Window News May 2018

Glazing Summit Attracts 400 Industry Leaders 8

Blu Hardware Surpasses The Acid Test 32

Wonder Women 68 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 1

You have a door that really stands out in the marketplace and offers our customers something quite unique to sell to the consumer!

Michael Gromett | Owner | HS Trade

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WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 3

TRADE NEWS Emplas has acquired leading insulated glazed unit and glass processing business, Padiham Glass.

Padiham Glass supplies an extensive range of glass and IGU’s from from its 45,000 sq ft Lancashire manufacturing facility.

With immediate effect it becomes part of the Emplas Group of businesses, purchased by the fabricator to guarantee the integrity of its IGU supply chain.

Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas, said that the agreement would allow Emplas to deliver a better service and higher levels of product quality to its installer base, but ultimately keeping a firmer grasp on Emplas’ supply chain going forward.

“With significant changes in the glass sector and continued consolidation in the IGU supply chain we have taken the strategic decision to acquire Padiham Glass. This will give Emplas greater control of our IGU supply”, he said.

Johnson continued: “Padiham Glass has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and great reputation in its own right, while we have an established track record of sustainable investment.

“Our purchase of Padiham Glass means that we will be able to not only guarantee the integrity of our own supply chain but also that of its’ existing customers.”

It means that all glazed units supplied by Emplas move to SaintGobain’s Planitherm range with immediate effect.

Manufacturing more than 10,000 IGU’s a week, pre-existing supply agreements between Padiham Glass and its existing customer base remain unaffected by the acquisition.

Padiham Glass will also continue to be run by its existing management team as led by its Manag4 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Emplas Acquires Leading IGU Business ing Director and Sales Directors Anthony and Wes Clarkson.

“This sets a standard and guarantees our supply chain but also that of Padiham’s existing customer base”, continued Johnson.

“Emplas is a family run and owned business. We don’t answer to venture capitalists or banks, which allows us to invest and deliver growth through improved product quality and service.

“Our decision to secure and invest in our own IGU supply chain will also directly benefit those installers and fabricators who already buy from Padiham Glass as the business now has a far stronger financial infrastructure and will benefit from being part of the larger Emplas group of businesses.”

In addition to energy efficient IGU manufacture Padiham also offers fire rated IGUs and an extensive range of painted glass, while it has its own toughening, heat soaking and laminate cutting lines.

Wes Clarkson, Sales Director, Padiham Glass, said: “Emplas has a fantastic reputation for quality, customer service, support and innovation within the glazing industry.

“Most importantly, however, Emplas is a family-owned and run business and shares our values and vision for long-term investment and growth.”

For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk For more on Padiham visit www.padihamglass.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

GGF Statement: President Reflects On Progress During Tough Times In the last two years the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has received wide coverage in the trade media for many successes as well as for some high profile departures.

Since 2016, the GGF Board on behalf of its Members has devised a long term strategic plan. This plan is now being implemented to ensure the GGF remains as a leading trade body in the glass and glazing industry, delivering high quality services and benefits for its members.

The strategic plan addressed all areas of the GGF and its subsidiary companies and entailed departmental and management re-structure.

As with any significant structural change in an organisation, it is inevitable that staff will join and leave during the transition. It is unfortunate that some personnel decided to leave and also disappointing that some appointments haven’t worked out the way the

John Agnew (GGF President)

the Membership and the supply chain.

Though admittedly this transitional period has been difficult at times, the GGF Board, the staff and our Members are to be commended for their continuous great work across many areas. Substantial progress has been made in the last two years and today we are starting to see the benefits with record numbers of companies joining and staying with the Federation, continuous development of technical guidance and publications, new online platforms and unprecedented high levels of brand awareness in trade, consumer and the mainstream media.

GGF Board had initially expected.

However it is reassuring that most of the key long term GGF staff remain with the GGF and its group of commercial companies and are consistently delivering the benefits and service our Members and customers deserve.

There is no doubt with our talented, dedicated staff and our loyal members we will continue to make progress on many fronts over the coming months and years as we see our strategic plans for improved services and greater member engagement fully realised.

From some quarters, criticism has been levelled at the GGF Board, though it must be emphasized that GGF Board Members have been elected by the GGF Members to make decisions for the benefit of the broad GGF Membership. The GGF Board positions are unpaid, voluntary roles and Board members are elected from all parts of

The GGF and its subsidiary companies are arguably in their strongest ever positions and collectively we will build on this going forward for the benefit of the Federation, its Members and all connected to the GGF Group.

John Agnew GGF President www.ggf.org.uk

New Consultancy Role For Gareth Mobley As part of the succession and integration plan, Gareth Mobley is leaving his role as CEO of DW3 Products Group in April, and immediately moves into a consultancy capacity for the Masonite Group in the UK. Over the last four years Gareth has carefully orchestrated the development and recruitment of a senior management team capable of taking the businesses of The Residence Collection, Solidor, Nicedor and Window Widgets through to sale, integration and to be a part

of the long-term strategy within Masonite.

He commented: ‘It’s been an incredible journey, building one of the fastest growing and most successful businesses in the trade fenestration sector. The opportunity to build DW3 Products Group with like-minded people by adding powerful brands in recent years, was special.

He continued: ‘I’d like to thank everyone associated with the businesses, suppliers, customers

and most importantly the hundreds of colleagues for their support, encouragement and dedication over the years. I feel very good about the opportunities for the leadership and all the staff of DW3 now, as part of Masonite’s UK business.’

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 5

TRADE NEWS

Join Halsall Glass And Increase Your Profits Could You Be The

Kestrel Installer

Of The Year?

Is your team the best roofline fitters around and do you have a job that stands out from the crowd?

Here’s your chance to prove how good you are by winning the 2018 Kestrel Approved Installer of the Year competition.

The awards are for installers who go to great lengths to deliver the best service for their customers.

Whether it’s a cladding job or new roofline, the Kestrel team want to see your pictures.

Kestrel sales and marketing director Owen Thorogood said: “Kestrel Approved Installers stand out from the crowd and we want to recognise that.

“Entering the competition couldn’t be easier, simply take a picture on your phone and then upload it instantly on the Kestrel app. The best pictures will be featured on Kestrel social media throughout the year.”

The winning team will attend a top-notch dinner and take home a special trophy as well as having their prize-winning job appear on Kestrel marketing materials – making for a great sales pitch!

To take part, take a picture on your phone and then upload it instantly on the app by the end of October 2018.

If you’ve not received your approved installer login, contact Kestrel customer services on 08702 406107.

6 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Halsall Glass are looking for installation companies in the North West of England to help them expand their range of home improvement products. Over recent years window installers have added extra items such as roofing, and gutter products, decking and even summerhouses or office pods to their portfolio.

Halsall Glass are offering the opportunity to add glass products to your portfolio. These can range from kitchen splash-backs to balustrading for stairs. The items in the range are all retrofit so do not have to be at the point of installation, for example, a glass kitchen splash back could be installed at any time to give a room a facelift.

If your company is offering composite decking, why not add glass balustrading to add a touch of luxury, and an uninterrupted view.

Glass kitchen worktops can add value and is much more economical than the standard granite, plus it can be manufactured in any colour.

The products chosen are some of the most popular within the home improvements market, and are easily installed. They are normally produced for high-end interior work, and seen as out of reach for the general household. Halsall have the capability and technology to produce one-off items, which can be delivered straight to you,

including any specialist fittings needed for the installation. There is also a marketing package containing PDF’s, images and ideas to help you promote your new product range to your customers. It could be something as simple as a set of glass shelves, but this would open up a number of possibilities for any installation company and add further value to their offering.

• Glass shelves.

• Kitchen worktops.

• Kitchen and bathroom splash backs.

• Indoor and outdoor balustrades.

• Shower screens.

• Mirrors in a variety of shapes and sizes.

The fact that you sell replacement windows and deal in glass makes the installation company the first port of call for the consumer. In the past these products would only be available from large glass processors who would charge a premium for one off items, as they are only used to supplying in bulk.

This initiative is offered on a first come basis, so if you want to get involved and open up a whole new profitable sales sector, follow the link to register your interest: halsallglass.com/installer-scheme/ As mentioned above, we are restricting this to the North West for the time being, but will be expanding the service at a later date.

If you are outside the area you can still register your interest. For further information visit: www.halsallglass.com

TRADE NEWS

Sam Nuckey, Window Ware MD

Half-A-Million-Pound

Investment Strengthens Window Ware’s Service With an overriding commitment to first class service, Window Ware, one of the UK’s largest, independent hardware distributors has completed a £500,000 investment in a brand-new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system.

The Bedfordshire-firm has purchased a powerful online system that combines Window Ware’s sales, purchasing, accounting and inventory management all in one place. The business management tool has already proven to be a success, helping the hardware specialists consistently achieve over 97% OTIF (orders received on time and in full) every month this year.

The benefits to Window Ware are clear to see but it’s the company’s loyal customer base who are seeing the biggest benefit, and what the company feel most proud of. Response times from its sales office have been sped-up thanks

to their new ability to provide a fast look-up of previously ordered items, meaning customers needn’t worry if they don’t know which part code to order from the 6,500 strong offering. If it’s something they’ve ordered before, the intelligent system will provide the correct information at the click of a button.

The order accuracy of its inside sales team has also seen a big improvement with the company consistently achieving an order input accuracy of a highly impressive 99.9%, meaning almost every single order is input by its experienced inside sales team right first time, every time.

“Whilst it’s incredibly important we invest in new ranges to strengthen our product offering, it’s arguably more imperative we invest and improve our processes to ensure we can meet the demands of our customers nationwide, so that our

service offering continues to get better and better. We’re delighted to do that with our brand-new ERP system,” comments Sam Nuckey, Managing Director of Window Ware.

“The intelligent, new system brings complete continuity across our entire operation and ensures every department is working in unison. That’s an important factor when we are dealing with over £2.5 million of stock, over 6,500 unique products and a full variety of orders from customers across the country. For over four decades, Window Ware has been the trusted supply partner for the industry’s biggest and best businesses, and we’re proud to provide the investments that ensure we continue to deliver that competitive advantage.”

Window Ware’s expansive product range includes window and door hardware, factory tools and consumables from industry heavyweights such as Yale, Maco, Trojan and Cotswold. With next day delivery available on 97% of their range, the new business management system ensures each part of the operation stays on schedule to guarantee customers can meet their manufacturing deadlines. www.windowware.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 7

TRADE NEWS

Andrew Scott, Purplex Marketing and Insight Data CEO

Glazing Summit

Attracts 400

Industry Leaders The inaugural Glazing Summit conference was held on 22nd May and was attended by 400 business leaders from across the glass and glazing industry.

The conference had 9 sessions including keynote speakers and panel discussions featuring some of the industry’s most influential people.

Discussions ranged from materials and products to technology and innovation, with the final discussion of the day focused on mergers and acquisitions – included panellists David Leng from Customade Group and Rob Crews from Momentum Corporate Finance sharing their views on private-equity backed businesses.

Other speakers throughout the day included Andy Jones from Synseal, Paul Atkinson from Yale, Chris Alderson from Edgetech, Window Ware’s Samantha Nuckey and Russell Yates from AluK. The keynotes included Jade Greenhow from Insight Data who gave an expert overview of the industry and outlined further consolidation across all sectors. Jade also highlighting product trends and changes within the supply chain with the rise of trade-counters and local builders now capturing more market share from traditional double-glazing installers.

One of the UK’s leading economist’s Dr Walter Boettcher from Colliers International gave a powerful presentation on the UK economy and 8 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

construction sector after Brexit, with encouraging data showing an underlying strong economy.

The conference was organised by Insight Data and Purplex Marketing. CEO Andrew Scott commented: “This was breaking new ground, the industry has never had a major business conference but as the market matures and becomes more professional, a platform for CEO’s and business leaders to come together, learn and share information has become paramount.”

“With several different sectors represented and a diverse range of companies of every shape and size it is impossible to provide content relevant to every delegate on every session, but our aim was that delegates would take away at least some valuable pearls of wisdom and connect with industry leaders and from the feedback this was definitely achieved.”

The conference was a ‘who’s who’ with CEOs and stakeholders from the industry’s most influential companies attending, with combined UK annual sales of over £1 billion. A VIP Leaders Dinner followed in the evening, with after-dinner speaker and iconic businessman Gerald Ratner gaining a rapturous applause.

“As the first conference of its kind, there was much to learn. We welcomed all the feedback which will help us shape the event if the industry feels it should be a regular fixture.” www.glazingsummit.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

All Pane And All Gain

Frame Fast UK has smashed its own goals with glass unit production, as it’s now manufacturing more than 1,300 insulated glass units every week.

“Opening the glass factory has been a big benefit to customers,” says Nigel Leivers, Director at Derby based manufacturers Frame Fast. “We have seen production continue to grow as demand has continued to rise. In fact, it’s grown so much that we’ve had to make more space for glass production.

“We have added another 10,000 square feet of factory space. Both roof manufacture and aluminium window and door fabrication have moved to give them more space.

Glass production has a new, much larger, home too. The £60,000 investment in machinery means we needed more space and we wanted to put glass production into a place where there was space for it to grow even more.”

Alongside the production of IGUs Frame Fast also has a decorative glass division where craftsmen hand make any design. It has attracted a lot of interest especially for entrance doors where some homeowners want to make a real statement. Now the move is complete, Frame Fast has also custom-made its own logo in glass! www.framefastuk.com 10 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Steve Hacking, Operations Director at SupaLite (left) Paul Sowerby, Sales Director at GAP Ltd (right)

GAP Becomes The Latest

SupaLite Roof Supplier With increasing demand for their tiled roof systems, manufacturers SupaLite have announced a new supply partnership with GAP, one of the UK’s largest manufacturers and suppliers of building products.

The new deal means SupaLite’s range of replacement conservatory and orangery roof systems are available across GAP’s 100+ UK depot network. Designed for retro-fit and new-build markets, the addition of SupaLite presents a new, valuable route to market for thousands of GAP customers nationwide.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to join forces with GAP and provide this exciting, growth opportunity to their customers across the country,” comments Steve Hacking, Operations Director at SupaLite.

“In less than a decade, SupaLite has grown into the UK’s leading replacement roof solution, trusted by fabricators and installers and recognised by consumers. It’s a real testament to the quality of SupaLite that a well-established, respected firm like GAP has added

it to their offering.”

SupaLite tiled roofs have found favour with trade customers and homeowners by providing a lightweight, easy-to-install solution, designed to eliminate the extreme changes in temperature seen within conservatories and orangeries. Fully accredited by JHAI for Building Regulations approval, a SupaLite system offers unrivalled thermal efficiency, creating a space that’s useable all-yearround, claims the company.

“At GAP, our business is built around creating a range of industry-leading products at trade prices that provide a competitive edge for our customers. With this in mind, we’re delighted to offer SupaLite’s roof systems in our depots,” adds Paul Sowerby, Sales & Marketing Director at GAP. “SupaLite is a great product when it comes to the retro-fit market and we are already seeing a positive response from our customers.” www.supaliteroof.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

New 3D Printer Promises Even Faster Product

Development At Mila review different versions of the same design to evaluate all our options before we commit to tooling. This is giving customers much more choice and making us an even faster and more responsive supplier.”

MILA347 A new 3D printer at Mila is speeding up prototyping 2The new 3D printer can produce extremely accurate, dimensionally stable models which Mila can use to check the working assembly of a design at every stage in the development process. The product design team are using the models to analyse how even the most complex designs can be assembled most efficiently and are now also able to send additional copies to the production engineers working at Mila’s worldwide supplier base to help them prepare for mass production.

Mila has reduced the time it takes to produce a precision prototype of a new hardware design from one week to just one day – thanks to its investment in its own high specification 3D printer.

The hardware specialist says that this is having a significant impact on the speed at which it can deliver new products from design stage to production.

Product Design and Quality Director Paul Pearson says: “Traditionally hardware designers work through specialist prototyping bureaus to produce these types of models on their behalf, which can be time consuming and fairly expensive. We have now brought the entire process in house and are already saving weeks on our product development times.”

Paul adds that the printer is also

transforming the way Mila approaches product development for customers because it can now print out multiple versions of one design in the time it would previously have taken to produce one. He explains: “We can now quickly and cost effectively

Paul adds: “Because of the time and cost implications of using a prototyping bureau, companies have tended to limit the number of products and ideas they have tested in this way, and certainly the number of prototype samples they have produced. With our 3D printer, which is large enough to accommodate a 240mm lever handle backplate, we’ve got rid of those limitations, so as well as saving time, we have much more freedom to extend our creativity.”

Further information is at: www.mila.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 11

TRADE NEWS

Oakland Glass Invests To Stay

Ahead Of Market Demands

Oakland Glass, the quality insulated glass unit supplier with a focus on service, has recently completed a £3m investment programme to ensure its customers have everything they need to stay ahead of market demands.

Tina Moorhouse, Managing Director of Oakland Glass, explains:

“We work with all sorts of customers across all sorts of sectors but they all have something in common – they’re focussed on quality above all else. As the high-end market continues to show growth, we wanted to ensure our customers were getting everything they need and more from us as their sealed unit supplier.

