Window News April 2017

Offering A Tru-ly Better Product Proposition 16

Why It Makes Sense To Visit FIT SHOW 2017 39

Senior’s Study In Efficiency 78

With REHAU

It’s all in hand

Hands kindly supplied by Meg Durrell, Product Assistant

It’s all about colour. We manufacture unique selected colour tones, as standard.

REHAU have always been at the forefront of the development of coloured finishes. With a vast choice of RAL colours and high performance foiled finishes you can enjoy the outstanding energy efficiency of PVCu window and door designs along with the perfect colour palette. Using our range of solid colors and woodgrain patterns, you can create seamless transitions or eye-catching, modern designs.

Visit us on stand J30 at The FIT Show 23 - 25 May 2017

Visit rehau.uk/inhand #inhand

WINDOWNEWS

CONTENTS WINDOW NEWS

W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

TRADE NEWS 4 VIEWPOINT 23

NEWS W INDOW INDUSTRY DIRECTORY

DEAR GERALD 24 PEOPLE 27

WINDOW

FIT SHOW PREVIEW 32 MACHINERY 53

W INDOWNEWS

PRODUCT NEWS 56 THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS ON-SITE 76

MARKETING 82

W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

W INDOWNEW W INDOWNEW W INDOWNEW

THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

AWARDS 88 TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

90

CHARITY 92

Click to go back to 20th October edition

W INDOWNEWS

You can now recive your industry news in a range of formats, Newscast, Website, Social Media, and now in a magazine. So whatever your preference for catching up with the latest innovationsTHE and news in the industry, there is a LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS Window News format to suit everyone.

THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

W INDOWNEWS

We aim to keep readers up-to-date with the latest industry news, trends, technical innovations and suppliers. Our web format means that we can be in the right place at the right time – wherever that may be.

W INDOWNEWS

The contents of Window News are provided for general use THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS only and/or use and do not constitute general advice and should not be relied upon.

Views/opinions, replies and specific advice expressed by external persons are not necessarily those of Window News and are not subscribed to by Window News.

W INDOWNEWS

To see the THE full terms and conditions please visit: LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS http://www.windownews.co.uk/window-news-disclaimer/

Publisher Gerald Batt Tel: 01255 850245 E-mail: gerald@windownews.co.uk

W INDOWNEWS

Editorial E-mail: edit@windownews.co.uk

THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

Production E-mail: production@windownews.co.uk

Copyright © 2016 97 Pole Barn Lane Frinton-on-Sea Essex CO13 9NQ

www.windownews.co.uk

W INDOWNEWS

Cover picture: PatioMaster THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 3

TRADE NEWS

Record Sales Month

For Jack Aluminium “By listening to and working with customers, we can create cost-effective commercial glazing systems that have been fully tested for thermal efficiency and security, so that they can deliver installations that meet demanding specifications,” explains Jeff Pearson, Sales Director at Jack Aluminium.

“Our customers work on some really interesting and sometimes unusual projects that require something that’s a bit ‘outside the box’ and we have them to thank for the growth we have been experiencing.”

Jack Aluminium Systems broke all previous sales records in February 2017. The figures show that sales in February were 25 percent higher than their previous month record.

Year-on-year comparison showed that there was also a 50 percent increase in sales compared to February 2016.

Jeff continues: “We’re really pleased with these results. We expected growth but the scale of the increase is fantastic.

“We strive to operate in the flexible and responsive way we always have done, so that we can continue to develop commercial aluminium systems that are faster, easier and more cost-effective to fabricate.”

Jack Aluminium has recently launched a new brochure dedicated to its range of PAS24 commercial door systems which is available for download at www.jackaluminium.co.uk 4 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

New Investment For

Shepley Supaglaze Ltd, trading as Shepley, has undertaken a management-led acquisition with new investment partner CorpAcq Ltd, who purchased all shares on 24 March 2017. CorpAcq specialises in buying successful companies, and has a philosophy of keeping their existing identity and culture. These things are important to the management team at Shepley.

Along with the investment, Ian Griffiths becomes Managing Director, with Tony Ball as Shepley’s Sales Director and Lindsey Roden as Finance Director. The outgoing MD Tim Walker and Operations Director Tony Fry, remain on hand to offer support.

“Careful consideration went into choosing CorpAcq, who we believe is the ideal fit for Shep-

ley,” says Ian Griffiths, Managing Director, Shepley. “We wanted a partner with whom we could maintain our independence. CorpAcq is a local company based down the road in Altrincham and it invests in successful companies for long-term growth.”

Shepley is one of the UK’s largest fabricators exclusively using REHAU frames. The investment sees it continue to strengthen its customer support and products.

“So it’s business as usual for Shepley,” adds Ian. “We will continue to develop the successful business plan that has been in place for the past nine years to deliver high quality products and fast reliable service to customers.” www.shepley.com

TRADE NEWS

Major Acquisition For

Conservatory Outlet committed management team and excellent internal processes. I’m certain our new vertical partnership will facilitate a level of knowledge-sharing never before seen in this market which will further support the growth and development of both businesses.”

Well-known and respected in the North East, Pennine Home Improvements will continue to operate as a separate retail business from its existing showrooms in Benton, Gosforth Park, Birtley and Ponteland.

The combined ownership of the two businesses will allow further development of the Group’s innovative product offer, processes and service features around the needs of the ultimate end-user.

Left to right: Derek McLaren, Sales Director of Pennine, Graham Auld, Former Owner/MD of Pennine, Michael Giscombe, MD of Conservatory Outlet Limited and Greg Kane, CEO of Conservatory Outlet Group.

A leading Wakefield manufacturer has announced the acquisition of one of its largest retail customers for an undisclosed sum.

The bold move will see Conservatory Outlet and Newcastle-based Pennine Home Improvements, two of the North’s leading home improvement businesses, under the same ownership. Funding to support the deal has been structured by Allied Irish Bank (GB).

As one of the top 2% of fabricators in the UK by volume, Conservatory Outlet manufactures high-quality windows, doors and conservatory products from its 60,000 sq ft facility, supplying to a retail network of 24 installation companies that operate across the UK. This latest strategic acquisition is set to take the Group’s turnover to £25m – an exceptional five-fold growth achieved in the past seven years.

Greg Kane, CEO of the Conservatory Outlet Group explains: “We’re delighted to announce that Pennine Home Improvements and Conservatory Outlet have joined forces, bringing the manufacturing hub of our business closer to the customer than ever before.

“Pennine has been part of our network of retailers for just over three years, and has experienced an impressive 30% growth in that time, largely due to its highly

Greg added: “The deal can only be of benefit to our wider network of independent retailers, of whom we’re extremely proud and equally as committed to supporting as ever – if they grow, we grow”.

Mark Tinnion, Managing Director of Pennine Home Improvements concludes: “We’re really excited about joining forces with Conservatory Outlet and the opportunities for growth that it presents. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and being closer to the manufacturing process can only enhance that.”

Mark Billington and Matthew Fannon represented Allied Irish Bank (GB) on the deal. Mark Billington, Senior Relationship Manager said: ““The acquisition has great advantages for both parties and forms part of Conservatory Outlet’s impressive strategic growth strategy. We have been delighted to support Conservatory Outlet since 2014 when owners Greg Kane and Michael Giscombe acquired full ownership of the business and we helped to fund the deal. They have a very successful and fast growing business and we are pleased to assist a local manufacturer to extend their presence as a market leader within the industry following this latest acquisition.”

For further information on Conservatory Outlet, visit conservatoryoutlet.co.uk. For further information on Pennine Home Improvements, visit pennineconservatories.com Advisors on the deal include international accountancy firm Mazars and legal advice provided by Legal advisors were Field Fisher LLP to Conservatory Outlet and Addleshaw Goddard LLP to Allied Irish Bank( GB).

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 5

TRADE NEWS

Building Product Solutions Chooses

Deceuninck For Next Stage Of Growth Building Product Solutions (BPS) is a leader in the supply of innovative quality products to the New Build sector and is delighted to be switching its profile supply to Deceuninck to ensure it can fulfil its ambitious growth plans with its Next Generation product offering.

Ian Harrison, Managing Director of Building Product Solutions explains the significance of the move: “Building Product Solutions was established in 2009 and from a standing start is set to achieve a £7m turnover this year. However, to ensure this level of growth continues we need to up the ante. That’s why we have moved to Deceuninck for our Next Generation suite of products, to give our customers an ever better looking profile and improved energy efficiency.

6 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

“To be able to grow you need stability from your main suppliers.

It’s essential that you get what you need, when you need it and equally important that the channels of communication are open.

We know who we need to speak to for each of our requirements which makes our lives so much easier and Deceuninck always responds to our queries – even if on the odd occasion the answer isn’t the one we were hoping for!

This transparency and honesty is how we operate our own business and it’s like a breath of fresh air to work with a supplier that is so like-minded.

“Our reputation is built on delivering on expectations so we need a supplier that can deliver on our high expectations in turn.

We have only just started man-

ufacturing with the Deceuninck profile but the support they have given us through the entire switch over period has been excellent.

This support included weekly meetings to ensure everything went smoothly and enabled us to continue delivering to customers throughout. We needed this support because changing profile supplier is not something we did lightly and we wanted reassurance from the minute we made the decision. We’ve had it in abundance so far and look forward to a long and profitable partnership with Deceuninck who we can already see is a supplier that is truly committed to the growth of our business.”

Deceuninck’s Rob McGlennon adds: “Building Product Solutions has seen exponential growth in a short amount of time so is clearly home to an ambitious team of people. However, unlike some companies, this ambition for growth is not at the expense of quality and customer service. They want to be able to grow while still delivering on the promises that have enabled their growth so far. This is something we specialise in at Deceuninck – as well as manufacturing superb looking products, we also want to create real partnerships with our customers so that we can give them exactly what they need to grow their business. This will be different for every business of course which is why communication is so important.

“We’re thrilled to be working with Building Product Solutions and can’t wait to see what they will achieve with an even better product and profile supplier.”

Contact Lynne Darwin, Sales and Marketing Director at Building Product Solutions for more information on the company’s Next Generation products on 01709 882080. www.deceuninck.com

TRADE NEWS

Aluminium On Track

For 17-Year

High – Palmer Figures released by Palmer Market Research suggest that aluminium is on course to reach a 17-year high by 2020.

door industry at this year’s FIT Show, NEC, 23-25 May.

Speaking ahead of the FIT Show, Robert Palmer, said that the specialist research company was forecasting sustained growth for aluminium topping 220,000 frames by the end of the three-year period.

It’s new report The Market for Domestic Entrance Doors argues that a flattening of the market in 2015 saw total volume fall by 0.7%. This was, however, offset by a shift towards higher-end products and higher value installations, which delivered a 2% increase in installed value to £4.20 billion.

He also highlighted growth in the second-time window replacement market, which he suggests accounted for 70% of all installations last year.

Palmer suggests that going forward, prospects are highly variable depending on sector and product offering – aluminium as highlighted is a notable winner.

“Having initially dominated the window replacement market, accounting for 95% of all windows in 1979, and 1.8million frames in 1982, aluminium then spent a number of years in the wilderness behind a dominant PVC-U from the late 1990s and timber”, said Palmer.

As in previous years, the home improvement sector continues to dominate, with a value of £3.24 billion last year. Going forward into this year, Palmer suggests an above forecast performance, with growth at 1.5% to £3.28 billion by the end of 2016.

“While PVC-U remains by some way, the dominant frame material, there has been a significant resurgence in aluminium – something which we expect to continue through to 2020 and beyond.

“This includes notable areas of growth in the aluminium bi-fold door sector. We predict that this will continue through to 2020, achieving total growth of around 50% to 35,000 door sets.”

Palmer Market Research will provide a detailed analysis of the trends defining the window and

ladder.”

Robert Palmer will present analysis from 12.50pm to 1.40pm on the 23rd May as part of the FIT Talk Interview programme, the FIT Show, NEC 23 – 25 May. As well as providing a forecast of the industry’s prospects through to 2020, he will also offer an analysis of influences on end-user purchasing decisions and trends.

Palmer said: “There’s been a definite shift in end-user preference to premium and higher end products including aluminium but also PVC-U foils, flush finish and mechanically jointed windows.

But this is tempered by a downgrading of the new build forecasts.

“Brexit remains an unknown quantity. Although the referendum vote hasn’t had the immediate economic impact that it was forecast to and the UK economy has so far proved more resilient than expected, we would still suggest some ‘slowing in the housing market is likely”, said Palmer.

“This was instrumental in holding up installed values last year, despite the overall fall in volumes.

With growth in the second-time replacement market, the very tangible and aesthetic differences in new windows, should be expected to accelerate, taking greater market share going forward, representing sizeable areas of opportunity.”

He continued: “Any possible dip in (house) prices, tends to slow the supply of new homes. This may become more acute if firsttime buyers opt to wait-out Brexit before getting on the property

For more information log on at www.palmermarketresearch. co.uk email info@palmermarketresearch.co.uk or call 020 83908131.

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 7

TRADE NEWS

Deceuninck’s Slider24 Sales Top 1000 Per Month

The latest results from PVC-U systems company Deceuninck, demonstrate the popularity of its innovative Slider24 sliding patio door, as the company reports it is now topping a production run rate of 1000 doors every month.

“It’s not really surprising that we’re making this number considering the benefits Slider24 has to offer,” says Rob McGlennon of Deceuninck. “Along with our window

systems, including our prestigious Heritage Window Collection, the Slider24 benefits from 26 colourways from stock. Of course, we offer an almost infinite range of colours, but we keep 26 colours in stock at all times to ensure a fast turnaround. In real terms this means fabricators can turn the product around in less than 14 days, which in turn allows them to steal a march on the competition.

DW3: Beautiful Brands Make Beautiful Homes DW3 Products Group customers are growing with the expanding market for beautiful, high performing products. DW3 is home to the premium quality brands Solidor, Residor, Residence Collection, and Window Widgets.

DW3 group is committed to creating stunning, high performing products with innovation, quality, and design (IQD) to make beautiful homes. DW3’s IQD Quality Mark is a hallmark that appears on marketing materials across the group so installers can sell a suite of brands that truly belong 8 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

together.

DW3 CEO Gareth Mobley says: “DW3 products are designed to be beautiful and transform homes. That’s why we say: Beautiful brands make beautiful homes. We’re also taking service and product development to the next level. Solidor is the most secure composite door, Residor the most secure GRP composite door, while Residence Collection is transforming the PVC window market, and Window Widgets makes the ancillaries that most of the market relies on.”

“Gone are the days of stiff, hard to move flimsy patios. Deceuninck’s Slider24 has a robust profile construction with unique internal geometry that is designed to withstand extreme loads and the toughest conditions. Available in 2, 3 & 4 panes, the complete door system comes kitemark approved to enhanced security standard PAS24. It is also up to three times more effective in bad weather than other leading brands which is driving its popularity in both retail and commercial applications.

“We’re celebrating our 80th anniversary this year and as the Slider24, the Heritage Window Collection and many more of our products show, we remain at the forefront of innovation. We are committed to delivering what the market wants as well as what the market needs and will continue to do this on behalf of our fabricators and their installer customers.”

Contact Chris Jones at Deceuninck on 01249 816969 to find out more about how Deceuninck can help your business grow. www.deceuninck.com Last year’s sales were a record for all brands in the group. In October DW3 achieved its first million pound sales week, and it has been surpassing that record repeatedly since.

“The market for premium brands is growing,” continues Gareth.

“Homeowners over the age of 45 with small or no mortgages want to invest in their homes to make them comfortable and beautiful. They’re on the lookout for exceptional brands; products that perform highly and add value to their home. That’s why we design DW3 products for innovation, quality and design, outstanding performance and the best looks in the industry.” www.dw3group.co.uk

Is your supplier letting you down ?

15

%

*

FIRST ORDER DISCOUNT FROM

10

Working Days Lead Time*

from only

t price anywhe s e w o L re

Aluminium Bi-Fold Doors

£

GET A PRICE COMPARISON TODAY SIT E

INLAND MA

R LIVE Y DE

K

£350 per leaf

Quote turnaround within 2 hrs Up to 1200mm sash widths Stock colours : White, Black, Grey, Grey on White /madefortrade @madefortrade1

U *Offer applicable to new customers on your first set of doors only. *Excludes Glass and Delivery. *Lead Time depending on delivery day to your area. *Based on a like for like quote.

Tel: 01642 610798 Fax: 01642 671026

www.madefortrade.co

TRADE NEWS

Exlabesa’s ECW50 Curtain

Walling System Proves Its Worth on a wide variety of commercial building projects and can be integrated with Exlabesa’s KWS window systems and KSF and KTS commercial door systems.

The ECW50 is a thermally broken system so it meets and exceeds current building regulations for thermal efficiency. It has 28mm glazing as standard but can accommodate glazing of up to 46mm for projects where thermal efficiency is paramount.

The system is fabricated using high quality European components and is tested to UNE EN 13830:2016 for weather resistance, safety in use, energy efficiency and heat retention and also to the more onerous CWCT standard in the UK.

Exlabesa launched its ECW50 curtain walling system last year and it has taken the market by storm since then. Paul Benn, Exlabesa’s National Sales Manager, said: “We are pleased the ECW50 is proving so popular but we are not surprised. It’s one of the easiest curtain walling systems on the market to manufacture and it’s also extremely competitively priced, which is a winning combination.”

The ECW50 curtain walling system has 50mm profile widths so it has the stunningly slim sightlines of a classic aluminium system. It’s suitable for use

Other features include a choice of depths for structural members, mullion sizes of up to 220mm and transom sizes of up to 195mm. Internal reinforcing bars are available where bigger spans are needed, plus a range of structural add-ons, while a range of external caps give different finishing options.

The system is easy to install, thanks to the unique gasket design that makes glazing simple, a feature that will cut installation time and make installers’ lives easier.

Paul reports that sales of the ECW50 show no signs of slowing down, but that’s not surprising either. Exlabesa is one of the country’s most experienced and reliable aluminium systems companies and the ECW50 is the perfect example of a company with its finger on the pulse of market needs. www.exlabesa.co.uk

FENSA Appoints New Director

Of Membership To Deliver Enhanced Services For Members FENSA, the Government authorised self-certification scheme for windows and doors installers, today announces the appointment of Chris Beedel to the role of Director of Membership. Chris will play a key role as FENSA launches several new services for its members over the coming months, following the launch of 10 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

the FENSA Member ID Card earlier in March.

Chris arrives at FENSA at a time of renewed focus on member services and will look to build on the organisation’s position as the largest self-certification scheme in the sector, whilst ensuring members feel the full benefit of

new and existing services.

He will also drive new programmes designed to engage current members and attract others to join the organisation.

In particular he will focus on providing improved customer service and, in the coming weeks and months launch new tools designed to support members in enhancing their offers to consumers, such as the recently released FENSA Member ID Card. www.fensa.org.uk

TRADE NEWS

Article 50: Small Businesses

Now Need Clarity On Trade And Talent, Says FSB

Responding to UK Prime Minister Theresa May’s triggering of Article 50, Mike Cherry, National Chairman at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: “Now that Article 50 has been triggered, it is time for the government to work towards a pro-business Brexit and give small firms some clarity on how leaving the EU will impact their businesses. In particular, FSB members want to see the easiest possible access to the single market. There must also be reassurance for small businesses which employ non-UK EU citizens, and rely on the ability to recruit those with the skills and talents they need.

“Access to the right skills at the right time is crucial for the success of a small business. A fifth of FSB members with staff employ non-UK

EU citizens, workers that are vital to the UK economy. The right to remain for these non-UK EU citizens must be guaranteed at the earliest opportunity to provide reassurance to smaller firms and their workforces.

“The Government must push for a comprehensive free trade agreement with the EU based on ease and cost, and then support small firms to take advantage of new trade agreements with priority markets around the world. Small business exporters tell us that the EU single market is still their top market of choice, but firms are also keen to focus on the US, China, Australia and Canada. One third of exporting small businesses have told us they would be genuinely deterred from trading with the EU if a tariff of between two to four per cent was imposed on trade between the UK

and EU. “It’s vital that throughout the Brexit negotiations the small business voice is not lost and that the final agreement is positive for British business. For this reason, FSB will continue to be a constructive partner with the Government on Brexit, especially on issues such as access to markets, to skills and labour, funding – as well as creating the right regulatory environment after Brexit.

“There is now a two year window of opportunity to influence EU law.

FSB will focus efforts in the Commission and Parliament to secure pro-business reforms to the single market, as arrangements agreed between now and March 2019 will become UK law.” www.fsb.org.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 11

Built TRADE NEWS

To Last

offices for Hyundai. The windows were all coated to mid-grey RAL7012 on the outside to exactly match the exterior cladding.

This was in stark contrast to the very first job they carried out for JW Steele back in 1997 which was to fix a broken window handle in a house owned by a friend of the then Managing Director Harold Steele.

Harold was so impressed with the fact that The Window Company (Contracts) fixed the handle for free, that he asked them to fit a window in his own house and the rest, as they say, is history.

David Geer, the current Managing Director, and Harold’s great nephew, says that the companies work well together because they share the same approach to customer service, quality and reliability.

He said: “The Window Company (Contracts) have never let us down in the past two decades. We trust them implicitly – whether that means sticking to their quote or giving us the best advice on how to meet a window and door specification from a client. We also trust their fitters to be polite and courteous on site and to work around staff, residents or service users on our projects in the healthcare, education and policing sector.”

David Thornton, Chairman of The Window Company (Contracts) said that both businesses share the same values as proud family businesses and have the same exacting standards when it comes to attention to detail and responsiveness. He added: “We are never complacent about our relationship with JW Steele. It matters just as much to us now as a £5m turnover business as it did in 1997 as a £100,000 business. That means even now we’ll respond just as quickly to a request from them to fix a broken handle as we do to an opportunity to quote on a £50,000 job.”

When The Window Company (Contracts) supplied and installed 50 windows in the new Hyundai offices at Tilbury Docks for main contractors JW Steele & Sons Ltd recently, it marked the 20th anniversary of the partnership between the two businesses.

In an industry where every single project is subject to a competitive tender, it says a great deal about the synergy between the two businesses that they are still working together regularly on both public and private sector contracts.

At Tilbury Docks, where JW Steele enhanced its reputation by restoring the iconic rooftop Cupola back in June 2014. The Window Company (Contracts) supplied 50 windows in the Rehau system for a building which was being refurbished and upgraded into 12 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

JW Steele and The Window Company (Contracts) are both based in Chelmsford and, while The Window Company (Contracts) has been around since 1996, JW Steele’s heritage goes all the way back to 1900. The company was established by David Geer’s great grandfather John W Steele as a small building company, and has grown to become one of the region’s leading contractors specialising in the refurbishment and repair of public sector and commercial buildings.

As well as the Tilbury Docks project, The Window Company has also completed recent window and door installations for JW Steele at Canvey Island Health Centre and at Ingrave Johnstone School in Brentwood.

Further details are available at www.thewinco.co.uk and at www.jwsteele.com

Is your supplier letting you down ?

10

% FIRST ORDER DISCOUNT*

5 FROM

Working Days Lead Time

NEW

LOW PRICES

st price anywhere e w o L

Conservatory Roofs

£

£382 +VAT

25mm Opal Poly

2.8m x 2.9m

£1014

DOUBLE HIP

+VAT

3.4m x 2.3m

Active Blue Glass

inc. Box Gutter

£1286 +VAT

Quote turnaround within 2hrs

Active Blue Glass

Very competitive roof glass

E

R LIVE Y DE

UK MAINL A

SIT E

3m x 2m

EDWARDIAN

GET A PRICE COMPARISON TODAY

ND

LEAN-TO

FR E

/madefortrade

@madefortrade1

*Offer applicable to new customers on your first roof only. **Based on a like for like comparison.

Tel: 01642 610799 Fax: 01642 615854

www.madefortrade.co

TRADE NEWS

28 Years Later

Premier Windows and Conservatories Directors, Paul and Caroline Chenery, then and now.

Launched in 1989, Premier Windows and Conservatories, Oswestry is this month celebrating its 28-year anniversary. The family-run company’s journey, spanning almost three decades, has helped it to build a first-class reputation locally for quality workmanship, attention to detail and excellent after-sales service.

Apples don’t usually fall far from the tree, and in 2003, the couple’s eldest son Ben became Premier’s General Manager, having worked his way up from a Fitter.

Ben’s promotion was then swiftly followed by the appointment of Andrew Turner, the company’s very much valued Administrator, who joined in 2004.

environmentally friendly practices and modern designs.”

March 2017 marks 28 years since duo Paul and Caroline Chenery, featuring a perm and other questionable 80’s attire, embarked on the new adventure of opening a local Glazing installation company.

2008 marked two more huge milestones for the company, seeing both the opening of its current showroom in Moreton Business Park, Gledrid, and in taking the exciting step to become a member of the UK-wide Conservatory Outlet Network.

“We’ve been thrilled with the support of the Conservatory Outlet Network throughout a significant period of growth for our company. Looking to the future, our focus will be the same as it has always been, – on transforming the homes of our customers and providing the best service we possibly can.”

With a humble beginning the pair originally started out operating from home, quickly expanding to open their first showroom at 75 Beatrice Street, Oswestry in 1990. It was a modest team, with Caroline taking the role of Saleswoman and Administration, and Paul Surveying and fitting.

By the turn of the year 2000, Premier Windows and Conservatories had grown vastly, prompting the move to a much larger showroom in Smithfield, and were employing an expanded team of eight Fitters.

14 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

Enjoying further growth since then, the company now offers a range of some of the most innovative products in the industry, including triple glazing and energy rated windows, bi-folding, French and stable doors as well as modern Conservatories and Orangeries.

Caroline Chenery, Director, said “We’re extremely proud of our history as a long-standing, family-run business at a time when that’s becoming increasingly rare.

