Glass News September 2024

QUANEX BUILDING PRODUCTS CLOSES ON ACQUISITION OF TYMAN

COMBINATION CREATES A COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS PROVIDER TO BUILDING PRODUCTS OEMS ACQUISITION ENHANCES SCALE,

GLOBAL REACH AND PRODUCT OFFERING

Quanex Building Products Corporation (NYSE: NX) (“Quanex” or the “Company”) today announced that it has closed on its acquisition of Tyman plc (“Tyman”), creating a comprehensive solutions provider in the building products industry.

“We are excited to welcome the Tyman team. This transaction accelerates our growth and value creation by delivering best-in-class building products solutions to OEMs in the building products industry,” said George Wilson, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quanex. “The acquisition of Tyman directly aligns with our ‘BIGGER’ strategy and, as a

combined company, our scale and reach will enable us to build on our leading positions across an enhanced offering of differentiated engineered components. Our teams are focused on executing a smooth integration as we work to realize the operational and financial benefits of the transaction for the benefit of our employees, customers and stockholders.”

The transaction creates a larger, more diversified supplier of components to OEMs; strengthens brand leadership by adding Tyman’s highly recognizable brands with wide customer bases; and enhances the combined company’s financial profile by accelerating growth and increasing profitability through greater scale and stronger cash flow. The Company intends to complete approximately 50% of the integration within the first 12 months and expects the acquisition to be meaningfully accretive to earnings within the first full year after closing.

Continued on page 6...

George Wilson, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quanex

Capable of a classic, timber aesthetic or sleek modern appearance the Resurgence flush sash window system adapts perfectly to both modern and traditional settings

CORNER JOINT OPTIONS

Timberweld®, mechanical and welded

THROUGH FOILING

Foiled into frame and transom rebates for consistent finish even when open

DOUBLE REBATED & GASKETED UK-first for flush sash windows, no visible external seals

VERSATILE GLAZING

28mm double or 36mm/40mm triple glazing

WINDOWS

DOORS

DECKING

FENCING PILING

EXPLORE THE LINIAR RANGE 01332

IT ISN’T REALLY ALL GLOOM AND DOOM, IS IT?

I queried whether it was boom time for fenestration in last month’s Glass News... and now I’m really querying it!

Will homeowners wanting to renew their windows be able to afford them bearing in mind the attacks that are coming from the government on pensioners (yes, I declare an interest!) and although stopping winter fuel payments seems a small penalty to pay, if savings are the next target and greater taxation on pensions, that block of 10 million elderly folks may be less willing to fork out their cash on home improvements. Of course, there are other sectors who buy fenestration products but what pressures will be on their earning and spending powers?

The industry does, of course, have the 1.5 million houses that are being built over the next five years to get their teeth into. But cleverer people than me have had their abacus’ out calculating how that number of houses will be achieved. Apparently, there are 1,266 working days available in the next five years such that 1,184 houses need to be completed each day. I wonder what the scoreboard looks like so far! There is another slight snag that all the niceties such as design, planning permissions, securing the manpower to build the houses and having the water, drainage and power ready and raring to go. Perhaps Angela Rayner should give us a running total of houses built on a weekly basis!

I mentioned the workforce necessary to build all these homes but doesn’t that bring us back to the whole issue of training, apprenticeships and the skills deficit? Funnily enough, not that long ago I was advocating for school leavers to look at apprenticeships and going into the trades as opposed to pursuing dodgy university degrees and going into the so-called professions. Belay that thought! Forget both trades and professions. Now career advisers should be telling our young adults to go into public service positions. You can’t go wrong! Nice job, work from home most of the time, annual salary increments and cost of living increases, pretty much bullet proof employment with the chances of getting the sack virtually nil, a union that can call you out on strike to give your salary a boost, from time to time, as the government appear to be giving money away to the public sector workers, and then a gold-plated pension at the end of it, paid for by us numpties in the private sector!

It rather looks like we’ve swopped one set of self-serving politicians for another set, just a different colour! There seems

to be some disparity between how the old and new governments view the state of the economy. Is there or is there not a £20 billion blackhole, has the government inherited an economy that’s in the worse state since the Second World War? Rather than listen to politicians’ protestations I’d rather hear from economists. They say GDP has grown by 1.3% in the first half of this year, inflation is down to 2.2% and unemployment down to 4.2%. They also state that the economy is in a far better state than 2010 when the last government inherited a nightmare…remember the message? Sorry, there’s no money!

I asked, earlier, what sector should be targeted for the sales of fenestration products or, indeed, any products? The answer, of course, is simple – anyone working in the public sector and especially those with a strong union. The ordinary private sector worker will be clobbered by whatever punitive taxes or assaults on any savings that are tucked under the mattress, such that disposable income will be severely curtailed. After all, someone has to pay for the government’s largesse to its union paymasters. As an industry we’ll have to target our sales efforts at those with the bulging wallets!

Amid all this doom and gloom over economic issues we, the fenestration industry, are innovative and entrepreneurial, still investing for the future and producing ever better new products. It seems that very company I visit has something new to boast about, and I don’t mean that unkindly! You should boast about your achievements and innovations because there is a market out there looking for the next big thing. Look at innovations such as PVCu flush windows, composite doors, bifolds, sliders, secure hardware of every kind, colour (and I don’t mean avocado bathroom suites!), the growth of ‘smart’ although I believe there is some way to go before it becomes a must have, aluminium for the home and not just commercial use….yes the list could go on and on, but these products that are now every day products have only recently been envisaged, developed and manufactured.

It's always exciting wondering what will be next and I guess we’ll get to find out at next year’s FIT Show!

Chris

‘TIME OUT’ WINNERS –AUGUST!

Sudoku: Pamela Thompson, Alternative Windows, Leeds Eye Spy: Brian Laws, Bracknell, Berks Spot the Difference: Emily Parker, Manchester Crossword: Emma Shirley, Sherwood Aluminium Systems Ltd, Mansfield

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

CONTENTS

4

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

E: kate@glassnews.co.uk

for copy: 16th of each

THE SHEERLINE RANGE OF MODERN INNOVATIVE ALUMINIUM WINDOWS AND DOORS FROM GARNALEX

Designed around a wider thermal break than legacy aluminium systems, Sheerline windows and doors are designed to meet the latest requirements of the built environment.

Available fully internally beaded, and packed full of clever innovation to ensure trouble free high-quality installations.

With matching aesthetics across all products, Sheerline systems are designed to meet the most exacting project requirements, with system wide double-glazed U-values of 1.4 and triple glazed of 1.0, thanks to a unique Thermlock® thermal break. With a modern system architecture, all the company’s products are built around a patented corner jointing method, reducing fabrication waste and locking in quality. Designed and manufactured in the UK, by leading fenestration experts, Sheerline is available on agile-lead times, helping customers meet demanding contract schedules. Launched in 2020, the Sheerline system was created to revolutionise the way aluminium windows were fabricated, installed and specified. The Sheerline Difference is about more than just products, it’s about how the company treats customers, how they give customers the tools to succeed and how they resolve any issues that are encountered along the way. However, a key part of what gives Sheerline customers a competitive advantage in the marketplace is the fact that the system was designed around a common chassis, by a team with a wealth of practical knowledge and experience.

Each system starts with Sheerline’s patented corner cleat. Designed to eliminate misalignment and reduce waste during manufacture. They also add strength to the frame and sash, while also improving the quality of finished products.

This unique, corner fixing method, also enables fabricators to manufacture reverse butt jointed windows using Z transoms for fully internally glazed aluminium windows

– which look as beautiful as the rest of the Sheerline range and satisfies the markets desire for the ‘security’ of internally beaded windows that they trust, whilst also giving many advantages for commercial contracts.

Reverse butt joints are widely used within PVCu because of the benefits – easily glazing windows internally with no need for reverse adaptors or dummy sashes, bringing cost savings across manufacturing, materials, labour and installation–which the aluminium industry can now benefit from.

SHEERLINE, THE DISRUPTOR

When Sheerline was first launched with the vision of transforming the fenestration industry, it was seen as ‘the new kid on the block’. Since then, the company has gained a reputation for quickly bringing innovative products to market that offer proper solutions to historic challenges, while also offering a responsive and agile service, with stocked colours available in just 5 days to fabricator customers.

While it is visually clear Sheerline’s products are stylish, sleek, and contemporary, a lot of the mechanics and component parts have been engineered with efficiency for both fabricators and installers in mind. This attention to detail and innovation is applied to every single Sheerline product, from cills that sit perfectly flush with the back of windows, to ancillaries that include co-extruded weatherseals and cement key lines.

What the past 12 months show is the way the company has perfectly paired real-world experience with new ways of thinking and different approaches to existing challenges. The result has been a leading brand that keeps pace with consumer demand, offering them solutions they didn’t even know existed, while also making life easier for fabricators and installers.

Our fully vertically integrated, state-of-the-art production facility enables us to offer outstanding levels of service and agility that Sheerline customers rely on. Giving us the control needed to ensure all Sheerline products are manufactured to the highest possible standards.

Ranked as the 9th fastest growing company in the UK in the 2024 Oresa Growth index, Garnalex, the company behind the Sheerline brand is committed to British manufacturing and using innovation to deliver genuinely better products for its customers. It was also recently awarded a UK Enterprise Award for Best Modern Extrusion Company 2024 – a further indication of the businesses commitment to delivering manufacturing excellence to its customers.

With a fully integrated range that spans ultra-slim windows and heritage style doors to highly configurable internally beaded combination windows, and award-winning roof lantern with unique vent option Sheerline is ready to meet your specification needs. Inhouse Qualicoat ‘Seaside Class’ powder coating, foiling on aluminium, profile bending and AOV options complete the full-service offer.

Garnalex also offer trade extrusion services – using the latest energy efficient machinery and providing an agile UK based service to its customers.

Please call 01332 978000 or visit sheerline.com for more information.

• Available in three door style ranges – Designer, Contemporary and Traditional

• GRP skins for a detailed wood-grain finish

• Hybrid timber-foam core to combine thermal efficiency and strength

• Aluminium sheets add rigidity and reduce moisture ingress

• Slab painted to order for a perfect finish in a wide range of colours

• Works with the award-winning Kubu Smart Security Sensors as standard

Continued from page 1...

In connection with the acquisition, Quanex will grant a Board Observer right to Teleios Global Opportunities Master Fund (“Teleios”), formerly the largest shareholder of Tyman. Teleios committed to the all-share alternative in support of the transaction and the Quanex leadership team. Quanex is entitled to terminate the agreement with Teleios after the Company’s annual meeting of shareholders in 2026.

In connection with the completion of the transaction, trading in Tyman’s common stock on the London Stock Exchange was suspended at 7:30 a.m. today (London time) and will be cancelled with effect at 7:30 a.m. tomorrow (London time).

ADVISORS

UBS Investment Bank served as sole financial advisor to Quanex. Foley & Lardner LLP and Travers Smith LLP served as legal advisors to Quanex.

ABOUT QUANEX

Quanex is a global manufacturer with core capabilities and broad applications across various end markets. The Company currently collaborates and partners with leading OEMs to provide innovative solutions in the window, door, vinyl fencing, solar, refrigeration and cabinetry markets. Looking ahead, Quanex plans to leverage its material science expertise and process engineering to expand into adjacent markets.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains certain “forwardlooking statements”. These statements are based on the current expectations of the management of Quanex and are naturally subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. The forward-looking statements include statements relating to the expected effects of the acquisition. Forward-looking statements include statements typically containing words such as “will”, “may”, “should”, “believe”, “intends”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “targets”, “estimates” and words of similar import and including statements relating to future capital expenditures, expenses, revenues,

economic performance, financial conditions, dividend policy, losses and future prospects and business and management strategies and the expansion and growth of the operations of Quanex following completion of the acquisition. Although Quanex believes that the expectations reflected in such forwardlooking statements are reasonable, Quanex can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. There are a number of factors that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. These factors include: general business and economic conditions globally, industry trends, competition, changes in government and other regulation, changes in political and economic stability, disruptions in business operations due to reorganization activities, interest rate and currency fluctuations, the inability of the combined company to realize successfully any anticipated synergy benefits, and the inability to integrate successfully Quanex’s and Tyman’s operations. Additional information concerning these and other risk factors is contained in the Risk Factors sections of the Proxy Statement and Quanex’s most recent reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q, the contents of which are not incorporated by reference into, nor do they form part of, this press release.

These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding the present and future business strategies of such persons and the environment in which each will operate in the future. By their nature, these forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, as well as uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. The factors described in the context of such forward-looking statements may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of any such person, or industry results and developments, to be materially different from any results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct and persons reading this press release are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on

ODL EUROPE ANNOUNCES SPONSORSHIP OF GLASS CONFERENCE 2024

ODL Europe has announced its sponsorship of Glass Conference 2024, which takes place in October. Billed as the UK’s leading event for industry leaders, this inaugural two-day conference promises to be a unique annual platform for education and networking within the fenestration industry.

Suzanne Nicholl, Head of Sales and Marketing at ODL Europe, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring Glass Conference 2024. We recognise the importance of uniting the industry to discuss and address the latest developments via the Glass Conference platform. This event is the only industry conference offering two full days of CPD-certified content, tackling the issues that matter to us all. We look forward to an impactful two days of debate and networking with our industry colleagues.”

Nickie West, Managing Director at Montgomery Group and Director of Glass Conference, said: “We are beyond thrilled to welcome ODL Europe onboard as an official sponsor for Glass Conference 2024. Our delegates will be able to speak first hand to ODL Europe’s team who will be on hand across the two days of the conference to deliver expert advice about its core range of high quality composite doors and value-added products.

Nickie adds: “The presence of ODL Europe, alongside our growing roster of sponsors, first class speakers and jampacked two-day schedule of content

these forward-looking statements which speak only as at the date of this press release. All subsequent oral or written forwardlooking statements attributable to Quanex, Tyman or any persons acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statement above. Neither of Quanex or Tyman undertakes any obligation to update publicly or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law, regulation or stock exchange rules.

NO OFFER OR SOLICITATION

The information contained in this press release is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to subscribe for or buy or an

makes Glass Conference an unmissable event for every corner of the UK fenestration industry. We’re excited to bring our community together for our debut this October.”

Launched in partnership with the Fit Show, Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) and FENSA, the conference will bring together 400 business leaders, including CEOs and decision-makers from the industry’s leading companies. Attendees can expect insightful sessions, with first-class keynote speakers providing fresh perspectives on the industry’s most pressing challenges.

Suzanne comments: “It’s invaluable to gain insights from fellow industry leaders on the topics that matter. It offers a true picture of the industry, its challenges and opportunities—and how we, as a supplier, can contribute to overcoming them. It promises to be a step-change in educational platforms, and we are proud to be a key sponsor of this inaugural event.” Glass Conference will be held at the Telford International Centre on Wednesday 16th and Thursday 17th October, 2024.

Tel: 0151 933 0299 – www.odleurope.com

invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities in any jurisdiction pursuant to the acquisition or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. In particular, this press release is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States or in any other jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made in the United States absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, such registration requirements. Any securities issued in the acquisition are anticipated to be issued in reliance upon available exemptions from such registration requirements pursuant to Section 3(a)(10) of the Securities Act.

DAWS PREDICTS OPTIMISTIC OUTLOOK FOR ALUMINIUM SECTOR

Following a change of government, North West-based aluminium fabricator DAWS is predicting a positive outlook for the aluminium sector for the remainder of this year and beyond as demand grows for premium products in the domestic market.

Renewed optimism amid the call for greater investment in construction and housebuilding, coupled with growing demand for aluminium building products opens up opportunities in the residential market for installers, according to Phill Cresswell, Sales Director at the Liverpool-based Door & Window Systems trade supplier.

“Every day in the press there’s a call for new homes to be built to address historical shortfalls in housing supply,” comments Phill. “Labour’s pledge to build more houses can only be good news for the industry –as more houses mean more windows and doors – as long as it gets delivered on!

“Certainly, going forward we envisage a positive picture and that is reflected in our customer base, who can be quite inspirational. Those people who’ve adapted, changed and are marketing themselves well seem to be thriving. So, I think taking a ‘glass half full’ approach is important, along with embracing technology and new ideas and reacting to what the market is asking for. And aluminium is one of those things.”

In just six years, DAWS has grown from a small start-up to a £6 million turnover business on its Knowsley site supplying a range of aluminium products to the trade only. High quality aluminium bifolding, patio and entrance doors, windows, lantern roofs, verandas, car ports and steel look products are among the expanding range delivered across the North West, North Wales and as far south as Coventry and Kidderminster.

Phill Cresswell

Headed by an experienced senior management team, the company’s ethos is to offer its customers ‘a headache-free life when it comes to ordering your trade aluminium and steel look products’. Support packages for installers includes a high-quality suite of marketing materials and personalised social media videos that they can upload to their channels.

“Investment in technology, from barcode scanning of raw materials through each stage of the manufacturing process to delivery, has been key for us in implementing efficiencies as the business grows,” continues Phill. “We are taking all the best bits from PVC-U manufacturing and bringing it to the world of aluminium, to make aluminium as straightforward to buy as PVC-U.

“Aluminium products are just getting better and better. Our bifold product is all coextruded gasket now, it’s quicker to install on site and so much easier for the installer. That’s one of the things that we try to focus on is seeing everything through installers’ eyes, so if we can save them time or make their lives easier, then we’ll do that.”

Examples of this is holding bifold stocks in standard colours for a fast turnaround, simple ordering via email, WhatsApp or online portal and thorough inspection and quality control procedures.

Phill adds: “DAWS is steadily growing, and we are looking to further expand our product portfolio. If you are a PVC-U retail installer considering adding an aluminium range, then why not give us a call. We are here to help you.”

DAWS, the trade supplier you can rely on.

For more information about DAWS, please visit www.daws.co.uk or call 0151 374 2851.

WINDOW SEALANTS SPECIALIST ISO-CHEMIE WINS CONSTRUCTION AND INDUSTRY AWARD

One of the UK’s leading suppliers of foam sealant tapes for windows and doors ISO Chemie has won a top industry award.

The company, which manufactures the ISO-TOP WINFRAMER thermal insulating and load bearing bracket systems and ISO BLOCO multi-purpose joint sealing tapes among other sector leading products, has won the ‘Best Foam Product Manufacturer 2024 – Europe’ award, presented by leading international construction and property markets media outlet BUILD.

The annual awards reflect and honour excellence in technical innovation, design and services from across the globe in the construction and property sectors.

The innovative design developments and applications of ISO Chemie’s products have been recognised by the award, which comes as the company has seen continued growth this year with increasing specification of rapid product solutions to deliver greater energy conservation and support the growing demand for more energy efficient properties.

For example, ISO BLOCO ONE energy rated weather tight thermal and acoustic tapes reduce heat loss and noise ingress to a U value better or equal to the frame. They can be used to seal joints providing excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties and accommodate a temperature range of -30° to +90° and is impermeable to driving rain with a minimum of 750 Pa, making it one of the best performing tapes in its class.

Andy Swift, ISO Chemie’s sales and operations manager - UK & ROI, said success showed the strength of product manufacturing quality together with the

‘TRAINING WILL SAVE LIVES’

As emergency services attended an East London tower block fire early on Bank Holiday Monday, FDM Ltd’s Nicola John says adequate training is at the core of keeping the public safe.

Seven years on from the Grenfell tragedy, in which 72 people lost their lives, and less than 10 days before Phase 2 of its inquiry is published – more than 200 firefighters were tackling a blaze at a Dagenham tower block. News reports state that more than 80 people were evacuated, all occupants were accounted for, and there were no deaths. But, there have also been reports of known safety issues at the building, said to be wrapped in flammable cladding.

Nicola John has more than two decades in the fire safety

and security sector, and is at the helm of Fire Door Maintenance (FDM), a purpose-built, 3,000ft² Training Academy in Bury, Greater Manchester early in 2024. The centre combines classroom and hands-on experience for installers, inspectors, specifiers, and fire safety specialists and professionals; across 22 different types of fire door and component rooms. FDM’s provide a practical hands-on training experience alongside theoretical assessment to improve knowledge, skills and behaviours across the sector, and a 3rd party accredited, on-site inspection team.

Following the fire in Dagenham, Nicola commented: "Non-compliant building materials cause destruction and devastation, and the industry needs to take action to prevent further tragedy.

“We have a strong commitment to providing customers with high quality, innovative product solutions.”

wide variety of applications and energy efficiency benefits, ensuring the tapes are suitable for a host of energy efficiency installations.

He added: “We have a strong commitment to providing customers with high quality, innovative product solutions, so this major construction and property award is another significant achievement for us. We continue to be an award-winning manufacturer delivering award-winning solutions.”

ISO-Chemie is one of Europe’s main producers of impregnated foam sealants, specialising in the manufacturer of foam products from polyethylene (EPE), polypropylene (EPP) and polyurethane (PUR) using the latest production techniques.

https://www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home/ https://www.iso-chemie.eu/en/home

“All buildings need a digitised, easily accessible ‘golden thread’ of information about their design, construction, and management. This allows materials that pose safety risks to be swiftly identified and removed or not used.

“At FDM by UAP Ltd, we're the only company in the country to train fire industry workers practically and holistically about the building lifecycle, so they understand completely how fire doors are designed, engineered, installed, and inspected. It's training that the industry urgently needs, and it's training that will save lives."

www.fdmltd.co.uk

ISO Chemie has won BUILD’s ‘Best Foam Product Manufacturer 2024 – Europe’ award

WHAT GIVES FLUSH SASH WINDOWS THEIR ENDURING APPEAL?

Flush sash windows have long been popular in traditional buildings and have more recently emerged as a stylish choice for contemporary homes too.

Now celebrating its 25th year of trading, Pearl Window Systems launched a dedicated new-build division in 2023, but also has considerable experience of manufacturing fenestration solutions for heritage property restorations.

CEO Jeff Walsh shares his thoughts on recommending Liniar’s flush sash Resurgence window system for both modern and period properties.

PRESTIGIOUS, MODERN HOMES

Shortly after launching its new-build division, Pearl was approached by Northstone Homes, a developer with a reputation for forward-thinking design.

Jeff explains, “Northstone were considering a change to PVCu windows on all their projects, and looking for a product that not only met their high aesthetic and quality standards but offered market leading technical performance as well.

“Northstone’s design approach incorporates high ceilings, open-plan interiors, and floor-to-ceiling windows to create bright, naturally illuminated spaces.

“I recommended Liniar’s Resurgence system, knowing that the flush finish would give each property a sleek, stylish façade while delivering the exceptional thermal, acoustic and weather performance the project specified” he continues.

“Resurgence is a double-rebated system (the UK’s first) which means it achieves a superior seal between the sash and the frame. This innovative design, combined with the PVCu profile’s multi-chambered insulative properties, maximises thermal efficiency and weather protection.”

Pearl Window Systems is now working in full partnership with Northstone Homes on five sites across the NorthwestPopple, Horwich, Glisk, Tulach and Keld.

Liniar’s Resurgence flush sash system has been exceptionally well received, with Northstone Construction Director Rob Rudkin commenting, “Resurgence complements our contemporary, award-winning architecture whilst also meeting the high thermal and acoustic performance we require, which sits above current industry standard.”

CHAMELEON-LIKE CHARACTERISTICS.

Fenestration choices can be used to make bold statements about the character of a building and its occupants, but it may equally be necessary to blend in with wider surroundings without upsetting the apple cart.

Jeff tells us, “A clear benefit of flush sash windows is the ability to seamlessly integrate with their environment, delivering an unobtrusive finish. For example, when replacing windows in buildings with historic significance or in rural settings, there can be heightened potential for style and material choices to come under scrutiny from Local Planning Authorities or concerned residents in the local community.

“In such circumstances the Resurgence system’s ability to closely imitate the appearance of traditional timber is highly beneficial and can appease concerns. Resurgence windows

can be manufactured with either Timberweld, mechanical or welded joints depending how closely it’s necessary to imitate classic wooden windows.