“We have invested £3m over the last 3 years in all parts of the business – we’ve extended our manufacturing facility by another 9,500sq ft taking us to a total premises size of 45,000sq ft, we’ve added new vehicles including a 7.5 tonne lorry and long wheel based van in the last 12 months, we’ve reduced waste in the factory, upgraded and added machinery including a new cutting line, and invested in people. We now have five production lines running every day, but can double up if we ever need to, so have built in capacity for future growth too.

“We partner with a certain kind of customer because we want to work with like minded people that also want to raise standards in the industry and offer the very best products with the very best service. With our latest round of investment now complete, we’re in a strong position to give existing and new customers what they need to get ahead in the current market place.” www.oaklandglass.co.uk

Homeowners To Get Their FENSA Certificates Faster

FENSA has announced it is to launch a new and improved service for homeowners that will see FENSA certificates dispatched faster.

Chris Beedel, Director of Membership, FENSA, explained that the new process is in the process of being implemented.

“We listened to our customers and are responding with a change to our service that will benefit homeowners and installers,” said Chris Beedel.

FENSA, one of the UK’s largest and longest established Competent Person Schemes, issues FENSA Building Regulations certificates for replacement windows and doors that have been installed since 1st April 2002.

A FENSA certificate verifies that an installation has been carried out by a FENSA registered installer, and consequently that it complies with building regulations. As well as providing the homeowner with peace of mind about their installation, the certificate will be a necessity if they wish to sell their property.

12 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Now homeowners and installers are set to benefit from an accelerated certification system. Acting on feedback from FENSA members as well as their customers, FENSA will soon introduce a new process that streamlines certificate dispatch times and gets them in homeowners’ hands faster.

As a result FENSA expects to see a reduction in the number of homeowners asking installers for their certificate, saving its members time on administration. Homeowners will also receive their FENSA certificates more than 50% faster than they currently do, giving them evidence of compliance for their installations at minimum delay and making life easier for those wishing to sell their properties.

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TRADE NEWS trust.”

Nearly 80% Of Builders Call For

Licensing Scheme To

Crush The Cowboys Almost 80% of builders are calling for more regulation in the construction industry to end the tyranny of cowboy builders, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

The FMB is calling on the Government to introduce a licensing scheme in construction as part of its new Agenda ‘Raising the bar: A post-Grenfell agenda for quality and professionalism in construction’.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Until we introduce a licensing scheme in construction, cowboy builders will continue to run rampant in our industry.

Licensing would ensure a minimum level of competence and professionalism and give consumers greater assurance when hiring a builder. Unlike in the US and Germany, anyone can be a builder in the UK. What this means is that we have allowed a significant minority of cowboy builders to give the whole construction industry a bad name. Our latest research 14 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

shows that almost 80 per cent of our members are so fed up with rogue builders tarnishing their reputation, they are in favour of introducing a licencing scheme.

Our research among consumers also shows that one third of home owners in the UK are so anxious about hiring a dodgy builder that they don’t commission any building work whatsoever. What’s more, the average home owner would spend around £40,000 on major home improvement projects over the next five years if they could be guaranteed a positive experience with their builder. It’s time to release this pent up demand for building work through a licensing scheme consumers can

Berry concluded: “Even more important than the economic benefits that would come from increasing quality and professionalism in the industry are the safety benefits. The Grenfell Tower tragedy reminded us of the price paid when things go wrong in the construction industry. Grenfell raised serious questions about standards, regulation and compliance within the construction sector and although we await the results of the Hackitt Review, we want to start a wider conversation about how we can drive up quality and professionalism in construction.

As well as calling on the Government to introduce a licensing scheme for builders, the FMB’s new Agenda calls for mandatory warranties for building projects that require building control signoff to protect consumers further.

The FMB would also like to work with industry to develop a ‘general builder’ qualification which would seek to recognise the highest standards of professionalism in the industry.”

Jason Ryan, a home owner living in West London, was a victim of a rogue building firm earlier this year. Ryan commented on the introduction of a licencing scheme in construction: “At the start of this year, builders were carrying out essential improvements to my home in West London. The whole process turned out to be an absolute nightmare. Our builder would often turn up late, or not at all, and communication was always poor. We would try to call him and often not hear back. The work they eventually carried out was sub-standard – for example, the grooves in the door frames were hacked into and were left uneven and messy. I think all builders should be required to have a licence to protect people like me from having these nightmarish experiences. It was very stressful and has put me off hiring a builder in the future unless I absolutely have to.” www.fmb.org.uk

TRADE NEWS

Ebben & Yorke Fuel Up With The

with plans to add a second showroom in Solihull.

With a 10-year background in selling, marketing and installing wood burning stoves, Ebben & Yorke aren’t your typical The Residence Collection registered installer, nor was the journey that took them there.

Alex and Kate Stewart, co-directors of Ebben & Yorke commented: ‘The Residence Collection has fitted perfectly within our showroom and appeals to our customer base of discerning homeowners. The overall support programme including the marketing has been first class and we’ve already made a strong start in terms of sales.’

Residence Collection

With two showrooms, it’s the Sutton Coldfield operation that carries The Residence Collection for Ebben & Yorke, alongside a wide range of impressive wood burning stoves. But it was a desire by their directors, Alex and Kate Stewart, to replace the existing windows on their home in Lichfield, which falls within a conservation area, that started the journey off.

Katie Atkinson, area sales manager for The Residence Collection added: ‘Ebben & Yorke have proven that it’s not just typical installer companies that can succeed with The Residence Collection. We’re moving away from a typical white squares market to one where premium and super-premium windows and doors are cherished by manufacturers, installers and home owners.’ www.ebbenandyorke.co.uk

Once Alex and Kate had seen the product samples and powerful branded materials, in their eyes it

looked no different to the premium wood burning stove market in terms of target audience and so several months later they became a registered installer for The Residence Collection. Existing customers have shown considerable interest and the first few orders have already started to come through

Kestrel approved installers can now fit a job today and guarantee the materials on the spot.

Kestrel Approved Installers

Thanks to their new app all Kestrel approved installers can give homeowners a 35-year extended guarantee with a few taps on their phone.

Deliver A Guaranteed Service!

That means anyone having Kestrel products installed can cut out the paper work and have their guarantee emailed over without fuss.

It guarantees that the products meet the high standards set by the leading fascia, cladding and soffit brand.

Kestrel sales and marketing director Owen Thorogood said: “This feature on the Kestrel app means installers don’t have to complete paperwork to give their customers a guarantee.

“It’s all done at the touch of a button!”

The 35-year extended guarantee is for all Kestrel white products fitted by a Kestrel approved installer, other guarantees are offered on the rest of the range.

Find out more about the Kestrel app which is available for both Android and iOS devices and can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play at www.kbp.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 15

TRADE NEWS

Lock Lock’s Showcased On Red Dot 21

Brisant Research Reveals The pioneering Lock Lock door security handle from Brisant Secure has recently been featured on the globally renowned Red Dot 21 World of Design website, alongside other global brands associated with outstanding product design Red Dot 21 is a portal for design enthusiasts and design-oriented companies featuring brands such as De’Longhi, Dyson and Ferrari, with Brisant Secure now boasting a listing as a design manufacturer along with a product listing for Lock Lock. The website at www. red-dot-21.com covers a number of consumer and industrial sectors, along with a section dedicated to specific projects.

Brisant says Lock Lock is the first door security handle of its kind designed with a registered edgeless design that’s not only beautiful in appearance but is purposeful in application, as the handle body cannot be grabbed by tools for forceful removal.

From a security perspective it’s been successfully tested within PAS 24 programmes, carries Secured by Design, is 2-Star accredited and remains the only door security handle that carries Sold Secure certification from the Master Locksmiths Association. www.lock-lock.co.uk 16 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Pitting Epidemic Brisant Secure have recently conducted market research into the issues of pitting hardware and in the way in which manufacturers deal with the warranty issues.

The results clearly show that the industry still faces a significant pitting issue.

In a question to installers, of which 270 replied, a depressing 88% have reported that they have had pitting problems on their hardware in the past 12 months. In a second question, Brisant asked installers if they were happy in how their suppliers were handling the pitting problems. Only 22.5% in reply said they were happy, meaning 77.5% are not happy with their suppliers.

With the composite door market showing continued strong sales performance the issue of hardware longevity has never been so important, nor has the warranties on such handles and letterplates etc. With consumers paying £000’s for a new entrance door they will have been sold the merits of a near maintenance-free door with a life expectancy in excess of 20 years.

But many consumers will be faced

with pitting and rotting hardware within a matter of months and the research has clearly highlighted the failures in epidemic proportions. Installation companies are still having to replace hardware and with it the potential loss of referral sales, whilst throughout the supply chain companies are trying to best manage the situation.

Nick Dutton CEO of Brisant Secure commented: ‘The evidence is more than compelling that the industry is facing a backlash due to hardware pitting and the way in which warranties are managed.

I would suggest that the current 240/480 hour standard is completely inadequate and that we need a standard that reflects the fact that the furthest point from the sea in the UK is Coton in the Elms in Derbyshire, which is just 70 miles from the coast.

He continued: ‘Our Lock Lock product has now achieved an unprecedented 7,500 hours in a salt spray chamber, so I would propose adding a further digit to the current requirements, so we can re-assure installers, consumers and the industry as a whole that door hardware is fully fit for purpose.’ www.brisant-secure.com

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12 point locking to achieve PAS 24 and SBD.

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TRADE NEWS

Austin Barcley Managing Director of Improveasy

“There’s Never Been A Better Time To Offer

Finance,” Says Improveasy

Increasing turbulence among many of the industry’s biggest brands, particularly large-scale nationwide installation firms, has created a lucrative opportunity for savvy installers to win new business.

A combination of profit warnings, falling share prices and hefty fines have left some of the big players incredibly vulnerable, and open to greater competition from smaller, more locally-based installers. However, industry finance specialists Improveasy and its Managing Director Austin Barcley argue it’s now imperative that installers offer consumer finance packages to effectively impact the market share of national brands during this time of turmoil.

“There’s arguably never been a 18 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

better time for smart, pro-active installers to gain an advantage over their national competition – but to do so finance will be key,” Austin comments. “Consumers are often keen to ‘shop local’ when it comes to home improvement installers, but the finance packages offered by the established national brands make it more affordable and far more convenient for consumers to use them instead.

“But as some of the bigger brands in the industry begin to struggle, local installers can step in by offering finance to their customers and winning new, more profitable business.

When you consider recent research by Hitachi found that retailers risk losing 44% of customers if they don’t offer finance, it’s a massive opportunity that smaller installers, in

particular should, be exploring.”

Improveasy are a specialist home improvement company offering a wide range of financial solutions that installers can use to win business more easily.

Companies that sign up with Improveasy do not need to be FCA regulated – they will become an Appointed Representative (AR) and can then begin offering finance options under either the Improveasy brand or their own company’s brand.

Austin concludes: “We make it incredibly easy for installers to offer finance, and most new clients can be up and running in 14 days. We offer a range of APR’s, including 0%, and we provide full training and ongoing support to ensure you get maximum value from our service.”

For more information about Improveasy visit www.improveasy.com

TRADE NEWS

No Delivery Nightmares

With Deceuninck

Systems company Deceuninck has achieved near-perfect delivery scores. Deceuninck’s latest quality reports show 99% of orders were delivered on time and in full.

Deceuninck’s delivery record is all the more impressive given the breadth of products, colours and foils available as standard. Deceuninck offers 26 colourways from stock, including all cills, trims and ancillaries. Other Renolit colours are available on a short lead time within five weeks.

Commenting on Deceuninck’s outstanding delivery record, MD Rob McGlennon says: “Late or incomplete deliveries are a nightmare for fabricators. At best it disrupts production and at worse they lose business. Fabricators can’t work effectively with an unreliable

supplier and we’ve made significant investments in warehousing, logistics, machinery, people and ordering systems to guarantee that whatever they order arrives in full, on their next delivery.

“We’re justifiably proud that 99% of deliveries are on time and in full. Deceuninck gives fabricators the products and service to stand out from competitors and sell more. Colour is a major part of this offering and we’ve invested in a state-of-the-art foiling plant and world-class foiling team to supply 26 colourways from stock. Using Deceuninck Online, fabricators can look into our 140,000 sq ft warehouse and put their name on whatever they need, even single lengths of profile, knowing it will arrive on their next delivery.”

Deceuninck’s quality reports also show very high scores for manufacturing quality and foiling. The company regularly measures performance and is currently undertaking a detailed customer satisfaction survey on customer priorities and satisfaction rates.

To escape constant #OTIFnightmares choose an #OTIFdream from Deceuninck. Visit www.deceuninck.com

sure that we could maintain our fast and efficient service to installers.”

Dedicated Facility Double Tradelink’s

Aluminium Capacity

Tradelink Window Solutions has opened a dedicated facility to double its aluminium manufacturing capacity and deliver aluminium glazing products to local installers even faster. The new factory means that Tradelink can offer aluminium bi-folds in four colour-ways on lead times of just 10 days.

Jim Moody, Managing Director at Tradelink explains: “We have expanded our facility in March and taken on another unit next-door to create the new dedicated aluminium site which now covers 18,000 sq. ft. We knew that we needed to invest in more space to make

The dedicated aluminium facility, as with Tradelink’s four other fabricating sites, uses lean manufacturing processes and a thorough checking process to ensure that all aluminium glazing leaves the factory, spot-on, ready for installers to fit on site.

Jim adds: “At the factory, everything is checked thoroughly. Every single length of profile is inspected and so is every piece of hardware that will be used during fabrication. After this initial check, the full component kit is delivered to a fabricator’s work station, ready for them to manufacture that product, to save time and enable a faster process. A final check happens before the product is wrapped ready for collection or delivery.

“Everyone in our aluminium factory is highly experienced and knows exactly how important their role is to the manufacturing process – and that’s how we make sure that our products are delivered fast and delivered spot-on.”

As well as domestic aluminium products, Tradelink offers a full choice of commercial aluminium low-rise curtain walling, ground floor treatments and aluminium windows. www.tradelinkdirect.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 19

TRADE NEWS passes under PAS24 test requirements for mechanical load and manual intervention testing.

Howatson continued: “Manual intervention tests are constructed around a series of three-minute manual assaults on all fixed locking points, hinges, glass and beading.

“Mechanical load tests replicate the bi-directional loading that you would get if someone was using a pry-bar to force the sash or hinges.

Unglazed R9 Receives PAS24 And Part Q Approval HWL Trade Frames’ trailblazing non-glass bonded Residence 9 Window has sailed through independent PAS24 testing to achieve Part Q approval.

Coming less than a month after achieving a series of top-rated passes under BS EN 6375 – 1 weather testing, Graham Howatson, Director, HWL, said that PAS24 approval made the case for buying in R9 on a frame-only basis, ‘compelling’.

He said: “We have had a great response from installers to frame-only R9 supply because it offers them significant installation efficiencies and they can buy-in IGU’s from their usual supplier.

“With PAS24 approval just weeks after exceptionally positive weather test results, the argument for buying in R9 un-glazed is absolutely compelling.

“Handling is easier, it saves you time, it saves you money and we can now underpin our offer with not only a 10-year guarantee but also a series of top accredita20 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

tions.”

The specialist trade fabricator has led the development of an R9 frame-only offer, pioneering the application of Timberweld® sash-welding technologies in its manufacture.

This gives HWL an almost unique capability in the UK to butt weld window sashes inside and out, replicating the aesthetic delivered in a 90° mechanical joint.

This process HWL says increases sash corner strength, which in most configurations eliminates the requirement to glass bond IGUs, which have historically been used in R9 fabrication to give the system structural strength.

Conducted in partnership with the Residence Collection, the HWL window was put through its paces under PAS24 at the beginning of May by independent testing house, Exova, This returned a series of clear

“The window remained absolutely solid throughout. This is direct evidence of the inherent strength Timberweld® and a real affirmation of our decision to go down this route.”

The BS EN 6375 – 1 Weather Test results, completed in April, again by Exova, give HWL’s R9 non-glass bonded window an Exposure Category of 1600, a Class 3 Air Permeability Rating (600pa); a Class 9A (600pa) Water Tightness Rating; and top Class C4 (1600pa), resistance to wind.

“It’s not that we’re saying there isn’t a place for traditionally mechanically jointed and glass-bonded options. We still offer them”, added Howatson.

“We are, however, committed to exploiting innovation in manufacturing technologies to give our customers choice. Timberweld® allows us to do that and the installation efficiencies that it offers are allowing our customers to be more competitive and to win more business.

“In reducing weight, cutting the complexity of handling glass-bonded frames and making installation easier, it also removes the barriers which have dissuaded some installers from bringing what is a fantastic window into their retail offers”, he concluded. hwlwindows.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

Distinction’s nxt-gen Makes Business Easy For Doorsmart

Composite door manufacturer Doorsmart Ltd added Distinction’s nxt-gen door to its portfolio last year and Director Craig Broadley says it’s made business much easier. “The door is far easier to manufacture and has less wastage but for us the stand out innovation is the flush-fitted beading. It has reduced our stock-

holding because all the doors come with a pre-fit internal bead and therefore there is no need for cassettes. It’s helped us with order processing too because there are fewer component parts to order and hold in stock. It’s design technology at its best and has made a big difference to our business.”