We combine traditional values with a modern commitment to

“We’re delighted to be celebrating 28 years since it all began and looking back at what we have achieved in that time. It doesn’t feel like all that long ago when we were working from our own living room!”

Andy Miller, Business Development Director at Conservatory Outlet, concludes: “We feel extremely privileged to have witnessed and supported the team at Premier since they became part of our independent Network of retailers back in 2008. Paul and Caroline have always worked hard to provide the customer with a top class service and we look forward to many more years of a successful relationship with them.”

TRADE NEWS

Senior Speeds Up

Production Of Its Ali

FOLD Door Range In response to the growing demand for its new Ali FOLD aluminium doors, Senior Architectural Systems has pledged significant investment to boost the speed and capacity of its inhouse manufacturing facility.

SEH BAC Strengthens Aluminium

Range With Switch To Origin In business for over 45 years, Suffolk-based SEH BAC knows the importance of a continually evolving product range – and now the South-East firm has bolstered its product line by switching its aluminium offering to Origin.

“We have established a strong reputation with homeowners across the South-East and East Anglia for our outstanding windows, doors and conservatories,” comments SEH BAC Managing Director, John Savage. “Our entire range is constantly under review to ensure we always offer our customers the absolute best products.

Switching to Origin allows us to strengthen our aluminium offering, by using one of the leading manufacturers of bespoke aluminium products.”

Part of One Group Construction, SEH BAC supplies both double and triple glazed windows in a wide range of styles including casement, tilt and turn and bay windows. They also offer residential aluminium doors as well as French doors and luxury bifolding doors.

“Of course, it can be a challenge switching suppliers, especially when it is for one of our fastest-growing product areas,” adds John. “However, it is already proving to be a beneficial process, allowing us to draw on Origin’s wealth of experience in aluminium to expand our own range, and capitalise on consumer demand for contemporary aluminium products. We are looking forward to launching some new additions to our offering in the near future.”

With a turnover of £30m, SEH BAC boasts one of the largest product ranges in the glazing industry, offering an extensive selection of uPVC, aluminium, timber and timber alternative products. Respected throughout the window industry, the firm has 17 show-centres across East Anglia, Surrey, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire and Kent, with more planned in the future.

For more information, call 0808 159 6310 or visit www.sehbac.com

The new state of the art polyamide rolling machine from Müller Technologies will increase production of the polyamide bars that give the Ali FOLD doors their impressive thermal break.

The new machine is anticipated to enable Senior to double its existing capacity to increase efficiency and ensure the timely delivery of all customer orders.

James Keeling-Heane, sales director from Senior Architectural Systems comments: “The new Ali FOLD door range has really captured the attention of our trade customers who require high quality aluminium bi-fold and patio doors and rely on manufacturers being able to give them what they want, when they want it.

As we see more orders coming in, ensuring we can meet demand and that our factory floor is working as efficiently as possible is a key priority for us. The investment in new machinery will provide us with the extra capacity we need and will give our customers the consistently high standards of service they have come to expect from Senior.”

To find out more about Senior’s new Ali FOLD aluminium door range please visit seniorarchitectural.co.uk/askforali WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 15

TRADE NEWS

With six-chambered Energy Plus chamfered and sculptured profiles offered as standard and an extended foiled finish range of 15 from stock, it’s an impressive basis for product choice. All frames are hand finished using their unique 4-step process which is offered as standard, making for what they believe is the best finished, most thermally efficient 70mm uPVC frame in the industry and the broadest and most exciting product range from any Liniar fabricator in the UK.

Offering A Tru-ly Better

Product Proposition

With hand finished window and door frames, six-chambered Energy Plus Liniar profiles as standard and an extended range of foiled finishes, TruFrame believe they have the most compelling product proposition in the industry, backed by a unique 10-year warranty.

TruFrame have enjoyed double-digit growth for the last two years, thanks to new business wins, but also importantly, organic growth from their network of partners. Product confidence is certainly unsurpassed thanks to enhanced specifications and a 10year warranty that is offered directly by TruFrame, but also enhanced with the Yale Lifetime Guarantee.

Windows have always been at the heart of the product portfolio at TruFrame and the popular Flush Sash range is available in a welded, hand finished version, or in a premium fully mechanically jointed, hand assembled Refine™ variant. This allows TruFrame to remain true to their core principle of providing the utmost in quality, across all window and door products and this extends to the hardware supplied by Mila and Yale.

David Firmager, managing director commented: ‘Our product proposition is second to none as our customers keep telling us and we’ve invested considerably in additional stock and our own standalone warranty. Product is ultimately at the heart of what we do, but customer support, including our revolutionary online ordering portal, also underpins the results of our world-class manufacturing processes.’ www.truframe.co.uk

Tradelink Open New Welwyn Windowcentre Tradelink Direct have just opened a new Windowcentre in Welwyn Garden City, with an impressive opening event in February 2017, adding to their already successful trade counters in Rotherham and the founding model in Mildenhall, Suffolk.

The Windowcentre business model brings together a renowned window and door manufacturer with a history of 25 years and the concept of a one-stop trade counter. Products offered are from some of the biggest brands in the trade sector including KÖMMERLING, Smart Systems, Ultraframe and their own branded Regiment composite doors.

These trade counters are aimed at the professional tradesperson and 16 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

as KÖMMERLING.

from left to right: Kevin Warner of KÖMMERLING with Jim Moody of Tradelink Direct.

DIY enthusiast, with a fully developed showroom environment, to perfectly showcase the products on offer and the promise of short leadtimes, thanks to direct manufacturing support from Tradelink. The first two trade counters have been built on product knowledge, excellent customer support and strong supply chain links with brands such

Kevin Warner, head of sales and marketing for KÖMMERLING commented: ‘We’re thrilled to be able to support the expansion in the Windowcentre business model from Tradelink. It’s a proven platform for growth and one we are fully supporting with our proven window and door systems.’.

Jim Moody, managing director of Tradelink Direct concluded: ‘The opening of Welwyn Windowcentre is an important part of our carefully orchestrated expansion plans for this business model. Our customers look for great products, backed by exemplary levels of support, as is the Tradelink way and I look forward to the new business opportunities this will bring for us.’

GLAZED IN SECONDS 25% DISCOUNT*

ALUMINIUM ROOF LANTERN

STOP WASTING TIME IS

VING, DEMO NS

VIEW OUR TIMELAPSE ONLINE

5 FROM

Working Days Lead Time * Discount limited to first order for a single roof, offer excludes glass.

Tel: 01642 610799 Fax: 01642 615854

www.korniche.co.uk

L60

OW SH

STAN D

TH E FI T

ORGANISE A DEMONSTRATION

NS AT

VISIT US AT THE FIT SHOW

SEEI

NG

IO AT TR

3 STEPS TO A FASTER FIT

LIE BE

TRADE NEWS

“The Residence Collection is a great product range for the business. It enables us to offer a broad choice of windows and doors in a range of styles and colours. In addition, we are one of a small number of fabricators in the UK to be able to offer seamless corner joints on all our Residence windows and doors.” Nick adds.

Premium Manufactured Products

Give Customers

A Competitive Edge After a recent takeover, the new management team at UK Window Systems is keen to show existing and new customers just what makes them different from other manufacturers.

The Stoke-on-Trent based fabricator operates out of a 30’000 square foot manufacturing site on the outskirts of the city; accommodating a spectacular showroom facility with a range of full size conservatories and orangeries, a trade counter – supporting local trade and manufacturing capabilities of producing up to 1000 frames per week.

Nick Holloway, Sales Director 18 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

comments: “A new management team was introduced to the business last November after investors took over the company. The business already had a great portfolio of products, including windows and doors manufactured from profile system Rehau and roofing systems from Ultraframe.”

The business also supplies three of The Residence Collection profile systems; R9, R7 and R2. The systems have become one of the UK’s more popular choices, particularly in areas of conservation and homes looking for traditional sash window styles.

UK Window Systems recently invested over £300k to purchase a seamless Graf Synergy welder. The welder enables the fabricator to offer customers a range of seamless window and door frames at no additional cost to the installer.

“In today’s competitive market, being able to offer a seamless jointed window or door can really add financial value. This unique selling point for our customers gives them the opportunity to sell the homeowner a premium finished product with a fantastic, contemporary appearance and feel, at no additional cost to them.

“The new team at UK Window Systems has high hopes for the business and we have already made several strategic improvements, including the appointment of additional resource to our customer service support, a redesign of our trade counter to offer more product lines and the inevitable introduction of a range of new products set to be launched in Spring.

“The changes are being geared at supporting our customers better, so it’s a great time for them to get involved and take advantage of all our new plans.” Nick concluded.

For more information contact Nick Holloway on 01782 213270 or visit www.ukwindowsltd.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

Carl F Groupco’s

Reversible Record Record sales are reported by Carl F Groupco in 2016 of UNI reversible window hardware manufactured by Roto/Peder Nielsen (PN), with growth predicted to continue through 2017. The main market for the gearing, supplied solely to the UK by Carl F Groupco, is Scotland but growth has also been seen in England, Ireland and Wales.

Julie Warner, Carl F Groupco’s Product Manager for the PN by Roto range, reports that growth is due to loyal customers who put value on the benefits of the hardware. She adds that this extremely high quality gearing is ideal for multi-storey public and commercial buildings, including hotels.

Equally suitable for high-rise domestic applications, the gearing is supplied with an integral child restrictor and reverse catch as

standard, which ensures safe operation when cleaning the window from the inside. Commenting on the aesthetic advantages of the gearing, Julie Warner explains: “The UNI range, including the Top Swing, Top and Side Hung gearing, has been designed for full flexibility. Frame and sash groove details are the same across the UNI range, which means that any of the solutions can be fitted to ensure a uniform aesthetic appearance on all window styles across aluminium, PVCu and timber profiles.

“The full UNI range is also capable of achieving emergency escape – providing all relevant building regulations are met.”

Julie Warner, Carl F Groupco’s Product Manager for the PN by Roto range pictured with the company’s Technical Manager, John Mitchell.

A strong relationship with PN and Carl F Groupco dates back to 2001 and this has continued following the acquisition of PN

by Roto in 2016, with exciting new product launches set to be revealed at the FIT Show 2017. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Safeguard Joins The BWF’s Wood Window Alliance

With quality a prerequisite in everything they do, and as longstanding suppliers to a number of the nation’s foremost high performance wooden window manufacturers, it’s no surprise that SafeGuard has become a Supplier Member of the British Woodworking Federation’s Wood Window Alliance.

“At SafeGuard, our commitment to quality is at the heart of what we do,” explains Nick Welsh, Managing Director of SafeGuard. “We appreciate though, these claims need to be substantiated – which is why we are delighted to announce we are now listed as a supplier to members of the Wood Window Alliance (WWA). Established in 2007 by a group of leading manufacturers supplying timber-based windows and doors in the UK and Ireland, the WWA promotes the advantages of timber, modified timber and aluminium-clad timber windows and doors, sets industry standards for high qual-

ity timber-based windows and doors, and offers the reassurance of a quality benchmark for wood window and door performance, service life and sustainability.

“As a condition of membership, manufacturers must meet independently certified quality, performance, and sustainability criteria. This means, as a supplier to these members, our products need to match these stringent criteria too. As longstanding active members of the Glass and Glazing Federation, we believe in the importance of being part of industry-recognised bodies that promote best practise in manufacturing and quality. We are proud of what we do and believe the fact we can now supply members of the WWA is testament to our product offering.”

For more information on SafeGuard or its product offering call 01780 751442 or visit For more information on SafeGuard or its product offering call 01780 751442 or visit www.safe-guard.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 19

TRADE NEWS

Secured By

Design Licenses First Stable Door

Spectus To Unveil Installer Scheme And Valuable System

Developments At The FIT Show Solidor’s stable door is the first stable door to achieve a Secured

By Design (SBD) license, claim the company. SBD is a national police initiative developed to specifically encourage and recognise manufacturers who design security into their products.

The unique laminated-hardwood timber core in a Solidor makes it structurally strong and secure.

As a result it can be split into two sections and easily supports the improved functionality of a stable door, whilst still keeping homes safe from intruders.

SBD works on behalf of police forces around the country to reduce crime by creating secure environments for the public. Part of this is ensuring products like windows and doors meet robust physical security standards.

SBD Senior Development Officer Mick Reynolds says: “To achieve SBD status these stable doors have had to pass a series of rigorous physical tests by independent laboratories.” www.solidor.co.uk 20 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

Spectus is just about to enhance its reputation as one of the best systems companies to partner with by launching its Excellence as Standard installer scheme at the FIT Show. Carmen Velilla, Spectus’ Brand Manager, says: “The core aim of Excellence as Standard is to enhance loyalty and trust between installers and their homeowner customers. By signing up to the Excellence as Standard charter and obtaining member status, installers will be demonstrating that they are fully committed to raising standards and will profit from tangible benefits that will help them to grow their business.”

Benefits of signing up to the Excellence as Standard charter include access to qualified leads via the Excellence as Standard lead generation programme, access to Level 2 & Level 3 NVQ training courses at discounted rates, access to Excellence as Standard branded marketing material with bespoke options and potential kickback offers from Excellence as Standard Trusted Partners.

Spectus has always provided the most powerful partnerships for

fabricators and in its Excellence as Standard initiative it is extending this to installers too. Carmen comments: “We are especially keen to meet installers at the FIT Show to tell them more about Excellence as Standard and discuss how Spectus provides a great brand with the widest catalogue of products all backed up with genuinely proactive marketing and technical support.”

Alongside the launch of the Excellence as Standard scheme, Spectus will also be showcasing its product portfolio at the FIT Show. It includes the Elite 63 and Elite 70 systems for casements and tilt & turns, the newly enhanced Spectus VS for vertical sliders, the FRW reversible system and flush casement and flush tilt and turn styles. The company will also be launching a brand new range of prepped and unprepped composite doors.

Also on show will be the latest additions to the company’s already impressive ancillary range: an enhanced triple glazing option and a two part cill that will further extend the opportunities available. www.spectus.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

Jack Aluminium Opens Commercial Doors

At AluFoldDirect’s Design Centre Managing Director of AluFoldDirect.

“We fabricate the Jack Door because Jack Aluminium’s rigorous product development puts all of these qualities together. They’ve gone the extra mile to have a wide variety of door styles independently tested to PAS 24. That means we can fabricate entrance doors,

emergency exits, mag lock and remote access doors – all Secured by Design for customers.

“From a manufacturing viewpoint, the Jack Door fits into our ethos, so we can be competitive on price and fulfil our guarantees to customers for fast delivery to site.” www.alufolddirect.co.uk

Architects and specifiers looking for Secured by Design, thermally efficient commercial doors should visit the new AluFoldDirect Aluminium Glazing Design Centre in Blackburn to see examples of Jack Aluminium’s Jack Door system.

The new showroom and advice centre gives visitors the chance to see, touch and feel precision-made aluminium doors and windows and speak to in-house experts about their project. The inclusion of the Jack Door in the centre reflects AluFoldDirect’s success using the system to fabricate its commercial doors, which are popular with customers for their high quality finish and robust longterm performance.

The AluFoldDirect Aluminium Glazing Design Centre contains several examples of the Jack Door with different hardware and colour options. There’s even a Jack Door at the main entrance to the AluFoldDirect factory, where the design centre is based. In addition, the building’s exterior curtain walling is also fabricated from the Jack Aluminium system.

“The best commercial doors need to tick several boxes. The reassurance of SBD is increasingly important, but architects and specifiers tell us they also want strong aesthetics, thermal efficiency and affordability,” says Craig Miller, WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 21

TRADE NEWS

Kombimatec Move To New Premises

To Deal With Increasing Demand

“Suppliers, customers and staff will benefit from the new location,” said Derek Parsons, Kombimatec’s Managing Director. “One benefit in particular is we expect greater efficiencies as a result of the larger manufacturing area that has been kitted out with all the services we require for manufacturing machines.”

Business is really booming for Kombimatec Machines Ltd at the moment, so much so that the Bedfordshire-based window machinery company has had to up sticks and move premises due to an increasing demand for its award-winning machines.

Relocating to a new factory three times the size of its existing premises, Kombimatec move just down the road from Luton to Dunstable with easy access to its new HQ when exiting junction 11 of the M1 motorway.

Also equipped with a dedicated area for demonstrations and pre-delivery testing the new Kombimatec factory arrives as the company prepares to exhibit at this year’s FIT Show on stand J12.

Since 1984 Kombimatec has delivered over 10,000 machines for working PVC and aluminium profiles worldwide. Designed and manufactured to the highest standards, the machines are easy to use, simple to maintain and with CAD experts on hand to assist with factory planning the company’s technical expertise has built over 30 years of serving the industry. www.kombimatec.com.

Quarter Of Million Pound Investment In Kingfisher Announced Profile 22 manufacturer, Kingfisher uPVC Windows and Doors Ltd has invested more than a quarter of a million pounds in new production equipment at its existing factory in Drighlington, Near Leeds, West Yorkshire.

But, the introduction of the four new manufacturing units that have already been put into the production process, are not part of the major planned development due to be announced later this year. These have been bought and commissioned solely to maintain the quality of the products currently being manufactured from their existing site.

Stuart Moss, Production Director with Kingfisher Windows, said: “We have a rolling programme for decommissioning machinery 22 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

and renewing it prior to it causing quality issues that would impact on our end user. These four new machines were simply purchased as part of that rolling programme for Quality Control.

“And whilst it would have been nice to have delayed the installation until such a time as we were ready to move into our new, purpose built factory; there are still a small number of final details needing to be addressed before it’s official launch later this year. We were simply not prepared to delay the replacement of this equipment at the risk of production quality being compromised,” he added.

Included in this sizeable investment were two, in-line, four headed Rotox Horizontal weld-

ers and an Emmegi Phantomatic M3 CNC machining centre for their PVCu production as well as a Biesse Rover K four axis CNC prepping machine used exclusively on their Composite door line.

Neil Webster, Managing Director of Kingfisher Windows, said: “Kingfisher has got an exceptionally good reputation both in the Commercial and Domestic sectors and it is something that we have worked hard to sustain throughout our 27year history.

“This supply arrangement is now being extended into the Trade sector where we are opening up new opportunities, predominantly in the supply of niche products, such as Flush PVCu Windows, Retail and Commercial Aluminium windows, Aluminium Bi fold doors and the Lift and Slide aluminium doors that are growing in popularity,” he added.

VIEWPOINT

the UK? Michele Wietscher, director of Newview Windows & Conservatories, comments: “Modular homes have gained a bad reputation over the years for their quality and perhaps haven’t been taken seriously by the industry or potential buyers, but this is changing.

“Recently a 48-home modular housing scheme in Manchester has been sold and occupied, showing buyer interest is definitely there as well as the opportunity for similar schemes across the UK.” Although some original common features of modular homes such as the ‘popcorn ceilings’ made them undesirable to buyers, newer models can go toe-to-toe with traditionally built homes on quality. And an increase in quality does not equate to an increase in cost; the cost for a modular home can be up to 15% cheaper than a traditional one.

Could Modular

Homes Be The Answer

To Britain’s Housing Crisis?

It is a widely-reported fact that not enough houses are being built in the UK. Last year the government set a target of building 240,000 homes but only around 120,000 were built.

The race is on to meet housing requirements and the industry needs to find more efficient ways of constructing housing.

One solution is modular homes.

Off-site built homes can be pro-

duced in half the time of traditional constructed homes and reduce the requirement for skilled labour, which may in time help relieve the burden of the skills shortage, should it intensify following Brexit.

Modular homes have become widespread in European locations such as Scandinavia, where they have provided an answer to quicker build times, tighter controls for developers and cost-effective homes for the end user. But will modular homes spark interest in

The downside to modular homes is the lack of customisation, which can be a turn-off for potential buyers desperate to find their ‘dream home’.

Another con is that the components used to construct modular homes are overwhelmingly imported, which adds air miles and costs British jobs. In contrast, traditionally built houses source 80% of materials domestically.

“The housing crisis is about production capacity and the time is ripe for a disruptive new entrant to the market,” says Michele. “There are pros and cons to both prefabricated and traditionally built houses, but what it boils down to is if we want to reach the required number of homes to be built each year we need to be quicker. And modular homes are a practical solution.” www.newview-homes.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MARCH 2017 23

DEAR GERALD

Dear

Gerald Dear Gerald In his recent report on the Window, Door and Conservatory Markets in Housing, Palmer[1] identifies significant growth and opportunities in bi-folding doors, and highlights growth in patio doors. Strong forecasts of sales growth mean greater demand for larger sealed units in bifolds and sliding patio doors.

But, some have asked, what sort of spacer is best suited to these large units, soft and flexible or a rigid spacer bar? Do heavy window and door frames put more pressure on sealed units, so they deflect, making a flexible spacer bar better at dealing with the deflection?

But it’s not a question of soft or rigid. It’s not the job of the window or door to support the weight of the building above, nor the job of the sealed units to support the weight of the window or door; still less the job of the spacer bar to support the sealed unit, door, window or masonry above. If we built like that we’d all be living in piles of rubble from collapsed buildings!

Appropriately sized lintels are fitted above door or window openings to support the weight of the masonry and building above. They don’t rely on the windows or doors to support the building.

Structural engineers calculate the load above precisely and, with a good safety margin, specify the strength and size of the lintel required to support the frame. If they didn’t, the building would fail 24 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

regulatory requirements, and probably fail itself.

Property owners would rightly be concerned!

A window or door frame is strengthened with reinforcement to support its functioning and its own weight. Correctly constructed, the sealed unit withstands lateral movement in production, transit and handling during installation so it performs as designed for its lifetime.

A warm edge spacer bar is designed to keep the panes of glass apart, provide structure and surface for the primary and secondary sealants, and hold the desiccant. They are also a crucial insulating barrier for energy efficiency. It’s the secondary sealant’s job to keep the unit’s structure together and bear the load in production, transit and installation, and withstand the wind loading once installed.

Rigid warm edge spacer bars like SWISSPACER are designed for large IGUs. They give precise edges and clean, crisp parallel lines for an aesthetically pleasing finish. They’re strong enough to cope with the weight of the extra glass without modification. You can see warm edge rigid spacer bars in action worldwide in large sealed units in very exposed conditions e.g. New York’s iconic Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), London’s 30 St. Mary Axe (The Gherkin), The Prada building in Tokyo, Madrid’s Torre de Cristal and The Turning Torso in Sweden all have SWISSPACER inside.

Rigid warm edge spacer bars work well in these buildings, so I don’t think Mrs Brown will have a problem with her bifolds!

Yours, Karl-Theo Roes Head of Market Development, Europe, SWISSPACER

Dear Gerald Since President Trump started labelling people, news organisations and news he didn’t like as ‘fake news’ the phrase has been in the news.

It’s one of the internet’s favourite memes.

Senior advisor to the Continued on page 26

Gareth Mobley

GRIP

Clean Touch

Green Reliable Intelligent Polymer Tested to be stronger. Guaranteed to last for longer.

Designed to be smarter. Patented & branded to prove it.

SE

7

0

CORRO

B

NCE TA

ON RESIS SI

N 16

DEAR GERALD Continued from page 24

President, Kellyanne Conway’s concept of ‘alternative facts’ is also trending. But made-up news, distortions and lies used to deceive, dissemble and confuse are common, and as old as the hills.

It’s also more common than we’d like in our own industry.

Window News If you would like to see your company featured in Window News, either on the website, twice weekly e-mail Newscasts or in our online magazine, please send your press releases and news to: edit@windownews.co.uk We consider all press items sent to us. However, all stories are subject to the editor’s discretion so we cannot guarantee that your news item will be published.

If you wish to advertise in any of the above, please call: Gerald Batt on 01255 850 245, or to view the media information, click here: http://www.windownews.co.uk/media-info/

Don’t forget to sign up for our twice weekly Newscasts for the very latest industry news www.windownews.co.uk/subscribe/

In composite doors, some brands claim to have Secured by Design when the slabs they use don’t pass the PAS24:2016 cut test, or meet the current Document Q. Some claim to injection-mould their cassettes when they don’t, and haven’t done for over a year; or claim to extrude their profiles when they contract out. Or their door slabs don’t achieve the 1.8 u value they must have to achieve the CE mark and sell them legally.

What do we think about that? Does it matter? Who cares? Turn a blind eye?

You could argue that ‘overclaiming’ is morally questionable, and isn’t a problem until someone gets caught. But it’s usually the innocent who carry the can.

When a burglar breaks in – quickly, easily and near silently – and gets away with your customers’ valuables, who’s to blame? Not the homeowner who bought a composite door the installer recommended as ‘very secure’. Not the installer or fabricator who believed it was very secure, because that’s what the manufacturer claimed. But whoever’s to blame, installers and fabricators stand to lose their reputation. The manufacturer who fudged or faked it, or failed to say the door’s security was good for 30 seconds protection at best, tends to hide behind the small print in their terms and conditions and escape the flak.

I believe installers and fabricators want manufacturers to be straight with them, so the products they buy match the specifications they’re sold, and perform exactly as promised.

It’s what homeowners and installers want. Is it too much to ask?

Sincerely, Gareth Mobley CEO, Solidor & Residor

26 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

PEOPLE

grow Synseal Group’s already impressive glass business, with the aim of giving our customers the very best possible quality, price and service across the whole of the UK.” David Leng, CEO of Synseal Group, added: “On behalf of all the staff at Village Glass, Global Glass and the wider Synseal Group, I’d like to welcome Derren and congratulate him on his appointment to the new position of Glass Managing Director.

Derren Gittins

Joins Synseal Group As Glass Managing Director Synseal Group has announced today that Derren Gittins will be joining the Group to head up its UK-wide glass operations.

Derren’s new role as Glass Managing Director includes overseeing the four glass production facilities owned by Synseal Group – Village Glass, based in Essex, and the three Global Glass factories based in Nottinghamshire, Wigan and Blackburn, which houses one of the UK’s largest specialist roof glass production line.