Combined with the through foiling finish, which means no bare PVCu is visible even when open, the overall appearance of Resurgence is well suited to preserving the integrity of older buildings.”

CUTTING-EDGE VERSATILITY

On the enduring appeal of flush sash windows, Jeff concludes, “My experience working with the Resurgence system demonstrates exceptional versatility and highlights the timeless attractiveness of flush sash windows.

“Through an ability to closely replicate traditional timber and to offer a minimalist, stylish touch with all the performance benefits of state-of-the-art PVCu window technology, it’s not difficult to see how flush sashes have become such a popular choice - a trend I expect to see continue.”

For more information visit https://www.liniar.co.uk/upvc-windows/flush-sash

SENIOR LAUNCHES REAL 2.0 - A NEW UK-SOURCED LOW CARBON ALUMINIUM EXTRUSION OFFERING

Window, door and curtain walling systems designer and manufacturer, Senior Architectural Systems is going the extra mile to reduce the carbon footprint generated through the transportation of its products by supporting the use of UKsourced closed-loop recycled aluminium.

Branded as ReAL 2.0, Senior is launching a new bespoke scheme for customers who are looking to further reduce the embodied carbon generated through the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of aluminium fenestration products. Senior can now manufacture its full range of products from aluminium extrusions comprising a minimum of 75 per cent recycled content from post-consumer scrap materials which are sourced and processed in the UK using low carbon methods. As the largest privately owned aluminium systems house in the UK, all of Senior’s products are manufactured in South Yorkshire.

The new offering is currently only available to customers on request but Senior hopes

that as more aluminium from the UK is able to be recycled and reused, supply will increase to reduce the reliance on importing recycled aluminium from overseas. To support this, where possible Senior will also work with select clients to manage the removal of older aluminium fenestration products from retrofit schemes for recycling.

Owing to the UK’s current limited capacity for reprocessing aluminium, most recycled aluminium is imported but Senior has recently made changes to its main supply to ensure that it can still offer all its customers a lower carbon option. As one of the early adopters of recycled aluminium, Senior extrudes all its products from aluminium that contains more recycled materials than before and which generates lower carbon emissions throughout its production. These emissions are measured in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents and one kg of CO2 equivalents is comparable to the effect of one kg of CO2 emission. The recycled aluminium Senior currently uses as part of

MODPLAN EXPANDS IT PRODUCT PORTFOLIO TO INCLUDE PROFILE 22

Leading trade fabricator Modplan has further expanded its product portfolio with the introduction of the Profile 22 sculptured window and door system from Epwin Window Systems.

Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director, commented: “Profile 22 is a highly reputable PVC-U window and door system and offers a wealth of benefits to our customers. Alongside our existing Veka product range, we can offer a high level of flexibility and product choice to meet the diverse needs of our customers.”

Profile 22 stands out for its impressive thermal efficiency, featuring a 6-chambered outerframe and a 5-chambered sash as standard, which can be enhanced with RCM thermal inserts to further increase insulation. This results in double glazed units achieving a 1.2 W/m2K U-value as standard, with options to reduce it even further, ensuring compliance with building regulations. The products have the option to upgrade by

adding Yale SensCheck™ window and door sensors giving installers considerable upselling opportunities. An extensive range of colour finishes is also available, with the most popular options available from stock and others on a short lead time, adding another dimension to its personalisation and upselling potential.

Heidi also notes the level of support that Epwin Window Systems offers. She said: “The marketing and technical support available via the Connect portal complements our value added service, further benefiting our customers. By registering with Connect, customers gain access to extensive resources, including technical documentation, brochures, marketing assets, industry reports and various supply partner discounts. It’s an impressive package for them to tap into.”

Modplan operates from a state-of-the-art 167,000 sqft multi-site facility in Newport, Gwent. It is one of the UK’s largest and most respected fabricators

its standard offering is below 4.0kgCO2/ kgA, which is significantly lower than the global average and approximately a 35 per cent reduction in carbon compared to the 6.1kgCO2/kgA aluminium the manufacturer could offer before. As it sourced from the UK which reduces the need for extensive transportation, Senior’s new ReAL 2.0 aluminium offering has an even lower carbon footprint at 2.0kgCO2/kgA.

Commenting, Senior Architectural Systems’ managing director Mark Wadsworth said: “It’s important to us as a manufacturer and for our customers working in the construction industry that we are continuously looking for new ways to reduce the environmental impact of the work we do and the buildings we can help create. Senior has long championed the use of recycled aluminium and as a UK based supplier, the transportation of our products is already less carbon intensive than others. However, there is always more that we can do and by supporting the greater use of aluminium that

of cutting-edge PVC-U products direct to the trade and manufactures over 2,500 frames per week.

The introduction of Profile 22 is part of Modplan’s broader commitment to providing a comprehensive range of high-quality products to support its growing network of installers.

This includes Veka windows and doors alongside an extensive collection of roofing solutions including Leka, Ultraframe and Wendland.

Modplan’s continued success is built on a commitment to understanding the products and services its customers need to succeed. The decision to introduce Profile 22 from Epwin Window Systems to its portfolio is the latest example of that commitment in action.

Tel: 01495 246844 www.modplan.co.uk

has been recycled right here in the UK, we can hopefully help create a stronger supply and a more sustainable solution.”

Customers are advised to contact their regional architectural advisor or technical sales manager for more information on how Senior’s low carbon aluminium can benefit them. Contact details can be found at www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk/contact

FREEFOAM

ROOFLINE & GUTTERS CHOSEN FOR SUSTAINABILITY IN VISTRY INNOVATION CENTRE

Vistry Group’s groundbreaking Vistry Innovation Centre features a range of progressive products the leading housebuilder is using both now and in the future to achieve its net zero carbon target by 2040.

Launched earlier this year, and based in Vistry’s timber-frame construction factory in Leicester, the Innovation Centre includes the Vistry ‘Home of the Future’, featuring fascias, soffits, and gutter products by Freefoam Building Products, selected for their sustainability performance.

Freefoam’s Northampton factory has the ISO 14001 accreditation for Environmental Management, and recently expanded on this with a voluntary Climate Change agreement with the Environment Agency. This year Freefoam retained its prestigious EcoVadis Silver medal despite more stringent criteria, and is now rated in the top 9% of all companies EcoVadis assesses for sustainability practices. Its approach to sustainability is rooted in the principles of the Circular Economy, prioritising the reuse and circulation of resources, retaining economic value, and eliminating waste in its own business and its supply chain.

Vistry constructed the fully functional future home using 18 different trades and 54 suppliers, featuring more than 100 different products and smart technologies.

Simon Parrott, Freefoam National New Build & Specification Manager, who recently visited the centre, comments:

“Vistry’s Innovation Centre is a great example of what is possible when supply chains come together to pursue sustainable solutions. We are proud to have Freefoam’s sustainable roofline and rainwater products included. This highlights our commitment to the Circular Economy and providing long-lasting, sustainable products.”

Learn more about Freefoam’s sustainability initiatives and read case studies at freefoam. com/professional/sustainability-archive. For more on Freefoam’s products, service and support visit www.freefoam.com or call 0800 002 9903.

Left to Right Senior Architectural Systems sales director James Keeling-Heane and managing director Mark Wadsworth

Freefoam fascias, soffits and gutters on the Vistry Innovation Centre House of the Future

GARETH THOMAS

RUNNING TOWARDS SALES EXCELLENCE

Navigating the art of sales requires an in-depth knowledge of both the product and company, and Gareth Thomas, Area Sales Manager for the Southwest has a unique perspective, having been both a customer and a colleague at REHAU. In this piece, Gareth will go through his experiences at REHAU, while also describing what he enjoys about the fenestration industry alongside his exceptional 100k marathon.

WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE JOINING REHAU?

I originally came out of university and went to work in China, completing a TEFL course to teach English as a foreign language. I then did that for 18 months, before returning to the UK, where, by chance, there was opportunity with a local company called Sun Trade.

“I originally came out of university and went to work in China, completing a TEFL course to teach English as a foreign language.”

Sun Trade is one of REHAU’s biggest customers here in Wales, so it was through them that I first heard about the company and learnt about a lot of their products. After eight years of this, I found a really exciting opportunity to join REHAU, and jumped at the chance to do so.

WHAT DOES YOUR CURRENT ROLE ENTAIL AT REHAU?

I’m currently an Area Sales Manager for the fabricators in the southwest. As part of my role, we’re constantly talking to customers, supporting them through providing the latest information on our products and services. However, this isn’t the only way we can help them, as we also assist in numerous other ways, including working with their own marketing teams to help build their own brands, and providing a foundation for their business plans.

This is actually what I’m currently doing with one of my fabricators, who I am helping to look down the route of funding so that they can grow their own business.

WHAT HAVE YOU ACHIEVED SINCE JOINING REHAU?

At REHAU, we have something called the Champions Club. When you work in sales as I do, you are monitored year by year, and to help us track our stats, we have a sort of league table. Obviously, we all want to be on top, which is why I’m proud that this year I’ve finished in the top three globally for new business sales.

HOW HAS REHAU ASSISTED YOU WITH YOUR CAREER GROWTH?

One thing that REHAU is doing for the sales team is to put us on a sales executive course to help develop our knowledge, which we’ve all really appreciated. The profession within the UK isn’t really chartered now, but this will eventually be the case. This sales executive course will be one of the first steps towards that.

REHAU is just supportive in general. They are willing to back you to look after your own area. So, if you think it’s right for REHAU, then you are proactively asked to go and do that. In terms of my future at the company, I hope to progress within REHAU, and hopefully be in a move into a management position in the near future.

HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE NFA AWARDS?

When you get nominated for something, it’s always nice!, but really this shows that I’m

putting in the hard work and that it’s getting appreciated. Let’s just hope I win now, that’s all I’m hoping for!

HOW HAS REHAU SUPPORTED YOU INSIDE OR OUTSIDE OF WORK?

Yes, they were really supportive of a charity run that I completed in June. It took a lot of training, including spending time away from my pregnant wife, but she’s been cheering me on the whole way , as has everyone else at REHAU. I completed it in just under 14 hours of running, with over 8000+ calories burnt and 121,000+ steps across the Cotswolds. We’ve raised over £4600 for MacMillan Cancer Support, which has assisted my family through some difficult times, which I’m, of course, proud

“In terms of my future at the company, I hope to progress within REHAU, and hopefully be in a move into a management position in the near future.”

to help. This was all obviously for a good cause, but I think my legs will thank me if I give it a little bit of a break, I will not be in a rush to do this again!

MANY HAPPY RETURNS AS INVERGORDON’S

ERG CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF SUCCESS

A family-owned window and conservatory specialist is celebrating 50 years of serving the Highlands in style by posting record sales and launching a special birthday competition.

ERG, which was originally founded as Easter Ross Glass by David Joy in 1974, has been designing and installing windows, doors and contemporary living spaces for customers across an area the size of Belgium, spanning from Fort William to Inverness and as far north as Wick.

The business is now led by David’s son Ian Joy and, under his leadership, has grown turnover to nearly £6m, employing more than 40 people at its showroom and factory in Invergordon.

As a thank you and to celebrate its 50th birthday, the firm is giving customers the opportunity to win a top-of-the-range Apeer composite door (up to the value of £3000) through its social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram.

“When my father started the business in 1974, he originally sold glass out of Fearn Aerodrome,” explained Ian Joy, Managing Director of ERG.

“He founded the company on the principles of excellent customer service and that is still at the heart of what we do, combined with the very best products and investment in new technology.”

He continued: “This has helped us grow over the last five decades and withstand various recessions and, in more recent years, the Covid-19 pandemic. Our staff and customers have been with us throughout and the birthday competition is our way of giving a little back.”

Our staff and customers have been with us throughout and the birthday competition is our way of giving a little back.”

ERG has added an Architectural Technician to its team this year, to enhance its turnkey offering for customers wishing to add a conservatory or living space to their homes.

This service allows it to take a project from idea to completion and ensures challenges, such as planning permission and building warranty, are efficiently managed.

It’s the latest innovation from the business, which was recently named as a Premium Retailer by Conservatory Outlet, whose network it first joined five years ago.

Ian continued: “This was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made, and we have benefited hugely from the additional marketing support, digital activity and access to premium products such as its Extreme window and door collection –some of our biggest sellers.

“They feel like an extension to our business, and this has translated into strong growth, with sales increasing from £4m in 2019 to £6m at the end of this year.”

Greg Kane, Chief Executive of Conservatory Outlet, concluded: “Home improvement is such a competitive sector, so to have been operating for five decades is some achievement by ERG.

“Since joining our network, we have been hugely impressed with Ian and his team’s dedication to exceptional customer service and innovation in their markets – especially considering the huge geographic area they cover. The company is without doubt one of Invergordon’s true business stars.”

For further information, please visit www.ergscotland.co.uk or www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk.

Left to right: Ian with his father David Joy, founder of ERG

STELLAR SHINES IN LUXURY NEW BUILD DEVELOPMENT

Stellar Aluminium windows and doors from Epwin Window Systems were selected for four impressively built new build properties in the picturesque village of Lindsell in Dunmow, Essex.

Built on the site of a former chicken farm, the four luxury detached homes, located on a gated private road, were constructed by JGA Services Ltd. The three and four bedroom properties feature the highest specification throughout, with all windows and doors manufactured to exacting standards.

The new build project was awarded to experienced Stellar fabricator Prestige Aluminium Essex Ltd and installed by local installer V. Fullalove Installations Ltd. In total, fifty Stellar windows, six Stellar bifolds and two residential doors were precision-manufactured for the project.

Energy efficiency was a key feature of the new build project, with the properties incorporating air source heating pumps and multi-zone underfloor heating control throughout.

Stellar windows and doors are energy efficient by design, offering superior thermal efficiency, which meant they met the exacting project’s specifications.

The aesthetics of the windows and doors were also a key consideration and were manufactured to complement the timber-clad properties and harmoniously blend with the countryside setting. The system’s external flush window option was chosen to deliver a sleek, understated aesthetic. Two plots were fitted with Anthracite Grey on white windows and doors, whilst the other two were finished in RAL 6013 Reed Green to bring individual character to the properties. All Stellar profiles were powder-coated at Epwin Window Systems state-of-the-art paint plant, ensuring exacting standards were met.

As an experienced fabricator, the Prestige Aluminium Essex team is familiar with the exacting requirements of luxury new build developments. The team worked closely with the installer and main developer on site to ensure the window and doors were manufactured and delivered in line with the timescales required, with little margin for variation.

The new build project took twelve months to complete and has resulted in a luxury development with Stellar windows and doors enhancing its appeal.

Reason

Reason 7

Reason 92

44

100 reasons. 1 ch ice.

Reasons 7, 44 and 92: Elegant design, use of recycled materials and excellent energy efficiency - OMNIA delivers all this and more.. OMNIA. Innovation through detail.

UPVC DOORS RE-IMAGINED

RegaLead Joint Managing Director, Guy Hubble, and Engineered Door Components Specialist, Ella Brown, show Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, how fabricators can benefit from their vision of ‘UPVC doors re-imagined’ with the opportunity to enjoy the margin as a door manufacturer.

We don’t hear a lot about UPVC doors innovations. They have been around for a long time and, despite composite doors of varying kinds coming to the market and becoming ever more popular, UPVC alternatives still sell in large quantities. The lower price point for the homeowner, and being easier to fit for the installer, help retain their popularity and maybe the mix and match of choosing a composite entrance door with a UPVC back door is an equable way to control the cost of fitting new doors to the home.

Over the last few years, though, there has been a newer incarnation of UPVC doors and growing in popularity with fabricators, installers and consumers alike - the Engineered UPVC door. Having said that, there’s only been a slow growth in fabricators manufacturing these UPVC engineered doors, despite mechanical joints and Timberweld technology enabling them to replicate that timber appearance. Whilst timber alternative products have flourished in the

window market their door counterparts have never really gained traction. This growth has been held back by the lack of decorative glass options and limited availability of panel product. With new foils coming out all the time, there’s not always a panel to match, therefore making it impossible to make the door to match the windows because of the limited colour options. On top of that, there’s been no suitable marketing solutions to give fabricators the straightforward route to market that the composite market is renowned for.

Step forward RegaLead. The company has come a long way from just being a producer of lead, although they still deliver 15 million metres per annum! They are the ‘go to’ for

“The company has come a long way from just being a producer of lead, although they still deliver 15 million metres per annum!”

decorative glass, with 23 out of 25 composite door producers using them as their primary supplier, and more than 7,000 decorative glass units delivered every week. ColorSpray is their coatings division and has been installed in over 350 locations worldwide, making it the leading paints and coatings system for the sector. Then there is Urban that provides glazing cassettes and frames. It's no surprise, therefore, that an innovation such as Engineered Door Components is the brainchild of this creative team.

So, how are RegaLead leading this engineered door evolution? Well, first things first. They have put into place a marketing solution for fabricators to help them pass the product through to the installers. There are practically endless design possibilities, so RegaLead has been working with systems houses to fine tune a range of these options to produce a starting point and simplify the process, creating a package that’s easy to understand.

AluDec Anthracite creates a stunning Aluminium look

Raised and fielded panels in this striking door

Raised and Fielded Panels

Raise & Field combined with Bolection Moulding

Guy Hubble and Chris Champion in the new showroom

But how are the doors manufactured?

The frame is made up from the profile the fabricator stocks in exactly the same way a window is constructed. The apertures can now take infill panels, or glass, so the specification of the infill panel and decorative glass design are sent to RegaLead, together with the appropriate dimensions. When it comes to infill panels these could be for 36mm or 44mm, generally, although any thickness can be specified, and consist of XPS foam, 4mm marine grade plywood and 2mm HPL (High Pressure Laminate) but could also have optional specifications including aluminium for additional security.

These panels are simply beaded in just like any window. You want something more decorative? Perhaps raised and fielded panels that use aluminium profiles and additional foam to fill the void beneath and provide the timber door look? Or perhaps mouldings and bolection mouldings that are face fixed. Bolection moulding? A bolection mould is a moulding which projects beyond the face of a frame or panel, usually found

“These panels are simply beaded in just like any window. You want something more decorative? Perhaps raised and fielded panels that use aluminium profiles and additional foam to fill the void beneath and provide the timber door look?”

in doors and cupboards, especially when the meeting surfaces are at different levels….it joins two different planes.

All pretty straight forward so far…..but I want colour, and I want a grained look. No problem. The fabricator probably stocks specific popular colours in foiled profile and these foils are probably either from Renolit or Hornschuh. You tell RegaLead what foil you want for the door and they’ll match that foil with the infill panel(s) and any mouldings used. At this point, just think: no wasted infill panel as you get it cut to the size you require, so no stock to hold, whatsoever! And glass? Well, you’ve probably been getting your decorative glass from RegaLead anyway and it’s no different than ordering glass for your windows. So, a kit for you, the fabricator, to make your own UPVC panel doors, all cut to size with no wastage and to your required foil finish. When do you want it? Allow for a lead time of a very reasonable 10 days and, with a

little assembly at your end, you can pass a fully hung UPVC panel door set to your installer customer.

As a fabricator, you’ve just become a premium door set manufacturer and can enjoy a real manufacturer’s margin rather than just passing through a door slab and relying on the margin from hanging the door in an outerframe. Happy days!

Now you’re manufacturing engineered doors, you’re going to have to market the product – photography, design and print production and all those good things. Don’t worry, RegaLead are there, not just to

hold your hand but to get stuck into your marketing. After all, they have always been at the forefront when it comes to marketing and their brochures and promotional material is top notch. They’ve got your back and are ready to put your engineered door business out in front of your customers.

If you think you’ve seen everything a UPVC panel can offer, think again! I went to RegaLead at their Roundthorn Industrial Estate facility where they also have a showroom, and I had no idea I was looking at UPVC doors! There were all sorts of styles, from traditional to contemporary, and even a door that I couldn’t tell from an aluminium door, and in a whole range of foils, again both well known and some really new ones like ginger oak. Stunning.

If you think making that extra margin by manufacturing your own Engineered UPVC doors, the easy way, is for you, then contact Ella Brown who is the Engineered Door Components Specialist as well as holding the position of Business Development Manager for Yorkshire and the East Midlands. She’ll guide you through the process and set you on the road for success. Contact her at ella.brown@regalead.co.uk or phone her on 07385 318733.

Yes, they’re right, it really is UPVC Doors re-imagined.

Ella Brown shows Chris one of the UPVC engineered doors

Infill-Panel with Moulding

Aluplast Ideal 4000 Engineered Door

A traditional style

GLASSTEC 2024: INNOVATION AND PROGRESS IN THE GLASS INDUSTRY

From 22 to 25 October 2024, Düsseldorf, Germany, will once again become the centre of the global glass industry. Under the motto "We are glass", the world's leading trade fair for glass production, processing and applications will focus on the hot topics of digital technologies, the circular economy and decarbonisation.

Visitors can look forward to meeting over 1,200 exhibitors from 56 countries presenting the latest developments and sustainable solutions. In addition to the exhibition highlights, the trade fair offers an extensive supporting programme, including the glasstec conference, the innovation show glass technology live and the CircuClarity One expert symposium, to name just a few. Lectures by international experts, exhibitors, representatives of the trade and representatives from science, research and design will be presented on three stages.

glasstec brings together experts from industry and research, promotes start-ups and provides impetus for trends and innovations in the glass industry. It is a unique platform

“It is a unique platform for decision-makers from all over the world to strengthen business relationships, open up new markets and shape the future of the glass industry.”

for decision-makers from all over the world to strengthen business relationships, open up new markets and shape the future of the glass industry.

Tickets are available online at www.glasstec.de

Photo: Messe Düsseldorf / tillmann

Photo: Messe Düsseldorf / tillmann

Photo: Messe Düsseldorf / tillmann

Photo: Messe Düsseldorf / tillmann

Our Total70 window and door system achieves the highest possible energy ratings and performance. As well, REHAU window systems have been tested in accordance with and meet the highest requirements of BS7412:2024 for the standard of a manufactured window.

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

UNIQUE OPENS NEW CENTRE OF FABRICATION EXCELLENCE

Unique Window Systems looks set to maintain its remarkable growth trajectory following the biggest investment in the company’s almost twenty year history.

The multi-award-winning fabricator of windows, doors and curtain walling, which has seen its turnover surge from £20.8 million to £39.2 million between 2020 and 2022, has opened a new fabrication centre of excellence for its UPVC product lines.

Located adjacent to Unique’s distribution centre, trade counter, showroom and current UPVC, aluminium and coating facilities in Leicester, the new 65,000 sq. ft., £multi-million UPVC facility effectively extends the business’ existing site footprint.

As well as relocating its current, state-ofthe-art plant and machinery into the new UPVC facility, Unique has used the move to invest into additional technology.

Specific purchases include two new Schirmer cutting and machining centres and a new Urban SV 800 CNC corner cleaner.

The investment into the new UPVC facility and the fabrication equipment it contains will enable Unique to continue offering customers consistently high quality products and on short lead times as the business grows.

It has increased the fabricator’s UPVC production capacity by over 5000 frames a week.

The new Unique UPVC facility also houses a dedicated Visitor Experience Centre. This

allows the company’s visitors to view the new fabrication line in operation from an elevated position and to browse displays of the fabricator’s many different UPVC products.

Commenting, Sunil Patel, joint managing director at Unique, said: “We continue to reinvest back into our business to optimise our production efficiencies, order lead times and product quality and choice.

“The investment into our new and cutting edge UPVC facility serves as a prime example of that commitment in action. It has taken two months to create this new fabrication centre of excellence which significantly increases both our production capabilities and capacity.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to our team and our supply partners for making this happen. We also look forward to customers reaping the dividends of this hard work and the amazing outcome it has achieved.”