Doorsmart has been a Distinction customer for 12 years and manufactures the Distinction Doors’ Signature range as well as nxtgen. Craig is clear why his company chooses Distinction as their composite partner: “We partner with Distinction Doors because in our opinion they offer the best slabs on the market today. We have been with them for 12 years and over that time they have constantly delivered the latest development in composite doors technology.”

As well as the quality of Distinction’s products, Craig also appreciates the support that’s on offer. Doorsmart’s showroom has a large display of Distinction’s composite doors in a wide range of colours, together with glass styles, furniture and accessories for customers to browse and see the Distinction difference for themselves. There is also a highend retail brochure that Distinction produced for Doorsmart through their inhouse Design Boutique studio. www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

Roseview Makes 100th Appointment After Milestone Year

last forty years.

“Without the hard work, expertise and dedication of literally hundreds of staff members, we wouldn’t be half the company we are today, and uPVC sash windows may never have got off the ground.

Sash window specialists Roseview have kicked off the year with another important milestone.

Having already celebrated forty years in business last year, and made a landmark Fensterbau debut in March, the long-standing Olney firm is now marking the appointment of its 100th employee.

Rapid growth, particularly since the mid-2000s, has brought with it a significant jump in employee numbers, culminating in its 100th appointment earlier this year.

In 2017, the firm produced 25,000 sash windows, and topped £9m turnover, up from 22 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

£8.4m in 2016, which was itself a record-breaking year.

Sales Director Richard Burrells comments: “Appointing employee number 100 is a perfect opportunity for us to stop and pay tribute to the amazing people who’ve worked for us over the

“You’d struggle to find a nicer, more dedicated bunch of people, and I know I speak for all the senior team here at Roseview when I say it’s a privilege to work alongside them.

“With 100 talented sash window experts behind us, it’s safe to say we’re extremely optimistic about the future.”

For more information visit www.roseview.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

Between Glass

Blinds Joins

The GGF Lis Clarke, BFRC Operations Director

Senior Architectural Systems Joins BFRC

BFRC has announced that Senior Architectural Systems is the latest system house to sign up to the BFRC Energy Rating Scheme.

BFRC independently verifies ratings of energy efficient windows and doors and this latest addition to its client list consolidates its presence in the system house sector.

Doncaster based Senior Architectural Systems was founded in 1991 and has grown to become one of the largest privately owned systems houses in the UK, measured by turnover.

Supplying over one hundred fabricators, Senior provides many commercial window systems and is continuously expanding the scope of its range. Its latest product is the new Domestic Range of aluminium windows and doors.

The Ali VU casement contains a range of two “A+ rated” and “A rated” windows, along with: PURe® Lift and Slide Door “B rating”, plus Hybrid Tilt and Turn “A rating”.

BFRC says that by joining the

scheme, companies within Senior’s Fabricator Network can become a licence holder and gain greater product and brand benefits such as:

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is pleased to announce that Between Glass Blinds (BGB) has joined the Federation.

increasing credibility of their product by declaring its energy efficiency having their products independently verified by the UK’s leading energy ratings organisation full marketing support, including the use of the BFRC logos and rating labels Following Senior signing up to BFRC, Lis Clarke, BFRC Operations Director commented:

Between Glass Blinds is a leading manufacturer of double-glazed units complete with fully integrated Venetian and pleated blinds hermetically sealed between two panes of glass. Both stylish and contemporary in appearance, easy to maintain with the blinds contained within the sealed unit safe from dust and dirt BGB units are the ideal shading and privacy glazing solution.

“We are pleased that Senior Architectural Systems has joined BFRC and I have no doubt their fabricators and their installer network will reap the benefits of the BFRC scheme going forward.

2018 promises to be a great year for BFRC with more companies starting to realise the value of independent verified window and door energy ratings.”

If you are a window and door fabricator or installer and would like to find out more about BFRC, enquiries@bfrc.org

Ideal for bi-folding and sliding doors where other types of blind and curtain are not practical or achievable, BGB units can also be utilised in conservatories, office partitioning, observation areas in hospitals, schools, prisons and other public buildings – a truly versatile, user-friendly and discreet double-glazed integral blind system suitable for installation both internally and externally. betweenglassblinds.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 23

TRADE NEWS Hue and ebay.”

Yale Sponsors Smart Home Week

Yale, along with a host of other technology giants, is sponsoring Smart Home Week 2018 – an initiative to showcase the very best in smart, connected and integrated home technology.

Commencing on 21st May, Smart Home Week will help fabricators and installers get to grips with the smart home and smart security industry and learn more about

how they can tap into this growing market.

Paul Atkinson, Sales and Commercial Director for Yale Door and Window Solutions, commented: “We’re excited to be a part of this industry leading campaign, and be in such good company with other supporters on board such as Google, Amazon, Samsung SmartThings, Ring, Tado, Phillips

“As the leader in the smart security industry, it made perfect sense for Yale to support the campaign. The initiative is another step forward in understanding and growing the market place, and we are proud to be working alongside like-minded companies to help make the smart home become a reality.”

With technology now being much more widespread, thanks to increased competition and lower manufacturing costs, the smart home is only set to grow. Homeowners are beginning to realise the benefit of having the ability to control everyday devices and, as such, demand is steadily increasing.

As part of the initiative, Smart Home Week will be hosting a forum with a spokesperson from each supporting brand discussing developments within the industry and common concerns. A new research survey will also be commissioned as part of the campaign, looking into the latest insights for the state of the smart home. www.smarthomeweek.co.uk

Rapierstar Supports Fast-Growing Trade Fabricator Merlin Window and door fastener specialist Rapierstar is helping leading Scottish trade fabricator Merlin Network (Scotland) to keep production on track and to a high standard as it experiences record demand for its PVCu windows.

Rapierstar has now been supplying a range of high performance fasteners to Merlin for more than two years, with increased volumes in recent months reflecting the fabricator’s 22% increase in turnover. This, according to Merlin, has been driven by a combination of growth from existing customers, the acquisition of new 24 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

customers and particularly strong growth in the new build market where its fully reversible windows are in high demand. In addition, Merlin is now the sole supplier in Scotland for Prefix Systems which has boosted its sales in the WARM roof and conservatory roof markets.

Merlin Network (Scotland), which is part of the Saveheat Group, is planning for further market expansion with a £220,000 investment programme at its state-ofthe-art design and manufacturing facility in Dalgety Bay, Fife. This has seen the installation of a new

six-head welding machine and the creation of a purpose-built showroom which will support its growth plans for its mainly Scottish customer base.

As a long standing supply chain partner, Rapierstar is helping Merlin to maintain production efficiency by ensuring excellent supply reliability. Fasteners are supplied directly by Rapierstar from its 100,000 sq. ft. distribution centre in Cheshire, where it now stocks more than one billion screws, with almost 100% of orders delivered on time in full, error free.

Find out more about Rapierstar at www.rapierstar.com

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DEAR GERALD

Dear

Gerald Dear Gerald I notice no one has replied to Ian Cocken’s letter (is Foil Base Surface Stability A Ticking Time Bomb, 20 March 2018).

Ian comments on reports of failures caused by surface stability of foiled products, with potentially significant replacement liabilities and costs for fabricators. He says: surface stability can be a problem with profiles using recycled content. The origin of the recycled content isn’t always clear so it’s difficult to predict its behaviour, and surface and dimensional stability.

Whether Ian is correct in his diagnosis or not, Deceuninck uses 100% virgin material and Deceuninck fabricators don’t have any problem with foils.

Listening to fabricators generally, foiled product is a bit of a nightmare. But that’s not because of problems with the foiled substrate, it’s because colour is growing rapidly, and most systems companies are not colour-enabled to deal with it.

Most systems companies foil to order, not foil to stock as Deceuninck does. But if you don’t foil for stock, even the smallest hiccup causes supply problems. If you’re a fabricator and your supplier doesn’t deliver on time and in full, colour becomes a headache and you avoid selling it.

Deceuninck is fully colour-enabled – #ColourEnabled as we say – so it’s not a problem for Deceuninck fabricators and installers. We invested in a world-class foiling team and machinery, and a 140,000 ft2 warehouse so we can supply 26 colourways from stock without problems. Thanks to Deceuninck Online, customers can also look in our warehouse and choose what they want – from a single length of profile – including all the foiled trims, cills and accessories, knowing they will be on their next delivery.

26 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

That assurance and our powerful colour offer means that over half of what Deceuninck’s Colour-Enabled fabricators sell is colour, and the proportion is growing. That’s why Deceuninck is No 1 for colour.

Rob McGlennon Managing Director, Deceuninck UK

Dear Gerald The tragedy of the Grenfell Tower disaster last year has quite-rightly put fire safety back at the top of the industry’s agenda where it belongs. Since these devastating events last June, manufacturers, suppliers, installers and end-users have all been questioning not only the quality of their fire-rated products, but also their performance.

Whilst this scrutiny of fire-rated products is incredibly important and long overdue, it’s vital that the industry recognises that effective fire safety is about far more than just fire doors. Whilst certified fire doors provide a durable barrier from flames, smoke ventilation systems are key to removing smoke and heat, creating a safe escape route out of high-rise residential or commercial buildings.

Designed for communal areas such as stairwells, lobbies or exit corridors, smoke ventilation systems use actuators to automatically open windows and rooflights in the event of a fire. A typical system should consist of vents certified to BS EN 12101-2 which are automatically triggered by a 24v control system (certified to BS EN 12101-10). The system is activated

DEAR GERALD

when a callpoint or smoke sensor is triggered, resulting in vents opening to clear smoke from that area of the building.

an extreme example of that. However, we now have a fantastic opportunity to be pro-active by strengthening fire-rated product lines with smoke ventilation systems.

We know there will be those with trepidations about entering this new area of the market but at Teal we have the tools and support businesses need to stock, supply and fit these systems with complete confidence. Not only do we have 17+ years of experience supplying window control and ventilation systems, we offer bespoke one-page installation instructions for each product and full training at our facilities if necessary.

When you consider the most common cause of death from fire-related disasters is smoke inhalation, it shows just how vital these systems are to help save lives and hopefully avoid tragedies like this again.

Yours sincerely, Sam Yiend Director, Teal Products

In many cases however, the windows used for smoke ventilation are not certified or tested to the same high standard as the system. We therefore recommend and offer a number of window options to customers including aluminium glazed louvres which are thermally broken and along with our range of actuators are fully-certified to this BS EN standard.

It’s an effective system which has become an integral part of fire and safety strategies across the world.

Whether it’s apartment blocks, student accommodation or office buildings, lives are safeguarded through the effective automation of windows in essential high-traffic areas of the building, maintaining a safe exit.

In my view, the construction and building products industries can be fairly criticised for being far too reactive, and the unfortunate events of Grenfell are

If you want to get involved in the discussion, or would like to air your views on a particular industry subject, then Email me at gerald@windownews.co.uk We cannot guarantee that we will publish everything, but we will do our utmost to make sure that everyone’s voice is heard. Your views and thoughts are imprortant to us.

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 27

PEOPLE given him a unique insight into the window and door manufacture.

“Camden is an incredible business. They manufacture 6,000 windows and doors and eight to 10,000 units of glass a week.

It’s professionally run, there are daily production management team meetings and that’s given me real insight into process”, he said.

“As an engineer working with fabricators and glass processors previously, I had naturally picked up an understanding of the production process but the time I spent with Camden as Engineering Manager has massively strengthened my knowledge.”

Promac Creates New Single Point Of Contact

Sales And Service Role In Ireland Promac Group has created a dedicated new technical sales and service role in the Republic and Northern Ireland.

Part of Promac’s continuing programme of investment in customer support and service, Chris Curran rejoins the machinery specialist in a newly created post of Technical Sales Manager Ireland.

With extensive expertise in factory planning, machinery installation and maintenance, the new post sees him assume responsibility for machinery sales, installation and through life machinery support.

He said: “From a customer perspective they’re getting a single point of contact for all of their 28 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

machinery requirements – but they’re also getting the right advice and support.

“I have a background as an engineer but also in production, which is a huge advantage when working with customers.

“The other major win is – and this is where Promac is unique – is that we have the machinery range and expertise to support customers in planning and identifying the right platform for their requirement. It’s not about selling what we have but what’s going to work for them.”

Chris rejoins Promac Group from his previous role as Engineering Manager at Antrim super-fabricator Camden, experience which he argues, has

Promac offers a complete factory planning and process management service as part of its machinery sales offer. This includes the review of established processes to identify opportunities for improvement, reducing waste, over-production and excess processing and reviewing the movement of product and work flow, to maximise efficiency.

“We don’t just dump the machine in a space. We work with the customer to understand their production flow right down to the point that if I’m the operative with a product in my hand, where do I start, where do I go next, how do we minimize transportation and movement of product?” Chris said.

“It comes down to the right platform in the right place. The extent of our offer means that Promac is unique in being able to identify the requirement and deliver the right machinery to meet it, that’s the culture that’s promoted to through the business and what I’m here to do.” www.promac.co.uk

You have a door that really stands out in the marketplace and offers our customers something quite unique to sell to the consumer!

Michael Gromett | Owner | HS Trade

same

engine,

new

model

0345 2000 816 | customerservices@distinctiondoors.co.uk distinctiondoors.co.uk/nxt-gen | door-designer.co.uk Tried, tested and trusted, the UK’s number 1 composite door supplier

PEOPLE

Strength In Numbers

growth in the size of the team as a result of their appointments reflects the high level of importance we attach to providing excellent customer service.”

Distinction Doors six-strong Business Development team have been in the industry for a combined total of over 50 years and pride themselves on their expertise and knowledge of the composite door market.

The team is headed by Sales and Marketing Director, Chantel Roach who comments: “We recently welcomed Jane Wilson and Gillian Coldwell to the team to further strength our focus on customer support and development. The

Chantel explains the importance of the Business Development team: “Good customer service is about more than just supplying orders on time. It’s about developing a good relationship with the customer and having a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities in their business. In this way, we can help customers to grow their business by offering them continuous support that is right for them.

Our expanded Business Development team offers us the ability to develop even stronger customer relationships as we cement our position as the composite market leaders.” distinctiondoors.co.uk

DOORCO Welcomes Ben Aspinall As

Technology And Projects Lead

With a degree in Business Management and Marketing coupled with industry experience that spans more than a decade, it’s no surprise that DOORCO, the industry’s composite door supplier of choice, is delighted to welcome Ben Aspinall to the team as Technology and Projects Lead.

“I made the move to DOORCO as wanted to challenge myself and progress,” explains Ben. “Having worked with them in my previous role at Business Micros on the implementation of the Business Management System, it was obvious they were a forward thinking supplier, with their customers at the heart of everything they do.

The entire team is friendly and 30 WINDOW NEWS APRIL MAY 2018 2018

of the next stage development.

Going forward, with the focus on continuing to improve the customer experience and satisfaction, we have a full range of IT and Marketing projects underway, all of which will play their part in helping DOORCO and our customers to be even more successful”

approachable, all with a real desire for success. My role as Technology and Projects Lead means I am responsible for overseeing and implementing any software or hardware related advances in technology and also head up any projects being worked on throughout the business. DOORCO has progressed dramatically in recent years and I’m excited to be part

Jayne Sullivan, Operations Director at DOORCO concludes: ”Ben is a fantastic addition to the DOORCO team, not just because of his credentials, but more importantly he fits with our culture perfectly. We have a significant programme of IT change underway and I couldn’t be happier that Ben is helping to lead these activities forward. ” www.door-co.com

PEOPLE Project Support Officer at Lloyd’s Register and developed his project management skills extensively. With a positive and driven attitude, Maruf has gained valuable experience delivering strategic business change projects, data migration, procurement implementations, property moves and business improvements utilising Lean Six Sigma methodologies.

GGF Welcomes New Project Manager

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Maruf Ahmad as the Group Project Manager for all commercial companies within the group.

In 2010, Maruf graduated from Queen Mary University of London achieving a BSc in Information Communications Technology in the Business Environment, then started his first role as a

On taking up his new role Maruf said, “It seems like a really exciting time to be here, as there is a lot of positive change happening within the business. There are many good ideas and business needs that require being structured and prioritised correctly and I’m looking forward to delivering various projects.”

The tech-savvy individual is very much skilled in risk management, planning, communicating with key stakeholders at all levels of the organisation and managing virtual project teams. He is passionate about learning and obtaining further qualifications within his field.

New Business Development Manager For The Midlands Appointed At HOPPE (UK) HOPPE (UK) has appointed Rob Thomas as business development manager for the Midlands.

With over 30 years in the door and architectural ironmongery industry, Rob has extensive experience in dealing with steel, timber and aluminium door sets. Starting in 1988 with architectural ironmongers Parker, Winder and Achurch, Rob has gone on to work for a wide range of door manufacturers and door hardware suppliers.

Rob also completed his Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) Diploma and is currently working towards becoming a Registered Architectural Ironmonger (RegAI).

As a fully qualified DipGAI, Rob can help HOPPE (UK) customers choose the right products for their projects. He can also give them technical advice and make sure the project meets the relevant standards and regulations.