With more than 25 years of experience in glass processing,

Derren has spent most of his career in high profile positions at Pilkington, including as the Head of Downstream Manufacturing, before taking up the post of Managing Director at Glass Systems Group.

Commenting on his new appointment, Derren said: “I am delighted to be joining Synseal Group at this exciting time of growth within their glass business. This is an industry and customer base that I know very well and I’m looking forward to using the expertise gained from my many years at Pilkington and Glass Systems Group to help

“In recent years we have expanded our glass offer, including the acquisition of Village Glass late last year, now giving us over 200,000 sq. ft of glass production facilities across four UK sites with more than 50,000 sealed unit capacity weekly.

We have invested more than £10m over the past four years in machinery, infrastructure and production capability and we will continue to be acquisitive in this area of the industry.

“It is right that we appoint someone of Derren’s calibre to manage this large-scale operation and ensure we continue to meet the growing demand for high quality double and triple glazed insulated glazed units for window, door and conservatory applications.

“Glass is an important part of the wider Synseal offer, and services not only the majority of our PVC-U and aluminium system customers but also many glass-only customers who don’t currently purchase Synseal core products, making us the largest British-owned glass production business in the UK. “We are looking forward to continued growth under Derren’s expert leadership as we actively look to fill our glass factories’ capacities.” www.synseal.com WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 27

PEOPLE

Big Shoes To Fill At

Regalead: Roland Sarin Joins The Team New Installations

Manager Role At The Window Company (Contracts)

Specialist commercial installer The Window Company (Contracts) has appointed Maureen Gregg to the new role of Installations Manager, as it continues to expand.

Working alongside Managing Director Rob Petre and Projects Director Martin Thornton, Maureen is managing fitting teams on projects across the new build and replacement sectors.

Maureen’s role is very much about making sure The Window Company (Contracts)’ projects run as smoothly and efficiently as possible and that the demands of the client, the residents and the window fitters themselves are all successfully managed.

Having spent 17 years with Anglian Building Products, during which time she progressed from Resident Liaison Officer to Contracts Manager, Maureen brings with her valuable all round experience from both sides of a project.

Further details are at: www.thewinco.co.uk 28 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

For anyone who missed ‘Shoe Gate’ on social media in the last few weeks, the recent news from RegaLead is that after almost 2 decades with the company, Ian Duckworth is sadly leaving to relocate abroad. Stepping into his (admittedly less flamboyant) shoes is seasoned industry glass man Roland Sarin, who has joined the company as Market Manager Insulated Glass.

Roland comments: “I first joined the industry back in 1995 and have been lucky enough to work with some leading brands over the years like Pilkington and Edgetech.

I love our sector because of the huge diversity of individuals and products which keeps it challenging and interesting. RegaLead is a brand that I’ve kept an eye on over the years and have always respected their tangible innovation, teamwork and inclusivity. Visiting their stands at many trade exhibitions, I’ve been impressed by a sense of professionalism but what that’s always mixed with enjoyment, respect and fun. I’ll be working with Ian for the next couple of months before he leaves and look

forward to meeting customers now and during the FIT show.”

Guy Hubble, Joint MD comments: “We’re obviously sad that Ian is leaving and we wish him all the best for his new life. He has been a fantastic asset to the business and without him, RegaLead would not be the clear market leader it is today. He has consistently shown talent and dedication in both his dealing with customers, but also in terms of product development. I’d like to say a fantastic thank-you.

And it’s not entirely a goodbye as Ian will continue to support us in our export markets when he emigrates.

“Insulated glass remains a core part of the RegaLead business and we service an extensive customer base of IGU manufacturers and distributors to trade. With his heritage and experience in glass and glass processing, Roland is the ideal person to build on this important part of our business and continue the relationships and product solutions Ian has made over the years.” www.regalead.co.uk

PEOPLE

Mark Suaznabar (left), and Peter Dyer.

DC Suaznabar

Joins A New Beat – As Dempsey Dyer’s Latest Senior Appointment Long-established family fabricator Dempsey Dyer is welcoming another member of extended Dyer clan to the fold, as Mark Suaznabar becomes uPVC compliance and quality manager.

Mark, husband to Rachel Dyer and brother-in-law to managing director Peter, joins the firm after a distinguished career in the police. For twelve and a half years, he served as an officer in the Metropolitan force, before moving to Nottingham and eventually becoming a Detective Constable specialising in fraud investigations.

30 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

At Dempsey Dyer, Mark will be charged with ensuring that all products meet the company’s stringent quality standards, as well as comply with the increasing array of accreditations the fabricator is able to meet.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Dempsey Dyer,” comments Mark. “I’m obviously already extremely familiar with the business, and I’ve always hugely admired the passion and dedication Tom, Peter and the rest of the family have for what they do.

It’s also an exciting time to join the firm. We’ve set ambitious targets for the year ahead, and we want to significantly expand the uPVC side of the business.

For forty years now, we’ve boasted one of the industry’s most extensive ranges of Deceuninck doors and windows – and it’s going to be my job to ensure that our customers continue to get the exceptional quality they’ve come to expect from Dempsey Dyer.”

Peter Dyer comments: “It’s fantastic to be welcoming Mark to the team! His hard work, dedication and attention to detail will be an asset to Dempsey Dyer – and as we continue to expand our already extensive range of accreditations, his role will only get more important.

We want to be able to offer our customers the greatest possible assurance, and allow them to meet the demands of any property – and that’s why it’s our aim to become the UK’s most accredited fabricator.” www.dempseydyer.co.uk

PEOPLE In keeping with development plans for both people and infrastructure, Wakefield based fabricator Conservatory Outlet has appointed a new Head of IT to drive forward the technological systems at the 60,000 sq ft site in Thornes Lane Wharf.

Conservatory Outlet

Appoints New Head of IT the implementation of services to benefit the ordering, manufacturing and delivery processes.

James Turner came into post on 13/03/17, taking on this significant role for the company, tasked with leading, managing and continuously developing all Information and Telephony Technology activities of the business.

With a strong background in IS&T Management, James is equipped with insight and experience in core business development, providing effective and prioritised solutions, accompanied by an excellent track-record for successfully delivery change.

James will work closely with decision makers in all departments at Conservatory Outlet to identify, recommend, develop, implement, and support technology solutions for all aspects of the organisation.

Conservatory Outlet currently serves 24 retail partners across a UK- wide network, manufacturing some of the most innovative, high quality windows, doors, and outdoor living spaces on the market. James’ role will enhance the customer journey for each of the partners, providing strong leadership and direction to ensure

James said “I’m really pleased to have the opportunity to take on this exciting new role. There is a lot to look forward to, however, due to the nature of technology, there will inevitably be challenging times ahead. I believe that I have the skills and knowledge required to deliver this role successfully, bringing notable results in the IT systems and infrastructure which is sure to benefit both customers and employees alike.”

Conservatory Outlet Managing Director Greg Kane said “We were looking for someone with a high calibre of knowledge and experience to motivate and drive this aspect of our business forward, and James certainly fits the bill.

New CI Manager Maintains Hurst’s OTIF Record in this newly created role with the goal of improving the company’s production processes to ensure greater product consistency whilst maintaining a robust supply chain. His appointment is instrumental in driving even greater efficiency and increasing capacity as Hurst continues its pattern of growth.

Despite post-Brexit challenges, Hurst Plastics is well on course to maintain its ‘on-time in-full’ record with the appointment of a new Continuous Improvement Manager.

Mark Fearn joins Hurst Plastics

Kevin Wheatman, Hurst Plastics’ Director and General Manager, explains: “Post-Brexit currency fluctuations and a feeling of uncertainty around Article 50 has had an impact on supply within our industry and this has meant that some of our competitors have let their customers down.

It’s therefore vital for us to continually improve our production processes and increase our

capacity to sustain our year on year growth and maintain our OTIF record of above 98.5%.

“We’re delighted to welcome Mark to the business at such an exciting time when we are investing for the future. Mark is a highly experienced lean manager and he has been steadily analysing our processes. He has already helped the business to reduce waste, improve efficiency and achieve even greater capacity. Product consistency is fundamental and we are really proud to be sustaining our high standards and boosting output without having to increase the headcount in our factories.” www.hurst-plastics.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 31

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

FIT Show’s

Gala Dinner Is Getting Closer And You Don’t Want To Miss Out! This year the FIT Show 2017 will be pulling out all the stops…and champagne corks, as we invite guests to step into the alleyways of deepest, darkest Paris for a Burlesque-themed Gala Dinner.

The event is only weeks away and you simply won’t want to miss out – but you’d better move fast, as tickets are flying out the door faster than you can say ‘Toulouse Lautrec’.

Taking place at The NEC, Birmingham on the evening of Wednesday 24th May, the black tie event is set to be a sell out, despite increasing the capacity and being bigger then ever before, hosting more than 1000 guests.

Featuring lavish drapes, intimate lighting and raunchy entertain32 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

ment, guests can expect stunning showgirls, can-can dancers, mime artists, contortionists and living statues from the Burlesque Show.

Hosted by Nick Knowles, TV presenter and star of SOS DIY: The Big Build, the evening will see guests enjoying a champagne reception, followed by a delicious three-course meal with wine.

Knowles has many strings to his bow. Exclusively contracted to BBC1 as a presenter and writer for the last 10 years, he has hosted prime time Saturday night quiz shows such as Break the Safe, Secret Fortune and Who Dares Wins. Not only that, he is also a successful screenplay writer, having penned the Royal Television Society awarded Historionics.

And after the newly introduced FIT Show Awards and the presentation of £10,000 worth of prize money to the winners of the Master Fitter Challenge, guests can party into the early hours with some fun features and dancing.

Nickie West, Event Director for The FIT Show, says: “After last year’s roaring success with the Great Gatsby themed night, this year we are transporting Gala Dinner guests to another night of excitement and entertainment.

“We’re delighted Nick Knowles will be overseeing the proceedings and we’re sure everyone will be wowed by what’s in store, from the moment they arrive until the lights go up at the end of the evening. We look forward to see you there!”

For more information or to book a table at the Gala Dinner please contact Nickie@fitshow.co.uk.

Taking place 23-25th May 2017, to book a stand at FIT Show 2017 please contact Freya Humphries on: 07572 623457, or email: freya@fitshow.co.uk. To register as a visitor for FIT Show 2017 visit: www.livebuzzreg.co.uk/2017/fit17

THE

BIGGEST PRODUCTS

FIT SHOW 2017 the BIGGEST event for the window, door and conservatory industry.

Make FIT Show 2017 your three biggest business days of the year - join us as we showcase and celebrate the best the industry has to offer.

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY N E C B I R MI N GHAM | 2 3 - 2 5 MAY 2 01 7 Registration Queries: Register online:

FITSHOW.CO.UK

THINK BIG

0843 178 1931 fit17@livebuzz.co.uk

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Discover aïr At FIT

Show

The aïr Lounge at FIT Show is the destination for forward-thinking home improvement companies looking for new opportunities in aluminium bi-folding and sliding doors.

FIT Show 2017

Brand Ambassador Jay Patel explains: “The vibrant aïr brand will be reflected in the lounge at FIT Show. We’re inviting innovative companies to join us to experience aïr, the most impressive range of bi-fold and lift & slide doors. aïr offers more for discerning homeowners, so it gives installation This year’s FIT Show is proving to companies fantastic potential to be a massive hit with new exgrow their business. hibiting companies, who see the opportunities that they confidently “To celebrate FIT Show’s Big expect will come from being presTuesday, we’re holding an aïr ent at one of the best trade shows Lounge soiree. It’ll be a chance for our guests to really get to grips in the business. with the captivating aïr brand and The show, which takes place at Everglade Window’s legendary Birmingham’s NEC from 23rd to hospitality, too. There will be a professional mixologist, serving up 25th May, has attracted no fewer than 99 new exhibiting companies, the personalised aïr cocktail that illustrating the huge interest it can premiered at the aïr Private View generate within the industry. launch in 2013.”

Reveals Nearly 100 Brand New Exhibitors!

aïr – exclusively manufactured

by Everglade Windows, offers some of the slimmest sightlines on the market, with sophisticated engineering for a smooth opening every time. aïr bi-fold and lift & slide doors are available with stunning, individual design options to offer boundless opportunities for homeowners – all backed by a 25-year guarantee.

FIT Show visitors can find aïr on Stand S8 in Hall 8. www.discoverair.co.uk 34 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

FIT Show organisers are delighted that so many new companies have signed up to show off their products and services. Companies exhibiting for the first time include Gwent-based AluK, for whom – as the name suggests – aluminium lies at the heart of everything it does.

Door companies Longden Doors and Mexin Doors have both booked their spot for 2017, so too has the newly formed price comparison site for window prices for homeowners, Comparemy-

windows.com, as has sealants company European Chemical Industries.

The decision to move the show to the NEC has clearly proved popular with the industry, with its larger exhibition space and the added bonus of great facilities nearby, including bars, hotels, restaurants and health clubs.

The venue move, together with the thumbs-up from the industry, shows how the FIT Show is going from strength to strength.

And while remaining space is at a premium, there is still time to book a spot in which to showcase your product or service. But hurry, with all these new exhibitors coming on board, you’ll have to be quick!

Taking place 23-25th May 2017, to book a stand at FIT Show 2017 please contact Freya Humphries on: 07572 623457, or email: freya@fitshow.co.uk. To register as a visitor for FIT Show 2017 visit: www.livebuzzreg.co.uk/2017/fit17

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Exhibitors Go Large For Big Tuesday

will be celebrating 40th anniversaries in style.

James Lee, Director of Marketing and Communications at the GGF, said: “Our stand for this year will include a special ‘Life Begins at 40’ members lounge.

The FIT Show is a perfect opportunity to celebrate our 40th anniversary with the industry, and we are looking forward to welcoming both members and non-members for a few drinks and some fun entertainment!”

The likes of Ultraframe and the Synseal Group will also be inviting guests onto their stands on the evening of Big Tuesday, while others such as RegaLead, The Georgian Bar Company and KAT UK, will all be enjoying a blast from the past with 1980s themed parties.

The forthcoming 2017 FIT Show at Birmingham’s NEC has been billed as the biggest and best yet, and thanks to the late opening hours on the first day of the exhibition, the show’s organisers have revealed that exhibitors have been busy making plans to ensure that the evening of ‘BIG Tuesday’ really will be one to remember.

The glass and glazing industry has always been known for its social scene, but with ‘BIG Tuesday’ allowing for an extension of opening hours to 8pm, visitors to this year’s show will be able to mix business with pleasure thanks to everything from champagne receptions to ‘80s themed discos, a host of anniversary celebrations and even a pub quiz and ballet dancing performance, once the exhibition begins to unwind after 5pm.

For those looking to relax after

what is likely to be a very busy first day, companies such as Victorian Sliders, VEKA and The Camden Group will be offering visitors to their stands the chance to let their hair down with drinks and nibbles, with Swisspacer UK laying on a champagne reception; Iceni Windows serving pizza, Prosecco and beer; ECI offering an assortment of Irish whiskey and Yale Door and Window Solutions a selection of bespoke cocktails from a gin bar.

A number of companies will also be taking full advantage of the after hours atmosphere to celebrate a variety of important anniversaries. For example, Stevenswood will be hosting a party to mark its 20th year in business, Selecta Systems will be welcoming all-comers to its 35th birthday with an ‘80s and ‘90s disco and Advance70 Ice Bar, while both Roseview and the Glass & Glazing Federation

There will also be a competitive element to the proceedings, with The Window Company Contracts (UK) announcing the winner of a Makita on-site battery powered radio and AluK challenging visitors and exhibitors alike to take on its team of ‘AluK Experts’ in the Big FIT Show Quiz. Sika will also be offering prizes for ‘gunning out’ the straightest line with one of its specialist adhesive dispensers, although visitors might be advised to attempt this before venturing onto the drinks parties elsewhere in the show!

Last but not least, OnLevel will literally be taking it to another level with performances from Dutch ballet dancer, Nathalie Hombergh, and close up magician, Robert Ellams.

Taking place 23-25th May 2017, to book a stand at FIT Show 2017 please contact Freya Humphries on: 07572 623457, or email: freya@fitshow.co.uk.

To register as a visitor for FIT Show 2017 visit: www.livebuzzreg.co.uk/2017/fit17 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 35

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Going To FIT Show 2017? Why Don’t You ‘NEC’ you’re hungry? If you need a quick bite What Else Is On Offer? Oror amaybe leisurely meal, the NEC has it all, from the High So, you’ve had a hard – but very productive – day at FIT Show 2017, and naturally you want to unwind.

Well, with the glass and glazing industry show being held at the NEC in Birmingham, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding what to do at the end of each day.

And the genius part? It’s all on the doorstep of the exhibition halls.

First off, there are hotels on site to suit every budget, including the Hilton, the Crowne Plaza and the luxurious 4-star Genting, all an easy walk from the exhibition centre.

Perhaps you’ll be wanting a drink after your long day, and at the NEC there are bars aplenty, including the Bottega Prosecco Bar, the Sky Bar, and the World Bar.

Line New York Bar and Lounge, to Andy Waters’ Brasserie and TGI Fridays, plus many more High Street eateries, such as Nandos and Starbucks.

If you really want to relax after a long day on the exhibition floor, or indeed if you need prepare for one, why not check into the Santai Medispa, complete with its own 15-metre long pool, sauna, fitness suite and state-of-the-art treatment rooms.

Or how about checking out a movie at one of Cineworld’s 11 screens, showing the latest releases in 2D, 3D and even IMAX? And if you fancy a flutter, you could always pop into the Genting Casino, offering roulette, blackjack and poker, as well as VIP rooms and even ‘learn-to-play’ sessions for the uninitiated.

Whatever you are looking for, you’ll find it at Birmingham’s NEC, home to FIT Show 2017.

Claim £100 Off Your First Composite Wood

Order At FIT Show

Visitors to the Composite Wood Company stand D22, in Hall 6 at FIT Show can pick up a voucher for £100 off their first Composite Wood order redeemable against decking, fencing and garden rooms.

Composite Wood gives installers the opportunity to complete decking, fencing and garden room installations whilst they are already on site fitting windows, doors and conservatories.

Composite Wood Company is exhibiting its new generation of garden rooms and its decking and fencing at FIT show. On its stand, Composite Wood will have its new generation garden room on display.

36 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

The new garden room features unique click connectors for easy assembly and a new highly insulated, high strength roof design.

There’s a choice of four colours, Antique Ash, Saltlake Silver, Wild Brown and Ancient Black. The rooms can be designed in a wide range of layouts and sizes too.

“At FIT Show, visitors to our stand will be able to see our fantastic new garden room and our range of fencing and decking. They will be able to see why it can add real value to their range and help them not to leave their profit in the garden,” says Tony Pratt, Sales Director, Composite Wood Company.

“Composite Wood gives installers the opportunity to provide low-maintenance, long-lasting, decking, fencing and garden rooms to their customers. Once homeowners have sorted improvements to their house, the garden is next on the list. Installers are already on site, so Composite Wood helps them to win more business and maximise their profit.

“We are building a network of showrooms around the UK and we’re looking forward to speaking to installers at the show who are looking to grow their businesses.” compositewoodcompany.co.uk

ALUMINIUM ROOF LANTERN

25%

5 FROM

DISCOUNT*

FASTER

Working Days Lead Time

STRONGER

WARMER

SLIMMER

THE QUICKEST OPTIMISED TO AND SIMPLEST ALLOW MINIMAL LANTERN TO STRUCTURE INSTALL AVAILABLE WITH LESS RAFTERS

CLASS LEADING THERMAL PERFORMANCE

AESTHETICALLY STUNNING

The Korniche is outstanding.No other system we’ve used has fit together as well as the Korniche does. We’re very impressed.

“

“

MORE AND MORE FITTERS ARE CHOOSING KORNICHE...

REQUEST A DEMONSTRATION OR BROCHURE TODAY

STAN D

Tel: 01642 610799 Fax: 01642 615854

* Discount limited to first order for a single roof, offer excludes glass.

www.korniche.co.uk

L60

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

FIT Show Seminar Schedule Released

The FIT Show has revealed its most comprehensive seminar programme yet for this year’s exhibition at Birmingham’s NEC, with a host of industry experts covering a full spectrum of key topics for the window, door and conservatory industry. With 19 sessions scheduled over three days, the seminars are designed to provide delegates with guidance on everything from market conditions, regulations and finance, to the latest sales, business and installation advice – and more besides.

Widely regarded as one of the industry’s most successful window salesmen and business development consultants, Paul Clifton will be hosting a series of ’20-minute Expert’ sessions on each day of the show. With advice on how to double profits in three simple moves, as well as a ‘magic formula’ to overcome any customer objection – plus the ‘seven golden rules for low pressure selling’ – Paul’s presentations are a must for anyone looking to optimise their business and sales strategies.

In addition to contributions from ‘sales guru’ Paul Clifton, day one of the seminar programme will include Paul Neck, from Business Doctors South West, who will offer friendly and practical advice for business owners on how to increase the value of their company, and the GGF’s Director of Home Improvement, Brian Smith, who will discuss the most efficient methods of dealing with disputes with consumers. FIT Show Director and FIT Talk host, Paul Godwin, will host a ‘Lunch ‘n Learn’ session with Robert Palmer of Palmer Market Research, while the afternoon sessions will start with a ‘Tool Tech Showcase’ from Tibby Singh. Promising to be a real highlight of the seminars, Tibby, who is a BBC Carpenter of the Year and multi-award winning carpentry and joinery expert, will demonstrate the 38 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

latest tech for window installers, before handing over to social media expert, David Glenwright, who will present the best ways to promote your business through platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Day two will feature invaluable business advice from a number of prominent industry speakers, such as Andy Mee from Business Doctors Oxfordshire with a seminar entitled ‘Running your business? Or is it running you?’ which will cover topics such as funding solutions and how to improve on efficiency without compromising quality – as well as guidance on glazing in conservation areas from Russell Day, Technical Officer at the GGF. After another ‘Lunch ‘n Learn’ with Paul Godwin and more demonstrations from Tibby Singh, Tabitha Morton, Head of Integration at Yale, will offer insight into how fabricators and installers can benefit from increasing consumer demand for smart door and window security.

In addition, Geoff Cooney, Business Finance Manager at Genie Lending Limited, will offer an overview of the increasing range of non-bank funding solutions available to SMEs, followed by Grahame Wackett and David Lilley of the BSI, who will host a session called ‘Building a Resilient Business’.

Paul Clifton will once again present two more of his ’20 minute expert’ session on day three, followed by the GGF’s Health & Safety Expert, Phil Pinnington – who will highlight how some company directors are being fined, and even imprisoned, for negligence on H&S – and another ‘Lunch ‘n Learn’ with Paul Godwin, who will be joined by Peter Searle, of Business Doctors Maidstone.

All seminars, which take place on stand B70, are free to attend to FIT Show visitors. For more details on the full programme, visit: www.fitshow.co.uk/ seminars

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Why It Makes Sense To

Visit FIT SHOW 2017

It’s an inescapable fact that we’re living in an age of superfast communications, where emails, video conferencing and Facetime are a part of everyday working life. And there’s no doubt that along with things like product videos, such tools – for that is what they are – help many businesses achieve some of their goals.

But while things like Skype and meetings conducted via a superfast broadband network with real-time video links have their uses, there are some things that these elements can’t bring about, namely, the personal impact of standing in front of a product and learning, firsthand, what it can do.

That is the genius of a trade event like FIT Show 2017. It is easy to forget that a little actual face-toface time – not just Facetime – can work wonders turning potential customers into long-term loyal clients and can give your company a competitive edge.

Attend a trade show, either as an exhibitor or as a visitor, and you are guaranteed to find the people who will match your aspirations.

It’s contact ‘heaven’. You’ll either be an exhibitor looking to sell a product or a service to willing buyers, or you’ll be a visitor, looking for that special item or service fulfillment that will make your job more productive – and hopefully more profitable.

FIT Show 2017, being held for the first time at the NEC in Birmingham this May, brings together both exhibiting companies – over 200 – from the glass and glazing industry and thousands of visitors from the sector. Being able to see and in many cases touch the product that you want for your operation, and be able to discuss it in detail with the experts, is an experience you won’t want to pass up.

Another advantage of the trade show formula is that everything is under one roof. As an exhibitor, the world comes to you. Plus you get to see what your competitors from across the UK and beyond are doing. You can see at firsthand how the sector is developing. It’ll give you lots of ideas on how to perfect your own product – or give you the satisfaction that

you have the best product on the market!

And as a visitor, being able to go around the exhibition halls and witness – again, at firsthand – an industry-wide array of products and services is an incredibly cost-effect way of spending your time.

And as well as hundreds of exhibiting companies, there’s more – much more – to the FIT Show 2017. As well as product demonstrations, visitors can hear from the best in the business by attending free-to-attend seminars across the three days of the event. These are always a big hit with delegates and cover a range of must-know guidance on regulations, finance and market conditions, plus business know-how, sales tips and installation advice, all presented by the show’s carefully chosen experts.

Finally, event organisers fully appreciate that people’s time is precious, and so creating value at a trade show is an absolute ‘must’. That’s why FIT Show’s BIG Tuesday will take place on Tuesday 23rd May and will see show opening hours extended to 8pm. Offering a relaxed ‘after hours’ atmosphere – a time when some will argue the best deals are done – some exhibitors are already planning to include drinks and music on their stand in order to create a party atmosphere and take advantage of the extra hours.

If you want to find out about the latest product developments in glass and glazing, you can’t afford to miss FIT Show 2017.

If you’re visiting the FIT Show why not take advantage of the free daily seminars? For more information visit: www.fitshow. co.uk/seminars and for the aluminium-focused seminars delivered by experts in aluminium, AluK visit: www.fitshow.co.uk/ aluk-seminar.