Unique has created a short time-lapse video showing the set-up of its new UPVC facility, which can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/RoTcRF2ypKQ.

DEKKO ASSEMBLES SPECIALIST TEAM TO DRIVE GROWTH AND CUSTOMER SERVICE

Leading trade fabricator Dekko Window Systems has announced the formation of a new specialist team aimed at driving sales and enhancing customer service. The team brings together three industry veterans who have joined the company within the past six months.

Paul Schofield, with over 16 years of industry experience, will focus on spearheading growth within Dekko’s aluminium division, which includes products from both Reynaers and Decalu. His role includes promoting new products and supporting customers throughout their buying journey.

Austin O’Carroll, boasting more than 20 years in sales, customer service, and product marketing, will oversee the continued success of the popular Residence Collection brand within Dekko’s offering. His responsibilities include

EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS TO EXHIBIT AT EDUCATION ESTATES®

Epwin Window Systems has announced it will be exhibiting at Education Estates®, the UK’s largest exhibition focused on the funding, design, build, maintenance and management of schools, colleges and universities.

The systems company has exhibited at the event on several occasions. Jonathan Reece, Head of Commercial Sales at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are thrilled to be returning to Education Estates® again this year. It’s a valuable opportunity for our specification managers to talk to stakeholders in the education estates community, including policy makers, designers and educators about our multiple systems and services and what they have to offer. We’ll also have product samples on our stand so visitors can take a closer look at their benefits.”

He continued: “The event is a key resource for attendees to gain valuable insight and practical knowledge from experts in the sector. We are looking forward to being able to share the wisdom of our experience, as well as discuss upcoming projects and opportunities.”

Epwin Window Systems has a near-50 year track record of supporting the education sector, a longevity that few can match.

Its systems, Profile 22, Spectus and Stellar Aluminium, have proven public sector pedigrees in both new-build and retrofit projects. They are designed to play a critical

role in helping educational establishments provide high quality learning environments and deliver the performance levels required to help them meet decarbonisation and Net Zero targets. For example, Stellar Aluminium Flush Casement windows were recently used in the refurbishment of a Surrey college because they were able to meet or exceed the specification, including meeting the requirements of the Department for Education’s Standards for School Premises. The 113 Stellar windows were manufactured to achieve a U-value of 1.4 W/m2K, with solar glass used in the south elevation windows to prevent solar gain and glare.

Projects also benefit from the expertise of a highly experienced specification team that provides comprehensive support from start to finish.

Education Estates® takes place 15-16 October 2024 in central Manchester. The event has been called the ‘national conversation around the education estate’. As an experienced sector partner with an impressive track record, Epwin Window Systems is a key contributor to this conversation. Its stand, 421, is certain to be busy.

Tel: 0808 101 4143

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

acquiring new customers, managing existing relationships, and ensuring seamless pre- and post-sales support.

Finally, Lee Williams, bringing 12 years of industry experience, will work closely with existing trade customers to provide exceptional sales support and service across Dekko’s extensive product range. This includes Deceuninck and Residence Collection uPVC systems as well as aluminium solutions from Reynaers and Decalu. Lee will also be responsible for driving composite door sales with a wide range of products to choose from.

Each member brings extensive experience and expertise to their role, positioning Dekko to better serve its trade installer customers across the UK.

Sales Director Kurt Greatrex comments: “We’re thrilled to bring together such a

wealth of talent and experience in Paul, Austin, and Lee. This strategic move underscores our commitment to providing unparalleled service and support to our trade customers.

“By assembling this specialist team, we’re not just aiming to drive sales – we’re looking to enhance the entire customer experience. Each team member brings unique strengths that, when combined, create a powerhouse of industry knowledge and customer-focused expertise.”

The formation of this specialist team comes at a time of significant growth for Dekko, following their acquisition by

leading European group Inwido and the launch of innovative products such as the world’s first fully seamless window.

“As we continue to expand our product offerings and market presence, it’s crucial that we have the right people in place to support our customers and drive our business forward,” Kurt added.

“With Paul, Austin, and Lee on board, we’re well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of our trade installers and cement our position as a leading force in the UK window and door fabrication market.”

Visit www.dekkowindows.com

Left to right: Paul Schofield, Austin O’Carroll & Lee Williams

FIGHTING FIT: MADE FOR TRADE STANDS STRONG AND STEADFAST

In response to recent rumours, MFT assure our valued customers that the business is not up for sale.

As we celebrate 40 years of excellence in the fenestration industry, our commitment to our customers and investment in the future is stronger than ever. We continue to focus on developing product, investing in staff and streamlining our business processes to deliver a second-to-none service.

MADE FOR TRADE CELEBRATES DECADES OF EXCELLENCE

From our humble beginnings as a familyrun business established in 1979, we have become a leading name in the fenestration industry. This year marks a significant milestone for us here at Made For Trade, taking great pride being accorded the Kings Award for Innovation for the Korniche Roof Lantern. Over the decades, we have developed working models that ensure our products and services deliver the highest quality. We are a UK leading manufacturer of Aluminium Roof Lanterns and Bi-Folding Doors and the proud home of the multi-award-winning Korniche brand.

OUR COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION AND GROWTH

Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Made For Trade. Our commitment to quality, service, and innovation has made us a trusted customer partner nationwide. We are dedicated to developing new products to meet our customers' evolving needs. Our investment in research and development ensures

we remain at the forefront of the fenestration industry. Over the coming months, as we continue to expand, we will have some exciting product launches, so look out for those coming soon!

GEARING UP FOR THE FIT SHOW 2025

We are thrilled to announce our continued support and participation for FIT SHOW 2025, the premier bi-annual industry event show where we will unveil our latest innovations.

Following a busy year with the Korniche brand and a successful run at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show throughout 2024, we are excited to showcase our new products. We look forward to reconnecting with our loyal customers and welcoming new ones to experience the cutting-edge advancements and quality that Made for Trade is known for.

LOOKING FORWARD: THE FUTURE OF MADE FOR TRADE

As we look ahead, the future holds exciting developments, and we are eager to continue this journey with our customers. Our focus on innovation, quality, and exceptional service will ensure our continued success and growth.

We invite you to attend the FIT SHOW 2025 and experience firsthand the innovations and excellence that define Made for Trade. Businesses looking for a brand and business to support future sales investment should look no further than MFT and Korniche.

“As Managing Director of Made for Trade, I want to take this opportunity to personally address our

valued customers, partners, and industry colleagues. Let me be unequivocally clear: Made for Trade remain firmly committed to our mission and our customers.

Reflecting on our journey, it fills me with immense pride to see how far we have come from our beginnings as a familyrun business in 1979. This year, as we celebrate 40 years of excellence in the fenestration industry, I am reminded of the dedication, hard work, and innovation that have propelled us to become one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of Aluminium Roof Lanterns and Bi-Folding Doors.

MFT are fighting FIT, together we will continue to build a future that is strong and agile.

We look forward to seeing everyone in May 2025”

Bradley Gaunt, Managing Director. MFT

Visit the world’s leading trade fair glasstec, the largest professional trade exhibition for the international world of glass. With all the decision makers and market leaders from the glass industry, manufacturers of glass blowing machines and glass working crafts. Focus on: new solutions for multifunctional, energy-efficient glass fronts that consume fewer resources. Let’s break limits.

Innovative facade solutions

DGCOS NOMINATED AS FINALIST IN THE PRESTIGIOUS BIBAS AWARDS FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS), as part of QA Scheme Support Services, is thrilled to announce their nomination as a Finalist in the esteemed Leadership Team of the Year category at the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs), Lancashire’s premier business awards. This is the second year running that the organisation has made it to the finals, last time in the Employer of the Year category.

LEADERSHIP TEAM OF THE YEAR

Faisal Hussain, Chief Executive of DGCOS, expressed his delight at the nomination, “We are honoured to be recognised by the BIBAs, once again. This nomination reflects our commitment to excellence and the dedication of our senior leadership team and peoplecentric strategy. It highlights our

focus on fostering a positive work culture and enhancing operational efficiencies.

“Central to our approach is a strong emphasis on respect, integrity, teamwork, and communication at all levels of the organisation. Our success is built on the principle that a motivated workforce leads to superior service delivery, increased productivity, and ultimately, greater customer satisfaction. This all starts with the leadership team who have cemented this approach through targeted training and quarterly offsite senior management sessions.

“At DGCOS, it’s not just about business; we prioritise our staff’s wellbeing. We’ve implemented

CARL F GROUPCO TO SPONSOR THE GGP INSTALLER AWARDS FOR THE FIFTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Carl F Groupco has confirmed its continued sponsorship of the GGP Installer Awards for 2025.

The company has sponsored the awards every year since their inauguration in 2020, and Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco is clear about their importance: “Installers are the backbone of the market, fitting doors and windows featuring our products and interfacing with end users. Reconfirming our position as an event sponsor was an easy decision for us, as it acknowledges this essential element of the supply chain and celebrates their achievements.”

The GGP Installer Awards celebrates the best of the UK’s glazing installations. The 2025 edition will have more award categories than ever before, recognising excellence in domestic and commercial installations, conservatories and glazed extensions. It will also credit the products, services and individuals that contribute to the industry’s success.

“We are delighted that Carl F Groupco are once again sponsoring the GGP Installer Awards,” says Chris Beck, editor of Glass & Glazing Products magazine. “They have been a supporter of the event for the past four years helping it grow into an industryleading celebration of UK installers. We look forward to working with them again to ensure the continued success of the awards for 2025 and into the future.”

Entries are open now and close on Friday 8 November. The winners will be announced

on 13 March 2025 at the awards ceremony at the prestigious Midland Hotel in Manchester.

Carl F Groupco supplies the UK fenestration industry with an extensive range of high quality window and door hardware components. With distribution centres located in Peterborough and Cumbernauld, it operates on a national scale serving fabricators throughout the UK and Ireland, including the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands.

The company is at forefront of hardware evolution and works in partnership with leading European hardware manufacturers to provide a broad range of locks, handles, hinges and associated furniture which customers can trust.

Its commitment to excellence gives installers the reassurance they are installing high quality products they can fit and forget, boosting their reputations and adding value to their bottom line.

Tel: 01733 393 330

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

www.smartsecure.co.uk

www.carlfdirect.co.uk

Mental Health Awareness Days and appointed three trained Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA) to support our team. Additionally, we’ve enhanced employee engagement through personalised tokens of appreciation and team-building activities, which have significantly boosted motivation and reduced staff turnover.

“Customer satisfaction will continue to remain at our forefront, with high standards of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in place to ensure effective service delivery. Our KPIs include maintaining an average wait time of less than 20 seconds for answering calls and responding to emails within two working

days. These standards are upheld through rigorous quality control measures. For me, it’s all about being transparent and accountable.

“Being a BIBAs awards finalist is a massive honour, but it’s about recognising the effort our collective teams put in every single day. Winning would be the real validation of our commitment to making DGCOS a place where excellence thrives.”

To find out more about becoming a DGCOS installer, visit https://installers.dgcos.org.uk/

CDW SYSTEMS EXPANDS CURTAIN WALL OFFERING WITH ALUK’S SL52 SYSTEM

Leading aluminium fabricator CDW Systems has strengthened its curtain wall offering by introducing AluK’s SL52 system.

The SL52 Curtain Walling System is a versatile capped solution that combines aesthetics with high performance and enables impressive facades to be created and make projects stand out from the crowd.

On the new addition, Jeremy Phillips, Managing Director of CDW Systems, said: “We’re thrilled to add AluK’s SL52 system into our product range. Its flexibility and

performance capabilities, alongside its ability to surpass current industry standards, align with our commitment to providing top-tier solutions to our customers.

“The SL52’s impressive features, including its thermal efficiency and structural integrity, make it an excellent option for projects demanding both style and substance.”

The introduction of the SL52 system expands CDW’s curtain walling portfolio and complements the already popular Technal Tental system, a dual offering that enables CDW to

provide customers with a greater choice to open up more commercial project opportunities for them.

“By offering both AluK SL52 and Technal Tental, we’re giving installers the ability to specify the right curtain wall package for their project requirements,” added Jeremy. “It provides our installers with greater choice, so whatever the project demands, we have a solution in our range.

“We’re confident that the addition of the SL52 system will further cement our reputation as a go-to aluminium supplier.”

Established in 1992, CDW Systems is one of the UK’s leading and longest running aluminium fabricators in the trade supply of aluminium window, door, and curtain wall products. For more information visit www. cdwsystems.co.uk or call 01452 414853.

Faisal Hussain, DGCOS Chief Executive

TELL US WHAT YOU NEED - AND WE WILL BEND IT!

Arcoframe are the leading profile bending company in the UK, located in Sutton Fold Industrial Park, and have been manufacturing top-quality double glazed UPVC windows for clients, across the UK, for over 20 years.

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

Arcoframe are conscious of their carbon footprint and are currently in talks with solar power companies with a view to covering the whole factory roof with solar panels, giving them the capacity to generate their own power. They have also increased their fleet of vehicles and purchased their first electric van, with a vision to increase to 50% electric in the next 2-3 years. The company are very much committed to developing Net Zero capabilities for the future and have signed up to the “Starting your journey to Net Zero” virtual course through St Helens Chamber, helping to lead the way as a Together To Zero ambassador, by becoming greener as part of Liverpool City Region’s commitment to become Net Zero carbon by 2040.

FACTS

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

• Products: Bespoke arched and angled UPVC frames

• Factory size: 25,000 sq ft

• Number of employees: 29

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

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

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

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

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

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

Making Beautiful Curves across

Charles Richards with some of the bending staff

420 solar panels fitted to the factory, which helps reduce Arcoframe’s carbon foot print

EXPERIENCE THE RELIEF OF HASSLE-FREE SITE DELIVERIES WITH MADE FOR TRADE

Made For Trade is your partner in hassle-free deliveries. Whether you need your products delivered to your site or your premises, Made For Trade ensures a seamless delivery experience.

Made For Trade, the leading name in the fenestration industry, is renowned for its high-quality Korniche products, cuttingedge innovation of bi-fold, roof lanterns and flat glass with exceptional customer service. From KwikQuote to KwikCollect, ordering your Korniche products could not be easier.

SWIFT AND SIMPLE ORDERING PROCESS WITH KWIKQUOTE

Made For Trade is an experienced and well-established business that understands the importance of accurate and quick quotations. The KwikQuote online portal allows customers to generate quotes within minutes, providing immediate prices and streamlining the ordering process.

GLASS AND PRODUCT TOGETHER FOR FASTER INSTALLATION

Orderly supply chain management and innovative Korniche products ensure that the installation process is efficient. Both the product and the glass can be delivered in one drop, saving installers valuable on-site time, relieving unnecessary delays, and helping you maintain your project schedules.

FROM FIRST CONTACT TO DOORSTEP DELIVERY

Our dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in our comprehensive support system. From initial inquiries to post-delivery assistance, the dedicated team is available to personalise your service needs and ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience. This level of committed support reinforces our reputation as a customer-centric company.

EXCLUSIVE SERVICES AND BENEFITS

• Instant KwikQuotes: Obtain immediate quotations with our user-friendly KwikQuote portal.

• 5-Day KwikCollect Service: Rapid collection service available on standard colours and self-cleaning glass.

• FREE UK Mainland Delivery: Enjoy free delivery across the UK mainland, ensuring cost-effective logistics.

• 10-Year Warranty: All Korniche products have a robust 10-year warranty, underscoring our commitment to quality and reliability.

REAL SATISFACTION

Trustpilot rated as Excellent for timely deliveries to easy installation, our customers consistently praise the high Made For Trade service standards and product quality.

FABRICATION EXCELLENCE

All Made For Trade products are fabricated on-site using lean manufacturing processes, which offer exceptional value and

turnaround times for builders, installers and trades. These processes ensure that our products meet the highest quality standards and provide outstanding efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

For effortless delivery and unparalleled customer service, register for KwikQuote, and you can begin your hassle-free order process for that pressing project today.

DOORCO CELEBRATES DIVERSITY MONTH

DoorCo continues its commitment to promoting wellbeing through its monthly calendar of events, with June’s focus on LGBTQ+ rights, race, gender equality, disabilities, neurodiversity, and cultural diversity.

Maili Lavin-Bailey, DoorCo’s Marketing Communications Executive comments:

“DoorCo is halfway through its first annual Wellbeing calendar, where each month we focus on a specific theme in a bid to enhance the welfare of our team.

“Naturally, June was all about Diversity. To celebrate Pride month we focused LGBQT+ rights and one of the highlights was our Pride and Diversity door, now proudly displayed in our reception area. The colourful and welcoming door greets

every employee and visitor, radiating our support for the LGBTQ+ community and showcasing our dedication to creating an inclusive environment for all. It’s a daily reminder of our commitment to diversity, painted with pride and positivity.

“As well as LGBQT+ rights we talked about race, gender equality, disabilities, neurodiversity, and cultural diversity, sharing free resources on our Compass internal comms system and displaying signs throughout the business.

“These resources provide valuable information and insights on various aspects of diversity, helping to educate and inform our team about the importance of inclusion and the different ways we can support each other.

“Additionally, we initiated the process of including pronouns to our email signatures. This addition is completely optional, giving employees the choice to share their pronouns and promote a culture of respect and understanding. It’s a simple yet impactful way to ensure everyone’s identity is acknowledged and respected.

“At DoorCo, diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords, they’re at the heart of everything we do.

“We are proud of the steps we have taken and remain committed to pushing forward to create a workplace where everyone feels included, valued, and respected.”

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

As the UK’s largest privately owned aluminium fenestration systems house, Senior Architectural Systems can work with you to achieve your sustainability targets.

“From continuously improving our manufacturing methods, to utilising low carbon and fully recyclable aluminium across our full range of Part L compliant products, we are proud to do things differently.”

Mark Wadsworth, Managing Director

UAP MAKES KEY STRATEGIC APPOINTMENTS TO ITS MANAGEMENT TEAM

UAP Limited, a leading British door hardware supplier, has made two key management appointments to its growing team. Martin Cope joins as National Account Manager, and Adam Dixon as Senior Technical Manager.

Martin Cope has vast experience in sales management across 45 years and will be contributing to UAP’s continued development by establishing relationships with builders’ merchants and helping the business forge established routes into the industry.

Dixon brings a decade of experience in the fire safety industry, with expertise in compliance and product development. His work has taken him across the country – servicing iconic landmarks including the Elizabeth Tower clock face as well as major projects including Transport for London’s Elizabeth line.

On his new role, Martin Cope, National Account Manager at UAP said: “UAP is a fantastic business: from the warehouse to the head office, the people are the best at what they do. Innovation has always been my passion, and UAP are at the bleeding edge of hardware security. Its products, especially the Armasmart range, has incredible potential for the future, and it’s exciting to be a part of a business that has such vast impact.”

Adam Dixon, Senior Technical Manager at UAP said: “The fire industry is always developing, and UAP’s pace and energy is one of the driving forces behind this. This move is a new chapter in my career, and I’m looking forward to pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve, working with a talented team, and continuing to innovate and evolve in an industry that never stands still."

David Jennings, Chief Executive Officer at UAP said: “Martin and Adam are joining us at a particularly dynamic time for UAP. Their extensive experience and expertise align perfectly with our commitment to quality, durability, and continuous innovation, and we are eager to continue driving progress, through enhanced product offerings and innovation. With Martin and Adam’s extensive knowledge of their fields, we’ll be even better equipped to carry on this mission.”

Established in 1996, UAP Limited has become a leading UK door hardware supplier with products ranging from fire-rated hardware to locking systems and door and window security. The business designs door hardware solutions around customer needs, equipping them to navigate the everchanging fire and security landscape.

APEER LAUNCHES SHOWROOM KITS TO PROMOTE MAGIC WREATH SYSTEM

Apeer has developed a new showroom kit for trade partners to help promote the leading composite door brand’s range of unique, magic wreath holders.

Originally launched at the 2023 FIT Show, the magic wreath system was conceived and developed by Apeer after feedback from homeowners who wanted a better way to attach seasonal wreaths to their new composite entrance doors.

By using strong magnets that are hidden within an Apeer composite at the manufacturing stage, a wide range of stunning wreaths can then be securely attached to the exterior, delivering an exciting USP for installer customers and introducing a new way for end users to personalise their property and add kerb appeal.

Apeer’s Managing Director, Asa McGillian, commented: “We enjoyed a strong surge of interest in the launch campaign for our magic door wreaths, which is perhaps unsurprising as it’s a product that is entirely unique to Apeer – there are no other composite door manufactures that can offer anything else like it.

“And we know it’s a popular option with end users because attaching large, heavy wreaths with plastic

suction cups doesn’t always work and in bad weather, or with heavy use of the door, they often fall off or are blown away and damaged.

“The hidden magnet system that we developed means a wide variety of wreaths can be attached, without damaging the door and will remain securely fixed even on windy days,” he continued.

Apeer’s latest showroom kits will allow trade partners to promote the benefits of the magic wreaths with a range of valuable marketing materials that include high quality posters, stickers, fliers and door hangars, as well as specially designed ‘wreath boards’ that can be attached to showroom doors that haven’t been specified

with the hidden, internal magnet system.

“Our wreath magnet system can be applied to 35 door designs in our range, during fabrication,” said Asa. “Our new showroom kits give our trade partners the opportunity to promote this fantastic feature to their consumer customers, who can then scan a QR code with their smart phone to access more details.”

Apeer is currently offering its magic wreath holder option as a free £250 upgrade until 1 September 2024, providing installers with yet another valuable selling point to win sales in the competitive composite door market. For more information visit: www.apeer.co.uk.

FENESTRATION TRENDS REPORTS AVAILABLE TO EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS’ CUSTOMERS

Fabricators and installers using Epwin Window Systems’ products can now access the UK Consumer Fenestration Trends Reports from Keystone Market Research exclusively via the company’s Connect digital portal.

Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “In a competitive market where every lead is crucial, empowering fabricators and installers with the knowledge to align their offerings with current consumer trends is essential. Keystone Market Research’s UK Consumer Fenestration Trends Reports deliver the essential knowledge needed to align offerings with market demands. We are delighted to offer these reports to all our customers via our award-winning Connect portal.”

Published quarterly, the reports provide actionable insights for strategic decision-making. Topics covered include consumer preferences, the priority of fenestration projects versus competing home improvement projects such as kitchen and bathroom remodels, and market value forecasts. Additionally, they provide critical information to guide

marketing decisions, including consumer-friendly product terminology and the sources homeowners turn to for information on available products.

The inaugural report was published in May this year, followed by the second report, which has just been released. Epwin Window Systems sponsored these initial reports and has committed to continuing its sponsorship through 2025.

Keystone Market Research, a research consultancy set up last year, specialises in fenestration and aims to bridge the gap between businesses and reliable market research.

As the UK’s largest systems house with nearly 50 years of experience, Epwin Window Systems offers an extensive portfolio of integrated window and door systems and unmatched expertise and support to help its customers grow.

Making the Consumer Fenestration Trends Reports available to its customers is the perfect example of the intelligent, value-added support it offers.

Gerald concluded: “Our commitment to supporting our fabricators and installers with business support and market insights is unwavering. By making these comprehensive reports available exclusively via Connect, we aim to empower them to make informed decisions and stay ahead in the ever-evolving market.”

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

Martin Cope

BLAIRS DELIVER 111 YEARS OF EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

Greenock based Blairs Windows and Doors are celebrating their 111-year business anniversary as one of Scotland’s most established, trusted and successful companies in the glazing and fenestration sectors.

As part of the wider Saveheat Group, which includes Blairs Aluminium, Merlin Network, Saveheat Glass and Blairs Windows and Doors, they have built an enviable reputation for outstanding product quality and craftsmanship, along with providing exemplary levels of customer care. Still manufacturing timber windows and doors today, the business has relatively recently introduced PVCu as a material, through their blossoming partnership with Profine UK and the Kömmerling brand, which also extends to the Merlin business. It is the perfect partnership as Alex Gray, Managing Director of Saveheat Group points out: ‘Given the reputation of our brands in the Scottish market, having the right business partners is fundamental for our success in the long-term, as is the continued investment across the Saveheat Group.

