics have resulted in conversions and the value of those orders, how many customers are awaiting quotes or appointments, and even where there is capacity in an installation team.

IMPRESS HOMEOWNERS TO STAND OUT

The AdminBase system can also help installation businesses communicate with homeowners easily and efficiently to create the best impression throughout the entire customer journey. With the system’s Customer Portal facility for example, homeowners can log in, confirm appointments, check on the progress

of their survey and installation, and as importantly, report any snagging issues after the project has been completed. The upshot of this is that homeowners receive an even better service, with less direct input required from the office-based team.

In addition to supporting installation businesses with communication and efficiencies, we are also hearing that more of our customers are turning to the AdminBase Campaigns facility to help them win more business in the first place.

A popular choice in more difficult market conditions for its fantastic return on investment, targeted e-mail campaigns are easy to do from AdminBase. Targeted lists can be generated and used for campaigns within the system, eliminating the need to export any data into a third-party mailing facility like MailChimp. This could be to target new prospects enquiring about a specific product, or existing customers that may now be interested in investing in their next home improvement project.

There is no getting away from the fact that life in an installation business is difficult when the market is down, but there are still opportunities to do well. To make the most of these opportunities and future proof the business though, they need leaner processes, greater efficiencies, more flexibility, and to be in a position to offer the best possible service. A fully integrated system such as AdminBase offers the perfect framework and foundation for all of this and more.

GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND TO SUPPORT CUSTOMERS

Established 38 years ago, Glazpart manufactures and supplies over 200 million products per year from its factory in Banbury, Oxfordshire where it operates a 24/7 manufacturing operation with state-of-the-art machinery and a high warehousing capacity.

For decades, Glazpart has led the way in the design and manufacture of plastic moulded glazing accessories for the Fenestration Industry. With specialised knowledge in glazing components and award-winning ventilation products, Glazpart supplies over one thousand companies right across the spectrum of the glazing supply chain from systems houses and distributors to fabricators and installers.

Offering a full service that caters for customers’ individual needs - from identifying market trends and being preprepared for legislative changes, from concept and design through to tooling and manufacture – Glazpart’s services also include surface foiling to match any type, colour or finish of any window and door.

As well as the accessories and components production side of the business, Glazpart also offers a specialised custom product service that can create and supply plastic injection mouldings to specific requirements.

In recent years, Glazpart has invested resources in research, product development and the latest machinery to ensure it continues to provide innovative and compliant product solutions and subsequent sales growth for its customers.

To build even stronger relationships with its customer base, in May 2023, Glazpart launched the Glazpartners initiative - a new programme designed to further improve customer collaboration, increase product development and brand awareness by promoting Glazpartners at trade events, online and in the trade press. Since launch, over 50 companies from across the glazing supply chain have become Glazpartners. The recognition of the initiative’s success was rewarded recently with Glazpartners winning the “Best Customer Support Programme” at The GGP Installer Awards in March 2024.

Central to Glazpart’s mission and ethos, is customer service. Being proactive with key trade bodies and government consultations, Glazpart stays ahead of regulatory changes and informs its customers of any incoming changes to help them comply with building regulations.

In June 2022, when the changes in Building Regulations – Approved Document F (means of ventilation) were enacted, Glazpart pre-empted the changes by introducing an additional product to its range of trickle ventilators. The launch of the Link Vent 4000 – the ideal option for windows

and doors for smaller rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms – has proved an enormous success with the product line becoming the third best selling ventilator in the Glazpart range.

The Link Vent has proved a hugely successful product because of its smart design, functionality (easy to install and control), flexibility (available in thousands of colours/finishes) and its availability. With such demand Glazpart ensures there are healthy stock levels of the best-selling range to help companies avoid any delays in completing the job.

In January 2024, Glazpart, having listened to their customers, announced that its Link Vent premium finish ranges would be immediately available in handy packs of

either 10 canopies or internal vents to help companies only buy the stock they need and add more value, both in terms of revenue and kerb appeal for homeowners.