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 39

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Find Out How

You Could Cut 30-40% From Your Gasket Costs At FIT

ing aluminium systems, including ALUK, it uses a specially extruded semi-rigid PVC foot, to deliver an enhanced fit and better weather sealing, also significantly reducing the risk of call backs.

Extrudaseal has also recently announced the launch of AeroSeal, its pioneering new through-colour aluminium bi-fold door foam gasket.

Ideally suited to dynamic applications, high performance foam, provides greater ‘memory’ than traditional gasket systems. This is combined with a co-extruded rigid foot, which prevents the foam from being stretched during installation. This is simplified further through either click-and-fit or slide-in options.

With price increases continuing to put pressure on manufacturers, specialist extruder Extrudaseal will explain how fabricators could cut gasket costs by 30-40%, at this year’s FIT Show.

Attending the event for the second-time in two-years, the specialist manufacturer and supplier, claims that fabricators could save tens of thousands of pounds each year, simply by buying in gaskets directly, rather than from their systems company.

Manufacturing gaskets for a wealth of systems, including amongst others Smart, ALUK, Metaltech, Senior and Ikon, amongst others, Extrudaseal manufactured more than 20,000km of aluminum door gaskets in the last year.

With industry forecasts suggesting major growth in aluminium reaching a 17-year high by 2020 of 220,000 frames (Palmer Market Research), including aluminium bi-folds, forecast at around 50% to 35,000 door sets, Paul James, Sales Director, Extrudaseal, said that fabricator savings could accelerate still further.

40 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

He said: “We have customers who save everything between thousands of pounds each year to tens of thousands as high volume manufacturers, simply by buying in gasket directly from us as specialist extruder, rather than their systems company.

“Looking forward at a time when fabricators are facing increased cost pressures but positively, the market for aluminium bi-fold and sliding patio doors is forecast for continuing growth, the potential to save and the case for doing so becomes even greater.”

Extrudaseal became a standalone business from parent and now sister company, Euroseal in 2012, giving new and dedicated focus to the then Euroseal flexible extrusion business.

As well as offering reduced costs, the company has pioneered a number of highly innovative solutions to deliver installation efficiencies and enhanced through-life performance.

This includes its new aluminium bi-fold door threshold gasket.

Compatible with a number of lead-

Extrudaseal’s range is also available in more than 1000 RAL colours, launching its new high gloss Piano Black finish at this years show alongside RAL 9007 metallic silver gasket, which has been designed to provide a match to contemporary silver powder coated installations.

“Colour gasket delivers an enhanced aesthetic by almost blending away into the frame”, continued Paul. “Selling into the end-user that’s a real point of differentiation and for fabricators, an opportunity to add significant value to their offer for only a very small additional spend.

“This has really informed our strategy. We deliver cost savings but as a specialist we recognise that innovation is key to our growth.”

Extrudaseal will be showcasing its industry-leading range of gaskets and ancillaries at the FIT Show, Stand M55 23-25 May 2017.

For more information how ExtrudaSeal could cut thousands from your fabrication or installation costs call 0121 356 8733 email info@extrudaseal.co.uk or visit www.extrudaseal.com

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Optima

Opens

Doors At

The FIT Show.

Stand B34.

Following the spectacular success of the launch of Profile 22’s ground-breaking Optima system the company sets up shop at this years FIT Show with some exciting new developments that keep the buzz going, further enhancing Optima as one of the UK’s most comprehensive new window and door systems.

Profile 22 has recognized the increasing trend towards high specification composite doors and will be showcasing a range of timber core composite doors from sister company, Safedoors, that have been developed to blend in and work perfectly with the full Optima suite. Available in a wide range of unique styles and colour options, these doors will be available to buy as door leafs or fully finished doorsets.

Optima window development continues with the introduction of a fully mechanically jointed version of the Flush Casement, a product that drew immediate praise when it was introduced as part of the Optima launch. Now offering an even more authentic appearance this option is expected to become more popular than ever.

For the house building sector a range of 2-part cills will be available that allow cills to be retrofitted upon completion of the building, thus saving costly replacement of components damaged during construction.

The product improvements supplement the main talking point for Profile 22 at the FIT Show, the introduction of the Profile 22 Excellence as Standard Installer Support Scheme. The scheme is one of the most comprehensive ever devised and is intended to measurably improve the performance and earning power of every member.

With the core aim of enhancing loyalty and trust between installers and their homeowner customers, Excellence as Standard sets out to provide clear, recognisable and measurable standards for service and product quality. Unique branding will set members apart as companies prepared to go the extra mile for their customers. www.profile22.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 41

BI-FOLD

BY ALUMEN The Bi-fold by Alumen sets the benchmark for high quality aluminium folding doors at an industry beating price.

• Slimline 120mm sight line

• Max sash width = 1200mm

• Generous size limitations

• Max sash height = 3000mm

• Flush and standard threshold options • Outstanding thermal performance • Optional adjustable jambs for ease of fitting

• Available in a range of popular colours • Choice of hardware • After sales support • Supply only or with installation service

• Ultra smooth running

OM PRICES FR +VAT PER LEAF

£360

HIGH QUALI T Y DOORS, COMP ET I T IVELY PRICED!

www.alumen.co.uk

Tel: 01536 737377

Fax: 01536 410800 Email: info@alumen.co.uk Unit 13 Henson Way, Telford Way Industrial Estate, Kettering, Northants NN16 8PX

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Dekko’s Windows

To Wow Show-Goers At FIT Award-winning Dekko Window Systems are adding stylish aluminium windows to their much-celebrated Räum Collection.

Launched to great acclaim in 2015, Dekko’s Räum range originally consisted of sleek, high-performing aluminium doors, inspired by the outstanding quality and design of German manufacturing.

Seeing increasing demand for high-end home improvement products from increasingly discerning end users, Dekko has now responded by adding window products that it hopes will help installers capitalise on that trend.

Dekko Sales Director Kurt Greatrex commented: “The original Räum doors proved so successful it was inevitable that we would add windows to the range at some stage. We’ve based them on the Reynaers profile – renowned for its strength, style and fantastic energy efficiency. Now, our trade customers can offer homeowners a complete package of high-end aluminium.”

42 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

The new Räum windows will be among the array of best-in-class products Dekko will be bringing to Birmingham in May, when it makes its FIT Show debut. Numerous examples of the fabricator’s cutting-edge Infinity uPVC corner-welding process will also be on display. Faithfully replicating traditional timber with all the benefits of state-of-the-art uPVC, Infinity combines A+ rated energy efficiency and British Standard PAS24-accredited security with one of the smoothest corner welds on the market.

“The FIT Show offers us the perfect platform to introduce Räum windows to the industry,” Kurt continues. “We all know it’s getting harder for installers to stand out in an increasingly competitive market, and a full suite of stylish, robust, thermally excellent aluminum window and door products offer them a fantastic way to do that. We look forward to sharing more about them at the FIT Show in May – but if you’ve got any questions in the meantime, don’t hesitate to get in touch!”

For more information vist www.dekkowindows.com

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Growing Glazerite Rolls Out Biggest

-Ever FIT Show Line-Up

More systems …more brands … more speciality products …The Glazerite UK Group Ltd is gearing up to match the biggest-ever FIT Show with the biggest-ever range of products and services from some of the best in the industry.

Glazerite are managing just that again this year with the launch of their new Flood door. The highspec Flood Door, incorporating the Palladio slab will be on display as Glazerite look to sign up suitable companies to take on exclusive regional partnerships.

Working with some of the industries best including VEKA, Halo, Solidor, Palladio, Residence, Warmcore and Ultion gives the company a compelling portfolio, making it a must-see for every installer visiting the show, at the NEC in May. Director Jason Thompson says

they can’t wait to show the industry everything the group now has to offer: “We’ve just opened our new specials factory enabling us to differentiate the manufacturing processes for the premium brands in our portfolio.

Manufacturing 7 profile systems across our product range gives our installers all the flexibility they need when quoting for jobs.

Coupled with some of the industry’s leading quality and guarantee organisations – like Network VEKA, Planitherm Installer Network, Maco Secure +, VEKA / Halo approved installer, ERA Five-Star Guarantee and the

Ultion £1,000 Break-in Guarantee – Glazerite can provide the right support package for every company regardless of size.

“Glazerite installers are often the first to have access to new or enhanced products. The new Flood Door is a great opportunity for retailers to target the many high-risk areas and the regional exclusivity means they will be uniquely placed to market this great product.”

At the core of the stand this year will be the marketing hub and Glazerite are inviting existing and potential partners to make an appointment for an individual marketing review. With an in-house marketing team, the fabricator are perfectly set up to offer their customers the advice and support they need to grow their business. Glazerite are the people to talk to on stand E15 if you’re looking to get a lot more out of your fabricator. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk

Phoenix Doors Presents New Door

Developments At The FIT Show Phoenix Doors will unveil a number of new developments on stand C58 at the FIT Show that will include new composite door styles, contemporary glazing designs and a new multi-point entry lock.

expanded County Collection composite door and Meridian 70mm double-rebated composite door ranges and how they can offer yet more customer choice, including bespoke colours.

Sharing the stand with parent company MASCO UK Window Group, the PVC door panel and GRP composite door manufacturer will unveil its latest initiatives following significant investment in larger premises, plant and personnel aimed at delivering customer service improvements all round.

Haydon Statham, Phoenix Doors’ Sales Director comments: “Now that all our production capability is under one roof, we have more space and much greater flexibility to respond to customer requirements, such as two new paint spraying facilities to meet continuing high demand for coloured doors.

Visitors to the stand will be able to see and learn more about the

www.phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk.

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 43

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

RegaLead Back At FIT

With New Products For Emerging Markets We are often credited with providing the huge colour palettes and decorative glazing that helped move composite doors from social housing only, into a desirable retail option. 2017 sees us aiming to replicate this, by making two of the industry’s most exciting current markets – colour and aluminium residential doors -even more accessible to fabricators and installers.

Renowned for offering value added solutions to the glass and door industries, RegaLead is back at FIT this year with a host of exciting new products and services. As a reflection of the changing trends in home improvements, the company will be focusing on new product ranges that are helping customers make money from two of the most exciting on-trend markets: colour and aluminium.

Joint MD Guy Hubble comments: “FIT for RegaLead this year will be all about differentiation and keeping ahead of the changing tastes in home improvements.

“Visitors to our stand will see URBAN: the new aluminium door system that brings a composite door mindset to the traditionally expensive aluminium residential door market. If it’s colour you’re interested in, we’ll be showcasing two different products. Firstly, ColorLine, the pre-painted profile service, supplied in a three-part kit form to match any DOORCO or Distinction shade within 5 days, and RAL and other paint colours in 7 days. And finally, we’re delighted to extend even further our ColorSpray offering, RegaLead’s paint manufacturing division for the glass and fenestration markets. Already the world’s leading specialist glass coating provider and used by over 350 companies across the globe, we have invested in new paint formulations, dispensing and drying solutions. www.regalead.co.uk

Improved Products And Support Package: From Swish Swish Windows and Doors is that rare thing in the UK window and door industry: a brand that is widely recognised by homeowners. And whilst the power of consumer branding is a major factor in the popularity of Swish amongst fabricators and installers, continuous development of products and support services are also driving sales.

In fact Swish is undergoing one of the most comprehensive updates in the brand’s history with new products, new colours and greater choice all round. The new back edge detail broadens the appeal of Swish in addition to fabricators 44 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

now able to dip into a hugely extended options list, the result of integration with sister products from the Epwin stable. This includes a range of ancillaries that increases sales opportunities and boosts competition by allowing greater choice by homeowners.

And now there’s special atten-

tion for Swish installers with the introduction of the Excellence as Standard installer support scheme.

With the core aim of enhancing loyalty and trust between installers and their homeowner customers, Excellence as Standard sets out to provide clear, recognisable and measurable standards for service and product quality. The ultimate goal of the scheme is to measurably improve the performance and earning power of every member.

Swish returns to the FIT Show to provide the perfect opportunity to meet existing and potential Swish dealers and talk about the future face-to-face. Head for stand B34, adjacent to the Master Fitter Challenge Pavilion. www.swishwindows.co.uk

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Patiomaster To Launch New Innovations

At The FIT Show

PatioMaster’s appeal as the go-to patio door brand is just about to get even bigger as it gets set to launch new product innovations at this year’s FIT Show. Carmen Velilla, PatioMaster’s Brand Manager, comments: “At this year’s FIT Show we will be highlighting how we intend to make PatioMaster stand out even further with some great innovations including a new Triple Track system that will open up all sorts of possibilities and Palette, our improved and enhanced colour range. We will also be promoting our increased number of stock items that will speed

up order turnaround times.”

Sales of patio doors are continuing to grow, even against other types of sliding doors, so it makes sense to have a strong product in your portfolio to meet demand and PatioMaster more than fits the bill not least because it has got excellent brand recognition with thousands of fabricators, installers and homeowners thanks to a compelling package of benefits.

Every PatioMaster door is unique, precision made to exacting stand-

ards by regional fabricators in the UK and Ireland, and is usually delivered within just five working days.

When you become a PatioMaster installer, you give your customers the best of all worlds: the personal commitment and passion of a committed local business, the backing and recognition of a national brand and the satisfaction of supporting a privately owned, local firm. You also get the technical support and marketing back up of one of the sector’s biggest names.

So to find out more about what makes PatioMaster stand out and why becoming part of the PatioMaster family could make good sense for your business, visit stand B34 at the FIT Show, which is running 23 – 25 May at the NEC in Birmingham. www.patiomaster.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 45

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

KÖMMERLING To Make A New

Product Packed, FIT Debut KÖMMERLING will bring a number of new developments to stand number F30 in hall 6 at the FIT Show, that will include products from the new 76mm platform, proCoverTec surface technology, an innovative Pergola for outdoor living and the global debut of the first ever soft close technology in a PVCu glazing system.

The stand will be packed with innovation from KÖMMERLING and the new 76mm platform will be represented with a 6m x 2.5m, lift and slide PremiDoor 76 in the two sash format. The door theme continues with a French door combination, again in the System 76 variant with proCoverTec, which also features a clever tilt option for ventilation.

One of the other main door systems on show will be a4-pane, Secured by Design 5m x 2.5m PremiLine Pro patio door, highlighting the patented multi-point locking system at the interlock.

This is believed to be the first PVCu patio door in the indus46 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

try to achieve PAS 24, without plunge bolts, carry Secured by Design and that can meet the needs of the Lifetime Homes criteria.

Window systems are also well represented on the stand with a System 76 AluClip Pro variant, creating a PVCu/aluminium hybrid design, which offers a flush aluminium external appearance, with options for Passivhaus levels of performance. Also on show will be the window derivative of the PremiFold system, which is a unique slide, swing and folding system.

The FIT Show will also be the platform for the launch of proCoverTec, a unique surface finish technology that offers full colour through the rebate, or alternatively coloured on one side, that also offers proven dirt and water repellent properties.

The new Pergola will be used as a canopy for a hospitality area and represents the first product launched from a new division

within the profine Group. The Pergola is a product purely aimed at the outdoor living market, which is projected to emerge as a strong growth market in the years to come.

Kevin Warner, head of sales and marketing commented: ‘It’s our first FIT Show and we’re genuinely thrilled with the number of new products on show, as we continue to lead in terms of innovation in the UK market for PVCu window and doors systems.

There will also be the chance to experience the first ever soft close technology for PVCu systems seen globally, which should cause quite a stir with stand visitors.’

For KÖMMERLING information on becoming a manufacturing partner, approved installer or as a building specifier, call 01543 444900, e-mail enquiries@ profine-group.com or visit www. kommerling.co.uk. You can also follow them on Twitter @kommerling_uk. Please visit stand F30 in hall 6 at the FIT Show.

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Master Fitter Challenge

Winner 2016 Is An Inspiration To Other Installers

After an impressive win at last year’s Master Fitter Challenge – the intense two-day installer competition managed by GQA Qualifications Limited and hosted at the FIT Show, winner Craig Hanson tells why he encourages others to take up the challenge pitting their skills against each other to help highlight the professionalism of installers.

“I didn’t enter myself for the 2016 Master Fitter Challenge,” Craig advised: “so, it was a total surprise when I received a telephone call from the GQA assessor conducting the initial interview stage.” A member of staff at the company Craig worked for had completed the application online on his

behalf. Craig continues: “At the time, it did come as a little bit of a shock because I would never have thought myself good enough to enter.

“After the initial interview, a GQA qualified assessor came out to site to review my working methods – this was quite nervy! By now, I was getting used to the idea of being in the competition and really wanted to get through to the final stage – a full two days showcasing my skills at FIT Show 2016.

“Telford International Centre was a great venue for the competition and the MFC event was held in an area very close to the entrance of the exhibition, adding pressure to

all the entrants. We were the first thing visitors saw as they entered the show. There was no let-up either from the other entrants, with the calibre of skills being shown it made the challenge extremely tough.

“Since winning Master Fitter Challenge 2016, my life has changed.

I left the company I was working with and bought Pennine Windows, a small wholesale business providing frames manufactured from Linear profile to trade and domestic customers. The company was underperforming when I took it over, but is now looking good as it continues to grow. I still stay loyal to fitting windows – it’s where I feel more comfortable, allowing me to keep my hand in.

“Last year’s challenge, highlighted for me just how important it is to the future of our industry, that fitters/installer are qualified and competent, and I will continue to support initiatives which showcase good practice and eliminate cowboys!

“I do intend entering again this year and look forward to working with GQA Qualifications, who do a splendid job of managing the event, along with all the events sponsors. I also, look forward to competing with both new and previous entrants, urging anyone who may think they aren’t good enough to step up and prove just how good us guys really are!” .

Universal Brings MoCap Technology To The FIT Show Universal Arches will bring the first ever Motion Capture (MoCap) technology to the FIT Show, which will transform a hidden, live human performance into a pure, interactive and digital experience on stand C63 in Hall 6.

every visitor to the show given a lanyard with a unique key, there will be the opportunity to try and open the doorset to claim an Apple iPad.

The virtual characters of Archie and Sasha have full mobility and have all the expressions and features Archie and Sasha will be the two life like digital assis- that you would associate with an animated video tants on the Universal Arches stand, which will dazzle character in the movies, except this one interacts and talks back to the audience live on stage. It’s very visitors in terms of interactive technology and also much like bringing interactive technology to life, out product finish in a unique colourway, this year with a distinctly metallic theme. In addition, there will be a set of the latest Disney Pixar movies, as can be seen at www.activ8hologramevents.com/motion-capture. of arched Solidor composite French doors and with WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 47

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

FIT Show 2017 Delighted To Host The Glass & Glazing Federation’s

40th Anniversary Celebrations!

The FIT Show is very pleased to announce that the Glass & Glazing Federation will be using the 2017 show’s ‘BIG Tuesday’ to mark its 40th anniversary.

What’s ‘BIG Tuesday’, you ask?

Well, it’s where the show, taking place at the NEC in Birmingham between 23rd and 25th May, extends its opening hours to 8pm, offering a relaxed ‘after hours’ atmosphere – a time when some will argue the best deals are done.

Some exhibitors are already planning to include drinks and music on their stand in order to create a party atmosphere and take advantage of the extra hours, and the GGF has revealed it will be using the occasion exclusively to highlight its four decades of dedicated service to the sector.

Business Micros’ stand at the FIT Show will feature all of its most popular software packages – from Evolution to the EvoNet business management system, now offering direct to server logging of product deliveries, and a new high level stock management system complete with 38 page online manual.

The show will include a first look at a new cloud based version of its EvoWeb online ordering systems. Already used by a number of fabricators to allow their installers to order online, it has been revised and updated by Business Micros so that it will work off line for the first time as well.

Installers can now generate quotes from within the software which are separate from the online ordering function, and can use the software on their choice of tablet or mobile thanks to a smart new redesign.

48 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

for a few drinks and some fun entertainment!”

And as well as popping the champagne corks at ‘BIG Tuesday’ the GGF will also be presenting on three key topics at The FIT Show 2017.

Brian Smith, Director of Home Improvement, will be discussing resolving disputes; Technical Officer Russell Day will be speaking on glazing in conservation areas, and Phil Pinnington, Director of Health and Safety, will be covering accidents in the industry.

James Lee, Director of Marketing and Communications, said: “Our stand for this year will reflect our 40th anniversary year and will include a special ‘Life Begins at 40’ members lounge.

“The FIT Show is a perfect opportunity to celebrate our 40th anniversary with the industry, and we are looking forward to welcoming both members and non-members

The FIT Show promises to be yet another special event in the industry’s calendar. A showpiece of the industry’s finest companies and the GGF Group is delighted to be involved across many of the key features of this award-winning exhibition.

Anniversary celebrations and vital industry knowledge from the GGF: you simply can’t afford to miss FIT Show 2017!

Brand New Products And Old

Favourites From Business Micros

on its journey through a paperless factory.

The brand new Business Micros website will also be live during the show, emphasising the company’s status as a leading industry software provider.

The Business Micros stand will be set up to provide continuous software demos and there will be regular screenings of a new video produced to show exactly how the EvoNet business management software works – tracking a frame

Business Micros is sharing stand G30 with its sister company BM Aluminium where the focus is on its market leading LogiKal software system.

Further information is available at www.businessmicros.co.uk

FIT SHOW PREVIEW the essence of our pre-show campaign and is sure to release the ‘inner child’ in everyone!”

Customade To Help Installers To Fly At FIT Show Customade is promising excitement and nostalgia on its stand at the FIT Show (N20). Although the theme of the stand is still under wraps, the Customade team will be showing installers just how easy it is to propel their businesses forward with aluminium.

Visitors will discover more about Customade’s ‘REAL Aluminium’ innovation and how it can make the advance to aluminium as ‘easy as child’s play’.

Gareth Thomas, Customade’s

sales and marketing director, hints: “Aluminium is the material of choice for millions of homeowners now and we want to create a playful buzz about it at the FIT Show.

Our stand will be teaming with visitors who want to find out more about REAL Aluminium and how it takes the whole performance out of promoting, quoting, selling and ordering aluminium.

“I’m not able give away too much at this stage, but I’m very excited about the star attraction – our competition. It cleverly captures

REAL Aluminium was launched last year to help installers to grow their businesses and enhance profits with aluminium. Since then, hundreds of installers have made the fearless leap to aluminium with the help of REAL Aluminium. It has equipped them with everything they need to promote and sell the most extensive range of aluminium windows, doors and lantern roofs from one source.

REAL Aluminium is a solution to the perennial obstacles that installers face with aluminium, particularly complex pricing structures and lengthy lead times.

Designed to make sourcing aluminium as easy as buying PVC-u, REAL Aluminium has cut lead times on standard profile to just two weeks.

Customade exclusively manufactures the REAL range at its purpose built 72,000 square foot factory and holds more than 100 miles of aluminium extrusions in stock in four colours – white, grey (7016), black (9005) and dual grey on white. www.real-aluminium.co.uk.

Emmegi (UK) Back At FIT With Biggest Ever Stand Emmegi (UK) will have its biggest ever stand at this year’s ‘biggest ever’ FIT Show. With a prime location right at the entrance to Hall 7, the machinery specialist will leave visitors in no doubt that this is a show which is serious about aluminium.

The stand will feature all of Emmegi’s most popular machines from the soundproofed, high performance Comet T6HP four axis machining centre right through to the popular Itaca Solution crimper.

For fabricators in the market for a machining centre, there will be a whole range of options on display including both the space saving Nanomatic semi-automatic copy router and the entry level Phantomatic M3 (3 + 1 axis), which is ideal for fabricators looking to move into bi-fold doors.

And, because the stand is so much bigger this time around, Emmegi will also have space for a 6m Classic Star saw and twin head Precision TS2 cutting centre, and a selection of rout-

ers, end millers and assembly benches.

New and existing customers will be welcomed onto the Emmegi (UK) stand to talk to the expert team about making the right choice for their individual factory set ups, and they can enjoy a taste of Emmegi’s legendary Italian heritage at the same time.

Further details on all the products are available at www.emmegi.com WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 49

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

will be showcasing all 25 of its colour range including the new 100% black option. The brand new Midnight Black foil will be on show for the first time joining the other 24 solid and woodgrain laminate finishes currently offered. The introduction of this new black follows a surge in demand for shades of grey and black foils to replicate the look of aluminium windows.

It’s All In Hand On The

REHAU Stand!

REHAU will be at the 2017 FIT Show in Birmingham this May (Stand J30) to launch the company’s new ‘It’s all in Hand’ vision, showcasing what makes the PVC-U window manufacturer stand out from the crowd. Visitors to the stand will discover everything from a giant profile tunnel, to a virtual reality experience, enjoy exciting new on-trend colours and style information, and discover more on REHAU’s commitment to sustainability and to providing helpful new information, tools and support for customers.

The It’s all in Hand concept is part of REHAU’s new approach for 2017, focusing on the needs of the windows market and how the company’s strengths can support its customers in the sector.

As part of its approach is a new face to the marketing team – Emily Tippins, Head of Marketing UK. As a newcomer to the industry Emily is looking forward to her first FIT Show and launching a strategic approach marrying together the product strategy of the business with the marketing plan.

Visitors to the REHAU exhibition space will also find new products on stand as REHAU introduces its co-extruded TOTAL70 profiles, which tick the boxes for customers looking to demonstrate their environmental credentials. REHAU has a long history of sustainable manufacturing and has recently purchased a PVCR post-consumer recycling company in the Manchester area. This means that REHAU is now able to produce co-extruded products like the new additions in the TOTAL70 range, which further reduce waste and maximise resources.

A perfect companion to the TOTAL70 system, is the AGILA Door range, which was launched at the FIT Show 2016. The star of the range and taking pride of place at the stand will be the AGILA Sliding Door. This year REHAU will be showcasing how it is suitable for large single sashes as it has an impressive 4m wide by 2.4m high 2 pane door. REHAU have an ever growing network of fabricators currently manufacturing the door and with the introduction of a new consumer brochure it is expected the demand will continue to increase.