Kömmerling has a global reputation for being technically led and that means we can offer our customers products that have market-leading U-values for example.

He continued: ‘While O70 is the core of our sales, we also have one eye on the future with the Kömmerling 76 and 88mm platforms, along with their VS and WarmCore hybrid solutions which we are looking at too. While 111 years in business is an impressive achievement, with huge gratitude to everyone that has been part of this incredible journey, our eyes are now firmly focussed on the future.’

Robert Thiroff, Managing Director of profine UK and Kömmerling added: ‘There are few companies in the industry that can boast over 100 years in the sector, though Kömmerling as a business goes back ever further to 1895. Blairs have stood the test of time across all window and door materials and as our Scottish business partner, we are hoping for many more years together through the promotion of a complete range of window, door and building systems.’

For all Scottish enquiries, please visit blairswindows.co.uk. For all other information, e-mail enquiries@profine-group.com or phone 01623 579200. There is also a dedicated site for Kömmerling at kommerling.co.uk and you can also follow them on social media platforms @profineuk and @kommerling_uk.

CUSTOMADE SUCCESS STORY WITH EUROCELL PARTNERSHIP

The partnership between Customade and Eurocell is a major industry success story, with Customade establishing itself as a top supplier of Eurocell’s Logik windows, Syncro patio systems and composite door frame designs in just 6 months. They are now delivering 200 frames a day with plans to increase capacity to meet demand over the next 12 months.

Customade encountered operational challenges in December due to high demand, but the proactive support from Eurocell, who it partnered with at the end of last year, was crucial in overcoming these obstacles. The team’s expertise and

adaptability in handling the increased volumes showcase the collaborative synergy that benefits fabricators working with Eurocell.

“We are thrilled with the progress achieved in our partnership with Eurocell over the past six months,” expressed Phil Walker of Customade. “The overwhelming market response and Eurocell’s steadfast support have enabled us to drive forward our growth strategy. We are now positioned to deliver exceptional products with shortened lead times and competitive pricing, reaffirming our commitment to customer satisfaction.”

Gary Driscoll, Sales and Commercial Director at Eurocell, commented, “Customade’s dedication to excellence aligns perfectly with Eurocell’s values. Our partnership has demonstrated the power of collaboration in overcoming challenges and driving success. We look forward to continuing our journey together, delivering innovative solutions and helping them to deliver unparalleled service to customers.”

For Customade, the partnership with Eurocell represents more than just a collaboration; it embodies a shared commitment to excellence and innovation in the fenestration industry.

With Eurocell’s support and expertise, Customade is poised for continued success and leadership in the market.

EDGETECH CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF SUPER SPACER®

Edgetech, leading innovator in spacer technology and a Quanex company, is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its flagship product, Super Spacer®, the world’s first foam warm-edge spacer bar. Introduced in 1989, Super Spacer revolutionised the fenestration industry by offering superior thermal performance and productivity compared to traditional metal spacers.

Super Spacer’s innovative foam construction boasted a staggering 950 times lower thermal conductivity compared to the mainstream metal spacers mostly used at the time. This significantly reduced heat loss at the crucial window edge, a major factor in overall window energy efficiency.

Over the past 35 years, Super Spacer has become the industry leader in warm-edge spacer bars, and the market has experienced a shift with warm-edge technology now used in the majority of units, thanks in no small part to Edgetech’s tireless campaigning.

And it’s innovative design is still leading the market today.

Used in iconic structures worldwide, from the renovation of the Eiffel Tower to Dubai’s Museum of the Future, Super Spacer empowers architects and manufacturers to achieve ambitious projects that prioritise energy efficiency.

Super Spacer enables faster window production with less labour, translating to significant cost savings. The latest highspeed automated Super Spacer lines can produce 23.5% more units with just three employees compared to a nine-person line using rigid box warm-edge spacers.

Super Spacer reduces heat loss, condensation, and noise transmission, creating a more comfortable and energyefficient living environment.

What’s more, Super Spacer’s resilience has been rigorously tested, withstanding extreme wind speeds and temperature fluctuations.

“We’re incredibly proud of Super Spacer’s 35year legacy,” says Chris Alderson, President of European Fenestration at Quanex.

“In an era of increasing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, Super Spacer remains a vital tool for architects, builders, and homeowners alike, and as a company we’ll never stop challenging ourselves to create the products that propel our industry forward.”

For more information on Super Spacer and how it can elevate your next project, please visit our website or contact us today: www.edgetechig.co.uk.

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.

CONSERVATORY OUTLET EXPANDS ITS NETWORK OF PREMIUM RETAILERS WITH A FIRST CLASS ADDITION

South Wales’ premier home improvement company, First Class Windows, Doors & Conservatories, has become the latest addition to Conservatory Outlet’s Network of Premium Retailers.

Founded by the husband-and-wife duo Paul & Melanie Webster, First Class counts on decades of experience in the industry as the pair have owned and operated several home improvement businesses throughout their successful 30-year career.

First Class is an established name in the region. Based at their marquee showroom in Caerphilly, the company services the entirety of South Wales, including the major cities of Newport, Swansea and Cardiff.

Drawn to the Conservatory Outlet Network by the Wakefield manufacturer’s leading marketing support and market-leading suite of products, First Class is geared up for its next phase of growth on the back of strong and consistent sales results.

And by becoming an accredited Premium Retailer, First Class will gain exclusivity across South Wales, alongside ongoing marketing support from Conservatory Outlet’s in-house team and its partner agency, DigitalKOG.

Speaking of First Class’ decision to become a Premium Retailer and join the Conservatory Outlet Network, Paul Webster, Managing Director at First Class, said: “This partnership will allow us to accelerate our growing brand in key locations. By being able to rely on industryleading marketing output, including SEO, PPC and traditional literature, we’ll reach more homeowners than ever before.

Melanie, the company’s Finance Director, echoed Paul’s comments, adding:

“Becoming South Wales’ first Premium Retailer alongside being able to sell Conservatory Outlet’s exclusive range of

windows, doors and living space products will be key differentiators in what is a competitive industry.

“To be working with a supply partner that understands our business and works with us to achieve growth is refreshing. We’re looking forward to taking our business to the next level of growth.”

“We’re all delighted to be working with Greg, Mick, Karen and everyone involved with Conservatory Outlet. Their network model, combined with their Premium Retailer accreditation, means that we can sell their exceptional product collections and benefit from their lead generation and marketing expertise.”

In true Conservatory Outlet style, First Class will receive a brand-new, industryleading website and a custom-designed suite of branded brochures. Also planned are an enhanced PPC and multi-channel digital campaign, as well as a series of retail videos.

Paul added: “The team at Conservatory Outlet has already delivered software training to our sales team to help them understand and sell the benefits of the Extreme, Envisage and Eclipse window collections, as well as the Forté composite door range.

“To be working with a supply partner that understands our business and works with us to achieve growth is refreshing. We’re looking forward to taking our business to the next level of growth.”

That growth will see the First Class double its staff count over the next eighteen months and open further showrooms and several new customer-service hubs across South Wales.

Greg Kane, Conservatory Outlet CEO, adds: “We’ve long admitted Paul and Melanie’s success. We’ve watched from afar as they’ve successfully managed several businesses; their track record in South Wales is second to none.

“I firmly believe that it’s all about the right move at the right time for both businesses and the timing couldn’t be better. We look forward to supporting Paul, Melanie and the First Class team and working with them to help First Class grow through the rest of 2024 and beyond.

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

Paul and Melanie Webster of First Class Windows, Doors & Conservatories

DEDICATED TO YOUR SUCCESS: OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SUPPORT FROM MADE FOR TRADE

Made For Trade stands as a beacon of excellence in the fenestration industry, delivering the best products with the best service at the best price.

As the sole manufacturer of the multi-award-winning Korniche Roof Lantern, Bifolding Doors, and the new Flat Glass Rooflight, Made For Trade is committed to exceptional quality and providing unparalleled customer service and support.

UNRIVALLED CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SALES TEAMS

Made For Trade prides itself on its dedicated customer service and accomplished sales teams who are committed to ensuring customers receive the best possible service. They employ and retain staff with in-depth product, trade knowledge and extensive fenestration experience. Whether you are looking at a Korniche Roof Lantern, Bi-Folding Doors, or the new Flat Glass Rooflight, Made For Trade has a specialised sales team ready to assist your needs. Using their KwikQuote system, you can receive instant quotations, making the buying process seamless. If you don’t have a KwikQuote account, the team will set one up quickly.

EXPERT TECHNICIANS AND COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT

The cornerstone of Made For Trade’s service is its

dedicated customer support, which is second to none in the industry. They aim to deliver consistent top-quality service by providing customers with the needed expertise and resources. This includes a Korniche on-site support team with extensive product knowledge and highly skilled technicians who work on-site and, on the road, providing remedial work and troubleshooting assistance.

RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT DELIVERY

Made For Trade offers quick and free mainland delivery, ensuring products reach trading and building sites safely and efficiently. With a one-stop delivery service for both products and glass and an easy delivery tracking system, you can expect a smooth delivery service.

FUTURE-PROOFED PRODUCTS

Made For Trade products have a standard 10-year warranty and industry-leading customer support. This commitment to quality and service ensures that customers are futureproofed with Korniche, enjoying peace of mind and confidence in their investment.

Made for Trade’s unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction really sets them apart, reinforcing their reputation as a trusted and innovative leader in the market. From the initial inquiry to on-site support and a continued focus on quality and efficiency, Made For Trade continues to lead the way in the fenestration industry, equipping its customers with the tools and confidence every step of the buying journey.

QUICKSLIDE & HIGHSEAL PARTNERING FOR THE LONG TERM

Finding a supplier, you can rely on is one of the cornerstones to building a great business – and being that supplier time and again over the years in a competitive industry is a real hallmark of success. It’s a position Quickslide is proud to have established in the market, working hard with their trade partners to make sure they choose Quickslide, every time.

Highseal Manufacturing is an independent manufacturing facility based in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire. Part of the Fair Share Group established 12 years ago, it offers a comprehensive range of uPVC and aluminium doors and windows, conservatories and roofing structures, as well as other home improvement products to the trade and domestic markets.

“We’re a family run business with over 40 years’ experience,” says office manager Holly Donaldson,

“and we’ve been a customer of Quickslide for many years now. We love their products – particularly their popular vertical sliders and flush sash windows – and they offer excellent customer service. Quite simply, Quickslide are just a nice company to deal with and the buying process is very easy.”

For this recent project, the customer required a full house of products for extensive internal and external works throughout the property. Highseal Manufacturing contacted Quickslide for a quote and samples for vertical sliders that was quickly picked up by the team and executed. The customer chose 20 cream vertical sliders with a single astragal bar down the centre and white hardware, incorporating toughened glass units and some obscure glass patterns.

Highseal’s ability to meet the diverse needs of their customers, combined with Quickslide’s reliable supply and customer support,

continues to strengthen their mutually beneficial relationship.

“Continuing to work with our trade partners such as Highseal Manufacturing is a huge part of our success as a business, as we intend to be with theirs,” says Quickslide Sales Director Tom Swallow.

“Offering the range and quality of products customers want, along with the service, technical knowledge, and professionalism our partners know to expect from us, makes us very proud to be the supplier of choice for many installers time and time again.”

As the relationship between Quickslide and Highseal Manufacturing flourishes, both companies look forward to continued success, driven by their shared commitment to quality, reliability, and exceptional customer service.

www.quickslide.co.uk

EMPLAS ACHIEVES CYBER CERTIFICATION FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Emplas has successfully retained the Cyber Essentials Accreditation for the third year in a row, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding against cyber-attacks.

Ransomware attacks remain a significant threat, as numerous window and door companies have experienced firsthand. A single breach in IT security can lead to catastrophic consequences, with data and software being encrypted by criminals who demand release fees often reaching hundreds of thousands of pounds.

The Government-backed National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) scheme, Cyber Essentials, is designed to help businesses protect themselves against cyber-attacks, including ransomware and viruses.

Emplas first achieved Cyber Essentials accreditation in December 2021 after an intensive eight-month investment program that included a major upgrade of its network, servers, power supplies, and virus

CONTINUED PRAISE FOR STELLAR

Stellar, the multi-award-winning aluminium window and door system from Epwin Window Systems, continues to be a favourite among installers thanks to its fast-fit properties and unique flush aesthetics.

Josh Fullalove, Project Manager at V. Fullalove Installations Ltd, strongly endorses Stellar’s benefits. He said: “Having installed numerous aluminium windows and doors over the years, I can confidently say that Stellar is the most user-friendly system on the market. Its knock-in beads are a game changer, eliminating the need for time consuming wedge gasketing, which are often too loose or tight and historically shrink back over time.”

He continued: “Features such as the adjustable rollers on the slimline bifold door allow for precise up-and-down adjustments using an Allen key, ensuring the perfect fit after installation and glazing. It’s an overall impressive system and installs as quickly and easily as a PVC-U system.”

V Fullalove, who purchased their Stellar windows and doors from Prestige Aluminium Essex Ltd, has recently completed several high-end projects where only the best products will suffice. Josh explains: “We have undertaken some fantastic

high-end projects, including several barn conversions and a prestigious bespoke new-build complex. The level of finish and aesthetics were crucial in meeting the developer’s vision. Stellar, with its unique flush aesthetics and wide range of colour options, was instrumental in helping us to secure these projects.”

He adds: “It’s an easy window and door system to sell, and because it’s a complete system—offering casement windows, residential doors, bifold doors, tilt and turn windows, bay windows and sliding doors - it delivers uniform aesthetics that perfectly complement an entire property.”

Despite being an exceptionally modern window and door system, Stellar has gained popularity across various property styles. Josh commented: “The flush casement aesthetics of Stellar closely resemble traditional timber flush casement windows, offering great versatility for older refurbishment projects.”

V. Fullalove Installations Ltd is a family run business with over 30 years of experience in window and door installation services throughout Essex and its surrounding areas. With their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction,

software, along with a crucial shift in company culture.

Now, for the third consecutive year, Emplas has successfully completed a reassessment of its IT infrastructure and processes to retain this important accreditation.

Quang Dinh, Head of IT at Emplas, stated, “We were targeted by ransomware in March 2021 due to an employee simply plugging an Android phone into their laptop to charge it.

“Although we managed to quickly shut down the attack and recover, it prompted a comprehensive review and upgrade of our security systems, which ultimately led to securing the Cyber Essentials Accreditation.

“Maintaining this accreditation is crucial for our business. Our service offerings, including EVA, barcode tracking, realtime delivery updates, and allocated delivery slots, rely heavily on IT. Ensuring the security of these systems is essential to guarantee business continuity.”

According to the latest government Cyber Security Breaches Survey, many UK businesses have identified at least one cyber-attack on their operations in the past 12 months. Figures from NCSC Cyber Essentials show that accredited companies reduce their risk of cyber-attack by 98.5%.

“It’s about stability and security of supply for our customers,” Quang continued. “We know that several fabricators and IGU fabricators were targeted in the last year, and we expect to continue being targeted.

“There is always a risk for any business, but we have significantly lowered that risk through our investments and the training provided to our staff.”

For more information on Emplas, visit www.emplas.co.uk, email info@emplas.co.uk, or call 01933 674880.

they have consistently chosen Stellar to deliver outstanding project results.

Nev Gleed, Technical Development Manager (aluminium) at Epwin Window Systems, concludes: “We are delighted with the feedback from Josh and his team. Stellar was designed to not only meet but exceed the demands of modern installers. Its innovative features and flush aesthetics make it the perfect solution for any project, allowing the workmanship of installers like V. Fullalove Installations to shine."

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

HOMEOWNER VIEWS ON SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY UNCOVERED IN NEWLY RELEASED KEYSTONE MARKET RESEARCH CONSUMER FENESTRATION TRENDS REPORT

Keystone Market Research is excited to announce the release of the Summer edition of its quarterly UK Consumer Fenestration Trends report, sponsored by Epwin Window Systems. This latest edition provides invaluable insights on developing consumer behaviour and trends within the fenestration industry, with a special focus on smart home technology.

In this Summer edition, we look at the shifts in consumer behaviour from the Spring to the Summer survey results, highlighting demographic variances, material and style preferences for windows and doors. We also consider homeowner priorities, changes in purchasing motivation, and budget allocations, which positively has swung into increased spend indicated for the latter half of this year.

A standout feature of this edition is our in-depth analysis of homeowner views on smart home technology – a topic that has consistently ranked as the lowest priority for consumers in our surveys this year. Through our detailed study, we sought to determine whether this low ranking is due to a lack of interest or awareness among homeowners.

We are pleased to share the findings, which uncover not only what functionality homeowners desire in smart home offerings but also the barriers preventing them from adopting these innovations.

Charlotte Hawkes, Director of Keystone Market Research, comments: “Feedback on our previous reports has been really positive, and we are confident that this Summer edition will continue to deliver strategic value and practical insights. By examining smart home technology preferences and obstacles, we aim to equip businesses with the knowledge to overcome these barriers and better cater to consumer needs.”

Additionally, this edition presents fenestration preferences analysed by homeowner type, based on the well-regarded Mosaic® profiling system. By distinguishing varying tastes among different types of homeowners – from young “Aspiring Homemakers” to “Senior Security” retirees – our report provides businesses with the insights necessary to effectively target diverse homeowner segments.

Looking ahead, our Autumn report promises to be the most comprehensive yet, drawing from the views of over 4,000 homeowners – the largest published dataset of its kind. This upcoming report will provide a detailed overview of UK homeowner views on fenestration products and include the first look at anticipated homeowner-indicated spend levels on home improvement in 2025.

The Summer report is available now, with single report or annual subscription purchase options. For more information, please visit www.keystonemr.co.uk.

“We

are confident that this Summer edition will continue to deliver strategic value and practical insights.”

OPENING UP NEW SALES MARKETS - SWISSPACER OPENS WAREHOUSE IN NEW JERSEY, USA

The construction industry in the USA is confident about the future in 2024. Sustainability, energy efficiency, durability and comprehensive government subsidies are key drivers.

This offers attractive prospects for European manufacturers, as construction products from Europe enjoy an excellent reputation for quality. Swisspacer has responded to the current development and opened a distribution centre in New Jersey in the immediate vicinity of New York. High inflation, rising commodity prices and a shortage of skilled labour initially caused only moderate growth in the construction sector in the United States last year. However, several billion-euro government subsidy programmes and tax incentives could lead to the construction industry gaining significant momentum in 2024. "The construction industry in the USA is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by technological advances and a growing focus on sustainability," says

Matthias Bach, CEO of warm edge manufacturer Swisspacer.

RETHINKING IN THE USA OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR EUROPE

Energy efficiency is likely to become a key factor for sustainable construction. The corresponding upfront costs can be offset by lower long-term life cycle costs. Cost reductions can be achieved using high-performance façades and energyefficient systems, for example. "We see that energy-efficient and sustainable buildings are becoming an important part of the American construction industry. In individual states, the trend towards zeronet-energy building codes is increasing. At the same time, building certifications such as LEED and BREEAM will continue to grow in importance," Matthias Bach is convinced. "Interest in and commitment to environmentally friendly building materials and products is growing noticeably. This also offers a great opportunity for European manufacturers of building products and materials to capitalise on the current trend".

It is important to familiarise yourself with the local building codes. For example, the

highest requirements for windows apply in the north-east of the USA and in California. "The sizes and designs of window and door elements also differ from our European standards," explains Matthias Bach. For example, small-format vertical sliding windows are usually found in private residential buildings - and not the tilt and turn windows that are common here.

ON-SITE WAREHOUSE FOR SHORT DELIVERY TIMES

Economic uncertainties such as raw material prices, energy costs and material availability are also affecting the US construction industry. "Local companies will adapt their business processes," Matthias Bach is convinced. "They will make more agile decisions and continuously optimise project and procurement processes. That's why we decided to set up our own warehouse on site. This

means we are close to the market and our customers and can also respond to very short-term requirements. In addition to quality, product portfolio, aesthetics and sustainability, delivery reliability is also a key factor in gaining a foothold in the American market," explains Swisspacer CEO Matthias Ba

Swisspacer's warehouse is located in Closter, New Jersey, near New York City. Both the Ultimate Pro, Ultimate, Advance and Georgian Bars will be available locally, customised to local requirements. The warehouse is the first distribution centre for Swisspacer products in North America; the spacers were first delivered in April. "With the distribution centre, we are not only making our products available for the American market, but also want to establish ourselves locally as a competent partner for the manufacture of the most energyefficient windows and façades," emphasises Matthias Bach.

NEW ‘DEFINITIVE’ WINDOWBASE AND TOMMY TRINDER REPORT ON WINDOW & DOOR TRENDS

WindowBASE and Tommy Trinder have joint-published an in-depth analysis of the glazing industry, using data from the last 20 years together with insights from monthly retail quotations by 550 leading installers.

The Window & Doors Market Trends report looks at how the numbers of fabricators and installers have changed over the past 20 years, which products (eg flush casements, French Doors, composite doors, bifolds, sliders, etc) are more popular, and what materials (aluminium, PVC, and timber) and colours are more in demand.

“We’ve analysed market share and value, and compared results nationally and by region,” explains Mike Rigby, MD of WindowBASE, which supplies trade prospect data including contact and product details for over 13,200 window fabricators, installers, and stockists. “This data, and the changes recorded from over 30 years of trading –provided the basis of the report.”

The report includes analysis from more than 80,000 items quoted monthly on Tommy Trinder software. “Installers

are juggling a vast array of material, colours, and options in order to shore up conversion rates and keep growth on track,” says Chris Brunsdon, CEO of Tommy Trinder. “Eighty-five percent of installers now sell aluminium products, now, up from 78% a year ago, with ‘steel look’ profile a growing trend. Bifolds are ahead of sliders, but the latter are closing the gap. Meanwhile, 24% of all PVC-U window sales are flush casements, and 81% of these are foiled – although colour

“It establishes the facts and trends very clearly. The trend is strongly towards aluminium, accelerated by new competition, which has forced more product development in the last two years than in the previous 20.”

choices are fairly conservative, with Anthracite, Agate Grey and White Grain the most popular options.”

“This is a really interesting report with masses of really interesting information,” says Nick Dutton, CEO, Brisant Secure.

Roger Hartshorn, CEO, Garnalex, comments: “Amidst the fog of PR hype and competing opinions, it’s not been easy to see where the market is going. So, the publication of this report is to be welcomed. It establishes the facts and trends very clearly. The trend is strongly towards aluminium, accelerated by new competition, which has forced more product development in the last two years than in the previous 20.”

To read the full report or view key infographics, visit www.windowbase.co.uk/windowdoortrends24/.

The Swisspacer Warm Edge Spacers Ultimate Pro, Ultimate, Advance and the Georgian Bars will be available in the new Swisspacer warehouse in New Jersey, customised to local requirements

Mike Rigby of WindowBASE, and Chris Brunsdon of Tommy Trinder

BY DESIGN

INSULATED GLASS PERFORMANCE THAT’S BUILT BY DESIGN

After more than 44 years in the industry, we’ve built up exceptional levels of knowledge

We’re exhibiting at:

join us at the ThermoBAR...

To all customers and IG industry friends, join us at the ThermoBAR...

22 – 25 Oct.

Germany

Glasstec Düsseldorf, Germany

Stand No. D48 | Hall No. 10

Stand No. D48 | Hall No. 10

11 – 13 Dec.

Glasstech Asia, Vietnam

Stand No. TBC | Hall No. TBC

Stand No. TBC | Hall No. TBC

FLEX your dance moves at the Thermo BAR , the ultimate Glasstec Düsseldorf after-show party!

Enjoy entertaining games, fantastic live music and complimentary food and beverages.