The premium finishes available in the new handy sized packs are the Premium Woodgrain range, Premium Vac Foiled range, Premium Sprayed Colours, Super Matt Finishes.

Glazpart’s mission is to continue to deliver the best possible products and service to its customers. As the company approaches its 40th anniversary in 2025, it is going beyond just maintaining strong customer relations. Through investment, retaining experienced staff, listening to customers and being constantly innovative, the company aims to build on its solid foundations by continuing to best support its customers.

On June 13th, the Glazpart team will be attending the PiGs (People in Glazing Society) in Bristol, if you are planning to attend this industry event, say hello to the Glazpart team who will be happy to share the company’s latest activity and product solutions. You can book a free ticket for this event here Upcoming Events | People in Glazing Society .

Alternatively, to find out more about Glazpart and its products or if you are interested in becoming a Glazpartner please visit the Glazpart website contact page - Contact Us | Glazpart or email Dean Bradley, Sales Director dbradley@glazpart.co.uk.

‘MY OFFICE IS IN MY RUCKSACK.’ LOVE WINDOWS DEVON EMBRACE FLEXIBLE WORKING WITH TOMMY TRINDER

Love Windows

Devon has transformed its business operations with innovative quoting software developed by Tommy Trinder. Under the leadership of Mark Frost, Managing Director, the company has leveraged the technology to redefine flexible working.

Tommy Trinder has been a “massive game changer” for the team, enabling Mark to realise his vision of building a business that does things differently. “When I started the business, I wanted it to be flexible, so that we could work from anywhere. With Tommy Trinder I can work from home, work from my bag, work from wherever,” Mark said.

Mark has fully integrated the quoting software into his workflow, enabling the team to design, price and quote in real-time in the customers’ home,

eliminating the need for a traditional showroom or a large premises. “My office is in my rucksack,” says Mark. “When I’m chatting with a customer I can bring my iPad out, show them the software, we design the windows together – they’re really impressed with it.”

Designing and pricing in the customer’s home provides a great sales experience for both Mark and the homeowner. “When I’m sitting with the customer having a coffee, I can price it there and then. It takes two minutes to do a quote, so they know you’re on it. There’s no going back to the office to change stuff and check it. You can just do it straight away, which is great for business,” Mark said.

The ability to superimpose windows and doors onto a photograph of the customer's house has been a big hit with clients, and has helped Love Windows Devon to minimise error. “It eliminates any mistakes because you're seeing the windows how they will look, fitted, with all the details. You're showing exactly what you're selling," Mark added. Love Windows Devon have developed a solid reputation for the quality of their installations. Tommy Trinder has enabled Mark and the team to extend that reputation across the entire sales process, meeting the evolving needs of both the business and the homeowner. "Tommy is very flexible, easy to use, good value for money, and produces very professional-looking quotes for our customers. I definitely wouldn't be without it," Mark concluded.

Tommy Trinder is subscription based and billed monthly. To find out more and book a free demo installers should visit www.tommytrinder.com.

By Mark Frost, Managing Director, Love Windows Devon

www.lovewindowsdevon.co.uk

BM ALUMINIUM ISSUES UPDATED SYSTEMS GUIDANCE FOR LOGIKAL USERS

BM Aluminium has just issued updated guidance to fabricators to ensure they get the most from their LogiKal software installation.

The guidance outlines the systems they need to have in place to run LogiKal at its optimum performance, and more specifically to guarantee that they can install all the necessary updates as soon as they are released.

The guidance covers all the essentials - from the PC specifications and disc space required to the server speed and capacity and graphics card recommended. However, the focus is on the environment requirements, and there are clear, step by step instructions now on how to enable the necessary network sharing and windows permissions and how to configure the firewall settings and anti-virus software exceptions.