To show it is always on hand to support its customers, REHAU will also be providing information to FIT Show visitors on Energy Efficiency and 360 Performance online platforms. The energy efficiency website – www.rehauanswers.co.uk – enables customers to calculate the U value or WERs rating for any REHAU system, while the 360 Performance platform provides customisable marketing materials and downloadable literature, to make installers‘ lives a little easier.

“Visitors to our stand will be able to enjoy a virtual reality experience and a giant profile tunnel. These particular elements echo our intent as a business to stay at the forefront of development in the windows industry. And they should provide something new and different for everyone at the show.“

Gareth Jones, Marketing and Technical Director at REHAU said: “There is a lot for visitors to discover about REHAU at this year’s FIT Show. We have new products on stand, advice on the latest colour and finish trends alongside information on how we support both our customers and the environment. We have put a lot of work into listening to the needs of the market and our customers, and we wanted our approach at the show to mirror the new approach of the business. We look forward to sharing the ‘It’s all in Hand’ vision with existing and new customers alike at FIT Show and throughout 2017.”

Another of the highlights will be a showcase of colour trends for 2017. At this year’s FIT Show REHAU

Visit REHAU on Stand J30 at FIT Show at the NEC from 23-25 May 2017.

Emily said: “This year will be my first at the FIT Show and while I’m looking forward to experiencing the whole event, we have a really exciting stand this year highlighting REHAU’s innovative approach to the industry.

50 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

Primed And Ready To

Apeer At FIT Show

After the success of last year’s FIT Show Apeer are already gearing up for the next with grand plans to showcase fantastic new additions to the award winning Lumi range, alongside the latest offering from the ever-popular collection of Apeer composite doors.

‘The last show had such a positive impact that we were never in any doubt about returning again for 2017. Since the successful launch of Lumi we’ve continued looking at ways to further develop our products and expand the range in response to the feedback we received. It became clear that customers see Lumi as a great choice for new build applications but we really want to raise its profile as an equally suitable product for refurbishment projects. Apeer plan to drive that message forward at the upcoming show as well as unveiling our exciting new prod-

ucts,’ said Linda Tomb, Marketing Manager.

At the forefront of these developments are a striking new Lumi door as well as two fresh and innovative versions of the Lumi French door, all of which are set to wow visitors with their signature quality and good looks. The beautiful three pane triple track Lumi Lift & Slide door will also take a prime spot on the stand as it is offered up to Apeer trade customers, both old and new.

It is not all about Lumi, however.

Apeer composite doors are also ready to share the spotlight as six of them have been supplied for the door category of the Master Fitter Challenge, which Apeer are also sponsoring. This is set to be a great platform for customers to see the benefits of their double rebated fibreglass and high density polyurethane foam core design, whilst displaying the versatile range of spray and foil colour combinations, triple glazing options and examples of the bespoke glass designs produced by Apeer’s specialist in-house team.

If all this was not enough Apeer have also been busy behind the scenes upgrading their online presence and marketing support, including fresh websites, brochures and an improved customer showroom. So be sure to stop by stand K30 for a drink or two at the Apeer bar and, with their experienced staff at hand, discover for yourself what this company has to offer. You won’t be disappointed. www.apeer.co.uk

The Window Company (Contracts)

Invites Key Commercial Clients To Show The Window Company (Contracts) liked the previous FIT Shows so much that, this time around, it has booked its own stand.

The specialist commercial installer, twice winner of the Installer of the Year title at the G-Awards, is inviting many of its most valued clients from the commercial sector to visit the show and see the very best that the window and door industry has to offer.

Unusually, the company’s own stand won’t feature any products. Instead, it will be designed primarily as a hub where clients can join The Window Company (Contracts)’ team for VIP tours of the show’s highlights.

Chairman David Thornton said: “This industry has transformed itself in recent years and we’re incred-

ibly proud to be a part of that. We want our clients in the new build, public sector and social housing sectors to see the scale of the industry for themselves and share our excitement about some of the latest innovations which are on the way.

“We’ll be aiming to identify the products which we think are the real stars of the show in advance and then arranging stand tours for our clients. We plan to introduce them to our key suppliers including Emplas, Glazerite, Polyframe, Rehau, Veka, and potential new contacts as well.

“On our own stand hub, we’ll be serving drinks and snacks and letting our invited clients recharge their batteries with charging points for phones and laptops and space to sit and relax.” www.thewinco.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 51

FIT SHOW PREVIEW

More New Prefix Products For The FIT Show

profiles and specific hardware developed by Calwell, as Prefix looks to offer one of the broadest ranges of aluminium doors and windows in the UK. The popular Verandah system, which was previewed at the FIT Show in 2016, will also be on display as Prefix look to build their presence in the outdoor living market. The trend towards lantern roofs and Orangeries will also be satisfied, with an iX250 Orangery solution and ultraSKY lantern, featuring beautiful OPUS hardwood undercladding.

The thirst for new product development continues, as Prefix Systems look set to launch a number of new products at this year’s FIT Show, further enhancing their credentials as one of the most dynamic players in the extended living space market.

As we reach the NEC for the first time in the history of the FIT Show, Prefix Systems will have their largest ever exhibition stand at a UK trade show, with several new roofing developments and also residential glazing solutions.

Their WARMroof is already widely regarded as one of the most configurable products in the solid, tiled roofing sector and will be featured in the stunning hybrid version, combining fixed triple

glazed sections, within a tiled roof environment.

The OPUS aluminium/timber composite system will be showcased as fixed lights and as a sumptuous bi-folding door option and there will also be an aluminium patio door and bi-folding door from Smart Systems. Other residential glazing solutions include the Alitherm 47 heritage window, which is designed to replicate the sightlines of steel windows, boasting a slim back to front dimension of just 47mm.

The VS 600 vertical sliding window will also be presented and incorporates the traditional styling of sash windows with the advantages of modern thermal aluminium

As a company with an unrivalled history in conservatory roofing, Prefix will also be launching their URBANroom at the show, which combines an Ultraframe aluminium roof, with a deep contemporary gutter shroud and internal pelmet detail. This is a product set for the modern conservatory market, who are inspired by contemporary living and the adoption of in vogue colours such as anthracite grey.

Prefix’s marketing co-ordinator, Hannah Gilrane commented: ‘It’s our biggest exhibition investment ever in terms of the stand and the products that we have invested in.

There’s quite simply a product for everyone and we’ll also be looking to launch our new Product Directory.’ www.prefixsystems.co.uk

Bowater By Birtley Get FIT The newly launched Bowater by Birtley range from Birtley Group will be on display for all to see at this year’s bigger and better FIT Show at the NEC. The new comprehensive door range includes composite, fire, flood and steel doors but the focus at FIT will be on the composite range.

Kevin Kiernan of Birtley Group says: “We’re thrilled to be attending this year’s FIT Show and especially 52 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

pleased we’re attending with something genuinely new to show the market. Our composite door range alone offers more choice than most with both 44mm and 68mm available, a range of doors to suit all budgets from commodity to high end and a wide range of colours thanks to our in-house paint line.

The range combines the best of Bowater Doors and Birtley Group with superb aesthetics, security and energy performance.

MACHINERY

Seamless Welds For Less elumatec Unveils New Sturtz Contourline Machinery experts elumatec have unveiled a revolutionary new product capable of producing uPVC frames with smooth, seamless corner welds.

The result of the fast-growing firm’s partnership with German uPVC specialists Sturtz, the Sturtz Contourline achieves the much sought-after seamless finish using tooling – a far quicker and more cost-effective method than the complex welding processes used by other machining products that strive for a similar effect.

“We’ve seen rocketing demand for this kind of high-end uPVC finish over the last few years,” commented elumatec UK Managing Director Phil Heavey. “Once, uPVC was seen as the poor cousin of more prestigious materials like aluminium and timber. Today, that’s completely changed. Manufacturers have made massive strides, and

modern uPVC balances stylish and extremely versatile looks with performance that excels on all fronts.

With the Sturtz Contourline, we’re able to offer a fast, efficient and robustly-built machining product that gives fabricators the ability to capitalise on growing demand for premium uPVC – and do so far more cost-effectively than any other product on the market.”

The Sturtz Contourline is just the latest in a string of products elumatec can now exclusively supply to fabricators throughout the UK. The Sturtz FlexCentre 160 is a highly-advanced cutting and machining centre for uPVC window and door production. Boasting a 6-axis machining module and a triple sawing unit, it’s one of the most versatile products in its class, while the automatic preload of profile bars and off-load con-

veyor belt maximise productivity and efficiency.

The Sturtz TXR 3/2 Corner Transom Cleaner is a revolutionary machine that fully automates the cleaning of corners, transoms and crucifix welds. Spring-loaded knife units allow for unparalleled accuracy, while flexible tooling options allow the machine to be quickly adapted for different purposes.

The Sturtz VSM Turbo Welder is a high-speed vertical 4-point welder offering exceptional accuracy and high-temperature welding functionality that can reduce welding times by up to 30%.

A number of products from elumatec’s newly expanded uPVC machining range will be on display at May’s FIT Show. The firm will be showcasing on stand H10. www.elumatec.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 53

MACHINERY

elumatec Ingenuity Helps Arkay Windows

Take Production To The Next Level For almost 90 years, fabricators across the globe have relied on the machinery expertise of elumatec, the aluminium machinery company – including uPVC and aluminium specialists Arkay Windows, a North London fabricator renowned throughout the region for quality, reliability and on time deliveries.

Already using elumatec products in its uPVC and aluminium production for a number of years, last year the respected firm expanded its capacity with three further acquisitions – a DG 104 double-mitre saw, and two SBZ 122/74 four-axis machining centres.

“The team at Arkay came to us with a problem that affects all fast-growing fabricators – the need

centre leads the way in intelligent profile machining. An innovative four-axis design and an upgraded machine bed allows for precise cutting at high-speed, with smarter disposal of waste materials.

Despite the smaller footprint, the machining centre offers more ergonomic operation, allowing the operator to work closer to the machine thanks to a unique inclined bed, remote controlled activation of the re-designed clamps and a protective enclosure.

to streamline production to meet the increasing demand for their products,” comments elumatec Regional Sales Manager Bryan Dando. “Our double-mitre saw and SBZ122 machining centres will allow them to efficiently machine aluminium and uPVC profiles to an exceptional standard, while taking up the minimal floor space.”

Manufactured in Germany, the state-of-the-art DG104 double-mitre saw is a highly versatile machine that can cut both high and wide profiles for series production and special applications.

The DG104 can accommodate cutting length variants of up to 6,000mm, making it a hugely versatile product.

The SBZ 122/74 CNC machinery

www.elumatec.co.uk

KAT Makes Statement With

Investment In Flagship Quadra Machine

KAT has just placed an order for one of Emmegi’s flagship Quadra sawing and machine centres as it continues to invest to keep pace with its record breaking growth.

The Macclesfield based fabricator saw sales of aluminium products increase by 64% in 2016 and is predicting a further increase of 40% this year, so its priority was to choose a machine which could guarantee to increase both volumes and efficiency.

KAT’s team estimates that, with the Quadra, they will be able to fabricate an additional 200 windows and 80 doors per week, without any increase in manpower.

PR158 Manufacturing at KAT’s Macclesfield factoryThe Quadra is the Rolls Royce of Emmegi’s range and carries out sawing, notching 54 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

reliability. We’ve had an Emmegi saw here for several years and we added an Emmegi Phantomatic X4 machining centre last year; and have been impressed with the robustness and durability of both.

and 360º machining in one continuous processing operation. It is completely flexible, with little or no profile related tooling, freely programmable software and even the capability to process bars of different profiles in the same loading and machining operation.

Chris Powell, KAT’s Commercial Director, said: “We looked at various high volume machines but felt that the Quadra had the edge when it came to performance and

“The whole Emmegi team have been responsive and efficient throughout the buying process and we’re definitely looking forward to getting the machine installed and commissioned at our new Macclesfield factory in just a few months.”

KAT has joined an elite group of UK fabricators who are now using the Emmegi Quadra, which includes Express Bi-Folds, Duggans and Unique Window Systems. www.emmegi.com www.katuk.co.uk

MACHINERY

Fast And Efficient Welding The SMR-4 4 Head Welder from Haffner Murat is up to four times faster than conventional welders, says the company. It can also carry out three square welding, which equates to one extra frame per cycle.

The advantages the welder brings are claimed to be why Haffner Murat delivered 12 machines to customers at the start of the year. Dave Thomas, Managing Director of Haffner Murat, says: “Word is getting out about how much the SMR-4 adds to a fabrication set-up and we’re getting more and more enquiries about it. Fabricators can see that the SMR-4 offers a quantum leap forward in terms of quality and efficiency. They also know that the value it will

automatic corner fences and automatic transom and mullion alignment, all things that add impressive value to a fabrication process.

add will overwhelmingly outweigh the investment.”

As well as features to speed up production and reduce lead times, the SMR-4 is packed with features that improve product quality and cut waste.

It is factory set each time and has automatic transom fences,

Haffner Murat’s says its free and impartial consultancy service gives fabricators added peace of mind. Dave comments: “We want fabricators to invest in machines that will help get their business to where they want it to be. We’ll work with them to make sure they make they make the right investment.

It’s an approach that builds trust and means they’ll return to us when they’re ready to move to the next level in their business.” www.haffnermurat.com

Investing in a new Kombimatec automatic routing machine de-skills the fabrication of doors and windows and improves efficiency.

Finding new skilled staff can prove difficult and installing a Kombimatec machine to assist the existing workforce could be the best solution to increasing output and profits.

The new AMC308 (Left) and AMC602 (Above) can take care of all the routing, drilling, milling and slotting of extruded aluminium and PVC profiles completely automatically without the constant operator supervision. The profile can be machined on all 4 sides using various tools automatically changed via the in-built magazine. You can start with a base model and add features like connection to the office computer and bar code ID reading.

There are several sites where these cost effective machines can be seen in action or visit our website to watch video clips.

Call David today on 01582-562218 or email sales@kombimatec.com for more information WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 55

PRODUCT NEWS

Outstanding O-Lite The Latest Offering From Roof Maker Hot on the heels of its cutting-edge LuxLite pitched rooflight, Leicester roofline specialist Roof Maker has added another product to its range.

Taking the same style, quality and thermal excellence that characterises its existing portfolio and applying it to a bold new shape, O-Lite is a striking circular rooflight. Minimalistic aluminium frames give it a sleek, contemporary look, and maximise the intake of natural light.

O-Lite is triple-glazed as standard for superior noise reduction and thermal efficiency, offering glass U-values as low as 0.6, while the Super Spacer it incorporates enhances sound reduction and 56 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

energy performance even further.

What’s more, the product has been engineered for quick installation, complete with upstand, and easy maintenance, requiring minimal parts and tools to fit, and boasting marine-grade coated aluminium frames for maximum robustness and security.

Scott Nicholas, Roof Maker Chief Design Officer, comments: “O-Lite has all the hallmarks of a Roof Maker product – stunning looks, outstanding design, and industry-leading performance, backed up by a 20-year guarantee. It adds even more variety to our offering at a time when the key to success is maximising customer choice, and arms installers

with another fantastic product to win over discerning end users.”

O-Lite joins a host of other premium quality products in Roof Maker’s extensive range.

The company’s fixed flat roof lights are respected throughout the industry for their minimalist elegance and fantastic all-round performance. Triple-glazed, Argon-filled glass units offer outstanding thermal efficiency, while the low-E insulation glass itself can be delivered in subtle blue or bronze glare-reducing tints as well as clear.

Paul Mildenstein, Roof Maker CEO comments: “With thousands of aspirational consumers looking for bespoke, stylish home improvement solutions, our products are perfectly positioned to help installers capitalise at the high-end of the market. www.roof-maker.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

It’s A New Angle As Eurocell

Elevates Skypod Range

tial properties as the rest of the Skypod range. Furthermore, its square format now fits an even smaller aperture, allowing even more light into parts of the home that previously was not possible.In addition,no sidebars are needed on sizes up to 1.5m x 2.75m, so further improving sightlines and letting in more natural light.

Installation is quick and straightforward. Everything needed is supplied ‘out of the box’ and even the screw holes are pre-drilled for accuracy and convenience.

Building upon the success of the Skypod range of PVC-U skylights, Eurocell is launching its latest model – SkypodAcute.As the name suggests, the new addition features a steeper pitch: 350 in fact, a full 150 more than the current design.

The new 350 pitch is visually very different to the standard 200, making it suitable for more commercial applications such as schools, col-

leges, hospitals and offices, where this pitch degree is better suited to larger, multi-storey buildings. This market tends to be dominated by aluminium products, so the arrival of the new Skypod provides an aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective alternative for the installer to offer customers.

Skypod Acute sports the same stylish, narrow glazing bars and generous sightlines for residen-

Novaseal’s New Slim 60 Lantern

Roof Gets Thumbs Up Trade fabricator Novaseal recently launched its exclusive Slim 60 lantern roof, and reports that feedback has been outstanding.

Home improvement specialist and builder Thomas & Son (Ltd) was the first Novaseal customer to install the new roof last year.

According to Managing Director Jason Thomas, the Slim 60 roof is well-made, easy to install and a fantastic way of gaining extra space and light in flat roof extensions: “Slim 60 looks great and customer feedback has been excellent. It’s ideal for flat roof

extensions – a cost-effective alternative to pitched roofs – because it lets more light in. And from an installer’s point of view, Slim 60 is quick and simple to put together.”

Skypod Acute is supplied with self-cleaning, temperature controlled glass in Blue, Neutral, Bronze and Clear as standard, with a U-value of 1.0W/m²K achievable.

As with all Skypod products, Skypod Acute has a 10-year guarantee and is available in the full colour range of Anthracite Grey, Moondust Grey, Golden Oak, Rosewood and White – with a white interior finish as standard to maximise the light and airy feel.

A further 30 colour options can be made to order in just three weeks. eurocell.co.uk/skypod-acute

Thomas & Son has since installed several Slim 60 roofs and says demand for Novaseal conservatories is very strong.

The family-run company has been buying from Novaseal for nearly 20 years: “We rely on Novaseal for a wide range of top quality products”, adds Jason.

“Thomas & Son was established over 20 years ago and we’ve built our reputation on providing homeowners with top quality installations backed by a prompt and reliable service. Novaseal is the perfect fit for our business and we consider Novaseal a one-stop-shop for a wide range of products – we don’t buy from any other fabricator.” www.novaseal.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 57

PRODUCT NEWS

Fit A New Conservatory

Roof In 2-3 Days Supplied ready-to-fit by Window Warehouse, Leka, the genuinely lightweight tiled, solid conservatory roof system is the perfect replacement for glazed roofs. The impressive system means that installers can complete conservatory refurbishments and glazed extensions in a matter of days, rather than weeks or months.

“The Leka roof can typically be installed in just 2-3 days,” explains Malcolm Cake, Managing Director at Window Warehouse. “Leka roofs are made to measure at our manufacturing facility in Portsmouth and are cut to size ready to fit.

“The system is JHIA Approved for Building Regulation compliance,

so there’s no need for any lengthy planning application processes. Installers can measure up, order the roof, fill in the building certificate forms and then be on and off-site in a couple of days.”

The Leka tiled roof system carries a U-Value of 0.15 W/m2K, keeping the heat in during the winter

and the sun out in the summer months. It means that homeowners can use their conservatory all year round.

The unique solid roof system is the only one that is manufactured from a lightweight, glass-reinforced plastic ring beam and rafters, so it is half the weight of a typical solid roof replacement.

This makes it perfect for refurbishing conservatories, as it can be retrofit onto all PVCu frames.

There is a choice of either Tapco Slate or Metrotile external roof finishes, so homeowners can match in their new conservatory or extension to existing roof tiles on their property.

Malcolm adds: “Window and door installers, who would like to add the Leka roof to their product range can become a Leka Certified Installer, with access to great marketing support, just ask us for details.” www.window-warehouse.co.uk

Get The Most Out Of The Growing Solid

Conservatory Roof Market With Frame Fast

olid roof conservatories are one of the biggest opportunities for installers in 2017 and the East Midlands’ trade fabricator, Frame Fast UK, is supporting installers with its Equinox solid conservatory roof system.

Many homeowners don’t use their conservatories for much of the year because they don’t provide a comfortable temperature. Fitting a new conservatory roof means it can be used season after season.

Frame Fast has been manufacturing roof systems for the trade for 20 years and was one of the first fabricators to supply Equinox to customers.

The Equinox roof system’s lightweight design makes it easy for installers to replace conservatory 58 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

first time installation assistance.

roofs faster. It’s highly insulated so it improves the thermal efficiency of any conservatory. It has a 10-year guarantee too, providing peace of mind for homeowners.

Nigel Leivers, Director at Frame Fast says: “We provide expert advice and fast turnarounds on Equinox for installers looking to win more business in this growing market. The system is suited to any type of conservatory design, with a choice of slate or steel tiles in a number of colours. It’s really fast to install and we can arrange

“Homeowners are realising the benefits a solid conservatory roof can bring to their existing conservatories in terms of thermal efficiency and how they can lower energy bills. They are a really good long-term investment.”

Installers can visit the Equinox solid conservatory page on Frame Fast’s new website to find choices on roof finishes and colours as well as technical information and brochures.

Nigel adds, “We provide the complete Equinox roof kit to installers including the insulated plasterboard, tiles and fittings for fast, easy installation.” www.framefastuk.com

PRODUCT NEWS conversion.

Keith Sadler, Vista Managing Director commented: “We’re absolutely delighted to see one of our doors installed on such a spectacular renovation project. When people talk about the strengths of the XtremeDoor, they’ll often start with its superb security credentials, weather resistance or thermal efficiency – but just as crucial to its success has been its aesthetic versatility. With virtually endless colour choices and a huge array of glazing, hardware and other options, installers can perfectly tailor an XtremeDoor to the look and character of any property – an extremely valuable USP in the modern marketplace.

XtremeDoor

Adds Finishing Touch To Award-Winning Chapel Renovation An award-winning renovation project that turned a derelict Victorian chapel into a stylish guesthouse has been finished with an XtremeDoor, the bestin-class composite door from Vista.

Purchased by its current owners in the 1990s, the chapel had been empty for thirty years when refurbishment work began in 2013. Much of the interior timber structure was beyond repair, and the 1,517 square foot site required extensive reconstruction work to make it habitable again.

Now, however, thanks to the efforts of the building’s owners and award-winning architects

Evolution Design, the Chapel on the Hill has become a luxurious hotel capable of accommodating 7 guests.

Vista added the finishing touch with an XtremeDoor powder-coated a striking red, chosen to precisely match the colour of the building’s windows.

The project has gone on to win an A’ Design Award in the Architecture, Building and Structure Design category for 2015-2016, The International Property Award for the best Interior Design Private Residence North East England, and a Daily Telegraph Homebuilding and Renovating Award for best

“We constantly strive to make XtremeDoor the best it can possibly be – offering the widest range of colours, styles and hardware options, and working continually to find ways to further improve its already industry-leading performance.

Just recently, we’ve upgraded the product with a 100% thicker GRP skin, and added two new colours to the XtremeDoor range. Now, the XtremeDoor isn’t just the UK’s best-performing composite door – it can also be completely customised to match any homeowner’s taste, and suit any property or project.”

Widely acknowledged as one of the best composite doors currently available, XtremeDoor boasts unparalleled thermal performance, weather resistance and general robustness.

Recently upgraded, the product now offers a 100% thicker GRP skin and an upgraded five-hook lock, which pulls tighter to the frame and offers an even better weather seal.

For more information call 01516081423 or visit www. vistapanels.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 59

PRODUCT NEWS popular colours delivered direct to site within three weeks.

The Technic-AL RD1 Entrance Door is now available to see at the AluFoldDirect Aluminium Glazing Design Centre in Blackburn, so that customers can see, touch and feel that quality for themselves.

AluFoldDirect Customers Are Entranced By

Technic-AL RD1 Entrance Doors “Every installer who sees the Technic-AL RD1 Entrance Door buys one, even if it’s not what they came in to look at,” says Craig Miller, Managing Director of AluFoldDirect. “The amazing reaction to AluFoldDirect’s new range of entrance doors has astounded everyone. It proves there’s a place in the market for a beautiful alu-

minium entrance door that stops people in their tracks.”

The Technic-AL RD1 combines a slimline, thermally broken aluminium frame with a thermally insulated timber door blade. It’s precisely made and finished with a five-stage paint process for any RAL colour, with the seven most

“Seeing really is believing. Every customer who has visited the AluFoldDirect Aluminium Glazing Design Centre to discuss their projects has added a Technic-AL RD1 to their shopping list.

The Technic-AL RD1 Entrance Door is available in nine stunning designs, each named after a cosmopolitan European city.

The door in the AluFoldDirect Aluminium Glazing Design Centre is the Venlo Glazed model, painted in black and is suited with an AluFoldDirect slimline aluminium window.

The AluFoldDirect Technic-AL RD1 also delivers on security and energy efficiency. It has full Secured by Design accreditation, while U-values range from 1.3 to 1.6W/m2K, dependent on door blade design. www.alufolddirect.co.uk

Popularity Of Distinction Doors’

Contemporary Range Reflects Consumer Trends Distinction Doors has just revealed sales of its contemporary door range are up 18% year on year.

Bethaney Larkman, Marketing Manager at the company, said: “Consumer trends are very much design-led at the moment and homeowners are looking for products that deliver a style statement. Our range of contemporary doors gives homeowners what they are looking for and this is something that is reflected in our growing sales figures. The popularity of contemporary door designs is also reflected in the statistics from the door-designer platform that can be accessed from our website: the percentage of people looking at contemporary options is growing month on month.” www.distinctiondoors.co.uk 60 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

PRODUCT NEWS

Dales Diary Of Eurocell

Enhancements Eurocell, manufacturer, distributor and recycler of window, door, conservatory and roofline products – has reconfigured its popular Dales Collection range of composite doors to increase and improve aesthetic choice, security and resilience.

justable keeps has been introduced, providing an improved weather rating that can now achieve up to a massive 1200 Pascals – a 50% improvement on previous tests. The new improved design also includes an increase of the outer GRP skin thickness from 2mm to 4mm.