Venue: McLaughlins Irish Bar (Altstadt, Düsseldorf)

Wednesday October 23, 2024. 7.30pm.

Date: Wednesday October 23, 2024. 7.30pm.

Email marketing@thermosealgroup.com to book your free tickets. Please note: Entry bands required for entry.

Email marketing@thermosealgroup.com to book your free tickets. Please note: Entry bands required for entry.

VENTILATION AND DOORS

According to recent figures from Competent Person Schemes and Local Authority certifications on installations, an estimated 700,000 external doors are replaced in England and Wales each year in existing buildings.

In June 2022, when Building Regulations changed in England and Wales, most of the focus was on the impact the new legislation would have on windows and how companies in the supply chain would have to comply with Approved Document F (means of ventilation). However, the legislation also applies for door installation in both the retrofit and in new build markets.

In addition to compliance with Building Regulations, all installers and home improvement companies also have the opportunity to explain the benefits to homeowners of good ventilation such as improved air quality, thermal comfort, health and wellbeing.

Installing a trickle vent in an external door frame is advised where the door opens into a habitable space and especially when the door may be the only opening in the room and has no windows. Other situations where trickle vents are recommended on doors or on doorframes, includes where there are few windows in the room or where

there are small windows in a habitable room. This could mean that potentially the only way to compliance is to fit a trickle vent in the door frame.

No matter what the situation, installing trickle vents on doors and windows is the most practical and economical ventilation solution for fabricators and installers.

Glazpart launched the innovative Link Vent in 2013 and since then, in 2022, in time for the legislative changes, the Link Vent 4000 was introduced to the range to meet the ventilation requirement for smaller rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms – quite often the rooms with poorest ventilation and air quality.

The Link Vent 4000 is designed to cover areas of 8000mm2 for habitable rooms e.g., 2 x Link Vent 4000 would be installed in the windows/doors to achieve this compliance.

“Smart design, easy fitting, and functionality are fundamentals but it is the huge choice of colours and decorative finishes that sets Glazpart apart from the competition. The Link Vent is perfect for doors as the colours and woodgrains can be perfectly matched to blend in with the overall design and look of the door.”

The Link Vent has become the leading ventilation solution for building designers, window manufacturers, fabricators and installers and can be fitted to any type of material UPVC, aluminium and timber doors and frames.

The clever design of the Link Vent makes it simple to install and user friendly for both opening and closing - the innovative closing action allows the closure plate to be positioned so that it reduces draughts by directing air away from occupants.

Smart design, easy fitting, and functionality are fundamentals but it is the huge choice of colours and decorative finishes that sets Glazpart apart from the competition. The Link Vent is perfect for doors as the colours and woodgrains can be perfectly matched to blend in with the overall design and look of the door.

For homeowners, the benefits go beyond simple aesthetics but also durability. The colours and finishes are extremely stable and resistant to UV rays, so homeowners can be safe in the knowledge that the vents will hold their colour in extreme weather

conditions and constant exposure to the elements of weather, without noticeable fading.

At the start of 2024, Glazpart announced that its Link Vent premium finish ranges are now 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 size packs are the Premium Woodgrain range, Premium Vac Foiled range, Premium Sprayed Colours, Super Matt Finishes.

On the new pack sizes, Dean Bradley, Glazpart Sales Director commented.

“Many companies only require Link Vents with premium finishes for just a few jobs a year. So rather than tie up stock, space and cash in excess stock, the new 10 packs will be ideal for fabricators who only need premium finishes occasionally. Homeowners have become more particular when it comes to the finished appearance of their doors and windows. As such, fabricators and installers need to ensure they can meet homeowners’ demands by offering the widest range possible. Glazpart’s Link Vent range can colour match a vast range of door and window frame foils and we can always manufacture at short notice to ensure our customers have the products readily available.”

When it comes to ventilation and doors, Glazpart has the solution for fabricators and installers to ensure that homeowners are not just satisfied but are delighted with the finished job.

KOMBIMATEC OPEN DAYS: A MUST-ATTEND EVENT FOR THE UK WINDOW FABRICATION INDUSTRY

Kombimatec Machines

are excited to announce a series of open days tailored specifically for business owners and production managers in the UK window fabrication industry. These sessions are designed to provide insights, solutions, and connections that can directly impact their business’s growth, performance, and efficiency.

They are being held on 17th, 18th and 19th September.

MACHINE DEMONSTRATIONS

Kombimatec will have its latest machines on-site for live demonstrations.

Including the DGS530 Electronic Double Mitre Saw which can be driven via ethernet connection with the office or USB data transfer and the AMC328 3+2 Axes Machining Centre which a can be driven directly via the fabricator, printed bar code label, or post processor via the office.

Also on display will be the pioneering 2HD/ MW Mech welder for creating popular lapjoint style corner welds as well as full mitre welding.

Traditional machinery such as the 1HD Twin reverse butt welder and 4HDV Four Combination Head Welders and EV470 CNC Cleaners will also be on display.

This is an invaluable opportunity to see the equipment operate, ask questions, and evaluate how they can integrate into your production line.

“Seeing the machines in action and being programmed gave us the confidence to make the right decision, knowing that we are investing in technology that delivers real results.”

Ben Cardy, Production Manager, Innovation Aluminium

“Now we have a direct link from our production office to the saws, and bar length optimisation is taken care of automatically. This also ties in with a new barcoding system

that allows us to track jobs during the production stages.”

James Perry, Business Development Manager, Fenster Fabrications

BENEFITS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

1 Maximize Return on Investment (ROI):

Discover how our machinery and solutions can deliver faster, more costeffective production, ensuring you get the most out of your investments.

2 Business Expansion Opportunities: Explore how our state-of-the-art equipment can help you scale your operations to meet increasing demand, enabling you to capture a larger market share.

3 Enhanced Performance and Reliability: Learn about the latest technological advancements that can improve the reliability and longevity of your production lines, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

4 Learn from Industry Experts and Peers: Engage with other business owners and industry leaders to share experiences,

strategies, and insights that can help you navigate challenges and capitalise on new opportunities.

BENEFITS FOR PRODUCTION MANAGERS AND FABRICATORS

1 Improved Quality and Consistency: Discover machinery and techniques designed to enhance the quality of your output, ensuring that your products meet the highest industry standards.

2 Increased Efficiency and Reduced Downtime: Learn how to streamline your production processes, minimize bottlenecks, and reduce downtime, ultimately leading to a smoother, more productive operation.

3 Warranty and Spare Parts Support: Get firsthand information on our comprehensive warranty offerings and how easy access to spare parts can help maintain your equipment’s peak performance.

4 Reduction in Maintenance and Repair Costs: Understand how our equipment is designed for durability and easy maintenance, reducing the need for costly repairs and downtime.

TAILORED

SESSIONS TO MEET YOUR NEEDS - BY APPOINTMENT

ONLY

Each session will be designed around your specific needs and interests. To ensure we can provide the most value to you, we will run through some key questions when booking your appointment.

TO TAKE ADVANTAGE

The Open days will take place at our UK headquarters in Leighton Buzzard, LU7 4RW on 17th/18th and 19th Septemberjust north of London.   This is home to our UK production facility.

“As a solutions-focused business, one of the reasons I love hosting these events is the ‘ah-ha’ moments they help create amongst existing and new customers”, explains David Parsons, Director Kombimatec Machines Ltd.

To book your attendance, please get in touch with us on 01582 562218 or email sales@kombimatec.com.

We look forward to helping you drive your business forward.

DATA-DRIVEN DOMINANCE: RESHAPING THE FENESTRATION INDUSTRY

Kirsty Winter, General Manager at Insight Data, identifies how businesses operating in the fenestration industry can unlock exponential growth.

Like many industries, the fenestration sector is in the middle of an unprecedented transformation driven by established and emerging digital technologies. Where once a product or service could largely ‘sell itself’, perhaps driven by analogue advertising, today’s marketing strategies rely on fastmoving technology to get the message out to customers who will simply scroll on by if they don’t see what they want.

In this context, vital and often complex decisions must be made by business owners looking to grow while getting to grips with evolving marketing technology, AKA MarTech. However, concentrating on the technology itself without understanding how, why and where it will bring in customers is putting the cart before the horse.

The key to unlocking exponential growth lies in market intelligence. Having access to reliable, real-time data puts businesses at a huge advantage, but the gathering of such information while keeping it bang up-to-the-minute is no simple operation. This is where we at Insight Data steps in, empowering businesses with the tools and information they need to accurately target new prospects, optimise marketing campaigns, and ultimately, achieve resounding success.

For almost 20 years, Insight Data has been the industry’s trusted partner for market intelligence. We have meticulously built a comprehensive database of more than 13,000 fabricators, installers and glass companies. Gone are the days of outdated customer lists and guesswork marketing strategies. Insight Data offers a sophisticated approach that leverages a dedicated research team making more than 20,000 calls monthly, ensuring information is fresh, accurate, and up to date.

THE POWER OF INSIGHT

Insight Data started in 2006 when our founder, Andrew Scott, realised there was a gap in the market for quality company data that could be converted into market research and lead generation. At that time,

“Gone are the days of outdated customer lists and guesswork marketing strategies. Insight Data offers a sophisticated approach that leverages a dedicated research team making more than 20,000 calls monthly, ensuring information is fresh, accurate, and up to date.”

there was little to nothing in the way of data that was regularly updated, so companies prospected blind, relying upon outdated spreadsheets and both in-person and cold

calls in the hope that someone might take notice.

Needless to say, a lot of this was a waste of time and money. Andrew Scott understood

that a more effective means of discovery and connection with customers was necessary if business was to continue to grow, especially in the digital age. And so Insight Data was born, with the single idea that access to customers could be pinpointed faster, and with much more accuracy, using an innovative technology platform.

DYNAMIC DATA SOLUTIONS

Two years after Insight Data was founded, the company launched its first version of Salestracker, a fully integrated sales and marketing platform designed exclusively for the building and fenestration industry. Salestracker helps users to target their perfect customers for their products and services. The system provides in-depth market intelligence in real-time, enabling customers to successfully stay ahead of their competition by reaching the right people with the right message. With a built-in CRM, Salestracker also includes credit profiling, Google map integration and document storage.

While sales and marketing are the core focus for most Insight Data subscribers, the benefits extend far beyond. The database can be accessed for market research purposes – for example, gaining a deeper understanding of industry trends and competitor activity – and for strategic planning, i.e. identifying new opportunities and refining operations as a result.

Insight Data realises that one size never fits all, which is why Salestracker is configurable for each business and user, and clients range from a regional fabricator with two or three users up to international conglomerates with 50-plus users.

As the fenestration industry undergoes rapid change, we at Insight Data understand that we must also keep up with current trends, consolidation and diversification. This is why we are developing the next generation of Salestracker with deeper information, advanced AI and powerful connectivity.

Although change can be unsettling, in the digital era it really is do or die. To stay ahead, you need a partner who understands the market and can provide the data you need to succeed. Insight Data is that partner. Get in touch today to organise a complimentary consultation to discuss your goals and discover how Insight Data can help you achieve them. Visit: https://www.insightdata.co.uk/contact/

A consumer lifestyle magazine, specifically for the window industry!

Impressive social media reach. Now available in print, via Sainsbury’s stores!

WANT TO BE A PART OF IT?

The next editions will be out in Autumn (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!

To give you an idea of price...

PRINT

Advertorials:

£895 (2 page feature)

Advertising:

Prices start from just £395 for a 1/4 page Showcase Ad or £995 for a full page ad

DIGITAL

Advertorials:

£495 (4 page feature)

Advertising:

Prices start from just £195

All prices are + VAT.

Discounts available if booking both. Editorial support is available to advertisers and we can also help with artwork.

Distribution

Improve is distributed as follows:

• 30,000 print distribution via Sainsbury’s ABC1 stores

• PDA Technology ensures 100% proof of delivery

• Four Digital Editions per year, emailed to 16,500 homeowners each quarter

• Facebook and social media channels (12 month social media campaign) – we reach a minimum of 350,000 Facebook users per quarter

• We target homeowners/gardeners and people interested in DIY (age 27 - 65+)

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!

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.

THE COMPLETE PACKAGE THAT MAKES INSTALLERS’ LIVES EASIER

For those in search of a complete new build conservatory or single storey extension solution, look no further than the Leka Xi. That’s the message from Rhys Hoddinott, Managing Director of Leka Systems.

He says: “The Leka Xi has a wealth of benefits, but one of the most important is that it’s a complete solution that includes the base as well as the wall. It’s therefore quicker to order, easier to project manage and faster to install than any of its competitors. It’s a winning solution all round.”

In most cases, the Leka Xi, including the roof system, can be installed in less than a week.

Rhys said: “The modular design and prefabricated components of the Leka Xi streamline the installation process, allowing for efficient assembly with minimal disruption. This rapid turnaround makes it an ideal choice for

homeowners and builders seeking a high-quality, rapid build solution.”

The installation process begins with adjustable feet or ground screws, which can be set on basic concrete pads depending on ground conditions. This eliminates the need for extensive groundwork. For an even more rapid installation, structurally tested ground screws offer an innovative alternative to concrete pads and are usually installed in less than a day.

The system features a premanufactured GRP base, including a floor perimeter beam and structurally advanced supporting joists, further reducing time on site. The modular wall system is custom manufactured in lightweight sections for easy installation, and the roof options include the Leka Flat Roof, Leka Orangery Roof or Leka Tiled Roof.

The installation is completed with insulation, plasterboard

and flooring, and the desired external finish.

As Rhys says: “The Leka Xi means no more heavy groundwork, mess and lengthy build times, adding significant value to installers’ portfolios by delivering rapid home transformations and lifestyle upgrades.”

The Leka Xi has all the hallmarks of a Leka Systems product: an innovative solution that transforms its category and sets a new benchmark.

There won’t be long to wait for a new innovation either. Rhys concluded: “Watch this space for a new product coming soon!”

To add Leka Xi to your portfolio, or to be the first to hear about the new product, email sales@lekasystems.co.uk.

BRETT MARTIN’S FLAT GLASS ROOFLIGHT RECEIVES BBA APPROVAL

Brett Martin is pleased to announce that its Flat Glass Rooflights have recently secured BBA Approval. An industry recognised certification denoting the product’s quality, safety and reliability, Brett Martin is one of only few UK rooflight suppliers to obtain this certification.

A modern alternative to the Roof Lantern, the Flat Glass Rooflight range offers a stylish means of bringing light into contemporary building designs.

As well as more than 100 standard sizes, Brett Martin is now offering bespoke sizing and new colour options, meaning the Flat Glass Rooflight is fit for any refurbishment or new-build project.

The Flat Glass square and rectangular rooflights in the range can now be coated in RAL 7016 grey and RAL 9005 black, in addition to the white that was previously available. The company’s recently launched Flat Glass Access Hatch is also available in the same colour options, for applications where access is required.

All Brett Martin’s rooflights are manufactured using laminated glass which is engineered not only to resist breakage as much as possible but - if it does break – to break in a way that is both safe and

DANNY WILLIAMS ‘COLD CALLING’

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

‘I caught my systems supplier cheating on me. What can I do?’ Fabricator, Name and Location withheld by request.

Despite my tendency towards plain speaking, sometimes a little dramatic language is necessary to catch the eye. Although you wanted to remain anonymous I need to give you a handle for the purpose of this communication so let’s use ‘SPO’, for ‘Seriously P*ssed Off’. I must also add that your note to me was a tad more elaborate than the opener suggests but I decided to have some fun with it.

I believe SPO that you were, well, SPO’d and responded by calling said sysco out.

secure. Constructed from two panes of float glass with an added polymer layer bonded between, laminated glass will not shatter into individual pieces on impact. Instead, it will form a characteristic spider’s web pattern, reducing the likelihood of the broken rooflight falling on anyone below.

Tony Isaac, Sales Director at Brett Martin commented: “We’re delighted to be able to expand our Flat Glass Rooflight range and also to announce that it has now secured BBA approval for its high-quality and safety. At Brett Martin, safety is key – that’s why we’re working with the Rooflight Association to advocate for the use of laminated glass in all glass rooflight products.”

For more information about Brett Martin’s Rooflight range, visit: www.brettmartin.com/ daylight-systems/our-products/product/flatglass-rooflight

You explained, SPO, that you discovered that your primary systems supplier was in advanced discussions with a competitor in the same town, let alone area, despite you having what you thought, up to that point, was an excellent working relationship with that supplier, with whom you had worked successfully – or so you thought – for many years. Indeed, you had enjoyed a number of nights and days out at various social and sporting events, as the honoured – or so you thought – guest of the aforementioned sysco.

(Cue sentimental music)

Everything was rosy, you loved the system and indeed, are on record as having praised the sysco’s performance, especially during Covid, for example, as the way that such companies should support their customers. You liked their products, you sold them in what you believed were reasonable volumes, predominantly to trade customers. Everything in the garden was rosy, you told me.

So how did you know that your beloved sysco was about to do the dirty on you?

Apparently, it was a whistle blower at ‘the other fabricator’ who for reasons best known to themselves, decided to report that the area rep had called, followed by –and this is when you became slightly cross apparently SPO - the sales director of the sysco. In effect therefore, not only was your sysco about to book a room at the Love Island Hotel and Spa, it was becoming a serious love-in!!

A meeting followed that now included the Big Boss, during which, apparently, a ‘full and frank’ discussion ensued (I have always wanted to say that). You were given assurances that you were indeed their only true love, that mistakes and miscommunications had taken place and that the discussions that had taken place with the competitor, had been terminated. What you could not explain, simply because the sysco was unable to either, was why they decided to court your competitor in the first place, not least because you regularly outsold them and had nicked some decent business from them precisely for the products that they wanted to buy from you (which answers why they wanted to buy from your sysco in the first place of course). But not why your sysco entered into discussions with them. The expression that comes to mind is the one that involves a bird in the hand.

So where does this leave you? Angry for sure. Confused, because no rational reason for their flirtation was ever given.

However….you went on to tell me SPO, that your belief in both the system and the company, notwithstanding their bizarre flirtation, remains firm and that you have decided to forgive their transgression as a silly fling, the result of the commercial equivalent of a mid-life crisis. You know that it was never consummated and, after a notional hug, order and normal business have been restored.

Crucially, your sysco now know that you have eyes and ears everywhere and certainly that close to home. But a lovely conclusion, SPO, to what could have been a nasty divorce.

Thank you for sharing.

* Danny Williams is managing director of Chelmsford based Pioneer Trading and has been involved with all aspects of the windows and doors industry for 35 years. His activities include manufacturing a full range of windows and doors in PVC-U and aluminium, an IGU facility, retailing and commercial contracting.

SUPPORTING INSTALLERS

SOL Conservatory Roofs

and sister company SolarFrame

Limited provides an unrivalled support scheme to their network of registered installers, to make ordering and installation a seamless process.

SOL and SolarFrame provide a full onestop shop service for all things roofing and glazing. Manufacturing and supplying Solid Conservatory Roofs, Glass Conservatory Roofs, Polycarbonate Conservatory Roofs, Sky Pods, Conservatories, Orangeries, PVCu Casement Windows, PVCu Flush

Casement Windows, PVCu Tilt & Turn Windows, PVCu Residential Doors, PVCu French Doors, PVCu Sliding Patio Doors, Bi-folding Doors and Composite Doors.

HIGH QUALITY PRODUCT

We manufacture all of our products in house, so you can be assured that we have complete control over fabrication to maintain a high-quality product. Our stringent quality control process ensures that every product that leaves our factory, has been manufactured to meet British standards and the expectation of your customer.

As experts in the field, we have gained accreditations with the BSI, CE Marks, Secured by Design, and BFRC registration, and in 2018 invested in a dedicated £2.5million factory, with specialist stateof-the-art machinery, to reach the highest

manufacturing, quality and service standards possible. With a skilled workforce who pride themselves on the supply of quality products and understand the importance of making it right first time.

FAST TURNAROUND

Alongside a high-quality product, we stand out from the crowd by providing a fast turnaround, so you exceed your customers’ expectations. We offer same day quote turnaround*, plus fast, flexible, delivery to help you attain a smooth and trouble-free installation.

Our swift manufacturing processes allow us to manufacture and deliver your order within as little as five days**. We can deliver your order direct to site and even deliver frames, conservatory roofs, doors, internal plasterboards and finishing materials on the same delivery, making installation a hasslefree experience.

ONGOING SUPPORT

We provide a high level of guidance and support pre and post-delivery. Our team is on hand to answer any technical queries that you might have about the installation of our products and will provide design and technical support even on the most complex of projects.

Whether you’re in need of website help, showroom support or social media tips, our expert marketing team is on hand to provide marketing support.

ASSISTED FIT

Our assisted fit scheme provides on-site installation training, where our professional team of fitters will accompany you to an installation and show you exactly how to fit our roof system. Whether it’s your first fit or a refresher that you’re needing, our assisted fit scheme is free and available to book now. Contact our team on 0800 625 0123.

As an alternative to on-site training we also provide installation training at the SOL Training Centre, based at our dedicated roof factory in Dodworth, Barnsley. The SOL Training Centre provides the perfect opportunity to meet the team behind the scenes, who can answer any questions or queries you have about our product range. The SOL Training Centre is free and available to book now. Contact our team on 0800 625 0123.

For more information about our product range visit www.solroofs.co.uk or contact our team on 0800 625 0123.

T&Cs.

* Available during working hours Mon – Thurs 8:30 – 17:00, and Fri 8:30-12.30.

** Excluding orders with glass. Dependent on product and location.

NEW RESIDENTIAL WINDOW DESIGN

LAUNCHED BY SCHÜCO UK

NEW BRAND IDENTITY FOR WREKIN WINDOWS

Social housing specialist Wrekin Windows has just launched its new brand identity.

Steve Jones, Managing Director of Wrekin Windows, said: “Our new branding gives us a modern visual presence that reflects our commitment to being a forward-facing company that adds value to our social housing sector clients.”

The new branding will be rolled out across the business in the coming months, including on its new vehicle fleet.

• National Home Security Month

• Software & IT

• Blinds & Shutters

• Orangeries & Conservatories

Deadline date is 19th September

The new AWS 80 SC window system from Schüco delivers simplified fabrication without sacrificing the quality associated with the Schüco brand. The company’s latest innovation comes with its signature sleek sightlines, elegant design, and exceptional thermal efficiency.

Designed specifically for the UK market, the window was developed in close collaboration with Schüco fabricator partners to create a product ideal for their needs. The introduction of the new window system closely follows the recent launch of the new ASE 51 PD Schüco panoramic sliding door.

The AWS 80 SC window system is engineered for simplicity, using as few elements as possible for easier manufacture. Screw ports to connect mullion and transom allow the outer frame to be constructed first with inner sections added afterwards, speeding up the fabrication process.

Despite its simple construction, the window doesn’t compromise on aesthetics, offering narrow sightlines of 46mm for fixed lights and 74mm for opening units. Its flush design enables multiple configurations while negating the need for numerous different components or a dummy vent.

Improved thermal performance means the AWS 80 SC surpasses current standards required by Part L and is anticipated to comply with the upcoming Future Homes Standard.

Security is also ensured as the AWS 80 SC launches with PAS 24 certification for the whole system, having been tested with every configuration and add-on profile in every possible combination.

Duncan Grover, Head of Product Management, Schüco UK comments: “We’re proud of the significant innovation in product development that our new window and sliding door systems represent. These high specification products have been designed to deliver improved technical performance while streamlining fabrication processes for our partners.

“The AWS 80 SC was developed in close collaboration with our UK partners to ensure it met their needs. The window has already achieved success for early adopters, helping them to win projects thanks to its design innovations.”

Both the new sliding door and the new window are available to see in the Schüco showroom in Milton Keynes.

Current Schüco partners can find the new sliding door and window on SchüCal or can contact their Business Development Manager (BDM) for details.