Rob said: “After working in this industry for so many years, I’m excited to have the opportunity to provide a far better quality of product and service to our customers and ultimately the people who work, live, play and shop within the as-built environments we help create and sustain. HOPPE is market leader in the field of door and window hardware and it’s a pleasure to be working with such

experienced ironmongery experts.” www.hoppe.co.uk WINDOW WINDOWNEWS NEWSAPRIL MAY 2018 31

PRODUCT NEWS

Blu Hardware Surpasses The Acid Test The benefits of only using 316 Marine Grade quality stainless steel to manufacture its range of door and window hardware has been highlighted by bluTM after sailing through internationally recognised corrosion tests.

The company, which offers one of the UK’s largest range of 316 Marine Grade door and window hardware, saw its HAB2 Bar Pull Handle totally surpass the internationally recognised Salt Mist Test in accordance with: ISO 9227:2017 and 480-hour duration test as per Class 5 of BS EN 1670:2007 Section 5.2.

So good was its performance that after 480 hours the handle left the test centre without any trace of corrosion despite being continually exposed over many hundreds of hours to a corrosive salt spray across a range of temperatures from +35 °C +/-2 °C. According to bluTM MD Loren Jenner, the performance of the bluTM 32 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

hardware not only saw it blitz the official test, but left a major impression with the UKAS certified testing house – the Product Assessment and Reliability Centre.

“The ISO 9227/BS EN 1670:2007 salt spray test is one that many hardware manufacturers shy away from – but we were delighted that our blu™ HAB2 bar pull handle sailed through, without any sign of corrosion or rusting. In fact they were so impressed, the words of the test technician were: “I have never seen anything quite like this before,” said Loren.

“Demand for stainless steel hardware has grown massively over the last couple of years but the acid test is this. Is it manufactured from 316 Marine Grade stainless steel?

If it isn’t it’s more likely to succumb to the corrosive UK environment which will increase the chances of costly call backs from unhappy customers.

“With over 80% of the UK exposed

to high atmospheric corrosion, cheaper hardware such as that made from 304 stainless steel just won’t be able to stand up to the elements over any length of time like 316 Marine Grade will, and depending on the location, could soon start to become subject to pitting, corrosion and rusting. This soon ruins the look of the door or window and results in unhappy homeowners,” he added.

Every product across the bluTM range is manufactured using 316 Marine Grade stainless steel and comes with a Lifetime Guarantee, leaving Loren in no doubt that it sets the benchmark for quality and performance.

“We believe that attention to detail is everything when it comes to our hardware. The surfaces of our products have a super-satin finish as standard with the smoother surface making it harder for any contaminants to settle on the hardware. The coarser or grainier a finish on the handle the more opportunity there is for contaminants to settle on the surface,” he said.

For more information on the blu range of high performance 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel door and window hardware visit www.blu-performance.com

PRODUCT NEWS

Carl F Groupco Hardware Supports

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also impressed by Carl F Groupco’s knowledge of PN-Roto, the company’s professionalism and its technical expertise.

The new window with Roto PN hinge and TSL espagnolette achieved full accreditation, including PAS 24, in May 2018. Hardware certification includes Grade 5 for the hinge on a salt spray accelerated corrosion test and a 10 year guarantee. carlfgroupco.co.uk

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Key reasons for Liniar selecting Carl F Groupco as one of the hardware suppliers for the window are PN-Roto’s proven track record and design features that are compatible with the requirements of the new range. The Liniar team was

Julie Warner, Carl F Groupco’s Product Manager for the PN by Roto range.

PE

Carl F Groupco has been selected as a hardware supplier for Liniar’s new range of reversible windows, available exclusively to fabricators from summer 2018. The established PN by Roto Uni Hinge and Roto TSL Espagnolette fitting options will be sold directly to customers by the hardware distributor. As part of its work promoting fittings to systems companies, Carl F Groupco’s PN-Roto technical team liaised with Liniar providing hardware advice and development input.

ing pane that rotates through a full 180° cycle for easy cleaning inside the property, is ideally suited to high-rise applications. The design, developed by Liniar’s in-house experts, results in a flush sash appearance both inside and out.

Patented features including Liniar’s co-extruded bubble gasket, thermal dam and glazing flipper ensure draught-free installation with high thermal efficiency. The PN-Roto hinge and Roto TSL espag supplied by Carl F Groupco complement the slimline design aesthetics of the new window range.

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Liniar Launch

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AURA Fully Reversible Hinges For outward opening windows

High security. Smooth operation. Perfectly balanced.

Download literature at mila.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 33

Mila PRODUCT NEWS

Announces New Fully Reversible Hinge Range

Just weeks after it announced it was bringing the AXOR range of European tilt and turn hardware to the UK, Mila has followed up with the launch of an enhanced security hinge for fully reversible windows, developed in partnership with another European manufacturer Spilka.

Mila’s aim is to ensure that fabricators operating in niche sectors have access to the same quality, performance and above all value in their hardware choices as those operating in the mass market.

Managing Director Richard Gyde said: “Tilt and turn windows typically only account for around 8% of the total window market and fully reversible windows around 4%, but, for fabricators specialising in the social housing market in particular, it can be a significant part of their business, so we’re investing in bringing new hardware products to the market which give them access to a much wider choice.”

European and British Standards and meet the Police Preferred Specification requirements of Secured by Design. This means they can be used alongside products like Mila’s ProLinea twin cam espag and NightSecure strikers to achieve a full Secured by Design window, and, with security blocks fixed into the groove on the top frame for the head slide to lock behind, for PAS24 accreditation and ADQ compliance.

The AURA hinges are dual branded because they represent a joint venture between Mila and Norway based Spilka and bring together the knowledge and experience of both businesses and their shared commitment to service and quality.

They are easy to fit with a simple hinge pivot which fits neatly into the centre of the sash, and can be used with window heights from 500mm to 1600mm and with a maximum sash weight of 80kg. There are 21 module sizes available from M6 to M16 in 50mm steps.

The new Aura fully reversible hinge from Mila jointly developed with SpilkaThe new AURA fully reversible hinges offer what Mila is calling the ‘perfect balance’ of high security and smooth operation.

They are available with profile specific head slides to suit any standard PVC-U, timber and aluminium fully reversible profiles with 12mm x 32mm fitting grooves.

All have been independently tested to the latest 34 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

In operation, the hinges feature a simple press and hold release mechanism which enables the window to move from the 80-100mm safety position, through the 150-290mm ventilation position and then to the reversed position for cleaning. Of course, this mechanism can be locked for safety, restricting the opening to the 100mm maximum.

Mila says that customers will be impressed by how smoothly the hinges operate and how simple they are to use. Further details are at www.mila.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

PAS24 Tests For Less With Cutting-Edge Caldwell Test Rig

Hardware manufacturer Caldwell has topped off a string of recent investments and innovations with the introduction of a £50k PAS24 testing rig.

The cutting-edge equipment is designed to make accreditation testing a much cheaper and easier process for the firm’s many customers.

“For many fabricators, PAS24 testing can be a major hassle,” explains Sales Director Tim Ferkin.

“Sending a product for testing, having it fail, making changes, and submitting to the test centre again and so on can quickly become an expensive and time-consuming affair.

“That’s why we decided to take action. Armed with the new test

rig,we can perform practise PAS24 tests in-house – meaning we can ensure a customer’s product will pass before it goes to an official test centre, saving them time and money.

“It’s a fantastic value-added service we’re delighted to be able to offer our customers, and we hope that as many of them as possible take advantage of it. If you’d like to learn more about our testing service, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.”

The new rig comes as just the latest in a series of major developments at Caldwell, which have included the introduction of a new range of high-performance window locks.

The cutting-edge Sinidex Security Lock incorporates floating mushroom technology by the firm’s well-regarded subsidiary Cotswold, allowing it to offer robust security performance and excellent tolerance, even with sash drops of up to 6.5mm.

The high-specification product also includes bi-directional locking cams, and as well as being tested to PAS24 standards, comes with a Secured by Design accreditation and a ten-year guarantee.

The Sinidex security lock will eventually form part of a full casement window set from Caldwell, along with hinges and handles. www.caldwell.co.uk

Carl F Groupco Confirms

Growth Of High Spec Hardware Hardware distributor Carl F Groupco endorses the findings of the ‘Door and Window Fittings Market Report – UK 2018-2022’ produced

by AMA Research Ltd. The established fittings supplier confirms demand for both high specification products and mainstay lines.

Affirming growth in electronic multipoint door locks, Carl F Groupco reports that SmartSecure – the company’s electronic locking and access control brand, has seen a seven fold increase in year on year sales to end March 2018. Early adopters include Housing Associations and fabricators who recognise the benefits of added value opportunities, the access control options for domestic use and wide range of applications supported.

AMA research findings also showed that multipoint locks comprise 62% of the market, a fact which underscores the continuing importance of the FUHR 881 locking system supplied by Carl F Groupco: the 881 is a fully electronic, motorised multipoint locking system with integrated panic function for security and convenience.

Carlia Corras, Carl F Groupco’s Sales Office Manager confirms sales growth for SmartSecure, the company’s electronic and access control brand.

The 12th edition of the ‘Door and Window Fittings Market Report – UK 2018-2022′ provides detailed insight into the market. The report offers analysis of all major product groups and the issues impacting the market. Supply and distribution channels are also reviewed. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 35

PEOPLE

Demand Rises For Kenrick’s Nemesis Opening The Door

To Contemporary

Colour

A new approach to creating beautiful designer doors with an original colour aesthetic is now possible thanks to the new W-Tec 3D+ hinge by SFS.

This ground-breaking hinge allows designers to rethink the visual impact of the hinge within the doorset, providing the option to colour contrast for bold aesthetics, or harmonise the hinge’s colour to complement the door and frame.

European designed and built, W-Tec 3D+ is a highly engineered premium quality hinge which offers unparalleled levels of stability and three-dimensional mechanical adjustability to enable precise installation and long-term reliability.

It can also be used for fire doors with a rating of up to 60 minutes, subject to appropriate doorset testing.

It is the perfect solution for aesthetically-led heavyweight timber doors up to 200kg in weight which are fitted into timber or steel frames and are typically suited to high-end commercial, hospitality and residential applications. The scope of applications for doorsets built with W-Tec 3D+ hinges is expanding all the time, with luxury hotels in Mallorca and Turkey just two of the projects which are already benefiting. sfsintec.co.uk 36 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Kenrick has seen a healthy rise in demand for its Nemesis multi-point window locking system for aluminium profiles. The company has credited its growing sales to the rapidly increasing popularity of aluminium in the domestic market.

Steve Williams, sales director at Kenrick, explains: “When it comes to windows and doors, aluminium continues to follow an incredible growth pattern and it’s predicted to reach an all-time high of 220,000 frames a year by 2020. This upward trend has driven demand for Nemesis and sales have grown tenfold since the launch, which is a phenomenal result. We have lots of new customers in the pipeline both in the UK and overseas and our forecasts show that this will be a really promising first year for Nemesis.

“The market is moving towards higher value products, but the aluminium sector has been hampered by the lack of choice in multi-point window locking systems for aluminium profiles. Nemesis has attracted this wave of new customers because it brings greater choice, but it also delivers on quality, performance and reliability which are vital at the higher end of the market. For a discerning customer base, it is the ultimate, compromise-free locking system.”

Nemesis is a high security bi-di-

rectional twin cam espagnolette window locking system that has been has been developed to suit aluminium profiles which come with or without a Euro groove. A fitter-friendly solution, it has been designed to aid rapid installation for the fabricator on all major aluminium profiles. Unlike some other systems, it is made from the finest grade austenitic stainless steel, which has been tested to BS EN 1670: 2007 Grade 4 (severe) rating for salt spray corrosion resistance.

Nemesis features a robust offset handed die-cast gearbox and bi-directional twin cams to provide superior security. It also incorporates stainless steel faceplate drive bars and mushroom cams to enhance both its appearance and durability. The mushroom cams are available in 5mm and 7mm heights and are adjustable to +/- 1mm to aid compression once it has been fitted.

Keeps are currently available for all the major aluminium systems, including Smarts Alitherm 300, Smarts Alitherm 600, Smarts Alitherm 800, Smarts Alitherm Heritage, Smarts EcoFutural, Sapa Crown, Sapa Dualframe and AluK. Nemesis has been fully tested at Exova BM Trada and is Secured by Design and PAS 24: 2016 accredited. It has been function tested to 100,000 full cycles (open/close, lock/unlock). www.kenricks.co.uk

PEOPLE

many months and they have surpassed our expectations every step of the way. In fact, so confident are we of the quality and durability of this new range that we are offering a 10-year mechanical operation guarantee on the entire range, way beyond the 1-year guarantee which is currently offered as the norm.”

Mila Launches New Cost Effective Tilt And Turn Hardware Range Mila has partnered with the award winning European hardware manufacturer AXOR to bring a brand new range of tilt and turn hardware to the UK market.

Suitable for windows from 400mm to 1520mm wide and 370mm to 2390mm high, the new range gives fabricators a cost effective alternative to the Siegenia tilt and turn hardware which Mila already distributes, and widens the choice available for Mila customers.

Managing Director Richard Gyde explains: “The tilt and turn market is small but significant, particularly in the social housing sector and in the south of England and Scotland where the housing stock tends to favour this style of window, but it has become increasingly price

sensitive in recent years.

“Customers operating in this market have asked us to help them reduce their costs and we have responded by identifying a new supplier in AXOR and joining forces with them to bring their fully tested and accredited tilt and turn hardware range to the UK for the first time.”

The AXOR products sit firmly within Mila’s HERO (Hardware Essentials to Rely On) range, so are at a lower price point than Siegenia, but with no compromise being made on quality or performance.

Richard continues: “Customers can be reassured that these products satisfy every quality and performance criteria we have laid down. Our team have been working with AXOR for

The new AXOR products from Mila are manufactured in a purpose built factory in Ukraine which has full ISO9001 quality accreditation. They have been fully tested and accredited to all the necessary UK endurance and corrosion standards at Europe’s largest test facility – IFT Rosenheim in Germany.

In the UK, the range has also been PAS24 security tested at Mila’s own UKAS accredited test centre and is both Approved Document Q and Secured by Design compliant.

The Axor range has several stand out design features, including heavy duty hinges with a weight capacity of 130kg as standard. There is a clever mis-handling device which both prevents the handle from being operated when the window is in the tilt position and acts as a sash lifter to ensure precision engagement of the sash when closing. There is also a simple but effective latch which prevents the window from slamming shut in the wind.

Mila is keen to emphasise that it is not replacing its Siegenia products with Axor. It is simply offering customers a wider choice and now has both ranges in stock side by side at its Daventry warehouse ready for immediate delivery. The internal and external sales teams have been fully trained and can offer expert advice on both ranges.

More details are available via the website: www.mila.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 37

PRODUCT NEWS perb. The nxt-gen door is also internally glazed which offers increased security too. Add in the impressive range of glass from Distinction Glass collection and you have a door that really stands out in the marketplace and offers our customers something quite unique to sell to the consumer.”

Michael is consistently impressed by the ever-expanding range on offer from Distinction Doors. He says: “Distinction continually brings something new to the party. They clearly have their fingers on the pulse with regard to door trends and design. They constantly update and launch new products and support packages that really make a positive difference. In short, they add real value to our business.”

Distinction’s Nxt-Gen Adds Real Value To HS Trade Windows Business HS Trade Windows has been a Distinction Doors’ customer for over ten years. It recently introduced the new nxt-gen composite door range to its fabrication set-up four months ago and it’s already proving to be a hit. HS Trade’s Owner, 38 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Michael Gromett, said: “The nxt-gen composite door is easier to fabricate with less wastage but for us it was all about the door’s streamline aesthetics. The look of the door is truly unique and the mouldings and overall design is su-

The nxt-gen door and Distinction Glass samples have been installed in 15 of HS Trade’s customers domestic showrooms. The company also utilise Distinction Doors’ Showroom Locator platform which drives customers to their many domestic showroom sites. Furthermore, HS Trade’s customers also make good use of Distinction’s door-designer platform that allows consumers to design their own door, from the style and colour to the glass and hardware.

Alongside the quality and depth of the product range, Michael also praises the support that’s constantly on offer. “We pride ourselves on working with our customers and offer a personalised trade service. For us, it’s not just about supplying the product to our customers, we get to know them and work with them to ensure they have everything they need. Distinction Doors has got the same approach as we do and it’s something we appreciate.” www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Further Success With A Stronger Residor

Proposition

Solidor says installation companies are now joining Residor by the week, as they seek what they describe as arguably the most secure mid-market GRP composite door from Solidor Group, with the added backing of claimed worldclass logistics, OTIF levels and marketing support.

Boasting on time in full deliveries in just 5 days and with OTIF levels currently in excess of 99%, Solidor says customers know that when they order a Residor, they can already plan the installation schedule with complete confidence.

There is also the added benefit of a range of marketing materials that have been put together by the

6 standard colours plus a further 250 special RAL colours and a wide hardware range, there’s a Residor for all homes the company claims.

team behind the Solidor brand and so there are the tools in place to help customers close more sales.

Residor is believed to be the only mid-market GRP door that’s offered with Ultion as standard, along with a double-thickness 3.6mm external door skin, complying to the latest PAS 24 standards. With 9 distinct door designs,

Next Generation Composite Doors Now

Available From Sidey

Recently the company has also introduced a consumer facing online Door Designer tool, designed to close more sales and with Residor Cloud, there’s also the back-end functionality that allows for online quotations and ordering. Solidor Group says it’s not only Solidor customers that are embracing the Residor GRP composite door, but other companies are moving over from existing suppliers with the knowledge that they are dealing with a worldclass operation that’s helped fuel the incredible success at Solidor. www.residor.co.uk

Next Generation composite doors are the latest addition to Sidey’s impressive range of entrance doors.