First, the company has introduced three new panel designs – the Elton, Hartington and Newhaven – which deliver ‘on trend’ farmhouse and contemporary styles. The three designs are complemented by six further glass patterns to further increase choice for the specifier, developer and end-user.

The collection is now fitted with the Tri-Sis glazing cassette which can be deglazed internally without damaging the door panel or affecting the security performance of the door overall.

The locking system, plus the thickness and glazing modifications, means that the new doors are all now compliant with the requirements of AD Q; achieving PAS 23/24:2016accreditation, which includes the challenging PAS 24:2016 ‘Cut Through’ test.

The additional door and glass introductions bring the total of Dales Collection front and back composite door combinations to 15 styles in 15 colours and 18 glazing options, from modern ‘chic’ to traditional Edwardian or cottage style.

The colours are in three groups: Contemporary, e.g. Anthracite Grey, Slate Grey and Moondust Grey; Standard, e.g. Rosewood, Golden Oak, Frost White and Berry Red; and Heritage,e.g.

Eurocell Cream, Chartwell Green and Duck Egg Blue (all made to order). Dales Collection doors are also available with colour-matched weather bars.

Security assured Second, with security and peace of mind very much on the agenda, not least following the introduction of Approved Document Q (AD Q) of the

Low maintenance design Building Regulations in October 2015, Eurocell has improved both the structural stability of its door panels and its locking hardware.

AD Q sets out what it says are “reasonable standards for doors and windows to resist physical attack by a casual or opportunist burglar by being both sufficiently robust and fitted with appropriate hardware” and effectively excludes nonPAS 24 products from the new build sector.

A new accredited five-point multi-locking system with ad-

GRP door leaves obviate splits or cracks and are less prone to scratching and denting than steel-faced doors. A high-quality triple-seal frame system ensures Dales Collection doors can give outstanding performance for many years and two brush seals and a gasket seal prevent drafts and rain causing problems.

In terms of energy efficiency and sustainability, The Dales Collection composite doors range is ‘B’ rated as standard but ‘A’ rated is also available. eurocell.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 61

PRODUCT NEWS

Exlabesa’s

KLS Patio Door

something that makes them a pleasure to use. The system uses a multipoint locking system and is internally beaded to ensure high security levels. Single and dual colour options complete a door suite that offers considerable homeowner appeal.

Having an offering that reflects market trends is a fundamental requirement of a successful business and it’s something that aluminium systems company Exlabesa UK has got a reputation for doing. That reputation is being enhanced in its KLS patio door suite. Paul Benn, Exlabesa’s National Sales Manager, comments: “The trend at the moment is for large expanses of glass that give unrestricted views to the outside. In the KLS patio door suite you have a product that delivers what the homeowner wants and is also easy to install, so it delivers what installers need too.”

While the benefits of the KLS patio door system for homeowners are clear, the benefits for fabricators and installers are also numerous. Doors up to 3,300mm x 3,200mm are available, meaning the system is suitable for use in the largest of glazed areas. The system integrates with Exlabesa’s KWS Window Systems, and Curtain Walling System which means it can be specified as part of a total glazed solution. It’s a thermally broken system that meets and exceeds current building regulations. It uses a mechanical corner joint for easy fabrication and features an innovative gasket design for easy glazing. And it’s easy to install too, so it’s a welcome addition to any installers’ portfolio. What’s more, because it’s an Exlabesa system, fabricators and installers will benefit from the company’s strong technical support and customer-focused approach.

The KLS patio door suite has been designed to maximise the glazed area, giving the expansive views and slim sightlines that homeowners are looking for. The doors use the K Concept mechanical corner cleat system, a sliding mechanism that allows large panels of glass to move effortlessly, smoothly and quietly,

Having a portfolio that attracts your target market is vital to the success of your business. By partnering with Exlabesa, not only do you get products that meet market demand you also get the support of one of the country’s most experienced and reliable aluminium systems companies. www.exlabesa.co.uk

Suite Delivers What

Market Is Looking For

62 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

PRODUCT NEWS

GRIP handle on its windows in April 2016, the feedback from customers across the UK and Ireland has been very positive.

Jeff Dunn continued: “At first, it seems counterintuitive that a handle which is lighter than zinc can also be stronger, but Mila provided us with the sales and marketing tools we needed to explain the science behind the product, and our installers are really embracing the benefits it brings.”

Consort Ltd Chooses Mila Grip Handle Because

It Ticks All The Boxes One of the UK’s leading trade fabricators has switched to Mila’s low carbon GRIP handle for all of its casement windows, after deciding that the product ticked every single box for its installers.

Mila launched the patented GRIP handle at last year’s FIT Show. GRIP stands for Green Reliable Intelligent Polymer and one of the product’s key selling points is that it is the only window handle in the UK that has been certified by the Carbon Trust.

Consort is now fitting an impressive 3500 GRIP handles every month on the Veka FS frames it manufactures at its Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire factory.

Consort’s Head of Sales & Marketing Jeff Dunn said: “Switching to the GRIP handle was such an easy choice for us. It looks exactly the same as a conventional zinc handle, but it’s proven to be stronger with an even more durable finish. Because it is manufactured in ABS, it’s also warmer to the touch so doesn’t become a magnet for condensation and obviously, it will never rust.

“From an installer’s point of view, it addresses the vulnerable

He added: “Our focus is on quality and reliability so we’re understandably very choosey about all of the components we use to manufacture our windows. Anything new we add to our range is rigorously assessed beforehand and on the GRIP handle, we just can’t see any negatives. It even fits the green agenda, being 100% recyclable and with a 60% lower carbon footprint.”

areas on a window handle which could lead to expensive remedial visits. It’s cost effective yet has the potential to save our installer money in the long run with its strength and durability, and that seems like an ideal combination.”

Since Consort introduced the

It is available in the standard trade version as supplied to Consort and in GRIP Colour and GRIP CleanTouch variants.

GRIP Colour offers a choice of RAL colours on the handle, painted in the UK and assembled at Mila’s production facility in Daventry to ensure short lead times for customers. The innovative GRIP CleanTouch, meanwhile, incorporates an anti-microbial treatment in the handle which protects against the spread of bacteria in hospital and healthcare environments.

Further details are available at www.mila.co.uk and at www.consortwindows.com WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 63

PRODUCT NEWS

Endurance Launch New

Heritage Hardware Range Quick to launch new products for the composite door sector, Endurance® Doors, are now offering the recently announced and perfectly engineered Fab&Fix heritage door handle, as part of their extended hardware range, through their partners ERA. This new Lever Lever and Lever Pad handle range is offered in antique black, along with hardex chrome, gold and graphite and is designed within a suite of perfectly matching products including letterplate and bull ring knocker. The operation of this new handle has been tested to in excess of 200,000 cycles and the finish across the range meets the requirements of BS EN 1670:2007 Grade 5 Corrosion Resistance

(480 hours).

Many consumers like the traditional appearance of some of the

Trojan To Launch Document

Q Compliant Letterplate Hardware manufacturer, the Trojan Group will be launching one of the industry’s very few Document Q compliant letterplates at the FIT Show 2017. Manufactured from Stainless Steel for ultimate corrosion resistance, the TS008 Unicorn Letterplate meets the requirements of TS008 which means it can be used on doorsets that need to comply with the requirements of PAS24: 2016 or Document Q of Building Regulations. Tony Chadwick, Group Managing Director, comments: “Trojan is renowned for delivering the products that the market needs and the TS008 Unicorn Letterplate is another example of this.”

The features of the TS008 Unicorn Letterplate reflect the skills and ingenuity of Trojan’s product designers. The inner protective housing 64 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

has a unique concealed hinge mechanism to prevent attack.

The inner flap has a positive stop feature for maximum protection from ‘fishing’ while the inner flap projection is below door handle height for added protection.

The TS008 Unicorn Letterplate has simple but elegant styling that

period inspired designs within the Endurance® Doors collection and the availability of a new heritage hardware range that’s designed to last is a major plus, at a time when some antique hardware options have high failure rates and a short operational lifespan. These new finishes will also be featured on the Door Designer, that has become so popular with consumers and trade partners alike.

Stephen Nadin, managing director of Endurance® Doors commented: ‘The new heritage handle and hardware range is an important addition to our expanding portfolio and we’re one of the first companies in the UK to make the investment. Product performance, security and aesthetics are some of the key ingredients as to why our solid and secure Endurance® Doors are gaining such popularity and rave reviews. www.endurancedoors.co.uk will complement any doorface and is suitable for both composite and PVC-U doors. It is available in a full choice of external finishes including Polished, Brushed and Satin Stainless Steel, PVD Gold, Black and White. The internal letterplate can be colour coded to match the door colour.

The external flap is manufactured from 304 Stainless Steel for ultimate corrosion resistance (galvanised mild steel is used for painted finishes). The letterplate has a 25 year anti-corrosion guarantee on all Stainless Steel product finishes and there is a 10 year mechanical guarantee on all versions.

Tony concludes: “We are looking forward to showcasing the TS008 Unicorn Letterplate at the FIT Show 2017 and we look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand to find out more about it as well as the rest of our value-added range.” www.trojangroup.com

PRODUCT NEWS

Security Sells For

Conservatory Outlet One of the top 2% of fabricators in the UK by volume, Conservatory Outlet has recently broadened its product remit even further, presenting the Extreme 3 window locking system to its UK-wide network.

The Extreme 3 system is designed to prevent attack in any direction, with the heavy duty reinforced bolts securely locked into the frame, creating 300% more contact area than any other Shoot Bolt on the market. The design essentially replicates the security properties of a Vaultbolt door locking system for use within a window.

The patented Conservatory Outlet system also incorporates Ecoseal, a brand new innovation that allows designers the freedom to use larger “push out” casements that will comfortably sit on a 450mm

dwarf wall without the need for top openers. The system works to tightly pull in the sash against the frame, creating superb compression that can withstand forcible attacks at any point around the whole unit.

This is a proactive move for Con-

servatory Outlet to develop solutions that enhance home security, as homeowners are becoming increasingly savvy in seeking out products that offer maximum protection against break-ins. This unique selling point has proven a real hit with the Conservatory Outlet Network, and 20 of its retail partners have already opened their doors to the product, offering it to homeowners within their exclusive trading patches located across the country.

Conservatory Outlet’s Managing Director Michael Giscombe comments: “Around 750,000 incidents of domestic burglary take place each year in the UK, so it’s no surprise that security is one of the top concerns for homeowners when making improvements to their property.

“As a manufacturer, it is essential that we offer our retail customers a product armoury that provides them the flexibility to present a range of options that fulfil the end-user’s needs. www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk

Trojan’s TS007 2 Star Handle And A One Star Cylinder Meets The Requirements Of Document Q

Document Q requires secure doorsets to be fitted with handles and cylinders that meet the requirements of TS007 by offering 3 star security as part of a PAS24:2012 accredited doorset. Three star cylinders attract a price premium, which makes them unattractive for many projects. However, the combination of Trojan’s stainless steel TS007 2 Star Handle plus a 1 star cylinder enables fabricators and installers to meet the requirements in a very competitive package.

It’s a combination that is proving attractive, with very strong take up from Trojan’s customers.

Tony Chadwick, Trojan Group’s Managing Director, commented:

“The take up of the TS007 2 Star handle has been superb, with fabricators indicating that the product’s 2 star cylinder guard gives a clear visual deterrent compared to the more expensive 3 star cylinder variants as would-be criminals cannot always see what is fitted to the door.”

The TS007 2 Star Handle from Trojan is manufactured in 304 stainless steel, so as well as offering a competitively priced security solution it also offers the ultimate in corrosion resistance. It comes with a 25 year anti-corrosion guarantee and a ten year mechanical guarantee. www.trojangroup.com

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 65

PRODUCT NEWS

Authentic Residence Collection Hardware

‘Looks Perfect’ In Traditional Installations

original top timber-alternative, and Residence2, a real aluminium-alternative.

Managing Director Martin Dickie says: “The handles in the Residence Collection hardware range have proper key locking, so the windows are easy to secure. And there’s less chance of the handles being scratched by fiddly grub screws, which is a common problem for traditional style handles.

So our hardware looks perfect for longer.”

The hardware is available in nine different colours: Pewter Patina, White, Antique Bronze, Polished Chrome, Electro Gold, Black, Satin Chrome, Bronze Red Tint, and Graphite.

Residence Collection’s exclusive range of traditional hardware completes a perfect look in installations for traditional properties.

The range of key locking Monkey Tail and Pear Drop Handles, Pegs, and Stays are designed to look

perfect, and be really easy to use in the home.

Residence Collection is the pioneering systems company behind Residence 7, which is flush sash inside and out, Residence 9, the

“The extensive colour range means there’s a hardware option for every Residence Collection window in every home,” Martin adds. “Installers say they look fantastic, and are designed to be the best for flush windows, just like our window and door systems.” www.residencecollection.co.uk

Do Your Suited Cylinders Meet

Kitemark Requirements?

Yale Door and Window Solutions is now offering a re-pinning service that maintains the British kitemarked accreditation of its maximum security Platinum 3 Star cylinder.

Yale’s Platinum 3 Star cylinder is Secured by Design approved and provides the highest level of security.

To achieve TS007:2014 3 Star accreditation it has been independently tested by BSI (British Standards Institution) against known cylinder attack methods.

Paul Atkinson, Sales Director for Yale Door and Window Solutions, comments: “Under this new offering, customers who take the Platinum 3 Star cylinder can now have it atour Centre of Excellence for Door Products (Willenhall) under our BSI kitemarked license. This means there is no compromise to the 66 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

cylinder as it still maintains the superior Yale quality and security.” And more importantly maintains the Kitemark accreditation. If cylinders are suited and re-pinned by non-accredited organisations they no longer qualify as Kitemarked products.

Delivering multiple benefits to fabricators, installers and homeowners alike, the maximum security Platinum 3 Star cylinder has been designed to protect homes with its anti-snap, anti-bump, anti-pick, anti-drill and anti-pull technology. Available in both brass and nickel finishes, the cylinder has sacrificial break away front section designed to release if attacked, maintaining the cylinder security within the door. www.yaledoorandwindowsolutions.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

and supports interrupt and ruin them.

“The concept was simple – develop a glazing unit that turns a corner to maximize the view outside. It was doing it that was the hard part.”

Turning-A-Corner

Bohle UV-Bonding Technology Used In Seamless 90-Degree IG Developments in UV-bonding technology are supporting glass processors in driving innovation in the built environment, delivering great architecture and higher margins.

Glass is the architectural material of the 21st Century. It defines our cityscapes, dominating the facades of commercial and office buildings. It’s also increasingly defining the architectural features of our homes.

This isn’t new, there have always been exponents of glass. The American architect and trailblazer Frank Lloyd Wright, writing as early as the 1940s of the merits of connecting indoor and outdoor spaces: ‘The outside of any building may now come inside and the inside go outside, each seems as part of the other. Continuity, plasticity, and all the new simplicity they imply have at last come home’.

It’s only now, however, that we as homeowners are embracing glass

in the mainstream of UK house design and that is driving innovation in the glass processing sector and the technologies to support it.

Bohle remains at the forefront of global leading innovation in UV bonding technology and has developed a complete range of cleaning agents, pre-treatments and curing adhesives to UVA lamps, bonding tables, rigid fixing and clamping devices.

But while the application of UV bonding is established in the manufacture of everything from glass furniture to shop fit outs, its use in external applications is only now beginning to establish itself – and that’s creating multiple opportunities.

“It was the quote from Frank Lloyd Wright, that got me thinking about how as an industry we handle corners in window design, especially when those windows are looking out onto panoramic views”, says Alex Simpson, Managing Director and owner, The Glass Man. “Pillars

Having initially developed the concept more than a decade earlier, The Glass Man manufactured its first 90-degree seamless Infinity Corner IGU in 2009. “It wasn’t delivered overnight”, continues Alex.

“In part because I was developing the unit alongside running a business and in part because it took a lot of investment to get the process right. “ The patented Infinity IGU is suitable for use with timber, aluminium, composites and PVC-U frames, in either double or triple-glazed, argon-filled options. These are manufactured from 8mm toughened external glass and 6mm Pilkington K toughened internally.

“These units are invariably going out to somewhere sitting on top of a sea cliff or half way up a mountain so you need to factor in wind loadings”, adds Alex.

Creating a single IGU unit that in effect seamlessly ‘turns the corner’ of building, presented a unique set of challenges. “We worked very closely with Bohle to identify the right UV bonding solution”, says Alex. “There are other suppliers out there and they’ll all supply you with a product but what you get from Bohle is incredible technical expertise.

“We made a number of trips across to Haan in Germany to work with their technical team to identify the right bonding solution for what we were trying to achieve.”

He continues: “It sounds simple but in manufacturing a 90-degree Continued on page 68 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 67

PRODUCT NEWS

Continued from page 67

unit, you’re applying at least five disciplines. You have to understand glazing, edge-working, polishing, toughening and bonding, before you even get to sealing and filling the unit.

“Manufacture at 90-degrees creates a lot of different challenges, not least how you turn spacer bar on a 90-degree angle.”

Manually manufactured, units also have to be specially packaged before shipment to minimize risk of damage in transit “you’re exposing the unit to stresses across three dimensions, so we use indicators and special packaging to make sure that units aren’t damaged”, says Alex.

This hasn’t, however, stopped the Infinity Window from ‘travelling’.

For a window manufactured a stone’s throw from the banks of the River Clyde, this has included shipments as far afield as Penzance and Sligo and London to Estonia.

“It’s more expensive than a standard IGU but as a percentage of a larger high-end installation it’s negligible and in defining a room, or even the architectural style of a property, it delivers a huge number of benefits to the end-user”, says Alex.

He continues: “The real opportunity here is for window companies. It’s such a stunning architectural product selling it as a fabricator or retail business delivers so many USPs and opportunities for high margin.

“That’s what we have always tried to do. Manufacture innovative high quality products that deliver high margin to us as a business and our customers.” email info@bohle.ltd.uk. www.theglassmanuk.co.uk email info@theglassmanuk.com 68 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

Guardian Glass introduces SunGuard® SNX 60 and SNX 60 Ultra: high performance and enhanced aesthetics. (Photo Martin Argyroglo for Guardian Industries Corp.,)

Guardian Glass Introduces Guardian Sunguard ®

SNX 60 And SNX 60 Ultra Guardian Glass is introducing a new addition to its eXtra Selective family of solar control glass: Guardian SunGuard® SNX 60.

SNX 60 is ideal for commercial facade applications that require high performance, energy efficiency and improved aesthetics.

New SunGuard® SNX 60 offers a highly desirable and consistently neutral transparent appearance.

It was developed to provide optimal aesthetics and technical performance on both Guardian ExtraClear® float glass – available as SunGuard® SNX 60 – and on Guardian UltraClearTM lowiron float glass – available as SunGuard® SNX 60 Ultra.

According to Nicolas Gouzou, Product Manager at Guardian Glass: “The introduction of SunGuard® SNX 60 marks the first of a new generation of triple-silver products characterised by enhanced aesthetics and color, regardless of the angle of vision.

We foresee the launch of further products for this range in the near future.”

SunGuard® SNX 60 is a triple-silver coated, solar control glass that lets in 60% of natural daylight and just 29% of the solar heat – one of the highest selectivity (ratio of light transmission to solar factor) products available in the industry today.

It may help lower a building’s energy costs by reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning, whilst adding a sophisticated touch to the design of the glazed façade. Moreover, with a U-value of 1.0 W/m2K, it provides a very high level of thermal insulation, which may help to reduce heating costs during the colder periods.

New SunGuard® SNX 60 is available in both annealed and heat treatable versions. It can also be supplied on laminated glass for safety, security or acoustic applications.

Guardian Glass is a major business unit of Guardian Industries Corp. For more information, please visit www.guardianglass.com.

PRODUCT NEWS

Saint-Gobain

Building Glass Introduces Its Best

Performing Conservatory Roof Glass Yet Saint-Gobain Building Glass has further enhanced its popular collection of conservatory roof glass, with the introduction of Azura+, setting new benchmarks for the lowest g-value in the SGG BIOCLEAN low maintenance self-cleaning range.

More than a year’s development has gone into incorporating one of the best solar performing low maintenance self-cleaning coating onto the popular Sapphire Blue tinted substrate, offering an 83% heat reflection and 0.17 g-value, firmly placing the product at the top of Saint-Gobain’s roof glass range.

“The result is a glass that will keep indoors cooler on warm summer days but give the same heat retention in colder weather due to

its 1.0 u-value,” said Jenni Bailey, Market Manager for Saint-Gobain’s Conservatory Range.

“Temperature control within conservatories is a major issue for end-users who quite rightly want to use them all year round. The addition of Azura+ will have a major impact on the overall comfort of a conservatory, allowing end-users to utilise their new space whatever the season.”

The high performance solar control coating of Azura+ is also complimented by SGG BIOCLEAN, a revolutionary low-maintenance self-cleaning function that uses both rain and natural light from the sun to efficiently combat dirt and grime.

Saint-Gobain’s roof glass range

already includes the bronze tinted Solara and the blue tinted Azura, both with BIOCLEAN coating and, to streamline the range ahead of the launch of Azura+, the company’s green tinted Aqua and virtually neutral Natura roof glass products have been rebranded to Aqua+ and Natura+ to reflect their parallel use of the solar control coating.

The launch of SGG BIOCLEAN Azura+ is backed by technical support, especially for processors who have not yet trialled it, and marketing support in the form of refreshed glass sample kits and brochures. www.saint-gobain.com

Homeowners Grateful For Tuffx Processed Glass

The product range from TuffX Processed Glass have once more satisfied clients and homeowners. With exterior and interior designs and trends constantly changing, TuffX like to keep up to date with the latest developments, so they can ensure their clients get the best glass to take on further to their customers. The manufacturing company supplied the finest glass the property-owners could have desired for renovations in a family home in Cornwall.

A Cornwall based installer contacted TuffX requesting glass for an indoor staircase and an outdoor balcony for a domestic house. TuffX asked to see the drawing designs for the plans before suggesting any products, having seen them they recommended that 19mm curved toughened-laminated glass should be used for the balcony, and 19mm flat toughened-laminated glass used for the staircase. The client agreed and put an order in for a total of 40m² of toughened-laminated glass.

The installer stated, “TuffX was so helpful in the pur-

chasing process, they talked me through what would be best for the job and it was delivered on the requested date and time. The glass looks exquisite and gives this home the perfect modern look it desired.”

To find out more on the glass range email; sales@txpro.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 69

PRODUCT NEWS thermal and acoustic properties that enables the window to retain heat whilst providing an effective barrier to sound.

The company expects Boavista’s UK arrival to be welcomed by architects and housebuilders as a result of the window’s minimalist design and stylish finish.

Fibreglass also expands in line with window glass, removing the need for unsightly gaskets generally required to hold the pane in place and adding aesthetic value to a development.

Europe’s First Full Range Of Sustainable Fibreglass

Window Frames Launches In UK ‘The window revolution has arrived’, according to the company responsible for bringing Boavista, Europe’s first full range of fibreglass window frames that set new industry standards in sustainability, durability and performance, to the UK. The new range includes a tilt and turn, sash, casement and sliding window and door product, all of which are 100 per cent recyclable and deliver longer lifecycles than uPVC and aluminium frames as a result of fibreglass’s inherent qualities.

Boavista’s rigidity also enables its sliding windows and doors to withstand single panes that weigh in excess of 250kg, which is approximately 150 per cent more than its aluminium and uPVC counterparts. This means that those wishing to incorporate glass as a major design feature 70 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

no longer need to commission and fit specialist, structural glass.

Boavista is exclusively available to the UK through Boavista Windows UK Ltd, a company formed by the team behind Meronden Designs, a 20-year-old firm that has provided bespoke glazing solutions for the Lloyds Building, Tiffany & Co. Selfridges in Manchester and Ernst & Young’s iconic More London Place building.

Using the latest in pultrusion technology Boavista’s fibreglass frames are created by pulling resin-soaked glass fibres through heated dies – a process that only consumes 0.07 kilowatt to produce a linear metre of window frame weighing approximately 1kg.

The result is a frame with high

On launching Boavista in the UK Neil Puttock, Managing Director of Boavista Windows UK Ltd, comments: “Boavista provides an alternative window product that offers those who use it the opportunity to contribute towards reducing the UK’s carbon footprint without compromising on design, function or form. From the perspective of an architect or homeowner fibreglass frames open up a world of possibilities by supporting adventurous designs that, up until now, have been prohibitive due to the cost associated with incorporating bespoke glazing solutions.”

The product’s hardwearing properties and rot and corrosion resistance is also expected to appeal to local authorities and facilities managers by reducing the cost associated with window maintenance, repair and repainting.

Neil concludes: “There really is no comparison between Boavista and other window products currently on the market. We now need to make the case for fibreglass and inform those who naturally turn to uPVC and aluminium just what fibreglass is capable of.”

For more information on Boavista visit www.boavistawindows.co.uk.

PRODUCT NEWS

SWISSPACER Georgian Bar Gives Aztec’s Prestige Collection® The Edge

Aztec Windows Coventry Ltd achieves high performance, authentic-looking flush sash windows with SWISSPACER’s Geor-

become extremely popular as homeowners look to add character to their properties. In 2013 Aztec Windows launched the Prestige Collection®, a beautiful timber-effect PVC-U window to appeal to this growing market.

The company offers a Georgian Bar option for added authenticity, using SWISSPACER’s Georgian Bar for its best performing windows.