For further information on these products contact Duncan Grover, Head of Product Management on dgrover@schueco.comor visit https://www.schueco.com/uk/ fabricators/products/windows/ aluminium/aws-80-sc

The company has specialised in social housing since 1985, gaining a reputation in the sector that is second to none. It works closely with social landlords, residents, local communities and contractors, providing a comprehensive contract management service. This end-to-end service support includes design, resident consultation and ongoing liaison, to bespoke production, delivery to site, installation and post-installation aftercare.

As an Epwin Group company, Wrekin Windows manufactures the popular Profile 22 system. It has recently added the sculptured system to its range, meaning it offers the complete suite of Profile 22 products including flush casement windows, flush tilt and turn windows, vertical sliding windows, casement windows, tilt and turn windows, fully reversible windows, PVC-u doors, and French and patio doors.

Reflecting its commitment to leading the way in its sector, ongoing product development focuses on safety, security and energy efficiency. All products are rigorously tested in-house and externally by accredited independent agencies. The company was recently awarded PAS 2030, which demonstrates compliance with the requirements for installing energy-efficiency measures for its clients.

The new branding identity captures the strength and innovation that Wrekin Windows brings to its customers, acting as a visual reminder of the value of its partnership.

Tel: 01952 205000

www.wrekin-windows.co.uk

Faster installation

Product & glass in 1 drop

Online KwikQuote portal

Dedicated product support

10 year warranty

FROM BISON THE LATEST BULLETIN

At Bison Frames we take pride in being a leader in window fabrication, providing products that not only meet but exceed the highest standards of quality and reliability. Our commitment to excellence in every facet of our business has established The Genesis Collection as a great choice for discerning installers and developers who seek the best of everything.

WHEN QUALITY MATTERS

Let’s take a closer look at why more retailers, installers and developers choose Bison Frames.

• Consistent Quality: At Bison excellence is non-negotiable. Every product in our lineup is the result of meticulous design and manufacturing processes that ensure uniformity and top-tier performance. This commitment to consistency means that each installation reflects well on our trade customers and elevates the standards on any project.

• Enhanced Reputation: By incorporating high-quality materials and processes, our customers enhance their own reputations as providers of superior window and door solutions. This recognition is vital in competitive markets, leading to increased trust and more lucrative contracts, especially with more discerning customers.

• Cost Savings: Our products are designed to reduce the need for service visits and replacements, which can derail project budgets and timelines. By investing in quality from the start, our customers avoid the pain associated with service issues and as a result experience lower total project costs and improved profitability.

• Time Efficiency: Our reliability and consistency using high-quality materials

means important projects stay on schedule. This efficiency is critical for meeting install dates and contractual obligations, reducing the stress and costs associated with delays.

• Reduced Hassle: We eliminate the common frustrations associated with material supply in the industry. Our logistical expertise and use of our own vehicles and drivers ensures timely delivery and our products arrive in perfect condition time after time.

• Long-term Value: The durability and unique features of our products ensure that the products built today will stand

strong for many years to come. This longevity is a key selling point for customers looking to attract buyers with the promise of reduced maintenance, lasting value and an appreciation of quality.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that every component supplied by Bison meets the highest standards allows our customers to focus on other critical aspects of their business, secure in the knowledge that the products supplied are of the highest quality, right and one time.

• Customer-Centric Service: We understand that every project is unique, and our team is dedicated to providing personalised service that addresses the specific needs of each situation. This tailored approach ensures that our clients feel supported from original enquiry through to completion.

• Innovative Solutions: At Bison Frames, we continuously invest in product development to stay at the forefront of the industry. We are constantly working to introduce innovative new ideas and create products that set the standard for quality and efficiency, keeping our customers ahead of the curve with great USP’s. Choosing Bison is a decision that helps show customers that quality is a key part of your offer and the standards they can expect.

Our comprehensive approach to quality, service, and innovation ensures that each customer receives not only the best products but also a partnership that contributes to our joint success.

We are dedicated to providing solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and build reputations in the window and door industry. Bison Frames, is a strategic ally and commitment to customers longterm reputation is at the forefront of everything we do.

This includes service, sales support and the generation of high quality installation leads in your area.

If working with Bison Frame and the Genesis Collection sounds like the right fit for your business then we’d love to hear from you.

Tel: 01226 715250

Email: sales@bisonframes.co.uk www.bisonframes.co.uk

FORCE 8 COMPLETES INSTALLATION OF INNOVATIVE FRENCH DOORS AT LOCAL CONSERVATIVE CLUB

Force 8 have recently installed a set of their new French doors to the local Conservative club. This installation highlights the versatility and advanced features of Force 8’s new French doors, which are equally at home in both commercial and residential settings.

One of the main features of Force 8 French doors is their unique opening capability. Unlike traditional designs, Force 8's French doors can be fabricated to open either inwards or outwards, providing greater flexibility to suit different space requirements. This adaptability gives them a significant advantage, especially in environments where space optimisation is crucial. The doors are designed with user convenience in mind. Either door leaf can be fabricated to serve as the primary opening, with the other leaf securely locked

"True to Force 8’s commitment to customisation, the French doors are available in a variety of designs from their extensive range, including the elegant arched format. This allows homeowners and businesses to choose a style that complements their property’s architecture."

in place. For wider access, such as moving large items or accommodating more guests, the secondary door leaf can be easily unlocked and opened.

Security is paramount in all Force 8’s designs, and the French doors are no different, they are equipped with a highsecurity locking system standard across the Force 8 range. Additionally, they include a robust 5-lever mortice lock, and the secondary door leaf features extra-secure top and bottom bolt mechanisms. These features ensure that the doors provide toptier security, meeting the demands of both commercial and residential installations.

In addition, the main door leaf can be integrated with an electronic lock release system, allowing for remote access control. This feature is particularly beneficial for settings such as care homes, where controlled entry is essential for the safety

and security of residents. Visitors can be easily buzzed in, adding a layer of convenience and security.

As mentioned, the doors are not just limited to commercial use. In residential settings, the French doors typically open inward, ideal for homes where interior space is not limited, but can be fabricated to open outward where there are limitations. For smaller spaces, or limited access, Force 8 offers the innovative "Door and a Half" solution, which provides a practical alternative while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of a normal composite door.

True to Force 8’s commitment to customisation, the French doors are available in a variety of designs from their extensive range, including the elegant arched format. This allows homeowners and businesses to choose a style that complements their property’s architecture.

Force 8's new French doors are a versatile, secure, and stylish option for both commercial and residential installations. The recent installation at the Conservative Club is a testament to the doors' adaptability and superior design, offering enhanced functionality and security. Whether for a care home, a private residence, or a commercial property, Force 8’s French doors are a popular choice for those seeking both form and function.

To find out more information contact sales@force8.co.uk.

HÖRMANN TRUEDOR – COMPOSITE DOORS WITH SUSTAINABILITY AT THEIR CORE

As concerns surrounding climate change grow, UK consumer attitudes to sustainable products indicate that they are motivated to purchase from organisations that care about the environment and that sustainability is a mainstream issue. Research shows that 76% of consumers say they are trying to play their part and they expect brands to do the same, whilst 57% say their perception of a brand is influenced by its sustainability practices. (*BCG 2022). In response to this trend Hörmann Truedor has developed the most sustainable range of composite doors available on the market today.

During the development and construction of their new IG Doors plant in South Wales, where the Hörmann Truedor range of composite doors is manufactured, Hörmann placed an emphasis on the creation of short supply chains and the sourcing of local components wherever possible. One of the key aspects of this philosophy was the decision to make their own door slabs rather than importing them from overseas, thereby providing secure supply and consistent quality. As a result IG Doors is unique in the market, being the

only volume manufacturer of composite doors to undertake this commitment.

Other locally sourced components include door skins which are manufactured in the Northwest, glass from South Wales, PVC frames from the Midlands, and Steel

from Tata in Port Talbot. This approach helps the company reduce their transport emissions whilst supporting local industry and enables the company to proudly state that Hörmann Truedor composite doors are made in the UK.

As a member of SWS, an approved packaging waste compliance scheme, production offcuts and waste are recycled wherever possible, with only sustainably sourced timber used in the production of the doors. The company’s commitment to sustainability is further enhanced by their ISO 50001 certification which works towards conserving resources through efficient energy management.

Being part of the Hörmann Group also provides access to considerable expertise in sustainable manufacturing processes and the development of new technologies. With all Hörmann manufacturing plants throughout Europe required to access 100% of their energy from renewable sources, the plant at IG Doors will undergo a significant solar panel installation during 2025 and has recently been able to access energy from their local wind turbines. One of the

major new technologies being investigated by Hörmann is a Hydrogen power plant being trialed at one of their manufacturing sites in Germany, which if successful has the potential to be rolled out across every factory throughout the organisation.

As a privately owned, family run business, Hörmann has always been able to take a long-term view with regards to their business. Successive generations have taken their social and environmental responsibility seriously, with their objective being to hand over an ethically sound business that provides a green platform in sustainable manufacturing for future generations to come. This approach is very apparent in the development and growth of the IG Doors plant and the Hörmann Truedor range of doors. The result is an opportunity for installers to offer the end consumer a composite door with sustainability at its heart, from a trusted and well recognised brand.

For further information on Hörmann Truedor visit Composite Doors by Hörmann-Truedor - The Fine Art Of Composite Doors or call 01530 516868.

BRITDOR NOW AVAILABLE IN 44MM THICKNESS

It’s the news you’ve all been waiting for – the new BRiTDOR slab from DoorCo is now available in 44mm thickness, with all the same benefits that have been taking the market by storm since the new door was released to the market earlier this year.

Mark Towers DoorCo’s Head of Operations, who has been the driving force behind BRiTDOR, tells us more: “BRiTDOR is our new solid timber core composite door, that was revealed to the market earlier this year in standard 48mm thickness, with the promise of a 44mm option coming soon. We’re excited to confirm that we’ve delivered on that promise and the new 44mm BRiTDOR is available to order now!

“BRiTDOR’s Brilliantly British Manufacturing is what sets it apart from its other solid timber core counterparts. Manufactured in our new Doncaster facility, BRiTDOR’s construction is a timber core that delivers superior strength, security and durability. The core is then finished in Thermoplastic CoolSkin outer layer with heat reflective properties, scratch resistance and a beautifully defined woodgrain finish, that’s been designed to complement the existing DoorCo collection.

“BRiTDOR is available in the widest range solid timber core door options, which includes the prevalent designs of 6/4 combi, flush and farmhouse, as well as exclusive, new styles: Enzo, Glenman and Eaton. This means you can create Traditional panelled designs with all the DoorCo favourites, like Troon, Carnoustie, Lytham and Farmhouse. Exclusive BRiTDOR designs Eaton, Knightsbridge & Tatton also join the Traditional collection. When it comes to Contemporary style, the BRiTDOR designs are based on the Flush door and include the

popular Augusta, Oakmont and Barcelona designs as well as the new Glenman and St Mark designs. Designer favourite Monza II is joined by the exclusive new Enzo to complete the BRiTDOR offering.

“To further enhance the design capabilities, the sizing of BRiTDOR is totally flexible, too, with both taller and narrower door sizes available.

“When it comes to colour, we’ve simplified the offering to focus on offering a variety of popular shades in the 14 off-the-shelf colours, and 3 first-class wood stains: Golden Oak, Rosewood and Irish Oak.

“Finally, looking at the glazing options of BRiTDOR the collection includes 25 stunning decorative designs which can be encompassed in FLiP, DoorCo’s own revolutionary glazing cassette system that has flexible yet simple corner and connector system which performs exceptionally well when it comes to security and weatherability.

“All of these elements have been put together to make BRiTDOR accessible

to the entire market, and to further help customers, it’s supported by a fresh new brand that represents BRiTDOR’s British heritage. The marketing package includes a dedicated brochure encompassing all the options available.

“We’re really pleased to be able to deliver the 44mm option to our customers as it’s the final piece in the Jigsaw of making DoorCo the only manufacturer that can supply all the current types of composite door available in the UK today. BRiTDOR’s solid timber core joins ORiGINAL, the prime foam core edition and GRiPCORE, the superior timberfoam-aluminium hybrid core. Alongside the door types, DoorCo can also supply you with their own revolutionary glazing cassette system and bespoke glass designs, backed up by a comprehensive and flexible prepped door service model.”

To find out more about BRiTDOR, call us today on 01625 428955 or visit: https://trade.door-co.com/britdor/

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

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

CONTINUED DEMAND FOR FENTRADE’S ID30 RANGE

Fentrade Aluminium has reported strong demand for its ID30 range of internal glazing systems, particularly its softclose inline slider, which has quickly become a favourite among customers who value style and functionality. Chris Reeks, Managing Director of Fentrade, commented: “The architectural appeal of the ID30 Door and Screening system, especially in its sleek black finish, has resonated well with our customers. The soft-close inline slider, combined with the system’s customisable features, including a wide range of colour options, has further enhanced its appeal.”

The versatile ID30 offers solutions to meet varying project needs, including a choice of single, double and soft-close sliding inline doors. Recognising the growing desire to maximise space and enhance room design, Fentrade has extended its ID30 offering with an internal bifold door option. Chris

said: “This new bifold door addition is perfect for creating spacious room dividers and is especially effective for connecting living spaces within conservatories, offering both practicality and aesthetic appeal.”

As a business with its finger on the pulse, Fentrade has also responded to market demand for an even more authentic steel-like appearance by enhancing the ID30’s design options. Chris said: “While astragal bars have been a popular choice for achieving a minimalist look, we have introduced a new transom bar option which allows customers to create a more industrial, steel-effect aesthetic that is becoming more popular in modern design.”

The ID30 Internal Door and Screening System can divide or delineate residential and commercial spaces and is especially effective in office environments. Chris commented: “We have worked on various

office projects where the system is being used to divide spaces and create breakout rooms. The product’s flexibility can be adapted to different design requirements, whether creating private meeting areas, open-plan workspaces, or stylish office partitions.”

The internal aluminium system is singleglazed and available with toughened or laminated glass, ensuring both safety and durability. Obscure glass can also be incorporated into the system, creating private areas within living spaces. This adaptability broadens the scope of consumer applications, making it suitable for areas such as shower spaces or bathrooms.

Fentrade is a leading specialist aluminium fabricator committed to delivering highquality and innovative fenestration solutions for all market sectors. With a focus on service excellence, Fentrade is committed to delivering a choice of products that meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Tel: 01633 547787

fentradealuminium.co.uk

NEW GLAZING OPTIONS FROM ENDURANCE® DOORS

Endurance® Doors is giving homeowners across the UK further scope to create unique exterior doors that are individually tailored to their own specific tastes.

Demonstrating its focus on continued product development, the manufacturer of solid, secure and stylish composite doors has extended its glazing range with five new designs, including four stained glass styles. The increased glazing selection from Endurance® Doors adds to an already impressive level of design freedom offered by the business.

This includes the ability to choose from over 85 door styles in 19 separate colours as well as from an extensive selection of door furniture such as handles, letterboxes and numerals.

The extended glazing range makes it even easier for homeowners to create doors with their desired look - from the classical to the contemporary and everything inbetween.

The new glazing available from Endurance® Doors include Ennis, which benefits from a modern, frosted appearance, Prism, which has a traditional leaded look, and Twilight, Jewel and Vignette, which offer the timeless appeal of ornamental, coloured glass.

Commenting on the launch of the new glazing options, Russell Hensman, group marketing manager at Endurance® Doors, said: “Exterior doors are an important investment because of their value, their longevity and their overall impact on the appearance of a property.

“Given this fact, we want to provide homeowners with the opportunity to create doors that are perfectly suited to their home, their vision and their tastes.

“The ongoing introduction of additional design options such as our new glazing helps to provide that opportunity and, when coupled with the premium quality and superior performance of our doors, ensures many years of lasting homeowner satisfaction.”

NEW TRAINING PARTNERSHIP FOR COMPOSITE DOOR FIRE TRAINING

Fire Door Maintenance (FDM) is delighted to announce that the Association for Composite Door Manufacturers (ACDM) has unanimously voted for FDM to be its training partner. The decision was made at ACDM’s recent AGM, and members will now form a training steering group to assist with future course materials to be released later this year.

FDM opened the doors to its purpose-built, 3,000ft² Training Academy in Bury, Greater Manchester early in 2024. The centre combines classroom and hands-on experience for installers, inspectors, specifiers, and fire

safety specialists and professionals.

Out of the current 22 different types of fire door and component rooms for hands on practical

training experience – there is a total of nine composite doors from various manufacturers.

FDM currently offers a specific composite door inspection course accredited by GQA.

Nicola John, FDM’s Managing Director, who has more than 20 years industry experience, commented: “FDM was set up to be a training centre by Industry for Industry and to date we have over 30 partners who have supplied products for the learners to get hands on experience whatever course they chose.

“Because of this, plus the space and scope we have at the training centre, we are able to run a

bespoke composite course where learners get to see first-hand how a composite door is engineered.

“It is important for inspectors, installers and maintainers to learn more about composite doors to keep them up to manufacturing and test standards when in the field.

“As part of the syllabus, we show test videos to show composite doors burning under test

conditions and we explore test evidence and fields of application in relation to past and present legislation.

“Training is centred around the legislation, composition, components and manufacturing of composite doors to give the learners increased knowledge.”

Find out more about FDM and its courses at www.fdmltd.co.uk.

UNITY DOORS BOLSTERS ITS COMPOSITE FIRE DOOR RANGE

Unity Doors has always been committed to bringing its customers more. Now the country’s leading manufacturer of composite fire doors has raised the bar even higher, with the introduction of composite fire doors with sidelights.

Available in all of their existing fire door styles and colours, and boasting all of the dependable, bi-directional and independent third party testing you’ve come to expect from this premier brand.

BLENDING STYLE & SUBSTANCE

In response to its clients demand for ‘more luminosity,’ Unity Doors has introduced new versatile options for its premium fire door collection.

Customers can choose from the following PVC framed glazed toplight/ sidelight/flag window combinations:

• Toplight

• Sidelight

• Flag window

• Toplight and sidelight

• Toplight and flag window

Unity Door’s new collection of solid core composite fire doors with sidelights blend reassuring fire safe features with an appealing modern aesthetic:

• THIRD PARTY TESTED

• UKCA MARKED FD30S SOLID TIMBER CORE COMPOSITE DOORSETS

• FD30 FLAT ENTRANCE DOORSETS

• TRIPLE CERTIFIED FOR FIRE, SMOKE & SECURITY

• PRIMARY TEST EVIDENCE

• GLAZED SIDELIGHTS, TOP LIGHTS OR FLAG WINDOWSFIRE-RATED GLASS

• ALWAYS DELIVERED AS COMPLETE DOORSET

• NATIONWIDE DELIVERYFROM 2 WEEKS SUPPLY & FIT AVAILABLE

• BI DIRECTIONAL EN1634-1 FIRE RESISTANCE & EN1634-3 SMOKE CONTROL

Liam Kelleher, Commercial Director, had this to say about the recent addition to Unity Doors composite fire door range.

“We’re really pleased to reveal this new addition to our composite fire door collection. As a company committed to innovation and pleasing our customers, Unity Doors constantly looks to new ways to evolve and excel.

“This launch is very much in response to market desire, our team is often asked whether we can produce composite fire doorsets with sidelights and now we can finally say ‘yes’, we can fulfil this offer.”

For enquiries email: enquiries@unitydoors.com, call 01531 822585 or visit: https://unitydoors.com/introducing-composite-fire-doors-with-sidelights/.

ABOUT UNITY DOORS

Unity Doors has been leading the composite door/fire door market for over 20 years and continues to be the fire door partner of choice for an extensive client base. (Housing associations, housing developers, local councils and contractors). Driven by innovation, the group is committed to expanding its certification and testing. Today the company is proud to offer a stylish range of both composite doors and solid core composite fire doorsets, which combine the highest fire safety standards and contemporary design. Now with the addition of composite fire doors with sidelights, Unity Doors is in an even stronger position with its premium quality fire door range, and ready to offer more choice to its customers. All third party tested and backed by excellent customer support and a comprehensive supply and fit service. (BM Trada Q Mark certified).

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT

The composite residential door market has exploded in recent years. So how do you choose a product that stands out from the rest? Danny Williams believes he’s found the answer…

With composite residential doors now available from so many suppliers and offered at price points from a few hundred to many thousands of pounds, essentially as a high-quality replacement for the private home improvement sector, it’s perhaps a stretch to remember that the product was introduced into the UK 30 years ago as a cheap and cheerful solution for social housing. And whilst it may be difficult to recall when and where it shifted from a low cost, cheap-as-chips front door for council flats to the up market, high quality, stylish, security and energy efficient appendage that it is today, that is how composite doors began life in the UK.

Of course, all of the benefits of low maintenance, high thermal performance and durability remain as true now as when they were introduced. But today’s offerings, even at lower price points, are significantly improved in terms of finish, and thermal and security performance compared to those early panels. But the benefits

compared to timber and the ubiquitous PVC-U moulded door are emphatic.

A further change has taken place in the market as resi doors have moved from being a freebie add on to become a valuable

market in their own right. As products have moved upmarket, a couple of thousand pounds at the lower end is still a decent half-day’s earner. Move further up the scale and the installation of some of the high-end brands can draw an investment that can put most whole-house window installations in the shadow.

Composite doors are big business. But as the market has expanded, so has the number of brands. However, the differentials are limited, with the majority offered with GRP or PVC-U skins, over a timber or polyurethane core. Finish, hardware and furniture options abound. But the door construction remains essentially the same, limited to a couple of fundamental options.

What do you do to differentiate your offer, from everyone else’s? That was precisely the problem faced by Danny Williams, MD of Chelmsford-based trade fabricator and commercial installer Pioneer Trading, who had been feeling completely underwhelmed not only by the product offer, but the lack of service provided by the primary composite door suppliers. Danny looked for alternatives and, through research and serendipity, came across Gerda Doors.

“The more I looked into the product and the company, the more I realised that this was the door that was going to fill that much needed gap in the market,” commented Danny. “Set up in 1987, the company itself has been around as long as I have in the industry. More importantly, the product

spec ticks all the right boxes, and more. Its thermal performance has been developed for the bitter east European winters [Gerda is located in Poland], offering thermal transmittance as low as 0.74 W/m2K on solid doors, and 0.81W/m2K on the glazed versions.”

Crucially however, anyone handling a Gerda door for the first time, knows there is something different about it, explains Danny: “The door facings are steel or aluminium and every door is engineered to a standard that is far higher than the vast majority of existing composite doors in the UK, using aluminium sub-frames and hardware that is usually only available as an extra on other products.”

For example, the class leading Altus door boasts an 88mm depth, three chamber reinforced aluminium internal construction with PU cores, with FUHR multi point security lock and hardware located into reinforced aluminium outer frames. Such features are typical across the range. Additionally of course, Gerda doors are PAS24 compliant and SBD Accredited.

It is the sheer heft and feel of the doors that is immediately reassuring and therefore makes Gerda doors perfect for showrooms, says Danny: “Our retail customers tell us that when homeowners browse the difference becomes immediate. Because the Gerda door is so superior, the upsell is relatively easy with the majority of customers willing to spend more on the Gerda door…they can’t go back after that.”

However, Danny’s dissatisfaction with the composite door sector wasn’t limited to mediocre products: “We support every one of our Gerda Approved Retailers with sales leads, marketing support that includes extensive social media and crucially, bearing in mind my experience, logistical support that means we are transparent and proactive with our customers,” he says.

The beauty of Gerda doors is more than skin deep, says Danny: “We became involved with Gerda – which is one of the best-known brands of security products in Europe – because we needed a door that stood out from the rest, for our own needs. This is the best range of entrance doors I have ever seen.”

Tel: 01245 362236

www.gerdadoors.co.uk

Danny Williams

GOING BEYOND THE ‘ME TOO’ BRIGADE

Apeer’s CEO Asa McGillian clearly lays out the company’s commitment to offering only the best in terms of product quality and marketing support.