The new doors are now available to order from Scotland’s fenestration specialists.

The unique flush fitted inner frame glazing is just one of the extra benefits of installing Next Generation doors from Sidey,” says Steve Hardy, Managing Director at Sidey. “Not only does the flush fitted glazing make it look more like a traditional timber door, but it removes the raised glazing cassette. There’s enhanced security and the doors are PAS 24:2016 compliant.

The doors also offer excellent weatherproofing, high energy efficiency, and superb sound insulation. Exceptional durability is another key feature, and Sidey backs up these claims with a 10-year guarantee as well as a 25-year structural warranty.

“Of course, they have great looks, there are lots of colour and design choices as well as flush fitted glazing. There are traditional and modern styles to choose from, so there’s something for everyone. We offer 43 door colours including Honey beige, Azure blue and Sable.

“Sidey has an enviable track record supplying window and door installation companies across Scotland,” adds Steve. “We are always looking for new products and Next Generation doors offer superb all-round performance, and that makes them the perfect package for any project.” www.sidey.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 39

PRODUCT NEWS

SYSTEMGLAS

®

Ligna Provides Assured Fire

Protection For Timber Framed

Butt-Jointed Glazing

tion experts work closely with customers at every stage of the supply chain, starting with guidance on the right approach at the design and specification stage. All SYSTEMGLAS® products are then manufactured consistently in its ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 (2015) manufacturing plants with close supervision provided to its partner joinery manufacturers to eliminate risk.

This ensures all cutting and processing is completed to the correct standard.

The final stage of the wheel of assurance sees Promat UK inspect SYSTEMGLAS® on completion to check that it has been installed in accordance with its recommendations. The company then provides a certificate of conformity for installation.

esigning, specifying and installing fire rated timber framed butt-jointed glazing is now easier with the assurance of a fully traceable supply chain with the launch of SYSTEMGLAS® Ligna by Promat UK, one of the country’s leading manufacturers of fire, thermal and acoustic solutions.

Joining the existing ‘frameless’, paintable, metal-clad and steel frame options to complete the SYSTEMGLAS® range, Ligna gives designers the ideal balance of assured fire protection and maximum light transmission in all kinds of timber framed glazed partitions and screens. Ideal for offices, healthcare, education, retail and public sector applications, it has been tested (CERTIFIRE CF5452) to provide integrity and insulation (EI) fire protec40 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

tion from 30 minutes up to 60 minutes (EI30 to EI60). All the options are explained in Promat’s UK’s comprehensive new Specifiers Guide, available to download at www.promat-glass. co.uk.

SYSTEMGLAS® Ligna’s exact configuration of fire glass and components, including beading and setting blocks, is provided to joinery manufacturers who are fully supported by Promat UK throughout the manufacture stage. This ensures the timber frame is created to the correct specification to deliver the finished glazing’s promised fire protection level.

It is an approach which ensures that Promat UK provides a 360 degree ‘wheel of assurance’ to specifiers and end clients.

Promat UK’s passive fire protec-

Ian Cowley, Regional Director (UK and Scandinavia) at Promat UK says: “SYSTEMGLAS® Ligna takes fire protection in timber framed glazing to a whole new level. For the first time, specifiers can choose a complete system with confidence, safe in the knowledge that all elements of the glazing system are designed and manufactured to work together to deliver the required fire protection. It takes away any ambiguity with Promat specialists maintaining control and reducing supply chain risk by eliminating the points where there could be any deviation in the specification.”

Part of international building product manufacturing group the Etex Group, Promat UK has been producing fire, thermal and acoustic protection solutions for more than 30 years. In addition to its range of fire resistant glass, the company manufactures market leading high performance solutions which are used in numerous hi-tech, engineering and industrial sectors.

Find out more at www.promat-glass.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

AluFoldDirect Launches AluK’s Infinium Minimal Frame Glazing Infinium is now available from AluFoldDirect, so installation companies can make the most of the premium domestic market for minimal frame glazing.

“Infinium is the product that takes framing a view to dizzying new heights,” explains Craig Miller, Managing Director at AluFoldDirect. “Concealed frames, motorised opening and a sightline of just 21mm – what’s not to love?”

The perfect system for installers who need wall-to-wall glazing for impressive modernist home designs, Infinium has minimal interruption with its super-slim sightline and fully concealed

outer frame. A flush threshold and fully concealed hardware finishes the minimalist look.

Infinium is a double track system. Sash sizes are up to 3000mm wide and 3500mm high, and there are configurations available with up to four sashes, for the widest openings. Double thermal breaks, U-Values as low as 1.0 W/m2K and the option of double or triple glazed units, bring nature in whilst keeping the elements out.

Bespoke-design aluminium rollers are used to give the doors effortless glide whilst the custom-made motorised lock and sliding system opens and clos-

es the doors at the touch of a button, for an even easier user experience.

Craig adds: “As an approved fabricator, we are one of the only companies who can offer this fantastic system to installers. Before installation companies can add this product to their offering, they will need to qualify as a certified installer by attending a free, one-day course at the Aluminium Installer Training Academy at our factory in Blackburn.

“Infinium is a great bit of kit and precision is absolutely essential to get it right on site first time.

The certified installer scheme offers an extra benefit and peace of mind to homeowners, architects and project managers too.

“Infinium isn’t just about style – it’s a superb combination of technology, engineering, precision manufacturing and flawless fitting for a stunning finish.” alufolddirect.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 41

PRODUCT NEWS

offering the potential to speed up fabrication and help reduce costs, Senior’s new Ali VU Multi Frame doesn’t require any add-on profiles to convert external beaded profiles to internal and vice versa.

Senior’s Launches New Ali VU Multi Frame enior Architectural Systems has extended its product offering for the domestic residential market by adding the new Ali VU Multi Frame option to its range of high performance aluminium windows and doors.

With the new Ali VU Multi Frame, trade customers can enjoy even greater flexibility by being able to choose from a wide range of internally or externally beaded configurations, opening up new opportunities for the use of fixed light and vents in the same window. Designed with the trade fabricator in mind, the new Multi Frame option requires no new or additional tooling and can be fab42 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

ricated using the same crimping knives and blocks as the Ali VU standard outerframe options. Also

K:1Design1ProjectsD0690 - Slim Line Window10. ManualAli VUCombining design flexibility with responsive customer service, the new Ali VU Multi Frame can be ordered in the full range of RAL colours thanks to Senior’s state of the art in-house powder coating facility. For even faster delivery, the new Ali VU Multi Frame is available in pre-powder coated single and dual colour anthracite grey and hipca white, with guaranteed deliveries from stock within 3-5 days across the full suite of Senior’s slim line Ali VU windows and Ali FOLD bi-folding and patio doors.

Senior Architectural Systems’ sales director James Keeling-Heane commented: “The development of our domestic product range has been driven by our desire to give the trade customers what they want, when they want it. Our aim is for our products to be perform as well as they look, to be easy to fabricate and install and to be supported by sort lead times and reliable deliveries.

Following the launch of our Ali VU windows earlier this years and the growing popularity to our Ali FOLD door range, we have had some really great feedback from the trade and more importantly, more new customers coming on board to work with us. We may be better known for our commercial sector contracts but there’s a definite place for aluminium in the domestic market and we’re committed to giving our trade network the products they need to take full advantage of these opportunities.”

For more information about Senior, visit seniorarchitectural.co.uk/askforali.

PRODUCT NEWS

PatioMaster Doors Give The VIP Touch To A VIP Dog Hotel Ian of Alpha 1 Dog Hotel opted for PatioMaster patio doors in Anthracite Grey. The five doors were manufactured by PatioMaster Ireland and installed by Derryork. A range of different sizes was needed to cater for the different sizes of dog that will be staying in the hotel.

PatioMaster Ireland and longstanding customer Derryork Windows of County Londonderry have just completed an unusual project in Coleraine – the installation of five sliding patio doors in a VIP dog hotel.

Ian Eccles is the owner of Alpha 1 Dog Hotel, which officially opened in April 2018. He says the aim was to create an upmarket dog hotel and patio doors were an important part of the look. “Dog homes can often be unappealing, with dogs peering through the bars of their kennels,” he explains.

“I wanted to use patio doors so the dogs in our VIP suites would have a clear, open look out that felt much more homely.”

When Ian first started to investigate the options, he had

assumed he was looking for aluminium doors. It was a conversation with Derek Morrow of the family-owned Derryork Windows that changed his mind. “I was amazed by the colour options and versatility of the PatioMaster doors,” says Ian. Derryork has been working with PatioMaster Ireland for many years and Derek praises the reliability of the team but says it’s the quality of the doors that really stand out: “The quality of PatioMaster doors is truly superb – they’re highly engineered with smooth operation. The PatioMaster doors also offers superb energy efficiency and ensures protection against the elements ensuring maximum comfort and we are happy to recommend them to our customers.”

Christine Gaw of PatioMaster Ireland commented: “Derryork Windows has worked alongside us for many years and have a strong reputation of quality and workmanship.

When we were approached by Derryork Windows regarding this unique project, we were very excited as this is the first project of its kind for us and demonstrates the versatility of the PatioMaster sliding patio door. The Anthracite Grey sliding patios look fantastic in this installation. Minimal PVC-U with a large glass area bringing lots of light. A real touch of class!”

Derek added: “We are delighted with the finish and look of the new dog hotel. It was interesting installing something a bit different and we thank Ian for giving Derryork the opportunity to tender for this job.”

And most importantly of all, Ian is delighted with the end result: “The doors look great and the smooth operation of the doors is fantastic – they really add the wow factor to the VIP dog suite.” www.patiomaster.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 43

PRODUCT NEWS

Profile 22’s Optima Flush Casement Shows Its Credentials

cill and glazing bars as well as a French Flush Casement option too. The heritage appearance is enhanced with period hardware and a range of period colours.

Further additions to the range have recently been added. Gerald explains: “We’ve added a French Flush Casement offering to open up even more opportunities. We’ve also added a night vent lock, mechanical joint end caps and a flipper gasket system with 90-degree moulded corners. In doing so we’ve made the Optima Flush Casement Window suitable for use in new builds as a fire egress window, we’ve created ventilation that’s effective but secure and we’ve improved the overall finish.”

The buoyancy of the flush casement window market continues to flourish for Profile 22 with year on year sales growth for its Optima Flush Casement Window. Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We know from market research that heritage and high-end window products are gaining traction in the market place and this is something that our sales figures more than bear out.”

The systems company claims the reason for the demand for Profile 22’s Optima Flush Case44 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

ment Window is the quality of the product. Gerald commented: “Optima is a system that has been designed to give our customers a competitive advantage and you can see that in our Flush Casement Window, which looks better and performs better than rival products.”

The window’s design is based on a British timber cottage window. It has features including a traditional putty line sash, a traditional wide bottom sash rail and slim depth sashes. It can be partially or fully mechanically jointed and there is a range of

But despite the heritage appearance, it’s very much a 21st century window. It can achieve a U-value as low as 1.2W/m2K. It exceeds the requirements of UK and EU Building Regulations, exceeds PAS24 requirements on all options and is accredited by the British Standards Institute.

It features innovations such as common ancillaries across the entire range to minimise stockholding, easy-to-locate hardware, optimised drainage, deeper legs than alternative systems and perfectly positioned seals for long-lasting performance.

The demand for Profile 22’s Flush Casement window reveal how market tastes are changing and how such feature-rich products are reaching the mainstream. www.profile22.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Dekko Adds New Grey Substrate To Their Seamless Infinity Flush Sash Dekko Window Systems has extended the premium credentials of its seamless uPVC system with the addition of a new grey substrate.

The new substrate, finished in an Anthracite Smooth Matt foil, gives Infinity a matching high-end finish on the inside of the frame – replacing the standard white or dark brown finish that’s found when you open other window systems.

The combination of the grey on grey appearance, alongside both Graf welded frames and now cills, means Infinity is expertly placed to help Dekko customers target the premium end of the home im-

which meets the premium demands of today’s consumer.”

provement market.

“Infinity has long been the luxury alternative to standard white uPVC windows and we’re delighted to extend that with the brand-new substrate,” comments Kurt Greatrex, Sales Director at Dekko Window Systems. “With its Smooth Matt finish, the new substrate adds the final touch to what is already a highly-desirable and high-margin window system,

Roseview’s

Massive Sash Passes PAS24

“The completely grey finish also means Infinity can double-up as an effective replica for aluminium.

So, if our luxury Räum aluminium collection is just outside the homeowner’s budget, our customers can effectively recreate those premium, contemporary aesthetics using the Infinity Flush Sash. It’s part of our commitment as the UK’s leading premium fabricator to provide all the tools and support our customers need to thrive in this ultra-competitive market.” www.dekkowindows.com

A giant Ultimate Rose sash window manufactured

by Buckinghamshire-based Roseview has become the biggest to ever pass PAS24 and Secured by Design testing, claims the company.

Measuring a massive 1500 by 3000mm, the impressive product dwarfs anything the fast-growing fabricator has ever tested before – and everyone in the factory!

Company Sales Director Richard Burrells commented: “We’re absolutely delighted that our giant sash passed with flying colours. Testing a product this big was always going to be risky – but we had faith in our design and the skill and expertise of our fabricators, and thankfully it paid off!”

“That such slim sections of profile – including the slimmest meeting stile on the market, just 35mm in width – can safely support so much glass is a testament to the product’s amazing strength. It goes to show that, with the Rose Collection, you don’t have to compromise. If you want a large, customised, or other Roseview sash window, we can and will deliver.”

But this is just the latest in a string of innovations from one of the country’s most forward-thinking fabricators.

For more information visit www.roseview.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 45

PRODUCT NEWS

Increasing Demand For Spectus Mechanically Jointed Vertical Slider

Spectus launched its mechanically jointed Vertical Slider six months ago and demand is increasing rapidly. Carmen Velilla, Brand Manager for Spectus, said: “The market is moving towards higher value products and the Spectus mechanically jointed Vertical Slider is proving incredibly popular among fabricators and installers wanting to harness the opportunities.”

The Spectus Mechanically Jointed Vertical Slider takes the authenticity of the Spectus Vertical Slider to the next level with full mechanical jointing to the sash and outer frame. Like the standard version, the Mechanically Jointed Vertical Slider has features such as equal sash widths, traditional ovolo styling on all planes, flush gaskets, a deep bottom rail and a 128mm frame that

all ensure beautifully authentic aesthetics.

Despite the authentic looks, the window has everything homeowners would expect from a modern window and more.

Reliable spiral balance mechanisms mean the window is easy to open and close, while the tilt inwards facility on both sashes makes them easy to clean. And a U-value as low as 1.3W/m2K and a WER of Band A+ means excep-

tional thermal efficiency too.

It’s also a practical option for installers – the 128mm outer frame matches box sash dimensions and there’s the option of a 150mm or 210mm cill. It’s Kitemarked to BS EN 12608, BBA approved, PAS 24 accredited is designed to achieve Secured by Design status so is Document Q compliant.

One of the latest customers to add the Spectus Mechanically Jointed Vertical Slider to its range is Garrard Windows. Lucy Griffith from the company commented: “It raises the bar in authenticity, especially when it comes to the foil options because the foils really showcase the mechanical joint.

The window really is a match for the timber alternatives in terms of overall aesthetics. Manufacturing the Spectus Mechanically Jointed Vertical Slider will open up new opportunities for us and our customers because feature-rich mechanically jointed products are very much on trend.” www.spectus.co.uk

Shepley Has 18 Standard Colours Available In Just 7 Days

Shepley has added Agate Grey to its standard colour range as part of its ‘Stop the Colours Headache’ campaign for Visage Installers. The addition means that Visage PVCu windows and doors are available in 18 standard colours on 7-day lead times.

Sales Director at Shepley, Tony Ball explains: “By offering 18 colour options on 7-day delivery, we can take away installers’ pain of getting the coloured frames that homeowners want without holding up installation dates.

“Whilst the demand for white PVCu is still high, more and more homeowners are choosing colour46 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

ed frames for their home improvements. By offering a wide colour range on the same lead times as our white windows and doors, installers can be confident that regardless of what their customers want, they can book in installations according to their usual schedules.”

Shepley is the largest REHAU sole fabricator. Visage frames have 5-chamber profiles for great levels of energy efficiency and are Secured by Design and Document Q certified.

Tony adds: “We have noticed an increase in Agate Grey window orders, which is why we have tak-

en the decision to add this shade to our stock colour range. The 18 options include other popular colours including: Cream, Chartwell Green, Slate Grey and Anthracite Grey.” www.shepley.com

Manufacturers of window and door hardware dedicated to the timber, PVCu and aluminium markets for over 40 years.

• Cylinders • Handles • Fasteners • Espags • Shootbolts • Hinges • Locks • Restrictors

Get a handle on our range!

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it fo r li fe .. .

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PRODUCT NEWS damaged in construction and refurbishment projects, especially those at low level applications. By fitting the cill nose separately when the project nears completion, the chances of damage are greatly reduced.