Michael explains: “Homeowners want to enhance the look of their homes and our Prestige Collection® flush sash casement is a low-maintenance alternative to timber. A traditional Georgian Bar is a popular addition to our windows because it adds character and authenticity. SWISSPACER Georgian Bars, used alongside SWISSPACER warm edge spacer bars give the best energy performance and an attractive finish.

SWISSPACER bars have a matt, low-sheen finish which eliminates glare inside the sealed unit for a high-end look.

gian Bar. Sales Manager Michael Hagan says heritage-style windows have

www.swisspacer.com

Modplan Adds VEKA’s New M70 System To Its Range Modplan Ltd has just announced the latest addition to its range: the VEKA new M70 bevelled 70mm system.

Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director said of the system, “The new M70 is a 70mm fully-integrated, multi-chambered system with an updated contemporary bevel to complement any style of property. We are confident it will be a popular addition to our portfolio and feedback from our customers on the new system who attended our recent ‘open house’ event was extremely positive.”

The new M70 system is a strong addition to Modplan’s range. The additional chambers of the system increase the overall thermal performance to meet the demanding current and future requirements for more energy efficient products. A choice of couplings in plain or featured finishes gives customer choice along with a range of glazing beads in either chamfered or sculptured options. The system is Secured by Design

approved, the official police approved accreditation, and meets the requirements of Document Q too. The M70 system is available in White, Rosewood, Rosewood on White, Golden Oak, Golden Oak on White, Anthracite Grey on White and Black on White. The system offers a fitter-friendly baypole system which is available in a choice of chamfered or sculptured finishes too.

The new M70 system will be manufactured in Modplan’s dedicated factory near Newport, Gwent and will be available to customers from 1st May, 2017.

The new M70 system is the latest in a line of new products being introduced by Modplan over the next couple of months. Heidi says, “It is important to us that our product range meets our customers’ needs.

We continually have our finger on the pulse with product design and we are confident that the introduction of the new M70 system will be a valuable addition to our range.” www.modplan.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 71

PRODUCT NEWS

opening additional opportunities on older properties or potential opportunities in conservation areas, where PVC-U was previously excluded, or where consumers simply want that heritage finish.”

Using the same standard Optima outerfram and 15mm to 50mm packers, Optima Flush has also been designed to be familiar to installers.

Cill sizes start from 85mm, couplers come in a range of sizes from 3mm to 29mm. Emplas can also offer baypoles with variable square and 135° variants.

Emplas Combines Traditional Style With High-Performance

In New Flush Casement Emplas has confirmed its launch of Profile 22’s new cutting-edge Optima Flush system, which combines a technically advanced multi-chamber PVC-U system with traditional timber sightlines.

Opening-up significant new opportunities in retail, Optima has been designed by Profile 22 to emulate traditional timber window design.

This includes a defining flush casement finish, mechanically jointed options, traditional top and deep bottom sash rail options, heritage dummy sash on frames with fixed lights and integrated hardware including monkey-tail handles and dummy peg stays.

With a simple chamfered finish to the sash externally, the outer-frame is available in either the Optima sculptured (QS) or chamfered (QC) finish internally.

The 24mm internal bead comes in a Sculptured (Ovolo) shape for a beautiful internal finish. Standard 72 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

coloured foils are available on a 10-day lead time including Rosewood, Light-oak, Black Brown, Anthracite grey, cream (both sides only) and white (both sides only).

With its in-house spray painting facility Kolorplas, Emplas can also offerany RAL colour to meet stringent planning requirements.

Available in 24mm glazing with astragal bar options, Optima Flush is supplied by Emplas as a WER A+ window as standard. Typical U-values start at 1.3W/m2K. Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas said: “What Optima Flush gives us and more importantly our customers, over and above our standard Optima offer is a window developed specifically for a heritage market.

“Optima in its sculptured and chamfered options is a very flexible offer and suitable for a wide variety of installations including modern and period. Optima Flush extends that reach further,

Optima in its ‘standard’ casement Sculptured and Chamfered was launched by Emplas last summer. It’s built around a six chamber outer frame and five chamber sash. It includes a choice of 24mm and 28mm double, and 36mm, 40mm and 44mm triple-glazed beading options. This means that it comfortably achieves u-values as low as 0.8W/m2K on triple-glazed units.

It’s decision to add Optima to its offer sits as part of a long-term strategy to build a product offering geared to generating opportunity for installers.

“Optima delivers a host of other innovations for example a larger rebate and reduced bulk in the upstand compared or optional third seals on the outer frame and sash, which provide the additional selling points”, says Johnson.

“In supporting installers in accessing heritage or period installations, Optima Flush also opens up potentially higher margin opportunities. With a very flexible colour offer on competitive lead times, dedicated hardware, it’s a really strong retail proposition and as a completely new system, one which is highly attuned to the market.” www.emplas.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Hueck UK Launches New Window Innovations Hueck UK has expanded its popular Lambda series of products with the launch of Lambda WS 075 FC and Lambda SA (silent air).

For example, a fanlight for rush airing can be combined with a special bottom light window for sound-proof continuous ventilation. And Lambda SA can also be used with windows that do not have a bottom light window.

Lambda WS 075 FC combines the advantages of a highly thermally insulated aluminium window construction with the appearance of a slender façade design; and is a cost-effective alternative to traditional curtain walling.

The system is compatible with the HUECK Lambda WS / DS 075 window and door series. It can also be combined with Hueck Trigon 50 cover shells to allow for different designs of inside and outside views.

Hueck has also launched a new innovation to the aluminium window market, Lambda SA. Lambda SA is a modular soundproofing system based on the

proofing system components mean different demands for soundproofing, economic viability and the possible width of the tilted position opening can be achieved.

Director Leon friend comments: “Lambda SA is ideal for use in projects where the requirements for soundproofing are high, such as densely populated areas and homes near airports and railway lines. highly thermally insulated aluminium window system, Lambda WS 090.

Thanks to an ingenious design, Lambda SA can reduce noise pollution by up to 39 dB even when the window sash is open in the tilted position.

Different combinations of sound-

“The Hueck engineers have spent months developing Lambda SA and Lambda WS 075 FC and they are just some of many new products we have recently launched to help architects fully realise the potential of aluminium in the built environment.”

For more information please visit www.hueck.com

RENOLIT EXOFOL

PX Light Ivory

RENOLIT EXOFOL PX Light Ivory has been added in to the RENOLIT exterior grade range as a stock range item.

Previously only available on a make to order basis the move in to the stock range recognises the increasing popularity of cream colours and is indicative of the importance RENOLIT places to continuously improve service levels to their customers.

Light Ivory which is a yellowy cream colour (similar to RAL 1015) is a complementary addition to cooler Ice Cream B and warmer Cream White widening the scope for designers, home owners and installers.

Cream windows have universal appeal creating a sophisticated and pleasant installation which suits both traditional and heritage windows alike and also most building exteriors from stone, buff, red or multi-brick.

Windows in this colour area have the ability to portray an elegant high quality image which has led to the demand for cream coloured exterior films increasing year on year. Cream is now the 3rd largest selling exterior grade solid coloured film sold in the UK market and with improved availability of Ivory Cream this is anticipated to grow further.

RENOLIT EXOFOL PX was developed to enhance weatherability, reduce heat build-up and extend guarantees periods* up to 15 years in the UK. www.renolit.com/exterior/en/sample-ordering WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 73

PRODUCT NEWS

Super Spacer Premium Plus The Best Match for Plus-sized IGUs Super Spacer® Premium Plus from Edgetech UK is the perfect system for manufacturing oversized insulated glass units, claim the company.

“More of our customers are reporting an increase in demand for big glass units, in line with the growing domestic trend for wide-span glazed doors,” explains Chris Alderson, Managing Director at Edgetech UK.

the extra frame height or width they can squeeze out of a leaf.

Even with these big sizes, they are still hitting U-Values that are lower than the Building Regulation requirement of 1.8 W/m2K. “It’s the glass units that play a big part in delivering this thermal efficiency.”

“Super Spacer Premium Plus has led the way in light commercial IG units, so it’s a proven system for IGU manufacturers who are making more oversized units for residential wide-span bi-folding and sliding doors.

Triple glazing increases energy performance but the additional 6mm pane of glass in a 1.8m x 2.1m door could add up to eight and a half stone, making fabrication and installation tricky. A lighter solution is to use ‘clever doubles’ with Super Spacer Premium Plus warm edge technology.

“Systems companies differentiate themselves from the competition by talking about

“It’s not just a case of making standard IGUs bigger – oversized units can’t be treated

74 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

in the same way,” continues Chris. “Larger units increase the potential for issues with deflection and cavity expansion & contraction.

“With a history in commercial glazing, Super Spacer has been successfully used in IGUs of up to 15 metres in length without issues of movement or deflection and comes with an industry best 40-year guarantee.”

As well as supplying the right products, Edgetech has the technical expertise to support insulated glass unit manufacturers who are facing this change.

For more information on manufacturing oversized IGUs, call 02476 639931.

PRODUCT NEWS

Get Your Free Reel Of

whereas competitor products cannot be exchanged within a WER incorporating Thermoflex warm edge spacer without a new simulation being required.

Edge Spacer

“Our innovation centre has enviable test facilities and we have employed specialists with the technical skills to test all of our products to exacting standards from the initial compounding of the raw materials, right through the process to packaging and delivery to the customers. Our testing gives us the confidence that our products will pass both independent tests and maintain the integrity of the compounded desiccant within the spacer as it continues to perform throughout the lifetime of the insulated glass sealed unit.

Thermoflex Warm

A free trial of Thermoflex Warm Edge Spacer is now being offered by Thermoseal Group, giving potential customers the opportunity to sample what the company claims is the UK’s highest performance flexible spacer with a lowest thermal conductivity rating of 0.135W/ mK. Interested participants are encouraged to contact the Thermoseal Group sales team whilst this offer remains available.

Thermoseal Group is a UK manufacturer and supplier of warm edge spacers and over 1,500 insulated glass (IG) components for use in the manufacture of premium IG units. The Group Sales Director, Mark Hickox, says: “After much investment to ensure its superiority, we are delighted to be able to offer UK

sealed unit manufacturers this opportunity”.

“Thermoflex Warm Edge Spacer achieves the highest Passive House rating of phA+ for arctic climates and the best edge resistance within the Passive House component database of spacers – 6.30m K/W. Psi values are as low as 0.027 W/ mK and are the result of continual investments in equipment and skills for testing and benchmarking Thermoflex in comparison to that of other leading flexible spacers.

“The nearest competitor thermal conductivity value is 0.15W/mK (as opposed to 0.135W/mK for Thermoflex), which means that Thermoflex can be exchanged within current Window Energy Rating (WER) simulations

“We understand that the quality of the raw materials is crucial in securing the highest standard of spacer” says Mark. “As well as being produced from the highest quality materials, Thermoflex is also compounded and processed in the exact way to ensure the right tensile and compression properties and UV stability. We are continually investing in new technology and methods to improve and develop this product”.

For your free trial of Thermoflex Warm Edge Spacer, contact your Area Sales Manager now, or call 0845 331 3950 (Intl: 0044 121 331 3950) or email sales@thermosealgroup.com.

Terms and conditions apply.

To find out about Thermoseal Group and its comprehensive range of IG components and machinery, visit www.thermosealgroup.com. For full information about the Group’s warm edge spacers see our multi-lingual websites at www.thermobarwarmedge.com and thermoflexwarmedge.com.

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 75

ON SITE

Romag Go Dutch

With Breeam Certified BIPV Project Romag’s Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) panels have been installed as part of the construction of the renovated head office of Alliander in Arnhem, which was opened early this year in the Netherlands.

This new concept in building integrated photovoltaics combines renewable energy generation with a glass laminate design to enable the PV cell to blend sympathetically into the fabric of the new glazing system.

The bespoke PV system was integrated into the glass atrium that runs centrally through the main building allowing valuable natural light to the centre of the building through thermally efficient low-emissivity glass.

76 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

Working with partners in the Benelux, Hermans Techniglaz, over 633 panels were manufactured for the project at a total coverage of 1500m2, generating 160.000 kWh of electricity each year. The solar panels were installed in the building first, allowing for the almost CO2 neutral building to be able to generate electricity from the beginning. This is also one the Netherlands’ first BREEAM-certified renovation projects.

Rik van Ogtrop, sales director at Hermans Techniglaz commented: “The Alliander Head Office is an iconic building that is an example of modern technology. By using Romag’s innovative BIPV and other renewables, the building is powered by energy that does not pollute the environment and actually

generates more electricity than it consumes. The flexibility of design using BIPV allows it to be installed anywhere; an aesthetic solution to modern building design.”

Romag is a UK pioneer in BIPV, with over 15 years’ experience in this market as well as over 70 years of bespoke glass laminating experience and expertise. The company was established in 1943 and has built a strong reputation around the globe for manufacturing high quality bespoke photovoltaic laminates in a range of shapes and sizes to meet individual client aspirations. Projects for the installation of skylights, facades, windows, covered walkways, spandrel panels and roof lights are regularly undertaken by Romag.

ON SITE

Hazlemere Completes Two-Phase Job For Epping Forest

District Council

Rated Commercial Entrance Doors and completed the refresh with a double glazed aluminium roof lantern.

A large majority of the existing windows also featured traditional blind boxes which when removed left larger than usual structural openings. Hazlemere Commercial carefully filled all the voids and added matching RAL coloured aluminium pressings.

“Over years of experience working on complex local authority jobs, we’ve learned how we can do exceptional work without disturbing everyday operations – and we want to thank everyone employed at Epping Forest District Council for their help and co-operation,” commented Tony Beale, Hazlemere Commercial’s Sales Director.

Outstanding work for schools, colleges, local authorities and other organisations has firmly established Hazelmere’s reputation as one of the region’s leading suppliers of premium architectural aluminium – and now, the firm has expanded its impressive list of completed developments by expertly renovating the civic offices of Epping Forest District Council.

The first phase of renovation saw Hazlemere complete a £200k contract replacing the existing windows of the council’s Conder Building with thermally efficient, thermally broken alternatives. First, the High Wycombe firm designed and manufactured a bespoke steel framework to properly accom-

modate the new products. The firm then supplied and fitted a large number of white-coated, top-hung Sapa Dualframe 75mm casement windows with Kingspan cladding, chosen for their superb durability, acoustic and thermal performance.

The council was so delighted with the professional job done

by Hazlemere Commercial, that they enlisted them to complete a second-phase of renovation on the main civic office building worth £300k plus VAT. Hazlemere replaced the existing windows and manufactured and installed replacement aluminium windows using Sapa’s Dualframe 75SI casement coloured windows and their Tilt and Turn windows. They also fitted Fire

“This job posed a unique challenge where we had to scaffold around an underpass for vehicle access which was in constant use throughout the duration of the project. We had to be versatile to meet challenges like this and to avoid disturbances across the whole council’s operations.”

“We’re delighted by how the project turned out, and, more importantly, so are they. To be asked to come back and complete another project for the council shows the trust local authorities and commercial organisations have in us to complete even the most complex of projects. It also highlights our strong reputation for disturbance-free, seamless operations, allowing councils like Epping to continue to operate unaffected. We look forward to collaborating with the Council again on other projects in the future.” hazlemerecommercial.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 77

ON SITE

tiframe option was used to accommodate opening in and opening out ventilators, negating the requirement for reverse rebate adaptors or couplers.

Wastage was also reduced by using the PURe® multiframe sections, as one section can be used as the outer frame, mullion and transom.

The attractive slim profiles of both the PURe® windows and SF52 curtain walling help flood the interior of the school with natural light and contrast perfectly with the striking blue cladding panels that have been incorporated on the exterior façade to reflect the school’s official colours.

Senior’s Study In Efficiency Two of Senior Architectural System’s most innovative and thermally efficient glazing solutions have been specified for a new high school in Reading, helping to maximise the sense of light and space whilst reducing the environmental impact of the building.

Designed by Maber Architects and delivered by Interserve Kajima Joint Venture, Reading Girls’ School is part of a wider scheme to create seven new secondary schools across Hertfordshire. Luton and Reading 78 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

The new Reading Girls’ School in Berkshire features Senior’s patented low U-value PURe® aluminium casement windows throughout the two three-storey high teaching blocks, with the company’s thermally enhanced SF52 curtain walling used to create the school’s main entrance area and atrium.

Daylighting is a key consideration of the school’s overall design and as the main window pattern required a specific area of visible daylight to be achieved, the PURe® mul-

The contract to provide the fenestration package for the new school saw Senior once again working with leading installers Elite Aluminium Systems Ltd, a key manufacturer and installer of the Senior range of systems for the over 20 years.

Competitively priced compared to standard aluminium windows, Senior’s innovative PURe® system benefits from an enhanced thermal barrier manufactured from expanded polyurethane foam (PUR) and was able to achieve U-values lower than required by the project team. Used alongside the SF52 curtain wall system which has been developed to offer an enhanced thermal performance which exceeds current building regulations, Senior’s fenestration package has played a key role in achieving the building’s thermal targets, improving its environmental efficiency and contributing to the reduced reliance on mechanical cooling and ventilation.

For more information about Senior, visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

ON SITE

Frame Fast Helps To Bring Derbyshire Pub Back To Life

For more than ten years, the Cock Inn at Mugginton, Derbyshire stood empty. Now it has a new lease of life thanks to a £1m restoration and extension project.

Part of the impressive renovation was carried out by one of the East Midlands’ largest window and door fabricator, Frame Fast UK. Frame Fast installed its aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling in the building’s new extension. The large wide-span design of the windows and doors allows plenty of light to fill the inside and provides a perfect view for customers to enjoy the wonderful views across Derbyshire and beyond.

Part of the Berkley Inns Limited group, the Cock Inn’s restoration

includes a newly constructed 3,500 sq. ft extension which houses its new restaurant areas and hi-tech kitchen facility.

Walking towards the new restaurant entrance, customers will first notice the southerly elevation of the new building featuring an eye catching and enormous Oak King truss, encasing and surrounded by Frame Fast’s aluminium framed glazing. Frame Fast’s dedicated Glass Shop created specialised decorative glass incorporating the Cock Inn logo for the aluminium framed doors.

“We have been delighted with all of Frame Fast’s work on the extension,” says Howard Thacker, M.D. Berkeley Inns Ltd. “The spectacular glazing in the new

extension provides fabulous architectural interest.

“When delivering projects like this to strict timescales and with reliable and extraordinary quality a necessity, it gives serious peace of mind to have a company like Frame Fast on board and to know you can rely on them.”

The Cock Inn is the second pub Frame Fast has worked on with the group. It also provided the doors and windows to the new extension at the very successful Three Horseshoes in Long Lane village, Derbyshire.

“After being impressed with the work Frame Fast carried out at The Three Horseshoes, we knew we could count on them to do a fantastic job on the Cock Inn too,” adds Howard.

“We have recently acquired two more outlets requiring significant work, no doubt we’ll be working with Frame Fast again very soon.”

For Frame Fast’s website, visit www.framefastuk.com.

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 79

ON SITE

Hazlemere Goes Green

With £2.3M College Installation Experienced architectural glazing specialists Hazlemere Commercial have completed a £2.3m installation project on a sustainability award-winning Devon school.

The Buckinghamshire firm, respected throughout the industry for its extensive expertise in the education sector, was contracted to supply and install window and door products for the recently-completed Bideford College building. Capable of housing 1,800 students, and part of the Launceston College Multi Academy Trust, the college was funded through the government’s now-defunct Building Schools for the Future programme. The overall scheme went on to win a coveted RIBA Award.

Working in collaboration with 80 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

Devon County Council and UK construction group Morgan Sindall, Hazlemere designed, manufactured and fitted a large number of aluminium casements, as well as aluminium curtain walling and entrance doors.

The project required extensive effort in the façade engineering stage to incorporate Stow render panels, needed to achieve the wide spans desired while still giving the appearance of a seamless joint.

“One of the key stipulations of this project was maximising sustainability and energy efficiency,” explains Hazlemere Commercial Sales Director Tony Beale. “For that reason, we used Sapa 55 and 75 windows, manufactured from 100% recycled aluminium billet and ca-

pable of delivering outstanding thermal performance.”

Hazlemere Commercial also installed Sapa Elegance 52 aluminium curtain walling and Sapa Commercial aluminium entrance doors, as well as an impressive sloping aluminium roof lantern light measuring 70m in length.

“This was a challenging but extremely rewarding project for us,” commented Tony. “It’s been hugely satisfying for us to play a part in establishing a school that will service tens of thousands of students over the next few decades – and have ensured that the stunning new building will be as sustainable and thermally efficient as possible. We want to thank Morgan Sindall and Devon County Council for their help and co-operation throughout. We’re delighted by how the project turned out, and we hope to work with both organisations on other projects in the future.” hazlemerecommercial.co.uk

ON SITE

Truglaze Transforms Derelict

Orphanage With Solidor

doors says: “Solidor works perfectly in a high end development like this. The doors complete the look, and add to the quality feel of the properties. We find homeowners can feel the quality and security when they open a Solidor, and with their stunning looks, they add a lot to new developments. That’s why we don’t sell anything else.”

Solidor CEO Gareth Mobley says: “We make doors that homeowners fall in love with. Homeowners demand the best security but they won’t fall in love with security; they will fall in love with the way Solidor transforms the look of their home.

A derelict building in Hampshire has been transformed by 14 stunning anthracite grey Solidor composite doors. The building, which used to be an orphanage, has been developed into fourteen separate homes and given a new lease of life with beautifully secure front doors.

In this development, a contemporary design and colour were chosen to enhance traditional features and the beauty of the bricks, giving the whole building a high-end feel.

“This development is absolutely stunning,” Gareth adds. “It shows how important the right style and colour is. In this case, the anthracite grey and bold design add incredible kerb appeal, giving the property real wow-factor.”

Dave Gaunt, Director of Truglaze, the company that installed the

www.truglaze.co.uk, www.solidor.co.uk

A Conservative Conservation Installation

Liverpool-based Picton Glass and Joinery completed an impressive renovation project recently in one of the city’s key conservation areas.

A total of 48 windows were installed on the Parkfield Road building, which is home to 9 apartments in the Sefton Park area, and the project took around 3 months to complete. Frank Hare, owner of the Glazerite UK Group customer, was approached by a long-standing customer to supply and install the windows, and together they worked with the city’s conversation department to satisfy specific planning requirements, which included providing sample windows and technical information for prior approval.

“The installation included a selection of products to the front of the property, including Residence 9 Flush Casements and VEKA Vertical Sliding windows, with VEKA FS70 Casements to the sides and rear of the building. The original timber architraves were retained inside to keep the authentic period appearance, and all were finished in a white foil, and the property owner is really pleased with the finished results.”

Glazerite’s Group Director Jason Thompson com-

mented: “Looking around at the surrounding properties that still retain original windows it is very in keeping with the heritage style, but with greatly improved security and thermal efficiencies, and Frank’s customer will have much less upkeep over the years to come.” www.pictonglassandjoinery.co.uk www.glazeritewindows.co.uk.

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 81

MARKETING

Scheme that could provide such useful and detailed information.

FKH has been in development for many months and is the result of substantial investment.

FKH will be an evolving information hub – with new functionality due to be added over the next few months. FENSA would also like to hear from members about what extra functions they would find useful – with a view to possibly adding them too.

Get A Competitive Edge

With The New FENSA

Knowledge Hub The FENSA Knowledge Hub (FKH) is a new, revolutionary web-based management and marketing tool.

It processes all the information installers input during the notification process on the FENSA website – and offers it to them as easy to understand, informative data, much of which is graphically presented. It is available for free to FENSA members only.

aggregated data by Local Authority area or nationally.

FENSA installers will be able to evaluate their performance and prices against the market average, identify sales and marketing opportunities, view their inspection history, compare performance over the previous year and much more besides.

FENSA has been gathering all this data and not using it – let alone providing it as an installer management tool. We thought it was about time we did.”

All the knowledge held on the FKH comes from the notification process, so is information already supplied by FENSA installers.

This is then combined with local government information on population, housing stock etc. Each installer will be able to see only their company specific data – and will not be able to view any other installers’ information. But, installers will be able to view industry 82 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

Jon Vanstone, FENSA director, commented: “The FENSA Knowledge Hub will provide a vital insight for our members. It will allow them to better analyse their performance, indicate sales and marketing opportunities, and identify inspection pass and fail patterns.

Most of this data is already available in a FENSA installer’s portal, but in a very inaccessible format.

It would take significant time and effort for installers to create something usable with that data. With the FKH, all the hard work has been done for them.

However, this kind of data is only available on the FKH. With FENSA’s 80% plus market share, 15 years’ experience and specialist IT expertise it is the only glazing business or Competent Persons

Vanstone concluded: “The Knowledge Hub provides a commercial opportunity for FENSA registered firms’ available no-where else, that should give them an edge over other installers, and allow them to harness the power of their data.”

The FENSA Knowledge Hub goes live on 4th April. For existing FENSA members just click on the link in the email that you will receive on 4th April, or visit www. fensaknowledgehub.co.uk and follow the Sign Up process (you will need your FENSA registration number). Only the main FENSA contact email address will have access initially. Other emails can be added with the installers permission.

For those interested in joining FENSA and gaining access to FKH, please visit www.fensa. co.uk The FENSA Knowledge Hub will be demonstrated at the FIT Show on the FENSA Stand (No 30, Hall 8). Information on how to use FKH will also be provided in the next edition of the FENSA Now newsletter, via direct emails to FENSA members, at the regular FENSA Seminars, on social media and via a programme of webinars.

There is also a ‘Help’ YouTube video: http://bit.ly/fkh-help Specific questions can also be sent in via contact@fensaknowledgehub.co.uk

MARKETING

#SolidorStyleWall

Campaign

Takes Off

New Video Showcases Dempsey Dyer’s Passion For uPVC Yorkshire fabricator Dempsey Dyer has released a new video promoting its comprehensive range of uPVC windows, doors and conservatories: youtu.be/P5KwpLAmLb0 Already highly regarded in the industry for its timber expertise, the stylish clip seeks to highlight how the firm brings that same dedication and excellence to uPVC, highlighting both the quality and diversity of its uPVC products, and its 30-year partnership with systems company Deceuninck.