There is a plethora of choices for installers when it comes to choosing a brand of door to favour. Once you get beyond the constraints of a householder’s budget, what are the key factors that drive that selection process. Understanding the combination of factors will not only help you make more sales, but will also ensure that, as an installer, you are also making the most beneficial business decision for profitability and productivity.

Where does the wrong choice of door lead you? It could leave you with expensive remedial costs that dig into your time and reputation, and ultimately your profit margins. It could leave you with a string of claims on so called compliant products that actually barely touch the requirements of industry standards such as ISO and FHS. It could leave you floundering around for quality sales leads while your competitors are hoovering up order after order.

Apeer’s ultimate checklist for composite door specification is below. What is important to remember is that behind every criterion there must be a tangible foundation evidenced by the supplier –a foundation that underlines the door supplier’s commitment to working in partnership with its dealers. Too often

Apeer has come up against the smoke and mirrors of fraudulent claims, particularly around the thermal performance of under performing doors. As a result, it wants to clearly set out the concrete elements that should exist to make a good composite door brand the greatest of all.

CHECKLIST 1: INDEPENDENTLY ACCREDITED THERMAL PERFORMANCE

It has become increasingly apparent that there is an increase in false claims of thermal performance made by a number of different door brands. Beware the wording behind these claims. Apeer urges installers not to take any claim at face value, as certification can be easily manufactured. Check and double check the paperwork associated with any such claims. Often accreditation for one product will be stretched across an entire range. Check and double check, ask your manufacturer for third party accreditation for ALL styles and specs. If your supplier claims to have a DSER value from BFRC, go onto the BFRC website and check this covers the styles that you are selling.

Remember, all replacement doors must meet the regulated minimum U-value of 1.4 W/m²K and 1.0 W/m2K for New Build.

Our Apeer 70mm door range has all the independent certification and verification you need.

CHECKLIST 2: INVESTMENT IN ADDITIONAL WARRANTIES

Warranties exist to give every one in the chain peace of mind. They engender

confidence in the product, and in the supplier. To this end, the more reassurance you can offer your own homeowner clients, the more secure they will feel in committing an order to you.

Apeer’s 10-year anti-bow warranty, and its 10-year paint warranty are instrumental in allowing installers to enter negotiations with confidence, increasing their chance of securing the deal and improving overall conversion rates.

CHECKLIST 3: ABOVE STANDARD MARKETING SUPPORT

In today’s climate you need more than a few marketing brochures and a pretty certificate to hang on the wall. Having the full force of a nationwide marketing strategy behind you every single day will give an installation company the clout, the motivation and tools to compete in a crowded market with confidence.

Partnership is the foundation of all Apeer’s marketing activities, and this is reflected in its ApeerXclusive Partnership Programme, designed specifically to win the attention of homeowner’s, to secure leads, and then to convert them into sales. The end goal of every aspect of the Programme is to improve the chances of Apeer partners securing every order they quote. When accepted into the programme, installers will have access to a market leading combination of outstanding products, backed by highly competitive pricing, guaranteed geographical exclusivity, a privileged pricing policy, and a full package of showroom materials to elevate

Asa McGillian

“Remember, all replacement doors must meet the regulated minimum U-value of 1.4 W/m²K and 1.0 W/m2K for New Build. Our Apeer 70mm door range has all the independent certification and verification you need.”

how they showcase the doors. During the course of the year, there are promotions such as free accessory upgrades, and seasonal savings on a quarterly basis.

CHECKLIST 4: CUSTOMER SERVICES AND EASE OF ORDERING

Online portals are not new to the door market, but how many door installers really use them on a day to day basis? The quality of the portal is crucial to it becoming a viable business tool, which is why Apeer’s dedicated technical team spent eight intensive months creating a Customer Services portal system which precisely matched the requirements of its installer network.

When logged into the new portal, Apeer’s installers can create an aftersales query ‘ticket’ and can easily check on its progress. They also have direct access to product technical information and documentation, detailed care, fitting & warranty guides, plus additional FAQs and valuable marketing materials. Coupled with Apeer’s dedicated Doorbuilder ordering software this greatly improves overall efficiencies between Apeer and its installer network, and consequently between the installers and their own customers.

Ultimately, any successful business relationship is built on trust and transparency. It is Apeer’s aim to ensure its network of partners and dealers share a common aim of only installing the best. visit www.apeer.co.uk

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: DEAN BRADLEY

THE FUTURE HOMES STANDARD, REGULATION AND COMPLIANCE

A pretty dry set of subjects, you may well think, but Dean Bradley, Glazpart’s Sales Director, keeps his eye on developments and shares his knowledge with Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion.

Dean, it always seems that I use you as my information provider on the Future Homes Standard and all things regulatory, and it’s no different this time! Where are we with the Future Homes Standard and is it definitely being implemented in 2025 or are there still consultations to go through?

The consultations have now closed and, according to the previous Government's information at that time, the Future Homes Standard and subsequent changes to Building Regulations is to be implemented in 2025.

The new Government has been in position for a few months and no information has been released to the contrary. If they were to delay or change anything at this stage (the initial FHS consultation was in 2019) then it's safe to say it would be surprising. The FHS will I believe be implemented in 2025 but will probably have an extended 18-month transition period as house builders cannot change planning consents quickly or build a site to two different standards, easily.

Is the FHS still mostly aimed at new build and to extensions to existing homes?

Yes, the FHS impacts new build only and non-domestic buildings. There are likely to be a few exemptions for some regulations existing buildings, such as historic buildings.

The new Government has revealed their target for the UK is to build 300,000 new homes per year over the next five years. Aside from the regulatory side, that target is ambitious and there are many challenges to overcome to achieve that level of house building in the UK. Not least, the issue of finding skilled labour. Since the pandemic, over 300,000 tradespeople are retiring per annum and aren’t being replaced at the same rate. By 2026 it will probably be 400,000 per annum as an inevitable backlog of work builds.

How does the homeowner know if the FHS standards applies to their project or do they simply rely on the installer informing them at the point of sale?

Any credible builder or installer should always make the homeowner aware of regulations, legislation and the

Dean Bradley

requirements to comply with the regulations. Homeowners can double check: the legal requirements/regulations are published and any changes or new standards will be published on Government and Local Authority (Building Control or Planning Departments) websites. If you are the first owner of a new build property then the compliance should be automatic from when the build started or, in some cases, when the footings were laid!

Do you know of plans to make the wider public aware of the requirements?

The Government issues press releases on any news or changes to the mainstream media. How the mainstream media headline it, or cover it, will be entirely their call. I don't expect the Future Homes Standard to be front page news as its impact will be confined pretty much to new build, but you never know. The media might wave the flag of environmental improvements, reduction of heating bills especially with the cost of fuel still high for a program that pre-dates the election.

As a synopsis, is the below a correct statement as to what the FHS is all about or is this too much of a simplification?

• All new buildings to be constructed to be highly energy efficient

• Building work in existing buildings must meet new standards

• Measures to tackle overheating in new residential buildings It is an oversimplification as there are many nuances in the detail.

I don’t think anyone can challenge the need to ‘build right: build tight’. The overall gist of the standard is to address improving energy efficiency and to make sure homes are

more habitable and safer. The outcome of the Grenfell enquiry in September will likely be a testament to that , with focus on overheating, proper controlled ventilation and secure glazing. To date, Document O on overheating doesn’t extend beyond the M25 and certain Manchester postcodes but has the potential to either reduce the number of, or the standard size of windows, or mitigating technologies in new build.

With the need to provide adequate ventilation within homes, Glazpart is at the forefront of this with the trickle vent and, in particular, the Link Vent. How have you altered your products to adhere to requirements while making them an attractive option for the homeowner?

Our Link Vent product was launched in 2013 and has been very well received by homeowners and even fabricators no matter what type (wood, UPVC or aluminium) of window or door is being installed. It's easy to control the air flow due to its clever design so the air flow can be directed away from occupants plus the range of colours and finishes we offer, make the Link Vent very attractive as the product blends in perfectly with the window or door.

In June 2022, in time for the amendments to Approved Document F (means of ventilation) we launched the Link Vent 4000 (an addition to 2500 and 5000 in the range). The Link Vent 4000 allows homeowners to ventilate the smaller habitable rooms in their homes such as kitchens and bathrooms, and most importantly it meets the requirements to comply with the regulations.

Are you, effectively, working with all the systems companies with your trickle vent products?

We are constantly listening to feedback from across the industry at all levels, which includes system houses, to ensure our products are easily fitted as the market evolves.

Can we talk about industry compliance?

Compliance is essential on thermal performance, safety glazing, means of escape and, of course, ventilation to meet building regulations. How is this compliance achieved and verified and can noncompliant products be fitted in spite of regulation?

My question is based on whether the homeowner knows what the regulations are and whether they can be duped through lack of knowledge?

Compliance is fundamentally easy, but never simple! The choice for the fabricators is to decide whether to make a

compliant product or not. Unfortunately, there are still some manufacturers who are comfortable putting the cheapest product on the market because it perhaps “looks right”! These kind of companies seem to believe a race to the bottom is necessary even important! It’s the white gold mentality when it should be all about delivering quality for the customer – many of whom are ignorant when it comes to judging quality.

Most homeowners only buy windows once or maybe twice in their lifetime, so they should question prices if they are very inexpensive. It is often the case of; if it’s too good to be true. It usually isn’t true.

In your experience how well educated are the public when it comes to regulations, and could more be done to ensure there is more public awareness?

Like any public awareness and understanding of legislation, it could always be better, but then I have faith that some in our industry will explain to homeowners and do the right thing, which means paying the right price for a quality product.

Triple glazing has been a talking point for some years but how prevalent is it now? Have you an idea as to the percentage of windows being fitted actually having triple glazing?

The general figures for triple glazing show that it is around 1-2% of the overall market. That will inevitably increase as new build continues to use triple glazing as the emerging standard for all windows and doors.

GLASS

Driven by the new ‘as built’ calculation methods required under the FHS for new build, we will see standardisation of triple glazing where there is a mix of double and triple on the same property.

The triple glazing trend will likely increase because, as the contractors try to achieve 1.2 U value (as will be regulation for new build under the FHS). If they don’t use triple glazing in new build but still have to achieve 1.2 U value, then it is likely we’ll see fewer windows and / or a reduction in standard window size – especially if the regulations around Approved Document (overheating) are applied as per the FHS.

There are fabricators that automatically fit triple glazed IGUs and have done for some time. Is this a trend that will become the norm?

It could become the norm but there are many challenges to overcome. Firstly, there's the weight issue around fittings and fixings. Then there's the warranties - will 10 years be too much? Many homes already have great double glazing that will last a lifetime. My feeling is that there will always be a market for both double and triple glazing and these generally being application dependant. The homeowner’s buying decision on triple glazing certainly won’t be on payback.

Is triple glazing more about energy efficiency or noise reduction?

More about energy efficiency hence the inclusion in Future Homes Standard. Unfortunately, triple glazing has become, and will continue to be, about marketing on the presumption of energy efficiency , i.e. three panes are better

than two. Even though high spec double glazing can be just as energy efficient.

After triple glazing, what is the next step, are there coatings that can improve efficiency or gases that can replace argon, or is argon-filled triple glazing the end point?

We live in a temperate climate though from time to time we experience extremes at both ends of the scale, mostly rain recently. The more you design your products for either end of that scale the worse you make the other end. Document O will reduce overheating from windows and doors but what will the same products deliver in the height of a bad winter?

There are coatings (and window film) that can prevent overheating and improve efficiency; however, the goal will be to meet the requirements and not just add on or change for change's sake. Vacuum Glass is another option that may become more popular as possible volume increases reduce its cost.

I believe crypton is more efficient than argon for filling IGUs. Is that likely to be adopted or is price prohibitive?

The man in the middle will, I feel, be driven by cost and practicality!

Thanks Dean. You always appear to have your ear to the ground on these issues and its good to get your take on the progress of the Future Homes Standard and general compliance and regulation.

DEKKO SUPPORTS INSTALLER PARTNER WITH FULL KUBU INTEGRATION

Leading trade supplier Dekko Window Systems has collaborated with longstanding installer partner Droylsden Glass to incorporate smart lock technology from Kubu across their full product range.

The integration allows Droylsden to provide homeowners throughout Greater Manchester an innovative security solution with remote monitoring capabilities.

Kubu’s intelligent locking system features sensors that can be seamlessly installed into any window or door product during the manufacturing process. The sensors connect to a smartphone app, enabling homeowners to check the status and locking position of their windows and doors anytime, anywhere for ultimate peace of mind.

Dekko Sales Director Kurt Greatrex comments: “As a supplier committed to driving growth for our trade customers, we take pride in supporting them with forward-thinking solutions that create new business opportunities. When Droylsden Glass expressed interest in offering Kubu smart lock technology, we were ready to leverage our expertise to make that a reality.”

Dekko worked closely with the Droylsden team to integrate the smart lock sensors into their manufacturing processes for

uPVC and aluminium window and door products. This seamless integration ensures a secure fit while maintaining the high-end aesthetics of Droylsden’s products.

“Home security is an increasingly important consideration for homeowners, and smart technology offers a modern solution that delivers both security and convenience,” Kurt added. “We’re pleased to have helped facilitate this exciting new offering that will allow Droylsden Glass to differentiate themselves and capture more value in the Greater Manchester market.”

Kevin Thackeray, Managing Director at Droylsden Glass, expressed his appreciation for Dekko’s support and collaboration: “Providing our customers with the latest product innovations is essential in our competitive market. Dekko’s product expertise and commitment to our success made the Kubu integration seamless. We look forward to a continued partnership driving growth through quality and innovation.”

Visit www.dekkowindows.com and www.droylsdenglass.co.uk.

VBH INTRODUCES AFTERCARE PRODUCTS

VBH, the hardware specialist behind the greenteQ brand, has introduced two new products to expand its aftercare range.

The greenteQ Cleaning and Care Kit contains the basic products that are required to keep windows and doors in pristine decorative and working condition.

Supplied in a sturdy recyclable box, the kit includes a non-abrasive cleaner and cloth that provide streak-free cleaning of PVCu, aluminium and painted timber frames. The cleaner is PH-neutral, so can also be used to clean window and door furniture without damaging the decorative finish.

There is a bottle of fitting oil to lubricate the moving parts of the hardware, although VBH are at pains to point out that this should not be used to lubricate profile cylinders. Also included is a seal care solution to keep the gaskets soft and flexible to provide perfect weather sealing and closing action long into the future and, finally, the kit contains user instructions.

VBH has also recently introduced its greenteQ Dry Lube, which has been specially formulated for the internal workings of all profile cylinders and other locks, including padlocks.

VBH advise that the ‘Lube’ penetrates deep into the cylinder’s barrel to clean, lubricate, and protect, by breaking down deposits deep inside the lock to ensure ‘perfect operation’.

Dry Lube displaces moisture and can free up rusted and frozen locks. Once applied, it forms a barrier that protects against the formation of dirt, dust and rust deposits that can cause stiff operation and, on occasion, jammed cylinders.

Dan Powell, Head of Brand at VBH says, “Even the best windows, doors and hardware will not operate at their optimum forever, without proper care and maintenance.

“Some consumers still labour under the misapprehension that windows and doors are maintenance-free, while others try to do the right thing but with the wrong cleaner or lubricant. Getting that wrong will always do more damage than good.

“We at VBH want to ensure the end user understands why they should maintain their frames, furniture and locks, and why it is important to use the correct products. We now inform those homeowners who have registered for any of our direct guarantees about the ‘hows and whys’ of maintenance, and which products to use.”

Contact VBH on 01634 263300 or by email at info@vbhgb.com.

SUPPLY CHAIN STABILITY WITH CARL F GROUPCO

Supply chain stability is vital for every business, and it is something Carl F Groupco more than delivers.

Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco, explains: “The company was founded in the 1950s, demonstrating our longevity and stability, but our strength stretches far beyond just the years we have been established. It extends to every part of our operation and adds real value to our offer to customers.”

The Carl F Groupco team has great stability. Twenty-three employees have worked for the company for more than 10 years, the longest-serving member has been with the business for 40 years. This great depth of knowledge and experience creates a collaborative approach, that customers tap into and enjoy.

Julie Warner, Roto Product Manager and Pamela Wilson, Regional Sales Manager for Scotland, have over 60 years of industry experience between them and have worked together at Carl F Groupco since 2001. Julie says: “We have not looked back since we first joined forces over 20 years ago! We strive to make everyone aware of Carl F Groupco as

a business that has stood the test of time and between us, we have built strong longstanding customer relationships.”

As the market evolves, Carl F Groupco remains ahead of the curve by continually adapting and innovating. “The company has always recognised that staying relevant in a

dynamic industry requires more than just experience” says Julie, “it requires a proactive approach to anticipating and meeting the changing needs of customers. This forwardthinking ensures we continue to set the standard for excellence in the hardware sector.”

Supplier relationships are similarly strong, bringing further value. For many years Carl F Groupco has partnered with Roto and is one of the UK’s largest stockists of Roto hardware. The strength and stability of this relationship gives Carl F Groupco the opportunity to collaborate on product development, helping to give UK fabricators and installers the hardware features they need.

Steadfast staff and suppliers lead directly to customer loyalty. Six of the company’s top ten fabricator customers have been sourcing from Carl F Groupco for over 20 years. In a world where shopping around is second nature, this speaks volumes about the company and what it offers.

Owen concludes: “In a market where uncertainty often prevails, our stability makes Carl F Groupco the reliable choice of hardware partner.”

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

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

CLASSIC FAB&FIX DOOR HINGE DESIGNED FOR FAST FIT FABRICATION

We understand that every second counts, which is why the Fab&Fix Classic PVCu door hinge from ERA offers manufacturers even faster fabrication. Fully assembled, and fast to fit, it’s a hinge you can forget about.

For the installer, easy onsite adjustment with instructions to hand enables straightforward installation and as its tested to the latest PAS 24: 2022 security standards, you can have a simple, discreet hinge that really delivers.

For all major PVCu door profiles, the Fab&Fix Classic hinge is a fully adjustable 3D hinge designed with installation in mind. Each hinge has the adjustment detail on the flag of the hinge, providing flexibility and easy access during the installation process.

This latest addition to the Fab&Fix range has been tested to over 300,000 cycles for durability and with a fast fix jig available to support the fabrication process, it is both simple to fit and reliable.

With a discreet, slim aesthetic and a double knuckle feature, the Classic hinge looks great on any style of PVCu door. Available in a choice of traditional and contemporary

“The Classic hinge can also be colour matched to a range of RAL numbers.”

finishes as part of the perfectly matching range of suited door and window hardware from Fab&Fix. To create a

beautiful aesthetic that suites with over 200 products from the Fab&Fix range.

The Classic hinge can also be colour matched to a range of RAL numbers, which means that manufacturers can provide their customers with a wide range of options to suit their individual preferences and style.

The specifically designed hooked flag wraps around the body to protect the flag when under attack, protecting the body screw and hinge from access. For added assurance, the Classic Fab&Fix PVCu hinge comes with a 10 year mechanical guarantee and with Secured By Design (SBD) accreditation, the hinge joins a wide range of ERA products recognised to deter and reduce crime under the Police Preferred Specification scheme, offering peace of mind to manufacturers and end-users.

Sarah Knight, Technical Product Manager at ERA, said: “From our customer research we understand that every second counts, so with that in mind, our Fab&Fix Classic hinge offers even faster fabrication. Fully assembled, fast to fit and with sustainable line side bulk packaging, it is a stylish PAS 24 hinge you can fit and forget. Suited to a comprehensive range of door and window furniture that has been shaping homes for over 30 years.”

For more information on the Classic Fab&Fix PVCu hinge, visit: https://www.eraeverywhere.com/door-security/classic-pvcu-door-hinge/

Fast | Fit | Fabrication

Classic PVCu Door Hinge

A simple fast t PAS compliant hinge that o ers maximum 3D onsite adjustment

Discreet, slim aesthetic with double knuckle feature

Ease and speed of tting

Meet the requirements of PAS 24: 2022 security standards for doors

FORGET HAVING TO MAKE ADJUSTMENTS: THE NEW BS 3700 AUTOMATIC MULTI-POINT LOCKING SYSTEM FROM SIEGENIA

This completely new solution from SIEGENIA offers fabricators tangible added value: the BS 3700 automatic multipoint locking system for doors made from all types of material.

One truly unique feature of the innovative multi-point locking system is its integrated self-adjustment mechanism with locking elements and hook bolts. The intelligent design of the elements and the matching frame parts means that, within the functional dimensions of the door, tedious readjustment on site – due to critical installation locations or thermal influences, for example – will no longer be necessary at any point in the door’s life cycle. That saves door manufacturers a considerable amount of time and money.

The principle of the BS 3700 automatic multi-point locking system is as simple as it is effective: when the bolt-shaped locking elements come to a standstill before even reaching the end position – for example because of tolerances when they go into the frame part – they are locked by a backwards pressure protection device. This holds the door leaf in position and ensures that it is securely locked. The automatic 20 mm projection of the hook bolt and main lock bolt also ensures a high level of security with a backset of as little as 35 mm. In addition to the three locking points, the

option of activating the child-proof lock also provides peace of mind. It is enabled using the cylinder lock and prevents the lever handle from moving. The door also opens effortlessly and smoothly, because the low-friction material combinations used in the BS 3700 automatic multi-point locking system are designed for maximum ease of use. This can be further optimised if required by installing an A-opener that opens the door electromechanically.

FREELY CONFIGURABLE OPTIONS FOR END USERS

The new BS 3700 automatic multi-point locking system also boasts outstanding flexibility. All upgrades can be used in any combination, allowing fabricators to configure the multi-point locking system as required to meet the needs of end users – from the optional A-opener or the safety lock to the extension pieces for doors up to 3 metres in height. The TA daytime release

also offers additional design freedom and is suitable for retrofitting, too.

EASY FABRICATION –EFFICIENT RETROFITTING

Door manufacturers benefit from the sophisticated production and installation features of the BS 3700 automatic multipoint locking system. For example, the DIN direction can be changed quickly and easily, simply using the main lock latch. Replacing previously installed keyoperated and automatic multi-point locking systems (AS2xxx, BS2xxx or AS3xxx) is also straightforward. Besides replacing the existing multi-point locking system with the new BS 3700, it just involves removing the Q-adjustments in the frame parts and replacing them with F-backings.

For more information contact SIEGENIA on 024 7662 2000 or at

BS 3700: the first self-adjusting automatic multi-point locking system.

Uninterrupted security, ease of use and minimal maintenance: the BS 3700 combines all of this – and it does it all completely automatically. The first automatic multi-point locking system with integrated self-adjustment, it makes sure your door opens perfectly and locks reliably every time. Its intelligent design and matching frame parts eliminate the need for on-site readjustment – even after several years of heavy use of the door. An all-inclusive system with no service costs. www.siegenia.com • info-uk@siegenia.com

HURST ADDS TWO NEW STYLES TO ITS STABLE DOOR RANGE

Hurst has added two more styles to its composite Stable Door collection in response to the recent increased demand, helping customers make the most of this exciting market sector.

“Stable doors became a surprise hit following the Covid pandemic when homeowners took a greater interest in the style and aesthetics of their properties,” Hurst’s Sales Director Mark Atkinson said.

“Homeowners who invested in modern, stylish, and functional doors, which also enhanced their property’s value, turned to Stable Doors because of their rustic charm and practical benefits.

“For example, they provide a barrier to pets and toddlers while allowing light and air to flow through. This became a popular requirement as more people spent time in their homes following Covid, and interestingly, this popularity hasn’t faded. By broadening our range, we are helping our customers tap into this demand.”

The two new styles are Rustic Stable SquareLite and SquareLite Georgian.