Profile 22’s Universal

Two-Part Cill Demonstrates The

Intelligence Of The Optima System Since its launch in 2016 Profile 22’s award-winning Optima has been hailed as one of the most considered systems on the market. For Gerald Allen, Epwin Window Systems’ Marketing Manager, the evidence for this is in the details. He says: “Optima was designed from the ground up to deliver a system designed for the 21st century. This is evident at every level of the system, but it’s the intelligence of details such as a universal two-part cill that set it apart. We launched it last year

as part of our continuous product development process and its popularity demonstrates its value.”

The universal two-part cill means that window cills are installed in a two step process. The receiver is fitted during the construction process and the cill nose is fitted when the project nears completion.

Cill noses are one of the components that are most frequently

The separate cill nose is also a benefit post-installation. Homeowners frequently damage cills accidentally. When a window is fitted with a standard cill, replacement is complicated and expensive. With a two-part cill, the damage can be repaired easily, restoring the window to pristine condition and retaining the quality of the building envelope.

The universal two-part cill comes with a choice of noses, all of which are compatible with Profile 22 standard one-piece cill for consistent styling across a project. It is also available in all 28 colours in the Profile 22 colour range.

Gerald said: “It’s a simple thing but it makes a massive difference. A two-part cill is easier to install, easier to protect during the construction process and easier to repair in the future. It’s just one example of the compelling advantages Profile 22 has to offer.” www.profile22.co.uk

Stylish Windows Adds HiTECH Blinds

Isle of Wight based double-glazing installer Stylish Windows has become the latest firm to benefit from state-of-the-art HiTECH Blinds.

Over 25 years of hard work and thousands of successful installations, Stylish Windows has built itself into a thriving business, supplying and fitting uPVC and aluminium doors and windows to customers across the island.

But never content to sit on its laurels, last year the firm went in search of niche products that would help it bring more choice to its customers and get an edge on 48 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

10,000 cycles.

its competition.

That’s when Stylish Windows found HiTECH Blinds. Magnet-operated for easy operation and offering BS EN 1279-accreditated robustness and weather-resistance, HiTECH products have been successfully cycle-tested to

Backed-up with a no-nonsense 10-year guarantee, says the company, they are available in several colour combinations. It is also the only manufacturer on the market capable of offering dual-coloured slats to match its dual-coloured frame, claim HiTECH. HiTECH produces double and triple-glazed units with Georgian bars and other decorative elements, and for over-sized glazed areas they also offer unique double blinds, featuring two manual blinds inside one sealed unit. www.hitechblinds.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

“The lightest Tiled Conservatory

Roof On The Market” Says Universal Trade Frames Trade fabricator Universal Trade Frames claims to offer its customers the lightest tiled conservatory roof on the market by supplying Ultraroof from Ultraframe. But for Managing Director Brian Kruger, that’s just the start. “The Ultraroof allows our customers to capitalise on the growing trend in solid-roof conservatory solutions. Not only is it the lightest tiled conservatory roof on the market, it’s also one of the strongest, the brightest, the warmest and the fastest to fit.”

One of the headline benefits is the Ultraroof never needs a tie bar, thanks to its extra light

weight and 380mm beam design. It’s so strong, in fact, it’s capable of delivering 4 metre spans without extra support, says Universal.

It has a fully integrated glazing solution with full height glazing panels that are both cost effective and easier to fit than traditional Velux windows, according to the company.

Brian comments: “New build single storey extensions need to flood a house with light if they are to achieve the bright space homeowners are looking for. Light is also important on replacement projects too.

Ultraroof’s large glass panels

are the most cost-effective way to give homeowners the result they want.”

With a U value as low as 0.16W/ m² (and the option to reduce it to 0.13W/m²), the Ultraroof delivers thermal performance with no cold bridging. It is available in P and T shapes and, says Universal, is the only solid roof with a curved cornice option to add shape and style to the roofline and hide gutters. Features such as the integrated full height glazing panels and the pre-cut tiles mean the Ultraroof is “faster to fit.”

Brian concludes: “While the Ultraroof is perfect for installers looking to offer a solid roof solution, it sits well alongside our extensive range of additional glass and polycarbonate roof products allowing you to get a complete range of roofing solutions from one trade supplier.” www.utfl.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 49

PRODUCT NEWS

LEKA Systems

Looks To Add Value To Fabricators’ Portfolios Fabricators looking to increase turnover should take a look at what LEKA products have to offer. That’s the message from Rhys Hoddinott Director of LEKA Systems. He comments: “The LEKA Orangery Roof and the LEKA Warm Roof are proving to be strong additions to fabricators’ portfolios. Their popularity means they’re a great way to get new installers through the door, which opens up opportunities to increase sales on existing products too. Plus, they’re easy to add to a fabrication set up and we provide full marketing and technical support so fabricators can start to add value to their portfolio very quickly.”

Rhys says there are three reasons why the LEKA Orangery Roof and the LEKA Warm Roof offer such great opportunities to fabricators.

Firstly, there’s the changing conservatory market and the trend for conservatories to become higher value spaces that deliver greater flexibility. Orangery and orangery-hybrid installations have seen impressive growth in recent years – up 38% in 2016.

The second reason is the exceptional ability of the LEKA Orangery Roof and the LEKA Warm Roof to deliver on homeowners’ aspirations to create these flexible living spaces. They deliver U values of just 0.15 W/m²K, so they create the year-round room homeowners are looking for, as well as offering a wealth of other practical and aesthetic benefits.

The third reason is the practical benefits they give installers. The products are jhai-approved, all materials are pre-cut to exact specifications and there are fewer elements to install than on a traditional solid conservatory roof, so on-site installations typically only take between one and three days.

50 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

LEKA Systems Now

LABSS Approved LEKA Systems has just announced that its LEKA Warm Roof and LEKA Orangery Roof systems have received Registered Detail approval from Local Authority Building Standards Scotland (LABSS). Rhys Hoddinott, Director of LEKA said: “This is great news for fabricators, installers and homeowners in Scotland. It means LEKA products are recognised as being compliant with building standards in Scotland and can be accepted for use without the need for any further checks, other than local site conditions if appropriate. It therefore delivers real-time savings in time and costs.”

The announcement means that LEKA Systems’ products are pre-approved for use throughout the whole of Great Britain because they already had System Approval from jhai so had fast track Building Regulations approval in England and Wales.

The pre-approvals on the systems reflect their quality and thermal efficiency benefits. Their lightweight construction means

they can be installed on existing conservatories without needing additional reinforcement while they deliver U values of just 0.15 W/m²K. According to LEKA, the accreditation is the perfect example of LEKA’s proactive approach and another tick in the box for fabricators and installers. For example, LEKA fabricators and installers receive full product and technical training to get them up and running quickly. There’s powerful marketing support and lead generation too, including television advertising.

Plus, claim the company, the products are quick and easy to install too.

Rhys concluded: “We are delighted to achieve LABSS approval on our products because we know it adds further value to our offering. Fabricators and installers in Scotland wishing to find out more about the advantages our systems deliver should contact LEKA for more details.” www.lekasystems.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Bohle Reinvents Clean!

Bohle has launched a revolutionary new cleaner which shifts stubborn dirt, paint and grime from a wide variety of surfaces, without damaging them.

XtraClean is a completely new cleaning formula, which cuts through grime without using chemical additives, acids or bleaching agents.

Instead it uses a specially developed combination of ultra-fine microparticles, essential oils and surfactants which combine to create a mechanical effect, which loosens dirt without scrubbing.

This means that it’s suitable for removing deposits of building dirt and rust from a wide variety of materials including glass, stainless steel, ceramics, tile joints and other hard surfaces.

site, while other trades have come in and you come back to find that the plasterer or the render have not only plastered the walls but also your doors or windows!”, says Dave Broxton, Managing Director, Bohle.

Sold in a paste form, XtraClean is easy to apply using a standard soft cloth or sponge and then re-worked with water as required depending on the level of contamination.

“Alternatively you’ve left a metal canister or tin on a piece of glass, ceramic tile or machinery and it’s left rust marks – XtraClean, will shift it.

Depending on the substrate it’s also powerful enough to remove graffiti from walls or even concrete or mortar splashes from glass without damaging it.

“It really is an incredible product. I’ve trialled it at home on chrome door handles which had become dull and slightly pitted. I didn’t need to scrub or rub. You simply apply XtraClean evenly over the surface and the microparticle and surfactants do the hard work.”

“It’s a pretty common story, you’ve installed windows and doors, you’ve gone away from

For more visit the Bohle website www.bohle-group.com/en-gb email info@bohle.ltd.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 51

ON SITE

Advanced Glass Coating Helps Deliver Breeam Excellent For All-Glazed Glasgow HQ Building The newly completed 122 Waterloo Street development in the centre of Glasgow offers its occupants floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout, with almost uninterrupted views thanks to the latest Schüco curtain-walling system designed, manufactured and installed by Edinburgh-based façade specialist Charles Henshaw & Sons Ltd. But, impressively, the landmark building – which will be the Glasgow headquarters of global financial services firm Morgan Stanley – will also be one of the most energy efficient buildings in Scotland, thanks in part to high-performance glass coatings 52 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

from Pilkington United Kingdom Limited.

The scheme has been certified BREEAM Excellent, and achieved an ‘A’ rated Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), the latter based on a detailed assessment of the building’s energy performance. The glazing helps to minimise this by reducing energy emitted from the building, as well as the heating effect of the sun, both of which can make maintaining a comfortable interior climate more energy-intensive. rsz_5421-030_exterior_duskThe scale of the building and the

large area of glass used means that excessive radiation of heat from the building could lead to rapid heat loss during colder conditions, requiring an increase in heating to keep the interior warm.

To mitigate this effect, the glazing features a Pilkington Optitherm™S1 Plus low-emissivity coating which reflects radiated heat back into the building.

The second issue that can affect buildings where most of the envelope is glazed is excessive heat build-up when the sun is shining directly into the interior.

This can present a challenge for building managers, often requiring high levels of energy-intensive air conditioning.

To combat this, a solar-control coating has been used, reducing the amount of heat energy that is able to enter the building while maintaining high levels of transparency.

ON SITE

Michael Metcalfe, commercial sales manager at Pilkington UK, said: “The Pilkington Suncool™ 70/35 T coating selected by the design team offers high visible light transmittance, reduced solar transmittance and excellent low-emissivity all in one product.

Crown Doors & Shutters installs Exlabesa systems on Skelton Retail Park

“This means the floor space will be brightly lit by sunlight but won’t suffer from overheating on warmer days.”

The coatings are not the only innovative part of the glazing used in the project, as the glass is held in place by the latest structurally bonded curtain wall system from manufacturer Schüco.

Each unit contains a large pane of clear glass and a smaller pane of opaque, coloured spandrel glass, creating horizontal lines across the façade between each floor of the building.

Michael Metcalfe continued: “The metal carrier frames in which the glass sits are extremely low profile, so the edges of the panes of glass are very close to one another. This removes the mullions normally associated with unit-based glazing systems, creating a flush glass surface with almost uninterrupted views.”

The clarity of the glazing was further improved by the use of Pilkington Optiwhite™ true lowiron glazing throughout, which significantly reduces the slight green tint that is inherent in standard float glass.

On the ground floor, Pilkington Optilam™ laminated glazing was used to provide protection against manual attack and increase the security of the building.

Completed in December 2017, the nine-storey building also includes 155,000 sq ft of Grade A office space.

Crown Doors & Shutters has just completed the installation of curtain walling and a non-thermal shop front as part of the construction of Skelton Retail Park in Skelton, near Middlesbrough. Andrew Mersh of Crown Doors and Shutters said: “This was an interesting project to complete and we’re pleased to see that Greggs and B&M have moved into the units, creating over 50 jobs in the process.”

ity and cost-effectiveness to fabricator and installer alike.

Crown won the contract thanks to its longstanding relationship and excellent track record of successful delivery with Tolent Construction. Crown used Exlabesa’s ECW50 curtain walling and KSF non thermal shop front.

Both systems deliver results that maximise the glazed area for stunning aesthetics, meet and exceed current regulatory requirements and offer simplic-

The Skelton Retail Park project is an excellent example of the importance of trust in any business relationship. Tolent Construction chose Crown Doors & Shutters because it trusted its ability to deliver the results needed. And Crown Doors & Shutters chose Exlabesa for exactly the same reason.

Crown has been working with Exlabesa since 2012. Andrew says the reasons for the longstanding relationship are simple.

“Exlabesa is very competitive.

It is committed to expanding its range and has the same systems as the high end suppliers and achieve the same outcome.

We’ve gone from strength to strength using its systems.”

www.exlabesa.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 53

ON SITE

Fenestration Fit For Purpose At New London Sports Centre

A new sports centre situated within the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Sutcliffe Park Nature Reserve is making the most of the natural beauty of its surroundings with a high performance aluminium fenestration package from Senior Architectural Systems.

Installed by Elite Aluminium Systems Ltd for main contractor Buckingham Group Ltd, the building features Senior’s slim profile SF52 aluminium curtain wall, alongside Senior’s thermally-efficient SPW600e aluminium windows and SPW501 commercial aluminium doors which together help to contribute to the centre’s light and modern interior. The use of Senior’s Ali FOLD aluminium bi-folding doors to the rear of the building also provides a comfortable viewing area and easy 54 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

access to the centre’s newly refurbished athletics track.

The new Sutcliffe Park Sports Centre has been designed by HTP Architecture to complement the local environment, with the low profile of the building helping to reduce the visual impact of the scheme. The slim sightlines offered by the narrow yet robust aluminium frames of Senior’s glazing systems have also helped to create a sleek façade design for the new centre that is both stylish and sympathetic to its parkland location.

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

ON SITE

Countrywide UPVC

Installs 88 Profile 22 Vertical Sliding Windows run as smoothly as possible.

Planning permission was successfully secured and installation began in 2016. Countrywide UPVC ran the schedule of works to suit the residents, working from flat to flat rather than from one side of the building to the other. The work ran extremely smoothly and all installations were completed by February 2017 on time and on budget.

Westcliffe Court is a prominent private apartment building in Southport, Merseyside. It had been built with soft wood framed sash windows but its location near the sea meant the frames were wearing badly and needed to be repainted every three or four years – an expensive undertaking for the building’s residents. When the windows’ seals started to fail too, the building’s management company sought a more thermally efficient PVC-U alternative.

Because the building is in a conservation area, any changes to the exterior of the building needed to be approved. The local planning department specified that vertical sliding windows with a white wood-

grain finish needed to be used and stipulated they needed to feature mechanical mortise-and-tenon joints rather than a welded 45 degree joint.

The building’s management company researched alternatives and selected Profile 22 and approved installer, Countrywide UPVC in Ormskirk.

Countrywide UPVC worked closely with Westcliffe Court’s management company to secure the necessary planning permission. They were supported throughout by Profile 22’s Specification Manager, who completed all the designs for the windows and attended both residents and planning department meetings, with samples, making a complicated process

Les Moon, Project Leader for Westcliffe Court Management Company and building resident said: “All the residents are absolutely delighted with the new windows. They are extremely pleasing aesthetically and only under very close scrutiny can you tell that they’re not wooden frames. They are also performing exceptionally well with many residents are reporting that they’re not having to switch their heating on half as much as they were previously, so the windows are already saving us money on our heating bills. It’s a relief to know that these windows not only look and perform well but will be able to remain in situ with very limited maintenance required for many years to come.”

The project is a perfect example of how Profile 22’s exceptionally well-thought-through system can deliver the most demanding of requirements. It’s also a perfect demonstration of two companies working closely and proactively together to deliver a high quality, low maintenance solution that has enhanced the lives of a building’s residents. www.profile22.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 55

ON SITE

Senior

Brings A Postive Outlook To Hope Street Xchange Aluminium glazing solutions from fenestration designer and manufacturer Senior Architectural Systems have been specified to create a light and spacious design and meet the thermal, acoustic and aesthetic requirements of a new commercial development in Sunderland.

Led by the University of Sunderland and designed by GSS Architecture, Hope Street Xchange mixes distinctive modern architecture with the 56 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

sensitive refurbishment of a Grade II listed building to provide a contemporary new workspace. The glazing package for the building was installed by Hadrian Architectural Glazing Systems Ltd for main contractor Clugston Construction Ltd and features Senior’s slim profile SF52 aluminium curtain wall, SD and SPW500 aluminium doors and the patented thermally-enhanced PURe® aluminium window system.

Senior Architectural Systems Hope Street Xchange 2Senior’s PURe® aluminium windows, which are the first on the UK market to feature a high performance thermal barrier manufactured from expanded polyurethane foam (PUR), played a key role in ensuring the project’s stringent U-values and energy-efficiency targets were met.

The acoustic performance of the PURe® system was also an important factor in its specification owing to the scheme’s

ON SITE

Bennetts Brew Up Taylor’s Of Harrogate

Project

close proximately to a main road. With the need to create a comfortable internal environment paramount, the attractive addition of brise soleil shading to the southern entrance has further helped to minimise solar gain whilst complementing the building’s striking glazed façade.

As a modern extension to an existing Grade II building, Senior’s fenestration solutions were required to seamlessly integrate with the existing sandstone rainscreen and this was carefully executed by specialist contractor Hadrian Architectural Glazing Systems Ltd. Faced with the numerous challenges of working alongside an existing listed property and with limited access on site, the flexibility offered by Senior’s product range was also a key benefit as it enabled the glazing systems to be sealed rather than fixed into the neighbouring building.