Daniel Hodges, BM Aluminium’s Technical Manager, explained: “We’re aware that some customers have run into problems installing the latest LogiKal update. That’s largely because their systems haven’t kept pace with the development of software or haven’t been configured quite correctly, so we thought it would be useful to provide this online checklist so that they can identify what if anything, they are missing.

“We want every customer to be able to use LogiKal to its maximum capacity, so our support team are always on hand to help and advise of course, and we are very happy to review customers’ systems at any time and help with any changes or upgrades that are needed.”

The full updated guidance is at: https://www.bmaluminium.co.uk/logikalsoftware-requirements/ and customers can get direct support via the BM Aluminium support line on: 01684 856920.

DANNY WILLIAMS ‘COLD CALLING’

Each

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

“We are a retail installer in the West of England Danny and sales remain subdued. The mood amongst homeowners seems very low. What are you finding?” RK Avon

According to one regular forecast published in a couple of the trade magazines from a firm whose first name begins with B and second name with a P, everything in the world is wonderful and getting better by the day, RK. Everyone in the front line knows that is complete kybosh. Why they keep that happy clappy stream up, heaven only knows but I would suggest it doesn’t do their cause any good.

The broad-brush view is that the market continues to be down by around 20%, a figure that I agree with. Our trade sales cover the relatively wealthy Southeast and most of the South of England up to Birmingham. A sizeable chunk. And pretty much across the board, sales are down by 15% to 20%. And the upmarket sales –selling to those that don’t need to borrow to improve – is not making up the difference.

I am a glass-nearly-spilling-over sort of chap and seldom look on the dark side of anything. But now and again even I need a reality check. And it seems that we are looking at a perfect storm of misery currently, when we consider everything that is going on in our lives…all of our lives. Let’s take a look at what’s going on… The weather. We are British. And we talk about the weather. And currently

(mid April) and for months now, it has been bloody miserable. When the sky is perpetually grey, the wind is howling and rain driving, it simply isn’t good for our collective morale.

Politics. I am something of a politics watcher and I am aghast at the level of ineptitude that we are presented with in this country. The old cliché that opposition parties never win elections but ruling parties lose them, has never been more apt with Rishi bending over backwards to prove how inept he is at politics let alone being PM. But, as we draw ever closer to the inevitable General Election, we can only marvel at how the Labour Party has once again appointed as its leader a man who, whilst worthy enough, has the charisma of a shoot bolt.

We therefore know that having gone through the pain and disruption of an election, when pretty much everyone agrees that change is overdue, it will simply be more of the same. Where have all the leaders gone?

The economy. Interest rates are coming down but still not enough to make a difference. Plus, many homeowners are still smarting from being over mortgaged and generally in too deep and will run cautious for some time to come. The low interest gravy train is well and truly over, and we are never likely to see that scenario in our lifetimes again. Low and steady rather than boom and bust, has to be favourite. The market still needs time to settle.

Products. Nothing mind bendingly new for a while but how well are we selling what we have got? The discounters are out in full doing their best to slash what little margin is left, when with a little more imagination and intelligence they could be using that discount to offer their punters

something a cut above the competition. Adding value – upgraded hardware, custom coloured frames, additional openers and even my favourite, triple glazing, should all be offered as upgrades to clinch a deal rather than slashing another couple of grand off. By adding value your punters will get a better product than they anticipated, which will result in improved customer satisfaction and more recommendations. In the meantime, of course, done with care and intelligence the gross value of the upgrades will be higher than any discount you were going to offer but which will cost you less lost margin. Customer satisfaction will, however, be sky high.

In summary RK, our industry is tremendous at reinventing and reinspiring itself. But this current period reminds me of 2010/11 when the industry was also collectively down in the mouth. We had bland products, everyone seemed to have replaced their windows and doors and sales were similarly in the doldrums. And then FIT Show was announced. It gave us a bounce, something to plan for and look forward to. I genuinely think it boosted the industry.

