THE VIEWPOINT - All about opinions

PROFAB ACCESS INTRODUCES INDUSTRY FIRST FOR FIRE INTEGRITY AND INSTALLATION

Profab Access has launched a revolutionary certified frame system that sets a new standard for innovation, fire performance and functionality, making installation on site safer, faster and simpler. The only product of its kind currently available, the expertly engineered PRECISION adjustable frame completely transforms the installation process for construction professionals and streamlines the specification process for architects and specifiers.

This is achieved through the product’s unique construction, which enables the frame to be fully adjusted to meet the specific dimensions of each structural opening, not only ensuring the installation is fit for purpose by providing the highest standards in accuracy, but subsequently removing the requirement for plastic packers for a safer, faster and simpler installation process. The patent pending PRECISION adjustable frame is now supplied as standard with Profab Access’ high quality steel INTEGRA 4000 Series Fire Rated Riser Door. The PRECISION frame dramatically reduces fitting times and eliminates the risk of using non-compliant components throughout installation, which may not have been tested in conjunction with the riser door itself.

Factory applied intumescent strips to the outer frame also eliminate the need for additional intumescent mastic when installing the frame into a flexible or solid wall construction. Profab Access is the UK’s first manufacturer to have its concealed Riser Doors bi-directionally fire tested and certified by an accredited third party. The PRECISION adjustable frame has also been bi-directionally fire tested as an entire doorset with the INTEGRA 4000 Series Riser Door for up to 120 minutes, receiving the CERTIFIRE accreditation for installation in unlined shaft walls and solid wall construction.

This provides architects, specifiers and contractors with a completely certified solution, as both the frame and the riser door have been bi-directionally tested as a single doorset and are supplied with comprehensive documentation to evidence their performance credentials and adherence to all relevant regulations, including BS EN 1634-1:2014 +A1:2018. The PRECISION adjustable frame is constructed with an all-inone smoke, intumescent and acoustic FS1000 seal, eliminating the need for additional intumescent mastic when installing the frame into a flexible or solid wall construction.

This cost efficient and sustainable material contains no halogen compounds and will not emit toxic gas when heated, ensuring the safety of building occupants in the event of a fire. As an official Made in Britain member, Profab Access’ comprehensive portfolio of Riser Doors and Access Solutions are manufactured at its headquarters in Atherstone by its experienced team of design and engineering experts. www.profabaccess.com.

THERMALLY SEPARATED SOLUTION

As the focus on climate change continues to grow so does the need for net zero buildings and improving our carbon footprint. GEZE’s ECdrive T2 automatic sliding doors with a thermally broken profile system – the GCprofile Therm - offer a solution. The GCprofile Therm accommodates up to 32 mm glass thickness in either two-pane insulation glass with 2x ESG 6mm, UG value 1.0, or three-pane insulation glass with 3x ESG 4 mm, UG value 0.8. The profile system uses slim aluminium frames which reduce visible sightlines by approx. 30mm – giving designers greater ability to produce a clean design aesthetic while providing greater efficiency.

With increased performance for leaf weight of up to 140 kg, the GCprofile Therm also boasts improved air tightness (compared to other ISO profile systems), better sound insulation and improved wet weather durability aided by its fit and an optional floor guide with drainage. It can be combined with manual and motorised GEZE hook bolt locks, without losing thermal separation and the appearance of the system remains discreet, even with locking. A new brochure has been produced to explain the package. This is available by calling the marketing team on 01543 443015 or emailing info.uk@geze.com. For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers call 01543 443000 or visit www.geze.co.uk

SELECTAGLAZE CURVED ON PLAN UNITS CREATE A SPLASH AT KIDDERPORE HALL

Working with Mount Anvil, a swimming pool area in a Grade II Listed home has been restored to its former grandeur, with the assistance of Selectaglaze sealed units and curved on plan secondary glazing. Kidderpore Hall sits looking over North London, in what was referred to as the Childs Hill neighborhood of Hampstead; once a relatively rural area. It has been beautifully reimagined through extensive refurbishment and brought back to a livable state as a single family home.