“In the internet age, video marketing is hugely valuable for businesses like ours,” commented Managing Director Peter Dyer. “Videos aren’t just a great way of showcasing ourselves to a wider audience, they also help our trade clients share the benefits of the products we provide to their potential customers.

“We’ve got big ambitions for the uPVC side of the business – it’s an area that’s got huge growth potential for us. In the industry, we’re well known for timber – but now, we want to be just as well known for quality uPVC products. We’ve

got one of the most comprehensive, cost-competitive Deceuninck ranges in the UK, all made with the same commitment to craftsmanship and quality that’s given us such a strong reputation in other areas – and we’d like to encourage installers who’ve not considered us as a potential uPVC supplier before to come and give us a try.”

As part of their uPVC range, Dempsey Dyer produce casement, tilt and turn and flush sash windows, as well a number of door options, including French doors, patio doors and residential doors.

The firm also manufactures and supplies its own composite timber-effect product, the Beaumont, which marries its expertise in both joinery and uPVC and features mechanical joints and an authentic woodgrain finish.

Founded in 1977 by brothers Tom and Bob Dyer, and now run by Tom’s son Peter, Dempsey Dyer has expanded to become one of Yorkshire’s foremost providers of timber and uPVC windows and doors. The company’s relationship with Deceuninck stretches back over 30 years. www.dempseydyer.co.uk

Solidor, manufacturer of timber-core composite doors, has launched its #SolidorStyleWall campaign. Fabricators and installers already share their stunning project photos on their own and Solidor’s Twitter stream. Now installers posting their photos with the hashtag #SolidorStyleWall will enter a competition to showcase their work in Solidor’s advertising and marketing material. Any installer featured will be credited so the industry can see their excellent work.

If installers are not sure their photography skills are up to the job, there’s a blog on the Solidor website with tips on how to take the best installation photo, which can be found here: www. bit.ly/SolidorPhotoGuide. The winning projects then get photographed professionally before appearing.

Solidor CEO Gareth Mobley says: “We love seeing our beautiful doors in beautiful homes, and our followers love to share them with us.

“Solidor installers are passionate about selling Solidor because it’s truly world-class, so they sell more doors. Not only is Solidor the most secure composite door, it’s beautiful, and we make sure the service is world-class too. We’re working to 99.8% of all orders delivered on time and in full.

“We want to credit our customers for their great work,” adds Gareth. “#SolidorStyleWall will showcase the best installers in the market.” www.solidor.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 83

MARKETING

Fullex And UAP Prove They Are In Perfect Harmony

Fullex Locks and UAP Limited have been making all sorts of magic since uniting some months ago –but now they are making music too. The companies showcase the combined talents of their testing facilities, not only on their products, but on our ears.

In a new promotional video, the machines at both UAP’s onsite testing centre and the Fullex UKAS accredited testing centre can be

seen making music in a clever sequence of clips using sounds from the equipment.

Both companies have extensive testing facilities. David Jennings, UAP MD said: “At UAP we are constantly striving to improve on the products we already supply as well as develop new, pioneering ranges; and product testing is at the centre of this ongoing development.

“With an in house testing centre and product developer, each stage of the process is thorough, from the initial design right down to the final product. In house 3D printing technology allows for further and more precise advancement of our products which are then expertly manufactured and put through stringent testing conditions using in house test equipment – ensuring all products are designed to the highest standards.”

The UKAS Accredited Fullex Testing Laboratory has a range of assessments and equipment dedicated to PAS24 testing and certification – something that can only be done using a UKAS accredited lab.

The latest video is not only a creative demonstration of these testing machines at work, but further evidence that UAP and Fullex are proving to be completely in unison!

Distinction Doors’ Online Ordering Example Of Customer Support Distinction Doors has been reviewing the success of its online ordering system. Sarah Denham, Distinction’s Customer Service Manager, comments: “We kept the needs of our customers at the forefront of our minds when we were developing our online ordering system so it’s great to see how popular it’s proving.”

Distinction’s online ordering system has all the hallmarks of a tool designed to add value to a customer’s business. Perhaps the most important of these is the speed at which an order can be placed – under a minute from start to finish, which is good news when time is money. Orders placed online are subject to a later cut-off time than orders placed over the phone or email, giving you a few extra precious minutes each day before the order book closes too.

Then there’s the flexibility of the system. You can build an order then come back to it later, safe in the knowledge it will be saved on the system in the meantime.

Each door order comes complete with the price and 84 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

list of materials used so you have a quick reference when you’re doing administration and accounting.

There are options to review and modify orders before placing them so you can double check the details before submitting them. And there is a copy function so you can place repeat orders at the click of a mouse.

You can choose to have as many logins as you want, so not only can any number of people have the ability to place orders, you’ve also got complete traceability and transparency about who ordered what in the event of a query.

Overall, the system is quick, simple and intuitive to use so it can add value to a business from the very first time it’s used.

Sarah is also keen to add that the system is under constant review so it can keep delivering value: “We encourage our customers to give us feedback about our online ordering system so we can develop the most popular requests into new features. It’s only by listening like this that we can continue to exceed expectations.” www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

MARKETING

Prefix Launch Content Rich New Website Prefix Systems have launched an impressive content rich new website, which details information about their products for the extended living space and outdoor living markets, alongside aluminium and hybrid window and door systems.

The new website at www.prefixsystems.co.uk offers site visitors with a wealth of information from their broad product range, which is now available from five manufacturing sites serving the entire UK, with the recent addition of Sussex-based Pavilion Systems.

Navigation has been carefully organised with products split into six categories of glazed roofs, solid insulated roofs, Orangeries, skylights and rooflights, outdoor living and doors and windows.

Additional information is also covered on specialist glass, Velux rooflights, dedicated products

for the replacement conservatory market and specific content on their impressive OPUS aluminium-timber composite system.

Latest news is carried on the site, along with a live Twitter feed and a Live Chat facility, which has already proven particularly useful.

There is now a dedicated page for the impressive Verandah system, along with new OPUS and WARMroof product pages, while a dedicated FIT Show page will carry important information before, during and after the industry’s

important and only trade show. A new download area is also being worked on, which will include the eagerly anticipated, new 2017 Prefix Product Directory, after its launch at the FIT Show.

As a people driven business, the website also details full contact details for each of their branches, with a number of e-mail contacts listed by branch including support, quotations, external sales and accounts. Proudly listed on the home page are a number of the most recent business awards that Prefix has picked up over the last three years, reflecting the culture built up at the company which is now in its 21st year of trading.

Hannah Gilrane, marketing co-ordinator of Prefix Systems commented: ‘The new Prefix website is a content rich platform for the trade, with easy to use navigation. Given our particularly broad product range, it’s an opportunity for us to support trade partners with important information, clearly laid out and all underpinned by the award-winning service that we offer.’ www.prefixsystems.co.uk

Find Everything Aluminium In AlufoldDirect’s New Brochure ‘Everything Aluminium’ is the new brochure from AluFoldDirect, helping installers show their customers what can be achieved in aluminium doors and windows.

“We’ve listened to what installers want and created an incredible coffee-table brochure with stunning installation photos, so people can see the possibilities in aluminium windows and doors,” says Craig Miller, Managing Director at AluFoldDirect.

The ‘Everything Aluminium’ brochure features the full AluFoldDirect aluminium range including bi-folding doors, sliding doors, slimline windows, roof lanterns, RD1 Entrance Doors and commercial windows and doors.

Craig continues: “It’s important that the brochure reflects the quality of the aluminium products we make, to help our customers win business. From the

choice of paper to the selection of project images, everything about the brochure makes readers feel inspired to choose aluminium. We know that many of our customers work on commercial as well as residential projects, so we’ve added a section showing our range of Secured by Design commercial glazing.”

The 28-page brochure includes details about the hardware available for each product, carefully selected by AluFoldDirect to enhance performance and aesthetics. There is also information on the colour options available, with advice on the most on-trend colours, held in stock by AluFoldDirect for faster lead times. www.alufolddirect.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 85

MARKETING

SMARTGLASS Dynamic Sales Kits Are In Demand

Just a few weeks after launch, requests for the new SMARTGLASS® Dynamic sample kits have exceeded two hundred, with companies and individuals keen to try out this revolutionary, self-tinting, glass technology for conservatories, Orangeries and other glazing elements.

Jason McCabe commercial and site director of Clayton Glass commented: ‘The number of requests for the glass has exceeded expectations by some way in just a matter of weeks.

We believe this technology has considerable scope for the conservatory sector in particular, given the fact we can make units in any shape and delivered nationwide within 10-14 days from point of order.

There has been considerable investment in these handy-sized sample kits, which encourages users to place a sample piece of SMARTGLASS® Dynamic in any hot liquid for 30 seconds. After such time the glass has transformed from a clear to a darkened state, reflective of the process that occurs when this glass technology is exposed to direct sunlight in various window, door and glazed roof elements.

Depending upon the surface temperature of SMARTGLASS® Dynamic, it offers a clear state close to that of a standard glass

an impressive G-value of 10%.

This performance measurement is in fact better than any offer conservatory roof glass in the UK including the class-leading SMARTGLASS® Ultra 86. For everything else in between, the glass unit will offer various states of semi-tinted appearance and active solar control, 365 days a year.

unit and at the other end of the spectrum, a darkened state that not only tints but offers considerable solar control with

He continues: ‘Sales savvy companies will look to promote this technology to early adopting consumers eager for an adaptive and dynamic living environment.’ www.smart-glass.co.uk.

New SWISSPACER Sample Box In Your

Marketing Toolkit

Following the success of SWISSPACER’s Marketing Toolkit, the company has added a sample box with an array of warm edge spacer bars. The sample box helps fabricators and installers sell the benefits of SWISSPACER warm edge.

The sample box contains SWISSPACER Ultimate in 8mm, 10mm, 11mm, 12mm, 14mm, 15mm and 16mm samples in the standard colour range of six neutral shades. SWISSPACER is available in a further 11 colours. The box also contains a handy 1:1 scale inlay for easy measurement of the sample sizes.

Andy Everett, SWISSPACER UK National Account Manager, says: “The sample box is an 86 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

easy, informative way for sealed unit makers and fabricators to demonstrate to their customers the attractive matt finish and clean, crisp lines Ultimate creates. It’s a chance to examine and feel the product. This is just one element of our Marketing Toolkit, which contains an app, videos, brochures, labels, stickers and data sheets – a perfect way to improve your arsenal of sales tools and make it easy to sell the benefits of energy-saving warm edge.” www.swisspacer.com

MARKETING Manager. “We were talking about our #SashShots competition, and someone came up with #SashSelfies. We loved the idea so we decided to go ahead and do it!”

Roseview Asks Installers To

Strike A Pose With #SashSelfies Building on their successful #SashShots picture campaign, sash window specialists Roseview are encouraging their installers to show their fun side by taking part in their #SashSelfies competition.

To enter the competition and to be in with a chance of winning a small prize, installers need to take a selfie in front of the Rose Collection sash window they have just in-

stalled. Each month Roseview will choose a winning selfie to receive a prize, with the twelve winners put to a public vote to decide the winner of Selfie of the Year.

“The competition stemmed from a conversation we were having with some customers on social media and we thought it was a great idea,” commented Mike Bygrave, Roseview’s Marketing

The Rose Collection is comprised of three models that provide an authentic timber-effect sash window at any price point. The Eurocell-based Charisma Rose is an accessible and cost-effective vertical slider, the REHAU-based Heritage Rose offers convincing design cues that hark back to classic sash windows, and the marquee Ultimate Rose is, as the name suggests, the ultimate sash window, with every detail expertly crafted to ensure the finished product is incomparably authentic.

The #SashSelfies competition builds on Roseview’s earlier #SashShots Installation of the Month competition which asked installers to take shots of their finished Rose Collection projects.

Each month one entrant received a bottle a bubbly, with a DSLR camera the prize for the SashShot of the Year. www.roseview.co.uk

What Do You Get If You Cross A Palladio Door

With Formula 1 And Everglade Windows?

Fast fitting, a superior strength monocoque structure and streamlined design – Palladio Doors and F1 cars have more in common than you might think.

That’s why Everglade Windows is launching a brand-new competition, to run for the duration of this year’s Formula 1 season.

Sales and Marketing Director, Jay Patel explains: “Palladio Doors have the same monocoque structure as a Formula 1 car. The technology is used in both instances to offer superior strength to the product.

“At Everglade, we have always

race. Everyone who enters and answers correctly will receive a voucher worth £37 off a Palladio Door purchased from Everglade Windows. championed Palladio Doors for their impressive security benefits, unique design options and fantastic energy efficiency. And we’re all big Formula 1 fans too, so this new competition is a great way to bring the two together.”

The competition will be run online, on Everglade’s social media channels and via email. Everglade will ask a question about the home of each circuit before the

Jay adds: “All correct answers throughout the season will also go into a prize draw to win a magnum of champagne, in the true style of Formula 1. We thought it might be fun for customers. After all, what’s there to lose?”

To be notified of the competition opening visit www.evergladetrade.co.uk/palladio-f1-comp/ for more details.

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 87

AWARDS

BSi Recognition

For Fast-Growing Fenster Fabrications Torquay’s Fenster Fabrications has achieved the highly respected BSi BS 4873/PAS24 accreditation. Trading for eleven years, the firm is one of the South West’s foremost aluminium suppliers, offering the full range of Smarts windows and doors to trade customers throughoutthe South West region.

Director Tony Drake. “We wanted BSi accreditation to ensure that no matter who uses our services, whether they be trade clients, commercial developers or end users, they can have complete confidence in Fenster and the products we provide – and we’re absolutely delighted to have been approved.

BSi recognition adds another valuable selling point to a product range that’s already among the most extensive in the region.

First trademarked in 1903, the BSi kitemark proves a product has been rigorously and independently tested for safety, quality and reliability.

This is just a start, though. We’re constantly striving to improve – and our next goal is to join the Secured by Design initiative, thereby offering potential customers even greater assurance that when they buy from Fenster, they’re getting the highest quality aluminium windows and doors.”

“For recognition among consumers and the trade, few standards can match BSi,” commented Fenster Fabrications Managing

Managed by the Association of Chief Police Officers and now mandatory for public buildings and social housing, Secured by

88 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

Design consists of a number of standards designed to encourage businesses to build crime prevention measures into their products.

Long respected for its uncompromising commitment to quality and outstanding design, Fenster has been used on a number of occasions to test new products by systems company Smarts.

In addition to offering the full range of products from Smarts, the company also manufactures Üni_Slide, an ultra-slim aluminium sliding door, equally suited to commercial and residential applications. Üni_Slide can achieve frame sightlines as slim as 20mm, and a slim central interlock, while being able to support sliding panels of up to 3m high and 2.2m wide. The product can be assembled in a limitless run of units, with each panel capable of holding up to 320kg of glass.

For more information, visit www.uni-slide.com

AWARDS

Alternative Windows Achieves Certification With Bluesky

Alternative Windows has achieved certification with Bluesky for the manufacture of windows and doorsets to BS7412 and PAS 24, and IGUs to EN 1279.

“When choosing a certification body, credibility, service and value Double R Glass & Roofing Systems is pleased to award two £50 Amazon vouchers to its Open House prize draw winners.

Richard Freeman of Three Shires Glazing and Mark Richards of CRK Windows Ltd both took home the prize having had their names picked out of a hat following their attendance at Double R’s recent two-day Open House event.

“The Open House gave existing and new customers alike the opportunity to view the first automated IGU line of its kind in the world, at our facility in Northamptonshire,” says Ian Sims, Managing Director of Double R. “As well as having front row seats to see high automation in action, visitors were given full access to our roofing and decorative centres.

“We were happy to open our

for money were all important considerations for us,” says Nigel Fletcher, Director at Alternative Windows. “Certification is much more than just having a certificate to put on the wall – we need a company that can quickly react to our needs and keep us up to date

with the latest requirements.

“Bluesky Certification is UKAS accredited, recognised by Secured

by Design, and their staff are clearly knowledgeable in doors, windows and glass. They also have an innovative approach with an emphasis on customer service, which fits well with our business.

Having worked with Simon Beer over many years we had a good idea of what we might expect from Bluesky and the transition has so far worked very well.”

Simon Beer, Managing Director of Bluesky Certification says: “When we launched Bluesky Certification we felt that there was a gap in the market for a credible certification body that was prepared to differentiate itself through the service provided to its customers. It is good to see that companies such as Alternative Windows consider the quality of service provided as a key factor when choosing their certification body.” www.blueskycert.com

Double R Awards Prizes To

Open House Winners prizes to two quality focused companies in Three Shires Glazing and CRK Windows.

doors to the industry and show them what we have to offer that’s different to other sealed unit manufacturers, but we wanted to encourage as many people to visit us as possible, hence the added incentive of the prize draw on both days of the Open House event. We are pleased to give the

“For anyone that would still like to visit us to see how we achieve the right balance between high automation and a personal touch, we are happy to welcome fabricators and installers to our premises at any time. We’re proud of what we do and how we do it so are happy to have an open doors policy to anyone who is interested in buying quality products from an efficient supplier.” www.glassandroofs.com WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 89

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

GGF Training Re-Brands To Helix Training As part of the branding strategy of the recently formed Helix Group, the organisation has re-branded GGF Training to Helix Training (www.trainwithhelix.co.uk). The newly named company will deliver the same level of excellent service as before, aiming to add more benefits and exciting new features for companies in the glass and glazing industry.

The Helix Group was formed in 2016 by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) to harness the resources and talents of all the GGF’s subsidiary companies.

Along with FENSA, GGFi, Borough IT, RISA and BFRC – Helix Training will add to the collective services the Helix Group offers to the industry.

Jon Vanstone, Helix Group CEO commented on the introduction of Helix Training: “We are incredibly proud of what GGF Training achieved since it was launched at the end of 2013. From the development of a successful MTC (Minimal Technical Competency) program to an ambitious and continually evolving syllabus of industry training, there is a lot of potential for future opportunity. We believe that with the support of Helix Group, Helix Training will be able to reach this potential, having 90 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

a greater impact on the broader home improvement market.”

Helix Training will be based with the rest of Helix Group at the new GGF Offices in Rushworth Street, London. Rebecca Healy, Development Manager of Helix Training was pleased to note: “With the new company, the new brand name and the new building it feels like the beginning of a new chapter in training for all connected to the Group. Helix Training has a lot of plans for the continuation and refinement of what has gone before with GGF Training including Individual Compliance, previously known as MTC, and specialist industry training; as well as a new suite of courses designed to develop individuals and businesses to their highest potential.”

While there are exciting and innovative changes happening within the group, Helix Training is still run by the same trusted team behind GGF Training, and will continue to deliver their services with the same passion, drive and level of excellence as before.

For their training portfolio, the start of 2017 sees the addition of a number of business courses offered in conjunction with the Build-

ing Merchants Federation (BMF).

These courses are in addition to the existing training offered by Helix Training; Fire Resistant Glazing and Manual Handling, delivered in partnership with the GGF and Pristine Condition respectively.

The Helix Group and the subsidiary companies under its umbrella remain wholly owned by the GGF, who will take a step sideways from subsidiary activity in order to focus fully on the needs of members.

Brian Baker, GGF Chief Executive (interim) commented: “We are delighted to see the formation of Helix Training. To ensure the training needs of GGF Members are still served, the GGF has set up a Training division within its technical department, headed up

by Sarah Herbert who was part of the GGF Training team since its formation in 2013. Both the GGF Training department and Helix Training will work together to deliver the best training courses for the GGF Membership.”

For further information, please visit the Helix Training website www. trainwithhelix.co.uk. Otherwise you can contact a member of the team on info@trainwithhelix.co.uk or +44 (0)844 848 2855.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

BWF Launches Employment Guidance To Leave Joinery Businesses With More

Time To Do What They Do Best The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has launched a number of employment guides and new draft policies to support how a joinery business can employ, manage and appraise members of staff.

The raft of documents aims to provide clear guidance on often-tricky employment matters and leave BWF member joinery businesses with more time to do what they do best – manufacture and sell highclass joinery products.

The guidance features a new employee handbook that BWF members can adapt and use, plus further information on appraisal techniques and an example contract for prospective employees.

This is in addition to template policies covering areas such as social media use, company vehicles, data protection and maternity/paternity leave.

Even the trickiest aspects of

employment are covered, with easily downloadable information addressing the procedures for managing ill-health absence, how to set out a clear disciplinary and redundancy process and the right way to handle employment tribunal claims.

Jim Horsman, Joint Managing Director of Icklesham Joinery Ltd said: “The BWF’s business support has been an invaluable resource for us

over the years and this is especially true of the employment advice they give to members. They offer a fantastic spread of documents providing easy to follow guidance which helps staff and business alike. As joinery manufacturers and installers, we have plenty to deal with in terms of regulatory changes and anything that allows us to focus further on the needs of our customers is a huge benefit.”

As well as aiding the management of staff, the new resources can help attract new employees, assist with Pre-qualification Questionnaires and support compliance with the BWF Code of Conduct which sets out the principles of good practice for a woodworking or joinery business.

BWF produces a wide range of publications to support members and the joinery industry. On the BWF website, members can find a wealth of information, including the popular Machine Safety Cards, Contractual Guidance and Technical Advice, all supported by the BWF member helplines. The documents can be downloaded from www.bwf.org.uk/publications.

Indigo Sees Way Clear To Invest In

Apprenticeship Training Epwin Group company, Indigo Products has recently celebrated with 55 of its employees achieving their NVQ level II certificates in either ‘Fabrication of Glass Supporting Structures’ or ‘Glass and Glass Related Distribution and Warehousing’.

The Walsall based business ran the scheme over a 12-month period using the SFA funded Apprenticeship route, in collaboration with a GQA Approved Centre – The Vocational College, who provides a range of industry glazing qualifications, written and awarded by leading awarding body GQA Qualification Limited.

The scheme ensures staff benefit from the fundamentals of Maths and English, as well as gaining a recognised glass and glazing industry qualification. The programme consists of online training, regular face-to-

face group sessions and one-on-one mentoring for additional support.

Stephen Faulkner, general manager at Indigo Products explains: “We are totally committed to our team and we think it is important to not only provide jobs, but actually provide a career-based occupation. By achieving the qualifications; the team now understand the need to provide a higher level of quality work, at the same time as enhancing their own careers in the future – with many fenestration companies now recognising the qualification through the promotional efforts of GQA and associated centres.”

WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017 91

CHARITY

people in supporting on these two fantastic organisations – it’s totally indicative of the great spirit that we have here in Eurocell. We are in uncertain times and, in days like these, charities cannot rely on the largesse of the public in their usual way – and we imagine every penny will be most welcome, not least by those assisted and cared for both by Starlight and the DLRAA”.

Eurocell’s Charity

Support Takes Flight

And Gives Light

Eurocell has announced a powerful new initiative for 2017 which sees the company adopting two charities – one national and one local – for which to ‘officially’ raise funds. The company is aiming to harness the altruism and energy of its staff in this fund-raising and, to match this, the Eurocell board has also committed to augment approved employee efforts with corporate contributions.

The two charities Eurocell is formally supporting are the Starlight Children’s Foundation and Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA).

Starlight seeks to brighten the lives of seriously and terminally ill children by ‘wish granting’ and by providing fun, entertainment and distraction for children in every children’s hospital ward and hospice throughout the United Kingdom. All Starlight’s activities are aimed at taking children away from the pain, fear and isolation they can often experi92 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2017

ence as a result of their illnesses.

Starlight’s year-round programme helps over 500,000 hospitalised children every year.

The DLRAA is Eurocell’s own local airborne paramedic service.

Its two regional air ambulances fly across the counties of Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland; and also provide cover for its sister service: the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance – both organisations being part of The Air Ambulance Service Charity.

These two helicopters provide a rapid response to trauma and medical emergencies over an area of 3850 square miles covering many of the UK’s major road networks including the M1, M6, M69 and M42. With an average response of just 13 minutes, between them they attend, on average, six missions a day.

Mark Kelly, Eurocell CEO, says of the fundraising scheme, “You can only commend the initiative of our

Collette Richardson, Fundraising Manager for DLRAA, said; ‘’This fantastic support from Eurocell is a huge boost for us. It costs us £1700 to fly every lifesaving mission and we rely on the public to keep our services going so being chosen as Eurocell ‘s charity of the year is really great news”.

If you’d like more details about Starlight or the DLRAA, or are considering donating, then please follow either of these links: www.starlight.org.uk theairambulanceservice.org.uk www.eurocell.co.uk

20TH - 26TH AUGUST 2017 WWW.JUSTGIVING.COM/COMPANYTEAMS/GMFP2P WWW.GMFUNDRAISING.CO.UK/PADDLE2PEDAL/ FOLLOW OU R PROGRESS !

#GMFP2P PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

CANOEING FROM GLASBURY TO CHEPSTOW (100 MILES)

ABSEIL CYCLING FROM CHEPSTOW TO HOPE HOUSE (120 MILES)

WWW.GMFUNDRAISING.CO.UK

@GMFUNDRAISING

PADDLE

Want to talk to over 14,000 window companies?

Now you can - because we’re bringing them all to the FIT Show!

Do you want to sell to fabricators, installers and trade counters in the UK? Need results fast? We can help you.

Windowbase is the UK’s first and only data specialist with a 100% focus on the window, door and conservatory industry. We offer much more than names and addresses – our prospect data can be tailored to your requirements. So whether you want to target Synseal fabricators in the Midlands or Smart installers in the North, using direct mail, email or telemarketing, we can help.

So stop looking and start selling with Windowbase.

See us at the FIT Show 23-25 May on Stand K3

e: info@windowbase.info t: 01453 845717 w: www.windowbase.info