Commenting, Darren Nichol, managing director of Hadrian Architectural Glazing Systems Ltd. said: “Hope Street Xchange is a fantastic looking building that will play an important part in the ongoing development of Sunderland and we are delighted to have been part of its creation. Working with Senior Architectural Systems enabled us to provide a glazing package that ticked all the boxes and which looks as good as it performs. The tight footprint of the site and the building’s location next to both a busy dual carriage way and a listed building made this an extremely challenging contract but one that we are extremely proud of.”

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

Aluminium glazing specialists Bennett Architectural are teaming up with Sir Robert McAlpine to deliver glazing for Taylor’s of Harrogate Tea Shop’s head offices.

Also working with Seven Architecture, Bennetts will supply and install Kawneer AA100 curtain walling and doors for the project.

Lionel Grant, Managing Director at Bennett Architectural commented, “We have worked with Sir Robert McAlpine for a number of years and we’re delighted to be joining forces to deliver glazing the Taylor’s of Harrogate’s Tea Shop Head Offices.

“Our team have worked on numerous projects in Yorkshire including more recently award winning buildings such as Victoria Gate in Leeds and the refurbishment of Meadowhall Shopping Centre.”

Taylor’s of Harrogate are an independent family tea and coffee company based in Harrogate, Yorkshire. www.baasl.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 57

ON SITE

University Digs Alu-Look Windows For

New Accomodation Block

REHAU’s GENEO™ ALU Top windows were chosen for a new student accommodation development in Coventry, providing a contemporary aluminium finish with all the benefits of PVC-U. Located in the city centre and just a five-minute walk from the main Coventry University campus, the Cycle Works hall of residence was developed by Sir Robert McAlpine on behalf of the University. Completed in September 2017, the 350-bedroom accommodation block was fitted with more than 500 58 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

windows and is the UK’s first major installation of REHAU’s GENEO® ALU Top profiles, a cost-effective alternative to aluminium.

The original window specification from the developers was for aluminium windows, as specified by the architects. However, the appointed specialist window installation company, Campbell Mason, suggested using REHAU’s GENEO® ALU Top profiles as a more cost effective and thermally efficient alternative, which could still achieve

the aluminium finish the architects were looking for as well as the ability to have large elemental spans.

Manufactured from REHAU’s RAU-FIPRO®, a unique hightech composite material, used in the aerospace and automotive industries, GENEO® windows are REHAU’s most thermally efficient window profiles.

Stronger than traditional PVCU profiles GENEO® requires less steel reinforcement and can also be used for large elemental spans. Certified by the Passivhaus Institute and awarded the highest thermal performance standard in the world with a U value of up to 0.73 W/m²K, the innovative triple glazing design of the GENEO® profile also delivers on sound insulation up to Rw: ( C; Ctr = 47 (-1;-3) dB and guarantees the windows are break-in resist-

ON SITE

ant to RC 3/RC 2 without steel.

COG13092017_008 large 11.45.24To further increase the versatility of this high-spec product, REHAU has coupled its GENEO® windows with ALU Top, an aluminium front panel which can be neatly affixed to the front of the PVC-U frame.

The ALU Top panels are available in over 170 RAL colours, which are both robust and weather-resistant, for a finish to meet almost any design requirements.

The GENEO® windows chosen for the Raglan Street project feature 850mm wide Tilt and Turn sashes ensuring that once open, a sufficient amount of air can circulate to create a comfortable and enjoyable living environment for the students.

For safety, the windows are fitted with restrictors to ensure there is no risk of persons falling out when they are in an open position.

While the GENEO® Alu Top window profiles are in keeping with the architect’s vision for the accommodation block, they were only part of the wider fenestration solution required for the project. Campbell Mason agreed to fabricate curtain walling for the windows, using REHAU’s Polytec 50S curtain walling system, which would essentially act as an exceptionally thermally efficient subframe to meet both visual and efficiency requirements.

Unlike most curtain wall systems which are mainly aluminium, Polytec 50 uses a system that has the structural capabilities of a steel back box“, the design and finish of aluminium on the exterior, and the warmth and low maintenance benefits of PVCu on the interior. Polytec 50 has been certified as suitable for Passivhaus projects and zero carbon buildings thanks to its excellent thermal insulation of up to U-value 0.8 W/m²K.

The exceptional strength and thermal properties of Polytec 50 curtain walling means it can be effectively fabricated with large GENEO® tilt and turn windows, and is therefore ideal for the Raglan Street hall of residence installation.

Steve Tonkiss, Commercial Sales Manager at REHAU, said: “This project was a big one for us as we were able to compete in the aluminium windows market, with an innovative solution which actually saves the client money on their development and gives them extra performance benefits. Our GENEO® ALU Top profiles are the perfect combination of the high energy efficiency, insulation and security of PVC-U and the modern aesthetics of aluminium.”

For further information visit rehau.uk/coventry-university

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 59

MARKETING

The Residence Collection Gets Expansive On Social The Residence Collection is one of the most highly visible brands from the glazing and fenestration sectors across all social media platforms and are reaching more consumers and influencers than ever before.

This is helping to drive greater demand for their range of premium and super-premium window and door systems.

With presence on Instagram, Pinterest, Houzz, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and through their WordPress Blog, The Residence Collection have created an enviable campaign with a reach and penetration equivalent to some of the highly aspirational consumer brands including AGA, OKA and Wren Kitchens. Facebook is proving to be the most successful consumer platform with over 38k likes, consistently achieving 60 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

an audience reach of over 250k each week and comparatively, AGA have 59k Wren Kitchens 37k and OKA 24k likes. It’s also more than national sofa giant DFS who boast 34k likes!

In addition, the content of the WordPress blog goes beyond typical windows and doors, into other home interest areas including home cooking and interior design.

The Residence Collection is changing the way in which consumers view windows and doors, which were once a distress purchase and a necessity.

Now its premium and super premium window and doors are seen as highly desirable and aspirational home improvements, alongside stylish kitchens and boutique bathrooms.

Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of The Residence Collection commented: ‘Our social media penetration is unrivalled in this sector, genuinely challenging the typical consumer brands of AGA etc.

Throughout all of our marketing campaigns and deliverables we have the consumer foremost in our minds, challenging how windows and doors are made, marketed and installed “The “Way They’re Meant To Be.”

Within all social media activity there’s always a means back to the consumer website at www. residencecollection.co.uk where goal completion is realised through brochure request/download, or to find a local installer.

For further information on both retail and trade partner enquiries please visit www.residencecollection.co.uk

MARKETING

Eurocell Protects Customers With Accredited Cyber Security In the wake of recent cyber attacks on a well-known manufacturer in the industry, Eurocell – manufacturer, distributor and recycler of window, door, conservatory and roofline products – is pleased to reassure its customers and suppliers that it already has measures in place to guard against hackers.

These measures are accredited under the Government backed scheme, Cyber Essentials, to protect its customers, suppliers – and Eurocell – from cyber attacks.

“These recent events have shown how devastating an attack by hackers can be so, as a responsible business, we are doing all we can to protect the data of everyone that we deal with,” said

Wayne Green, Head of IT & SAP. “The damage can range from implanting malware and ransomware on our systems and those of our customers and suppliers to bringing back office operations to a halt, so that we can’t order from suppliers and customers can’t order from us.”

In the worst case, he said, a cyber

attack could stop a company receiving even phone calls, emails or faxes, or generating barcodes for products, so its whole stock management, manufacturing and delivery system would fail.

Cyber Essentials, now a minimum requirement for bidding for some government contracts, aids companies in implementing basic levels of cyber security. It enables organisations to assess themselves against five basic security controls, while a qualified assessor verifies the information provided. The five basic controls within Cyber Essentials were chosen because, when properly implemented, they will help to protect against unskilled internet-based attackers using commodity capabilities – which are freely available on the internet. www.eurocell.co.uk

New Website

From BM Aluminium BM Aluminium has launched a brand new website at www.bmaluminium.co.uk highlighting both its LogiKal aluminium processing software and its new associated MES barcode scanning and factory management system.

According to the company, the website illustrates the key features which make LogiKal the number one software choice in the aluminium sector – from inputing elements and estimation, to fabrication and modifications. It also shows how it can be used for preliminary structural design, material optimisation, constructions with CAD, and CNC machine controls, and how it allows fabricators to switch seamlessly between different aluminium systems.

BMA276 BM Aluminium has launched its new website 4On the pages for the newly launched LogiKal MES option, there is a clear explanation of how MES can help fabricators to create a paperless factory environment with full barcode scanning technology and automated Factory Process Control (FPC). It also shows how the reporting function

works to deliver real time visibility of production efficiency.

There are also details on the site of BM Aluminium’s partnerships with all of the leading aluminium system companies and machinery suppliers, and useful case studies showing how the software is being used to improve the efficiency of fabricators from Duggans to Unique.

An up to date news page is included of course, as well as a link to the latest LogiKal innovations from developers Orgadata and a contact form to access support or quotes.

Further details at: www.bmaluminium.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 61

MARKETING

FENSA “Knowledge

overview right down to the Local Authority level, allowing a range of insights that together give FENSA registered businesses a better understanding of their position within the market.

For FENSA Members

Rachel Culpan, Customer Service Manager for FENSA, explained why the Knowledge Hub is so useful for members:

Hub”Gives Key Insights

“From a business perspective, it’s a great way for installers to analyse the market and keep up to date with trends in the industry.

Especially with the Hub being free for FENSA members, we encourage them to take full advantage of this powerful tool.”

Installers can view their inspection history and compare their performance against themselves over previous years, as well as against the local activity rate over similar time periods.

While individual companies can see their own installation data in detail, all information collected from other installers is anonymised and supplemented with local government statistics on population and housing stock to help present a wider view of the industry as a whole.

Free online management tool utilises industry data to give FENSA members exclusive insights for benchmarking performance and identifying new markets.

With more than 9,000 members and nearly 13 million installations since 2002, FENSA is one of the UK’s largest and longest established Competent Person Schemes. It is also one of the UK glazing industry’s biggest data collectors and passes along key statistics to its members via the FENSA Knowledge Hub, a unique and powerful online tool.

The FENSA Knowledge Hub is a data insight and management tool that gives registered FENSA installers up to date information about the markets they operate in as well as snapshots of their own performance. It draws on 16 years – and counting – of FENSA inspections and registrations data, making key metrics and insights easily discoverable via an online interface optimised for 62 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Chris Beedel, Director of Membership, FENSA, added: “It’s a fantastic way for installers to improve their sales, marketing and management whilst identifying inspection areas for improvement.”

Chris Beedel (FENSA)

mobile devices.

The Hub puts powerful information into the hands of FENSA installers allowing them to evaluate their performance and prices against market averages, benchmark against previous data, and identify sales opportunities through demand trend insights.

Key metrics can be viewed at different scales, from a national

Chris explained that the FENSA Knowledge Hub was created to help FENSA members benefit from the great wealth of data the company collects each year and the FENSA team is always looking for new ways to help installers harness this data to the advantage of their businesses.

“We would be delighted to hear feedback from our members about what extra functionality they would find useful in the Knowledge Hub,” said Chris.

MARKETING

have already successfully used REHAU products. The schemes range from residential to commercial or educational and are all accompanied by technical information and impressive photography.

Another key feature is the exhibition space, which lets customers get hands on with all of the company’s products. To promote this, the website offers a 360 degree virtual tour of the space, the Discover Innovation page on the website, which showcases the research and design processes behind the technology, and gives a glimpse into future developments. This is done through interesting and in depth technical articles and interviews with key experts at REHAU.

Discover The Hub! REHAU has launched Discover, a new digital campaign designed to promote its specification office in London to customers and industry partners.

The REHAU Hub provides education, training and sales services, all from a permanent central London location at the Building Centre, just a short walk from Goodge Street station. Through the Discover campaign, customers can find out more about the REHAU Hub and how it can benefit them.

The Discover campaign has a strong digital focus, and it centres around a user-friendly website – www.rehau.uk/ hub – which highlights the four key areas of the REHAU Hub; Discover Knowledge, Discover

Inspiration, Discover Innovation and Discover Support.

Discover Knowledge is all about the CPD courses which are run regularly at the REHAU Hub. REHAU offer 12 CPD courses for plumbing and heating, fenestration, heat networks and acoustics. On the website, the Discover Knowledge section lists all the latest course information and has an online booking function so users can book their place with just a few clicks of the mouse.

The Hub has a dedicated team to provide customers with specification advice and support. To promote this, the website features a Discover Inspiration tab, designed to stimulate professionals with case studies about projects which

Anyone is welcome to drop by the REHAU Hub for help and advice on specifications, calculations, concept designs and project proposals. Under Discover Support you can find the opening times and team member profiles, alongside a full list of the support services customers can access.

Tony Harbour, Senior Commercial Manager at REHAU is based at the REHAU Hub. He said: “The REHAU Hub is a fantastic resource for our customers and partners, and we want to show it off. Through the Discover campaign and website we are able to highlight all the great features and services customers can access, all year round to add value to their experience of working with REHAU. We would urge our customers and partners to check out the Discover website to see what’s on offer and make a date to come and experience it for themselves.”

Discover the REHAU Hub at www.rehau.uk/hub WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 63

MARKETING

Colour Made Even Easier With New Leaflet From Deceuninck Deceuninck has produced a new leaflet to make it even easier for customers to order and sell colour. The leaflet shows clearly what colours and colourways are available from stock by system and product.

Deceuninck is fully colour-enabled and supplies 26 colourways from stock, available on next delivery. This attractive flyer shows Deceuninck’s colour combinations across the full product range, acting as an invaluable reference and sales tool for Deceuninck fabricators and installers.

Head of Sales, Chris Jones says: “Fabricators who are thinking of switching to Deceuninck are amazed when we

show them just how many colours and colourways we supply from stock, and this leaflet illustrates it perfectly! It’s a useful reference for fabricators and their installer customers. They can see at a glance the colourways available in each product line.

“We are truly #ColourEnabled with 26 colourways from stock – including all cills, trims and ancillaries – with no minimum order. Deceuninck Online lets fabricators look into our warehouse and put their name on even a single length of profile.

Whatever they order will be on their next delivery – it’s as simple as that!”

Deceuninck has made significant investment in state-ofthe-art foiling plant and warehousing so fabricators can sell colour with confidence. Since 2016 Deceuninck’s colour sales have grown from 30% to 52% of sales in January 2018, significantly higher than the market.

In addition to 26 colourways from stock, Deceuninck supplies a further 24 colourways on a five-week lead time. For more information visit www.deceuninck.com

Prefix Publish A Complete Guide To Aluminium Prefix Systems have just published a new 52-page brochure dedicated to aluminium glazing.

The brochure includes various types of windows, patio and bi-folding doors, along with roofs for full kit aluminium extensions such as the URBANroom and of course the OPUS hybrid range of glazing.

Despite the aluminium glazing sector remaining one of the most buoyant parts of the industry, installers have lacked information on product ranges and have been limited with the images and marketing deliverables from the systems houses, who have typically focussed their efforts on the commercial sector. This comprehensive new aluminium systems brochure from Prefix Systems has been designed as a single source of information for installers, but it 64 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

can also be used with consumers too.

Pages and spreads cover a very capable and detailed range of systems with key product features highlighted and supported with cross sectional images, along with opening configurations as a separate section.

Security is highlighted with Ultion and Lock Lock options which are becoming increasingly specified, as consumers look for the reassurance of extreme home security.

Glazed roofs, lantern roofs are covered as is the impressive contemporary URBANroom with its unique contemporary deep section gutter shroud. The final product within the guide is OPUS which is a range of windows, doors and glazed roof types that benefit from alumini-

um to the outside, with the sheer beauty of hardwood timber to the inside.

Given aluminium’s diversity in terms of finish options, there’s a final spread on colours from the metallic Sensations range, heritage Cotswold shades and the rich Naturals collection. www.prefixsystems.co.uk

AWARDS

Birmingham Conservatoire Crowned RIBA WM Building Of The Year The Royal Birmingham Conservatoire has been crowned the RIBA West Midlands Building of the Year.

The annual awards ceremony which took place last night, focused on the outstanding work of architects across the West Midlands.

Bennett Architectural worked alongside main contractor Galliford Try to create the state of the art building with one of the highest levels of acoustic attenuation in the world.

The building envelope used Kawneer AA100 curtain walling and AA720 window systems that provided thermal enhancement and the acoustic performance required. Acoustic baffles were also engineered within secondary glazing reveals helped to reduce sound transmission further.

Lionel Grant, Managing Director at Bennett Architectural commented, “We’re absolutely delighted to hear the Royal Birmingham

Conservatoire has won such a lucrative award.

“The amount of awards and positive coverage the Conservatoire has had recently is a testament to the work carried out by our team alongside Galliford Try. “The project was the sort our team relishes given the challenges with the acoustics.

“Because of the location in a busy area of Birmingham city centre, it was vital we got the acoustics right for the windows and curtain walling systems our team designed, fabricated and installed.”