More than that however, it stirred our ingenuity and imagination and we got off of our collective backsides and found the fighting spirit that has always characterised our industry. We don’t have another FIT Show and its new venture, the Glass Conference in October that is being touted by FIT with its new partners GGF and FENSA, won’t have the same impact. But perhaps it provides a line in the sand that we can aim for: getting ourselves and our industry back in the game. Don’t give up. People LOVE putting new windows and doors in their castles; they just have to feel a little more comfortable with life again.

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

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY

AT WORK, REST AND PLAY

THIS MONTH:

Michaela Mawhinney Order Processing Manager, SolarFrame

AT WORK...

How did your career begin in this industry?

I started in the fenestration industry over 17 years ago, working as an order processor for SpeedFrame. It was a great foot through the door into the industry.

What was your first job after leaving school?

My first job was in a warehouse full of women at the age of 17, working for Maplin Electronics processing all of the orders.

Can you tell us a little about that?

Other than a short stint working in a call centre, I have worked in the Glass and Glazing industry since I was 19. I began at Speedframe, then I started as an office Junior for SolarFrame when I was 21 and I’m still here now!

I have worked my way up over the years and now work as Order Processing Manager.

Do you believe your skillset is transferable?

My frame knowledge is very industry specific however the management, organisational and reporting skills I have acquired over the years is easily transferable.

Do you have a career path or do you feel work life is more about opportunity?

I never had a specific career path in mind, I’m just lucky to have been given this opportunity and I’m proud to say I’m great at what I do. I honestly couldn’t see myself working anywhere else – I have been at SolarFrame so long that I know it like the back of my hand and feel like I work amongst family.

Where would you like to be in a) 5 years and b) 10 years

In both 5 or 10 years’ time I’d like to see that SolarFrame continues to grow and be successful, and I hope that I’m still a part of this team as I really do enjoy what I do.

I love to travel so I would like for some big holidays to be a part of my plan, but I will always put time into my work. Starting a family could be on the list too.

AT REST...

What do you focus on when you are not at work?

I mostly socialise with friends and spend time with my family. I love travelling and seeing new places, I just try to enjoy my life.

What things help you to switch off?

I walk daily with my dog and I find that this really helps me switch off, although I do love a good shopping spree and a tv series marathon.

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 PLAY...

Can you achieve the work life balance you would like to achieve?

When I’m in work I’m 100% focused, but at home I’ve learned to switch off and leave my work at my desk. It’s taken some years to master, but after my 14th year at SolarFrame it’s become easier. I also have a strong team who I have the upmost confidence in which allows me to relax when I’m not in the office.

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

I’d love to travel the world, see all the sights and take all of the most important people in my life with me – It would be invaluable to be able to spend that much quality time together.

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 APPOINTMENTS

NEW SALES EXECUTIVE JOINS THE TEAM AT WINKHAUS UK CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS

Wiinkhaus UK is delighted to announce the addition of Sam Bennett to its team as a Sales Executive. Sam is going to be working alongside Project Manager, John Kalter, in the North of the UK.

"We are thrilled to welcome Sam to Winkhaus UK," says Mike Rushen. "He is a further addition to the Sales force as Winkhaus continues to focus on delivering excellent service across all areas of the business in order to progress on our vision to guarantee our customers’ success. We look forward to the positive impact and fresh perspective he will bring to the team.’

Sam said, “I’m grateful to have had such a warm welcome from the team at Winkhaus UK. I’m looking forward to meeting and working with the customers, collaborating with the Sales team and assisting John with our area of the business.”

CAREERS

Prior to joining Winkhaus, Sam spent seven successful years at Tool Station, where he rose through the ranks to become one of the youngest store managers within the Travis Perkins group. His time at Tool Station provided him with valuable insights into customer service, sales strategies, and team leadership, all of which will be instrumental in his new role at Winkhaus.