Often chosen for use as a back door or side door, the new Rustic Stable SquareLite features a larger glazed area to maximise natural light, while the SquareLite Georgian style has a classic touch thanks to a Georgian bar that divides the glazed area into four sections.

These new styles are available in over 1,600 RAL colours, with a variety of glass and hardware options – giving homeowners greater choice over their preferred rustic style – and they are available to order through Hurst Live, the company’s exclusive online portal.

“These new styles bring our stable door range up to six, which also includes the Rustic Stable Diamond, Small Rectangle, and Large Rectangle designs,” Mark said.

“We are seeing interest from both newbuilds and homeowners looking to upgrade their homes, and Hurst’s Stable Door range is a great way of meeting that need for rustic charm while ticking boxes for energy efficiency and security.

“We also provide our customers with all the tools they need to support them in providing their customers with the ultimate retail experience and guidance when choosing the perfect door for their

property. These include our new composite door brochure, which fully integrates with professionally created sales videos, and now our new augmented reality sales tool.”

For more information please visit www.hurstdoors.co.uk, email info@hurstdoors.co.uk or call 01482 790790.

MAKING THE FLIP TO A BETTER DOOR CASSETTE

DoorCo is excited to announce that FLiP has reached incredible widespread uptake, with an impressive 85% of distribution customers and a full 100% of prepped customers successfully transitioning to this revolutionary glazing cassette solution, making them the number one door glazing cassette supplier in the UK.

“Such high adoption rates are a testament to the trust and satisfaction our customers place in the FLiP system,” says DoorCo Head of Operations, Mark Towers.

“The innovative features of FLiP, such as the Foam In Place® technology where the system is always pre-foamed to save time and money during installation; the 3 different profiles, including two different Flat profiles; and the simple corner and connector system which performs exceptionally well when it comes to security and weatherability, are what makes FLiP a massive hit with our customers. FLiP is easy and fast

to install, looks great and is readily available to the whole market.

“As with all our products, FLiP is stocked and always ready for immediate dispatch, ensuring the supply chain remains seamless and uninterrupted. Distribution customers can get FLiP on next day delivery in a range of stock colours, including the Slate and Agate. For anything non-standard, FLiP can be painted to order in just days.

FLIP FOR ALL

“The FLiP system is designed for enhanced compatibility, fitting composite doors of multiple slab thicknesses including 44mm & 48mm. This broad range of compatibility makes FLiP the perfect choice for virtually all composite doors on the UK market, providing unrivalled versatility for all door suppliers and manufacturers.

ENHANCED DESIGN

“FLiP’s versatility is enhanced further by the expansive array of design options it delivers, elevating the aesthetic appeal and functionality of any composite door. The Flat Stipple and Flat Grained profiles available are outstanding for creating a more designer look that matches the door texture. It’s the only contemporary cassette on the market which combines ease of use and effortless style.

“Coming online soon are more new designs from FLiP, increasing the design options even further.

“Enhance your composite door portfolio by switching to FLiP. For both new and existing DoorCo customers, contact us to discover how FLiP can elevate your composite door portfolio. Call 01625 428955 or visit www.door-co.com/flip.”

BEING READY FOR THREATS BY NICK DUTTON, BRISANT SECURE PRIZE!

WIN £10 CASH PRIZE!!

Spot three differences. Fill in your answer and your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Christina Lazenby, Glass News Competitions, 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU or Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk. Entry deadline: 20/09/24. Name:

Most revisions to UK standards are minor events. Important of course, as all standards are, but not exactly major advances. And it’s not often the timing of an updated standard is accelerated in the public interest.

Yet this is what’s happened with TS007-1 and PAS 24.

The new standard is a security milestone, and it’s being prioritised because the industry needs to get ahead of the burglars before they start using new methods of attack.

The revised 3 star lock standard, which last week BSi confirmed will be published shortly, requires four new tools in addition to the list traditionally used to test the performance of locks. They expect PAS 24 changes to be published as early as September.

We welcome the BSi’s foresight. The body charged with looking after the UK’s security standards is doing everything the public expects, and we congratulate this. They consulted widely and acted quickly to set higher standards that will defeat the attacks. It’s particularly welcome, because in the past 30 years the industry has had to play catch up after lock picking, bumping, and snapping had developed into security pandemics. This

Experts in Hardware

time, door makers will be able to sell doors with kitemarked 3* cylinders future-proofed to meet the new threats.

At the time of writing, only cylinders using Brisant’s patented ALPS (Always Locked Protection System) technology have passed the new equivalent test with Sold Secure. We’re working on building ALPS into Ultion as a no-cost upgrade so that our customers get a seamless rolling transition well ahead of the 12-month transition period. The industry has a chance to avoid the next security pandemic. Door makers and installers have a head start on the burglars. This time, they can use 3* locks that will defeat the new threat.

23% OF INSTALLATION COMPANIES ‘PRICE ON THE NIGHT’

From conversations with over 570 installers software pioneers, Tommy Trinder, estimate that around 23% of businesses deliver a ‘price on the night’ to homeowners.

“Over 50% of all installers we’ve spoken to tell us they send off to suppliers for a price on every job,” explains Tommy founder and CEO Chris Brunsdon. “Whilst around 25% of businesses use various bits of manufacturing style software that enable them to get prices from their fabricators. The remainder have developed selling prices for their product range and price on the spot during the initial sales consultation.”

Meeting the needs of installer’s diverse ways of pricing has been a cornerstone in the development of the Tommy Trinder app:

“We’ve invested a big chunk of our product development in making sure we can make pricing easier for installers – however they choose to sell,” says Chris.

Installers can send pricing requests to multiple suppliers directly from the Tommy Trinder platform in a click which saves redrawing everything multiple times. Or, with Tommy’s pricing module, installers that want to sell on the night can pre-populate the app with price matrices for any PVCu, aluminium or timber product. Another popular choice amongst installers is to have Tommy pre-populate the app with industry selling averages. Chris explains: “Many installers want the efficiency of being able to price live, but dread the hassle of set up.

Our ready-priced options come loaded with 'going rates' for a whole bunch of products, based on an analysis of thousands of price points. It’s easy for installers to tune prices up and down to get the margin spot on. It’s a no brainer for firms that want to hit the ground running.”

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

MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS THAT DON’T BREAK THE BANK

With window and door sales still lagging, there may be reluctance to invest heavily in new machinery. Don’t worry, says Adam Jones of Jade Engineering, who says they have a couple of bits of kit that will solve a couple of sticky frame-making problems for remarkably little money.

It is quite certain that, even with a couple of months to go 2024 will not go down as the most exciting sales year in the history of the replacement window industry. The consensus seems to be that across the year, sales have been down by between 20 to 25%, leaving little if any margin left, even for reinvestment.

But whilst most fabricators are bumping along and barely making ends meet, windows and doors still have to be made as quickly and efficiently as possible and although the need for the new singing and dancing CNC was established months ago, of necessity it might have to wait for sales to pick up again…

Adam Jones is the head of engineering at tooling and machinery manufacturer Jade Engineering, including the firm’s burgeoning problem-solving division Jade Consult. The Coventry-based firm, which he co-owns with Sean Mackey, not only supplies the tooling by which most of the UK’s replacement window and door frames are produced, but also designs and engineers those specialised, single-function, somewhat unsexy green machines that stand between the big, expensive CNC lumps that dominate frame production factories everywhere. But most fabricators will have at least one of Jade’s little standalones with their compact footprints, because they do the stuff that the big sexy kit can’t do, the production bottleneck unblockers if you like: the millers and cutters and saws and crimpers and, well, everything that simply keeps everything flowing nicely.

In that vein, Adam says they are rather proud of another machine they have turned their attention to, following increasing requests from PVC-U frame-maker customers….

Enter the somewhat unsexily-tagged ‘Jade JBC2’, which was developed to replace the ubiquitous Don Carlos knife by automating

“We enjoy responding to challenges from our customers to resolve manufacturing issues that they encounter with their own systems and products.”

that most irritating cause of bottlenecks, the cleaning of reverse butt welds. The JBC2 mechanises – and therefore dramatically improves the efficiency and quality of – a process that until Adam and his team turned their attention to it, could only be completed by a skilled operative with a moon knife; with all of the potential for failure that reliance upon a hand tool in a manufacturing environment implies. Produced at Jade Engineering’s Coventry manufacturing facility the JBC2 will effectively, safely and accurately clean the welds of an internally glazed frame, over and over, with no chance of error or, crucially, the requirement for first aid for tired and bored operators.

“This type of weld has always been carried out by hand, despite the popularity of this type of window,” explained Adam. “A number of our customers asked if we could do anything that could improve the process from the point of view of efficiency and quality, so we put the problem into the melting pot that drives Jade Consult. And whilst this division increasingly designs and fulfils full production lines, we love a challenge,” grinned Adam. And apparently it works, very effectively, eradicating the potential for damaged frames and consequent remakes, plus hospital visits for the careless operator. And all for around £7,000 plus VAT.

“We enjoy responding to challenges from our customers to resolve manufacturing issues that they encounter with their own systems and products,” explained Adam.

“And because we have an overview of every PVC-U and aluminium window and door system and every brand and type of machine through our tooling development and supply division, we are able to step back and pool all of our knowledge into designing and developing solutions that are simple, effective and usually, inexpensive.

“And now and again we develop something that works for everyone, such as the reverse butt weld cleaner; we’ve have already shipped several of these, and we have several enquiries. I must admit that I do enjoy seeing our kit nestling in between the big CNCs up and down the country,” concludes Adam.

www.jade-eng.co.uk

Adam Jones

welding technology that delivers a perfect seamless weld every time

As the UK’s exclusive supply partner of Graf Synergy machines, Haffner delivers the seamless weld machine innovation to take your business to the next level.

• Superior transom welding quality

• V-Perfect ® transom welding technology

• Weld seam elimination

• Suitable for both V Joints and Butt Joints

• Precision accuracy - delivering a perfect weld every time

• Faster, automated fabrication

Discover more of the benefits of Graf Synergy machines from Haffner

WINNER

BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING INDEX

Q2 MERCHANT VALUE SALES DOWN -5.8% ON Q2 2023. JUNE VOLUMES WEAK

The latest total value sales from the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) reveals that in Q2 2024 value sales were down -5.8% compared to Q2 2023, with volume down -7.2% and prices up +1.5%. With two extra trading days this year, like-forlike sales (which take the number of trading days into account) were -8.8% lower.

Half of the twelve categories sold more in Q2 2024, with Workwear & Safetywear up +15.6%, but the two largest categories - Timber & Joinery Products (-7.4%) and Heavy Building

Materials (-8.4%) – were both down more than total merchants.

QUARTER-ONQUARTER

Total value sales for Q2 2024 were up +9.5% compared to Q1. Volume sales were +13.8% higher while prices were -3.8% lower. With one less trading day in the most recent period, like-forlike sales were +11.2% up quarter-on-quarter.

JUNE

SALES YEARON-YEAR

Total Builders Merchants value sales for June

2024 were down -14.7% compared to the same month in 2023. Volume sales were down -16.9% and prices were up +2.7%. With two less trading days in June this year, like-forlike sales were -6.2% lower. Sales of the three largest categories - Timber & Joinery Products (-15.5%), Landscaping (-16.4%) and Heavy Building Materials (-17.2%) – fell more than total merchants.

LAST 12 MONTHS

Total Merchants sales in the 12 months from July 2023 to June 2024 were -6.1% lower than the same

Mike

Rigby, MRA Research

12-month period a year earlier. Volume sales fell -10.0% while prices rose +4.4%. Five of the twelve categories sold more.

Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA Research who produce this report, said: “Despite gloomy Q2 headline year-on-year value sales, other reports show the economy and construction recovering. It’s just that the pipeline of recovering demand hasn’t yet reached builders’ merchants.

“S&P’s Global Market Intelligence reports July growth in UK construction at its highest level in more than two years against a backdrop of expectation that Labour’s shake-up of planning laws will boost activity.

“There was a one-point improvement in GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index in July to -13, up from -30 in July 2023, and a further seven-point improvement to -16 in GfK’s Major Purchase Index, up from -32 a year ago. Along with a two-point pickup to -8 in consumers’ Personal Finance Situation in the past 12 months the two measures should translate into an increase in home improvement projects.

“National House Building Council (NHBC) reports new home registrations up +34.0% and completions up +29.0% in Q2 compared to Q1, but new home registrations were still down an eye-watering -23.0% year-on-year.

“UK inflation was up less than expected, and the

Bank of England cut the rate by a quarter of one percent with another cut expected in November or earlier.

“It’s a turning point, but we’re not there yet.”

For the full report, Expert comments and Round Table Debates, visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

For the full report, Expert comments and Round Table Debates, visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel GfK’s Merchant Panel includes national, multi-regional and regional merchants such as Buildbase, Jewson, Travis Perkins, EH Smith, Gibbs & Dandy, MKM and Bradfords. GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data represents 88% 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. Set up 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.

With 30 years’ experience designing and manufacturing in the UK window and door sector our consultative service is grounded in practical commercial solutions with design ingenuity at its core. We innovate, troubleshoot and deliver practical solutions to complex machining challenges for some of the industries’ leading businesses. We make what you need, to make windows and doors. Problem? Solved. jade-eng.co.uk

YOUR LETTERS

OPEN LETTER

Dear Editor,

Labour is pressing ahead with its manifesto pledge to increase the annual housebuilding target, from 300,000 to 370,000 new homes. Ryan Johnson, Group Managing Director, Emplas, shares his thoughts on what it means for the window and door industry.

So, we’ve seen the script before. A new Government, new commitments to build more new build homes.

Labour has committed to bump the housebuilding target up to 370,000 homes a year from the pre-existing 300,000 new home target.

The reality is that this still falls short of the throughput of new homes to rebalance decades of under delivery.

It is, however, important, in the sense that it is underpinned by a commitment to shake-up the planning system - something which successive administrations of all political flavours have failed to deliver on in the past.

Under Labour’s plans local authorities will have to incorporate government-set targets into their long-term plans to allocate housing for development. If they don’t, and targets for new homes aren’t met, then councils will see their ability to turn down planning applications curbed.

The reality is that planning applications can get stuck in the planning system for years. It increases costs and delays delivery at a time when new homes are desperately needed.

It also promises to generate significant opportunities for windows and door companies. National housebuilders, the Barratts, Persimmons, the Taylor Wimpeys, the Redrows - they are only part of the solution.

Smaller housebuilders which up until now have delivered around 10% of the UK’s new homes have a far bigger part to play under a revised planning system.

There are thousands of smaller sites dotted around our towns, cities and villages. The infrastructure, the roads and other utility networks pre-exist.

Yet these smaller sites are often the ones that are hardest to get through planning because they also come with ‘neigbours’ - and ‘neigbours’ can very soon drift into nimbyism.

The reality is that none of us would by choice, want a new development at the end of our road, but we need to start to think differently.

Filling in undeveloped plots in and around the edges of urban and semi-urban areas is vital if we are to meet our housebuilding targets and rebalance the whole housing market.

This creates opportunities for the around 2500 smaller and regional housebuilders in the UK - and generates opportunities for window and door companies to partner with them.

The opportunities increased investment in new build are obvious, but it is also important for the window industry as a whole.

The majority of home improvements take place within the first 12-months after a house move. If the housing market is static because property prices are too high and out of reach because of under supply, recovery will be slower.

Building new homes and most importantly, affordable new homes, is consequently critical for our own industry in generating direct opportunities in new build but also driving them indirectly in retail, which remains the foundation for window and door sales as a whole.

Ryan Johnson Group Managing Director, Emplas

PST SHORTLISTED FOR SHEFFIELD AWARDS

The shortlist for the Sheffield Business Awards 2024 has been announced and Production Software Technology (PST) is thrilled to have been shortlisted for the Leading through Innovation Award in recognition of their groundbreaking vsHome AR application.

The Sheffield Business Awards celebrate and honour local organisations, initiatives and individuals who make a significant contribution to the Sheffield area. The vsHome AR app stands out for its innovation, integrating seamlessly with PST’s advanced sales and surveying software, vsHome. This combination creates a powerful platform for installers to present designs directly to their customers’ phones or tablets.

The vsHome AR app utilises augmented reality technology and offers three different viewing modes; tabletop, real scale or virtual reality. This gives customers an immersive experience and opportunity to explore their project in detail, make informed decisions and make any necessary adjustments, ultimately enhancing their confidence in the project.

The app provides a comprehensive tool for installers, enabling them to showcase a range of design options whilst streamlining collaboration between design teams and customers. This encourages quick feedback and adjustments, all within an engaging augmented reality environment.

Neil Travers, Managing Director of PST, said: “We are honoured to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. It reflects the dedication and hard work from our team in advancing our software solutions and we are eager to continue developing the app further.”

Winners of the Sheffield Business Awards 2024 will be announced on Thursday 17th October at The Octagon Centre, Sheffield.

Feel free to get in touch with your views on the industry, legislation, government, or even the newspaper.

Contact Chris: chris@glassnews.co.uk

CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION

NEW APPOINTMENTS

VEKA BOLSTERS SENIOR TEAM WITH DOUBLE APPOINTMENT

PVCu and trade extrusion leader VEKA recruits Head of Operational Excellence and Head of Finance to its senior team.

VEKA plc, one of the UK’s largest PVCu suppliers, has reinforced its leadership team with two experienced appointments.

Jodie Parkinson and Sam Ferguson have joined the business as Head of Finance and Head of Operational Excellence respectively.

The global fenestration leader, who’s UK subsidiary is one of Burnley’s top employers, recruited the two specialists as a part of its proactive 2024 growth strategy.

Lancashire-native Jodie has brought a wealth of experience gained through various senior financial positions, having worked in the finance since the age of 18. She joins VEKA from her previous role as Financial Controller at aluminium windows, doors and roofing manufacturer, AluFoldDirect.

VEKA’s appointment of Mohmed Namaji to Finance Director following his incumbent Graham Fitton’s retirement presented an opportunity for Jodie to join the market leader.

On her recruitment, Jodie said: “When the opportunity at VEKA came up, I knew it was one that I couldn’t let pass me by and it’s been fantastic so far. You can really see the ‘we act, we care’ in action and the quality standards are so high. It aligns perfectly with my own ethos.

“I’ve been around the business and met everyone which is key to what I am trying to achieve here. I want finance to be at the heart of everything we do and really align our department with the rest of the business; having meetings with all the different departments and having that company-wide dialogue is key to raising the profile of the Finance Team and the importance of interdepartmental connectivity. I’m looking forward to add further value to an already fantastic company.”

Sam, who was born in Burnley, has held a series of engineering management positions internationally, most

recently serving as Technical Director at industrial machinery manufacturer Hayward Tyler.

Sam’s recruitment demonstrated the company’s commitment to advancing industry growth and excellence.

VEKA headhunted the 37-year-old to drive operational performance alongside Operations Director Adam Burrows, in a role which involves responsibility for three engineering departments.

The appointment is a continuation of VEKA’s commitment to effective business planning and continuity, with Sam’s trajectory set to lead him to the future role of Engineering Director.

Sam said: “I’m very challenge driven and it was the ambitious nature of this role that was so attractive. The vision VEKA had for the role and the career progression align with my own aspirations, so it was a good fit.

“I’ve found it amazing. The reason I joined VEKA was that the team values people and are open to new ideas. Everyone has accepted my vision and have been given everything I need to succeed – that openness is very important for me.”

NEW APPOINTMENTS

DEKKO BOLSTERS SALES TEAM WITH APPOINTMENT OF NEW KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER

Leading uPVC and aluminium trade supplier Dekko Window Systems has strengthened its sales force with the appointment of a new Key Account Manager.

Lee Williams brings over 12 years of industry experience to his new role at Dekko, having previously served as Account Manager at Solidor and Head of Sales at Universal Trade Frames.

In his position at Dekko, Lee will be responsible for working closely with existing trade customers to provide exceptional sales support and service for the company’s extensive range of high-performance window and door products.

This includes Deceuninck and Residence Collection uPVC systems as well as aluminium solutions from Reynaers and Decalu.

“I’m thrilled to join the talented team at Dekko

NEW APPOINTMENTS

and have the opportunity to leverage my years of industry experience to benefit the company’s valued installer partners,” said Lee. “Dekko has cultivated an outstanding reputation for premium product quality and firstclass customer service. I look forward to further strengthening those relationships and ensuring our customers have the solutions and support they need to grow their businesses.”

As a key account manager, Lee will serve as the primary point of contact for Dekko’s customers, addressing any needs or concerns in a timely and effective manner to uphold the strong working relationships the company has built.

Sales Director Kurt Greatrex comments: “Lee’s appointment represents a valuable investment in our commitment to delivering

Lee Williams

the highest levels of customer care across every interaction. His extensive background in client-facing roles for respected industry names like Solidor and Universal Trade Frames makes him exceptionally well-suited for this critical position.

“At Dekko, our success is built on forging collaborative, trust-based partnerships with our customers. With his proven expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, we are confident Lee will play an integral role in consistently exceeding our clients’ expectations.”

www.dekkowindows.com

NEW AREA SALES MANAGER AT ALUK

Jason Greenwood has joined AluK as an Area Sales Manager for the Northern region, at possibly the most exciting time in the company’s recent history.

With a new senior leadership team in place headed up by Russell Yates, five new product launches already this year and more to come, and a renewed emphasis on tailored customer support, Jason says it was a very easy decision to come on board.

Jason has a 30-year track record in the window and door industry, starting out in installation, so he has valuable insight into what installers really value from their fabricators. He has also worked in both PVC-U and door sales so brings

broad market and technical knowledge to AluK, as well as great experience building relationships with customers.

After a few weeks in his new role, Jason is already feeling the buzz and positivity around AluK. He said: “The AluK brand remains as strong as ever, but what’s especially exciting for me

is the absolute focus now on supporting customers and doing all we can to add value to our partnerships with them.

“I’m already out and about meeting customers, talking to them about the new additions to the range such as the brand new S67 door and the game changing Quik Clip™ bead, and the ongoing improvements we’re making in lead times and sales and marketing support.

“I’m also hoping to make maximum use of the design studios in London and Chepstow as well and I’ll certainly be inviting fabricators and installers to visit and make the most of these amazing facilities.” More details at: https:// uk.aluk.com/

Jason Greenwood

Connaught

Structural

Quick

Professional

Free

Training

7

Fill

competition

your answer and your contact details below and send your competition entry to:

Christina Lazenby, Glass News Competitions, 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU or Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk.

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

Distribution

Improve is distributed as follows:

•

•

•

•

•

Summer 2024 Digital Edition will be in your inboxes by now! To book Autumn 2024 Digital –deadline date is 1st August. To book the Print Edition (out in September) – deadline date is 19th July. Digital or print, the choice is yours!

DISTRIBUTION

Improve is distributed as follows:

• 30,000

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!

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.

Facebook users per quarter

• We target homeowners/gardeners and people interested in DIY (age 27 - 65+)

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

FASTER, BETTER, STRONGER

“IN MY OPINION, EDGETECH LEADS THE WAY IN THE MARKET”

INVESTING IN AUTOMATION

After twenty years working with Edgetech, respected manufacturer Sternfenster have reinvested in a state-of-the-art automated spacer application line. “Super Spacer® delivers exceptional thermal performance, resulting in impressive U-values for our windows,” says Sternfenster Glass Production & Stores Manager Einars Kalva.

“This translates to significant energy savings for our customers and minimises the risk of condensation on the IGU. With the new application line, we’re able to manufacture exceptional units more quickly, efficiently and in higher volumes than before.”

WANT TO SUPERCHARGE YOUR IGU MANUFACTURING AND EMBRACE THE FUTURE OF FENESTRATION? SPEAK TO EDGETECH TODAY. T: 02476 995704 | E: ukenquiries@edgetechig.com | www.edgetechig.co.uk SEE WHY CUSTOMERS CHOOSE US SCAN HERE »

EINARS KALVA, STERNFENSTER