The purpose built £57m project opened its doors to students from Birmingham City University in September 2017 and also recently won WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 65

AWARDS

REHAU Recognised For Innovation And Workplace Ethos In Regional Awards

Ross-on-Wye based business REHAU has been recognised by the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for its innovative and ground breaking products, as well as its commitment to health and wellbeing in the workplace.

The polymer manufacturer was named amongst the shortlist in the two categories for the business awards, and winners will be announced at the Annual Awards Ceremony this summer.

The awards identify businesses within the two counties that are excelling and recognise the hard work of the teams behind the results.

66 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

REHAU was keen to showcase some fantastic innovation by entering its RAUTITAN product – a universal polymer pipework solution used for both heating and drinking water systems.

Unlike conventional polymer pipework, RAUTITAN uses the REHAU compression sleeve jointing system, producing a permanently sealed joint without O-rings – even at -10°C. Promising high performance, leak free joints, ease of installation and a certification to supply safe drinking water, the pipework solution has proved popular since it launched in 2017.

The firm also highlighted its enviable working environment

and in house schemes through the Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace category. Cultural development is vital to REHAU with its Evolve REHAU programme aiming to make staff feel more empowered and happier within their working life.

Other implemented workplace schemes include a running/ walking route around the Headquarters at Ross, a pedometer challenge in October 2017, employee discounts, and initiatives such as low calorie options in the staff canteen and fundraisers including a Three Peaks Challenge being undertaken by dozens of staff members later this year.

Martin Hitchin, Chief Executive of REHAU UK, said: “We’re delighted to have been shortlisted in the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

This is important to us as it reflects the great innovation we strive for continuously at REHAU, but also shines a light on how we work as a business to ensure our staff are healthy and their wellbeing is taken care of.

Both are key elements to REHAU, so it’s great to have this recognised by the Chamber.”

Each year the Chamber of Commerce announce the winners at the Annual Awards Ceremony after each is judged by a local and regional panel. REHAU will discover if they have been victorious at the awards, taking place June 7.

For more information about REHAU please visit www.rehau.uk

AWARDS are definitely not just for new builds – they’re also the ideal replacement for white PVC-U, bringing this house bang up to date with slimmer sightlines and a fab new colour.

“Because the doors and windows have all been completed in our 58mm system, they complement each other perfectly.”

Aluminium Windows Replace PVC-U In ALUK’s Winning Project For April The Milford Window Company has won AluK’s April Installation of the Month competition with a project which perfectly demonstrates the versatility of its aluminium window and door systems The Godalming based installer completed a stylish makeover on a 1930s property, replacing white PVC-U windows and doors with sleek grey aluminium frames fabricated by Complete Aluminium in

AluK’s 58BW and 58BD systems.

The homeowners wanted to update their home and make it feel more contemporary, so The Milford Window Company recommended the slimline AluK frames in Anthracite Grey along with a BSF70 bi-fold door at the rear.

AluK’s Marketing Director Sioned Webb said: “This installation shows how aluminium windows

FIT Show Shortlisted for Prestigious AEO Awards

FIT Show, the UK’s leading event for the glass and glazing industry, is hoping to continue its award-winning streak after being shortlisted for two prestigious AEO Awards.

The event organisers’ have been recognised as finalists in both the ‘Best UK Trade Show (more than 8000sqm)’ and ‘Marketing Campaign of the Year – Trade’ categories for the prestigious industry awards.

FIT Show’s shortlisting comes hot on the heels of the team’s success at the Exhibition News Awards,

where the show took home the coveted ‘Best Trade Show Marketing Campaign’ gong in March.

Taking place at London’s Grosvenor House (Friday 15th June) the AEO Awards will bring together the great and good of the events industry to celebrate organisers’ achievements, standards of excellence from venues and service quality by suppliers and contractors.

FIT Show has gone from strength to strength since its inception in 2013, outgrowing its original home at Telford Exhibition Centre and

Milford Window Company will now join the elite group in AluK’s ‘Hall of Frame’ on the dedicated competition website a iotm.aluk. com/uk They will also receive a £100 Screwfix voucher, exclusive access to an Installation of the Month digital badge to use across their website and social media channels, and an invitation to the winners’ event taking place at the end of the year.

AluK’s Installation of the Month competition for May is now open to customers. All they need to do to enter is tag the very best installation photos they post on Twitter or Facebook with the hashtag #MyExpertInstall. There is no need to register or fill in any forms and they can enter as many times as they like. relocating to the NEC in 2017 – this move and the overall upscaling of the event played a prominent role in the 2017 marketing campaign.

In a difficult market, in the immediate aftermath of Brexit, the FIT Show’s move to the NEC saw a 17.4% increase in visitors to nearly 10,000, 33.5% increase in exhibitors, 79% increase in space sold, 68% increase in revenue and 103% increase in profit.

The marketing campaign, which centred around the theme of ‘Something BIG’ and utilised new digital channels including video content, saw an increase in website visits of 52% versus the 2016 campaign and a 63% increase in visits to exhibitor sites from the FIT Show website.

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 67

AWARDS

Wonder Women: Female Hardware Experts Lead The Way At This Year’s Institute Awards For the first time in the Institute of Architectural Ironmongers’ (IAI) history, all of the winners at the IAI Awards are female architectural ironmongers.

The best industry professionals and most promising newcomers within the international door hardware industry were recognised at an IAI awards ceremony on 28 April.

The IAI Fellowship Award is always given to an individual who has shown a longstanding and ongoing commitment to the IAI over at least 10 years, and who is still actively involved within the industry and Institute.

This year’s winner was Teresa 68 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

McQuay, managing director at JEB Supplies. Teresa was presented with the Fellowship Award for her commitment to staff training and development through the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers’ (GAI) education programme.

After completing the GAI Diploma herself and becoming a Registered Architectural Ironmonger (RegAI) in 2005, reaching the highest level of professionalism in the door hardware industry, Teresa continued to work closely with the GAI to encourage others to gain the globally recognised qualification. Every member of customer facing staff at Teresa’s company now holds the GAI Diploma.

:(left to right)Teresa McQuay, Samantha Thatcher, Amanda Haley and Maria Powell accepting on behalf of Sarah Lewis

The Paul Lewis Award for Customer Service is given to an individual, group or company that has made an outstanding commitment to customer services throughout the year. The award is sponsored by Royde & Tucker, and this year went to Sarah Lewis, specification manager at Lorient.

Sarah was chosen as the winner because of her commitment to educating customers about the importance of fire door hardware.

Part of this involves visiting architects, specifiers and builders’ merchants across the country delivering CPD presentations.

The GAI Award for Services to the Institute is always awarded to a current IAI member who has made a recent and visible

AWARDS

contribution at branch level. This year’s winner was Amanda Haley, technical and marketing director at Ian Firth Hardware.

Amanda has been involved with both the Institute and the Guild since 2001. When she completed her GAI Diploma she became a member of the north west IAI branch and has been delivering CPD presentations to its members for over 10 years. Amanda is now chair of the branch.

The Promising Ironmonger of the Year award went to Samantha Thatcher, office and marketing manager at SDS London.This award is given to the brightest ironmongers in the early stages of their careers. They could be involved in scheduling, estimating, sales or a combination of them all, and the award also recognises they have the charisma and personality to inspire others.

Samantha joined SDS London in 2011 with no knowledge of ironmongery. She has gone on to demonstrate her commitment to learning by recently completing the GAI Diploma and regularly attending IAI branch meetings.

Samantha is now the customer service office manager in charge of a team of six, while also maintaining the social media and email marketing of the company.

Jo Milne-Rowe, the newly appointed chair of the IAI, said;“Year upon year we see the remarkable levels of commitment shown by the Institute members.

It is a joy to celebrate the outstanding individuals that we have in our industry and use them to give the next generation of ironmongers something to aspire to.”

The IAI Awards were given at a dinner following the Institute’s AGM, an event that also included CPD opportunities for Institute members and an Ironmongers’ Village area with new door hardware products on display.

REHAU Celebrates

VinylPlus Certification

(Left to Right): Shamir Ghumbra – Director BRE, Martin Hitchin – Chief Executive, REHAU, Gareth Jones – Marketing and Technical Director of REHAU Windows Division and Stefan Eingärtner – Technical Director, VinylPlus

REHAU is continuing to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to sustainable development after receiving the product label from VinylPlus marking its sustainable manufacturing processes.

VinylPlus is the voluntary sustainable development programme for the European PVC industry and aims at creating a long-term sustainability framework for the entire PVC value chain.

REHAU received the certification from VinylPlus for all four of its European window plants as well as a number of window profiles, including TOTAL70, at Fensterbau Frontale 2018 It comes as REHAU celebrated its 60th anniversary and serves to further complement REHAU’s ongoing work to consistently improve its sustainability.

Martin Hitchin, Chief Execu-

tive at REHAU, said: “We were delighted to receive the certification from VinylPlus as it is another feather in our sustainable cap. Across the business we are working to continue to improve our green credentials – from looking at our plants, to the products themselves. Our TOTAL70 co-extruded product is now a hugely popular alternative, which offers all of the advantages of the mono-extruded product. The core of the profile is made up entirely of post-consumer waste, with only the outer skin made of new polymer for a flawless finish.”

In the coming years REHAU plans to carry on their success, with European targets including producing up to 50 per cent of window profiles from European plants with recycled polymer core by 2020.

For more information visit rehau.uk/inhand WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 69

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

CORGI Fenestration To Sponsor “Building Our Skills” industry.

Certass Shows Support

for Installers, Fabricators &

Systems Companies Practical, hands-on support for the glazing industry is high on the agenda for Certass. That’s why the specialists in installer certification joined Frame Fast UK for a recent Eurocell Equinox Roof Training Day. Attracting more than 20 local installation companies, the session covered best practice methods for installing Equinox, Eurocell’s solid conservatory roof system.

Jason Clemmit, Managing Director at Certass explains: “With the solid roof market maintaining its steady growth, more and more homeowners are looking for installation companies to replace their conservatory roofs with a solid roof system. That’s why we developed the CQ-Assured Installer Scheme for Conservatories and Conservatory Warm Roofs.

“Unlike windows, conservatories aren’t covered by legislation for energy performance, or by MTC, so it’s really important for us to encourage the industry to look at ways to prove their professionalism across the whole range of products that they offer. www.certass.co.uk 70 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

• The career progression opportunities within each workstream.

CORGI Fenestration has announced its sponsorship of the new Building Our Skills initiative from GQA Qualifications. Building Our Skills is a strategic initiative designed to help bridge the widening skills gap which is developing in the fenestration industry. Its primary objective is to encourage new entrants to join the industry, and to develop their skills through qualifications and training.

• The financial opportunities within each workstream.

• How those joining the industry can gain access to qualifications and structured on- going training programmes.

• Job opportunities available to new entrants to the industry.

• How new entrants can undertake personal and professional development over the life-span of their career in the industry.

“CORGI Fenestration is strongly supportive of this initiative from our qualifications partner GQA Qualifications,” commented CORGI Fenestration CEO, Chris Mayne. “We agree with GQA that it is vital for the fenestration industry to make itself an attractive employment option for school leavers and career changers. This starts to address the skills gap in our sector – and also strongly promotes qualifications and ongoing training which we believe is vital.”

The campaign will demonstrate to parents, potential new young employees and career changers how the fenestration industry has a modern and innovative outlook, is highly technical and offers opportunities for all skill levels.

The Building Our Skills initiative is officially launched on 1st June.

or visit: www.buildingourskills.co.uk

Building Our Skills will be a place where young people, and those wishing to change careers can learn about the Fenestration industry and what makes it attractive as a career choice. It will detail: • The workstreams and career pathways available within the

If your business would like to get involved with Building Our Skills please contact, Mick Clayton CEO of GQA Qualifications – mick@gqaqualifications. com

For further information about the new CORGI Fenestration Installer Scheme visit: www.corgifenestration.co.uk enquiries@corgifenestration.co.uk

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT a fee of £245.00. This informative seminar is filled with tailored content to address the challenges that glass and glazing businesses will face following the enactment of GDPR. Head of GGF Membership and Training commented, “Our workshop in April generated a great deal of interest. The topics which generated most discussion included the impact of a ‘subject access request’, ‘accountability obligations’ and the benefits of developing a business plan for GDPR.”

GGF GDPR Workshop in April

GGF Aiming To Build

On GDPR Seminar Success In London The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will become law on 25 May 2018 and is now a major topic of discussion across the UK.

With not a spare seat left, a successful one day GDPR awareness workshop organised by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) on 11 April in Solihull proved informative and highly useful for delegates. The GGF is now hosting another workshop on 14 June in London to further help companies in the industry who are uncertain of how the new regulation will impact their business.

With limited spaces available,

Richard Hearn, GGF Head of Membership

GGF Members can register to the seminar for free with non-members able to attend for

The June workshop in London is part of a partnership the GGF has formed with Cybercrowd, (specialists in cybersecurity and data processing) to deliver a series of interactive workshops.

These are designed to inform delegates of their legal obligations in relation to data handling under GDPR and to allow delegates to ask the experts any questions on the incoming legislation.

The workshops are facilitated by John Payne, Cybercrowd Information Governance Consultant who specialises in data protection, information risk management and GDPR readiness.

Richard Hearn summarised, “It is important that the GGF keeps companies in the industry up to speed on imminent legislative changes not only through providing the relevant information but also by offering a platform such as our workshops, for them to raise concerns and ask relevant questions on the impact of GDPR.” The next GGF GDPR workshop is on 14 June at the GGF Offices in Southwark, London and runs from 10.00am to 3pm with lunch and refreshments. Spaces are limited so it will be case of first come first serve – to book your please or for more information, please contact Richard Hearn via email rhearn@ggf.org.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 71

CHARITY

REHAU Takes On Peaks Challenge For Charity

More than 30 REHAU staff will be taking part in the National Three Peaks Challenge this September to raise money for the company’s chosen charity Scope.

The gruelling Three Peaks Challenge involves climbing the three highest peaks of Scotland (Ben Nevis), England (Scafell Pike) and Wales (Snowdon) over a two-day period. Challengers will walk 23 miles across the three peaks with a total ascent of more than 3,000m, so training and preparation in the months leading up to the event is essential.

The 31 REHAU staff taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge come from different departments and locations from across the UK, Ireland and Italy, and the cost of the challenge (including travel and accommodation) is being covered by the company.

To assist the walkers in raising money, a fundraising event will be held each month from April to August. All money raised will go to Scope, REHAU UK’s charity of the year 2018.

REHAU will be taking on the Three Peaks Challenge in September, starting on Friday 7th and finishing on Sunday 9th with a celebratory lunch in Blaenau, where REHAU’s manufacturing facility is located.

For further information about the challenge or to make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rehau-three-peaks 72 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Nationwide Windows’

Adrian Pavey Takes To The Sky!

Adrian Pavey, Commercial Director of window and door supplier to the social housing and new build sectors, Nationwide Windows & Doors, is taking to the sky at 135mph in a Wingwalk experience to raise money for Myton Hospice and PAPYRUS. “It all started as a Christmas present from my wife Steph who gifted me a Wingwalk experience when I said I wanted to do something different,” explains Adrian, “and this is certainly different! Anyone who knows me will know how far I’m prepared to go to help others, but cruising 135mph at 500ft is certainly the biggest challenge I’ve ever undertaken.

“The reason I’m going through with it is to raise money for two amazing charities: Myton Hospice and PAPYRUS. I’m hoping to raise £3000 in total for these two fantastic causes and have so far achieved 70% of this target.

“Three thousand pounds will provide much needed fund to these amazing charities, one dedicated to helping sufferers and their families by easing the journey to end of life, the other established to prevent young people from committing suicide.

“Myton Hospice is a charity which is very close to my heart as they cared for my mum in the last days of her life. The hospice provides compassionate end of life care, centering on patient wellbeing and enabling more quality time with their loved ones. Last year they supported more than 1,400 people and their families, in their three hospices, via patient and family support services, and in the community through Myton at Home.

Each year they have to raise £8.8 million to continue providing care.

“PAPYRUS is a community of people with the shared vision that many young suicides are preventable. Suicide is the biggest killer of young people in the UK; 1,666 people under 35 took their own life in 2016. They aim to create a society free of the stigma surrounding suicide, with the resources to support young people who may be struggling. PAPYRUS believes suicide need not be the inevitable outcome of feeling suicidal and that with the right help, support, and advice, together we can save young lives.”

Adrian will be taking to the skies on 30th May and if you would like to show your support please visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ AdrianPavey

The right direction for

Sliding Doors Mechanical joint option available for ease of transportation and onsite manoeuvrability.

Easily achieves a Door Energy Rating of A with standard argon filled, double glazed units.

Can accommodate up to 36mm triple glazed units.

Maximum opening width of 5m and heights of up to 2.4m.

Dual and triple track system for 2, 3, 4 and 6 pane options, opening from either left, right and even from the centre.

12 point locking to achieve PAS 24 and SBD.

To find out more email agila@rehau.com or visit rehau.uk/agila

With REHAU

It’s all in hand

Manufacturers of window and door hardware dedicated to the timber, PVCu and aluminium markets for over 40 years.

• Cylinders • Handles • Fasteners • Espags • Shootbolts • Hinges • Locks • Restrictors

Get a handle on our range!

www.titon.co.uk 74 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018

Fit fo r li fe .. .

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2018 75