Sam's appointment represents a strategic

investment in the company's future and reaffirms its commitment to delivering unparalleled service and solutions to its customers.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Sam Bennett as he embarks on this exciting new chapter with Winkhaus UK. We are confident that his contributions will further elevate our capabilities and strengthen our position as a leader in the industry.

NEW FINANCE DIRECTOR FOR VEKA AS GRAHAM FITTON RETIRES

VEKA’s long-standing Finance Director, Graham Fitton, who joined the industry-leading window and door manufacturer in 2008, has retired. VEKA’s head of finance Mohmed Namaji, who has been with the Burnley-based business for 12-years, has been promoted to fill the role.

Leadership at the firm have praised Graham for the significant impact he has had during his time at VEKA.

He was instrumental in navigating the company through the global financial turbulence of 2008, ensuring it remained at the peak of the industry. His financial nous helped transform the business during the recession with the acquisition of Bowater Building Products, including the Halo brand that remains to this day an asset of the company.

The economic difficulties poised by the pandemic were also strategically mitigated by Graham, who put various processes into place to guarantee the continuity of the business.

The transition has been smooth, with Mohmed and Graham having worked

closely together for many years. The pair marked the succession in a ceremonial ‘passing of the calculator’.

Graham joined VEKA from roofing company IKO, where he was the Chief Financial Officer.

On his retirement, Graham said: “It was obviously a difficult decision, but I am confident in the knowledge that I leave the role in a more stable place than I found it, and it couldn’t be left in more capable hands.

“VEKA is a family-owned business, and as such it feels like I am leaving my family. I have enjoyed a long career and truly believe that if I don’t leave now, I never will.”

Neil Evans, Managing Director of VEKA UK, said: “It is an incredibly difficult departure to accept as Graham has been ever-present during my time at the company. He has been integral in the company’s success, and we would not be where we are today without him.

“I would like to wish Graham a happy retirement and assure him that he will always be a part of the VEKA family.

“I also congratulate Mohmed on his promotion. I have the utmost confidence that he is an astute finance expert, who I have no doubt will continue to play a key part in VEKA’s future success”.

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

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

christina@improve-magazine.co.uk www.improve-magazine.co.uk

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

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

Maintenance-free PVCu fascia boards are 20mm thick (instead of the usual 16mm) for superb strength.

Not

The next editions will be out in Spring (a digital edition and a print edition). You can decide whether to advertise in one of these editions, or both – so the flexibility is yours!

The next editions will be out in Spring (a digital edition and a print edition). You can decide whether to advertise in one of these editions, or both – so the flexibility is yours!

Improve is distributed as follows:

• 30,000 print distribution via Sainsbury’s ABC1 stores

•

•

•

•

and

Celebrity Features; Expert Articles and Advice Columns

We’ve featured TV legend Kevin McCloud, gardening gurus’ David Domoney and Huw Richards as well as a double act from George Clarke & Max McCurdo, not to mention interior designer to the stars Kelly Hoppen and master of the home makeover Georgina Burnett and Laurence Llewelyn Bowen! To mention a few!

Facebook users per quarter

• We target homeowners/gardeners and people interested in DIY (age 27 - 65+)

Every Edition contains expert advice from people within the fenestration and surrounding industries, to ensure our readers are not only entertained but also kept informed of subjects such as planning permissions, building regulations and the latest trends and style.

Forget Google, old customer lists, or even directories. Insight Data is the industry’s most powerful business device.

With access over 80,000 key decision-maker contacts and verified email addresses, transform your sales and marketing strategy and make sure your business stays ahead of the competition.

To find and win new customers, just ask Insight.

DATABASE OVER 20,800 CONTACTS

LOCAL BUILDERS DATABASE OVER 27,300 CONTACTS

DATABASE OVER 18,200 CONTACTS BUILDERS MERCHANTS DATABASE OVER 10,800 CONTACTS

MAIN CONTRACTORS DATABASE OVER 6,500 CONTACTS

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Structural

Quick

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Free

Training

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