One of the areas of the house which needed particular attention was a new pool and spa area in the basement. The original single glazed sash windows did little to provide heat retention. Selectaglaze secondary glazing was chosen to assist in upgrading the thermal insulation in this Grade II Listed building. To ensure maximum U-values were gained in this exposed corner of the building, 24mm double sealed secondary glazed units were required with obscure glass to provide privacy. Six window and one door were treated with Series 41 side hung casements, glazed with 4-16-4 gas filled sealed units. However, to match the sightlines of the bay window framing the jacuzzi, curved on plan units were specified. www.selectaglaze.co.uk

ADSA HIGHLIGHTS GROUNDS FOR GOOD VALUE

Whether you favour a cappuccino, latte or Americano, membership of the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) could be just the shot that you need. Costing half the daily equivalent of a brew from your favourite High Street coffee outlet – ADSA membership promises a strong body and no froth!

Clearly, the industry finds this refreshing: membership of ADSA has increased by approximately 15 per cent over the past two years – indicating that more and more businesses understand its value and the support that it offers their organisations.

But in order to get the most from membership, it’s important that the person who applies or renews it, unlocks the many benefits that membership affords. “Motivation for joining may vary but realising how ADSA membership can help support the individual, their organisation and the wider industry is crucial,” says ADSA Managing Director Ken Price.

“It provides wide-ranging opportunities for continuous professional development, across a variety of roles throughout member organisations, which will in turn boost their approach to quality and standards. It also enables members to directly help shape our industry,” he adds. There so many ‘added value’ benefits to joining. So, with that in mind, here are some top tips on unlocking member benefits.

Networking - One of the most obvious benefits to joining ADSA is networking. ADSA's member organisations are varied and filled with potential contacts, clients and partners who can help your business move to the next level and help you become more prominent in your industry. ADSA holds regular events to bring people together – in person and online – including their annual members’ conference which is FREE to attend.

Support - Providing help when you need it is all important. ADSA's technical support helpline is available to everyone within their member organisations. No question is too silly to ask and if they don’t know the answer, they’ll find out on your behalf. Contact is just a phone call or email away.

Training and Education - ADSA provides a whole raft of training and education to meet a variety of needs at many levels. This includes access to their online Academy with more than 100 courses, many of which that are free. ADSA has an Academy Help Guide to get you started. Their training has it all: sector-specific, key and complementary skills, courses for technical and non- technical staff, entry-level to management skills, workshops and qualifications, delivered through a variety of ways, using different learning methods. Quite simply, something for everyone. Certification - As a delivery partner for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), ADSA issues cards on renewal of ADSA membership and competency training. As the principal card provider for the automatic door industry, they are part of a CSCS working group progressing the introduction of smart card technology which will allow site managers to check the credential of those who attend premises.

Influence - ADSA is the voice of the automatic door industry and works with a range of organisations and regulatory bodies to ensure that it is properly represented within the wider building products and construction sector. They strive to develop quality standards and exert their influence to support the best interests of their members.

Information - ADSA endeavours to keep you informed with news and views including best practice and industry trends. Their membership communications include regular technical standards bulletins, Opening Doors magazine, email newsletters, website updates and social media posts. ADSA also offers discounted prices on BSI/EN publications.

Best Practice and Standards - ADSA experts work with BSI, which is a member of CEN, the European standardisation organisation made up of standard-setting bodies from 34 countries. ADSA's primary objective is to improve the quality of safety and installation standards for the powered pedestrian door industry. Creating and influencing standards is an acknowledgement of the expertise that exists within ADSA and provides the opportunity for member feedback to influence specification creation.

Ideas Exchange - Everything begins with an idea, and by exchanging ideas we have the potential to do great things. ADSA provides opportunities for industry professionals to work together for the benefit of the industry. ADSA encourages individuals to take part in special projects and undertake roles in their executive or technical committees. For further information about becoming a member of ADSA, email: rachel@adsa.org.uk or phone: 01827 216136.