Rob McGlennon Announced UK MD Of Deceuninck 6
REHAU What’s In A Number? 36
Trade Frame Doubles Up With Kombimatec 66
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WINDOWNEWS
CONTENTS WINDOW NEWS
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TRADE NEWS 4
NEWS W INDOW WINDOW SYSTEMS 36 INDUSTRY DIRECTORY PEOPLE 31
WINDOW
PRODUCT NEWS 44 MACHINERY 66
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ON-SITE 70 THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS
MARKETING 78 AWARDS & EVENTS
84
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
90
W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS
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WINDOW NEWS JULY- AUGUST 2017 3
TRADE NEWS Clearview, Chris Mitchell (Managing Director) and Andrew Ross (Installations Director) will remain in their day-to-day roles beyond the deal together with Sales Director Gary Oakes, with a longer-term succession plan to follow.
Left to right: Michael Giscombe (Managing Director, Conservatory Outlet Limited), Andrew Ross (Installations Director, Clearview Home Improvements), Greg Kane (CEO, Conservatory Outlet Group), Chris Mitchell (Managing Director, Clearview Home Improvements)
Acquisition No.2 Of 2017 For Conservatory Outlet: The Conservatory Outlet Group has announced its second acquisition of 2017 with a deal that welcomes North West retailer Clearview Home Improvements to the family, taking the Group’s combined revenue to over £40million. This latest deal is a firm stake in the ground from Group CEO Greg Kane and Conservatory Outlet Limited’s Managing Director Michael Giscombe, realising their goal of bringing together the ‘best of regional’ with the ‘scale of national’. The purchase of Clearview, combined with the recent acquisition of Pennine Home Improvements, gives the Group a sizeable inroad to consumer sales. This in turn allows fabricator Conservatory Outlet Limited to pick up valuable insight from two of the North’s leading retail and installation companies to
bring the customer closer to the business than ever before. Greg explains: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome our long-standing Network partners Clearview to the CO Group. With an unbeatable reputation for local excellence in the North West, the team at Clearview will continue to augment their unique approach to home improvement, imparting their innovative solutions with our Network to stimulate wider growth we never thought possible a year ago.” Clearview, with showrooms in Warrington, Preston and Nantwich, has seen its sales double to around £14million since joining the Network in 2009. The new combined turnover represents a six-fold growth for the Conservatory Outlet Group in just seven years. Exiting as shareholders of
4 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
Chris Mitchell says: “We’re thrilled to be part of the Conservatory Outlet Group and the opportunities that it brings for our company. Greg and Michael were the obvious choice to purchase our business, we trust them implicitly and know that they’re as passionate about our company as we are – this move is very much about accelerating our growth.” Conservatory Outlet Limited will remain a B2B company with a strong understanding of the retail market – with both Clearview and Pennine running side by side as sister companies within the CO Group. As with Pennine, Clearview will retain exclusivity of its trading area within the network so the deal does not conflict with any of the group’s 23 other retail partners around the UK. Greg concludes: “Our existing Network of retail installers should be truly motivated by this latest move – the opportunities for Growth with CO are stronger and more real than ever before, with a unique culture emerging that sets aside our family as a cut above the rest. “We’re continuing to actively seek new retailers in untapped areas of the UK – this is a really exciting time to become part of our Network.” For further information on Conservatory Outlet, visit www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk For further information on Clearview Home Improvements, visit www.clearviewhome.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Roy Frost Acquires Essex
Based Fabricator GJB
GJB Group Photo – Centre front row: Ken Blackman (previous owner), Roy Frost (Managing Director), Gary Bristow (Sales Director) and Mike Wolstenholme (Operations Director) outside the GJB factory
Roy Frost is back in the industry having bought prominent Eurocell fabricator GJB from previous owners Ken Blackman and Gary Bristow. Roy will assume the position of Managing Director, spearheading a new era of growth for the £12m turnover Essex based fabricator, while Ken Blackman will retire and Gary Bristow will continue in his role as Sales Director. Mike Wolstenholme also joins the company as Operations Director, having previously spent his career in window fabrication with market leaders Epwin Group, Everest and JELD-WEN. Commenting on the acquisition Roy said: “GJB is a fantastic business with a loyal customer base and I am absolutely delighted to take the reins. Operationally the business is very strong and I’m looking forward to applying some of my own ideas to take the company to the next level. Ken put his heart and soul into the business for the last 27 years and I wish him all the best in his very well-earned retirement. We’ve renewed the leases on the factory units and already have exciting plans for growth.” Previous owner Ken Blackman commented: “GJB has been a big part of my life for so long it was very important to me that I left the company in the right hands. When Roy expressed an interest I immediately knew it was the perfect fit – he has the experience and ability to drive the company forward and I’m delighted we were able to strike a deal.” Ken started GJB back in 1990 with his friend and business partner Gary Bristow, from humble beginnings in farm buildings in Stebbing they developed
rapidly and moved to factory units in Rayleigh where they subsequently invested in automation to supply high-quality uPVC windows and doors to trade clients in the South East and beyond. GJB’s firm commitment to quality and service saw the business grow into one of Eurocell’s largest fabricators, producing in excess of 1,200 frames per week. Sales Director and company founder Gary Bristow commented: “Ken has been instrumental in our journey from a small start-up into one of the UK’s leading trade fabricators and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him personally for his fantastic support. The acquisition is good news for GJB staff, because it gives them job security, but it’s also good news for GJB customers. Roy understands the challenges of installation and retailing in a competitive market and will bring an abundance of experience, fresh ideas plus bags of energy to the business.” Roy Frost cut his teeth in the window industry with Everest, first as Manufacturing Director and then Business Development Director, where for over a decade they created significant growth. In 2012 Roy joined leading uPVC Systems Company Deceuninck as their Managing Director, overseeing a huge and positive transformation of the UK business and 80% growth. Interestingly, Roy hinted that this acquisition of GJB could be the first of many: “There are lots of well-run businesses in this industry with owners coming up to retirement age and I am keen to explore other opportunities,” Roy concluded. WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 5
TRADE NEWS
Rob McGlennon Five Training Centres Join
Announced UK
MD Of Deceuninck
CORGI Fenestration
CORGI Fenestration has announced that five GQA Assessment Centres have become registered as CORGI Fenestration audit and qualification centres. They are: GFTS Ltd, MRG Services UK Ltd, PM Training, The Vocational College, North Lancs Training Group. The five centres listed above will be carrying out audits of fenestration sector companies on behalf of CORGI Fenestration against stringent scheme requirements. Chris Mayne, CEO of CORGI Fenestration commented: “We have been extremely pleased with the enthusiasm with which the assessment centres have embraced CORGI Fenestration. It reinforces our view that there is substantial demand within the glazing sector to showcase trust, reliability, expertise, quality and best practice.” Any fenestration sector staff who have completed or are about to complete glazing NVQs at these centres will be able to carry the CORGI Fenestration branded qualification card – which is also part of the CSCS scheme (Construction Skills Certification Scheme is the leading skills certification scheme within the UK construction industry). www.corgifenestration.co.uk
Hot on the heels of the news that Deceuninck UK’s sales are breaking records, the systems company announces that Rob McGlennon is permanently taking the reins of the UK business as Managing Director. Rob was appointed in the interim after Roy Frost left the company at the end of last year. He has since led the Deceuninck team through 6-months of strong sales, spearheaded some exciting product launches to give customers the edge in the market and been instrumental in converting some well-known large fabricators to the Deceuninck brand. “Deceuninck needed someone to step into the leadership role as soon as possible and I was happy to take on that responsibility,” says Rob. “In the 6 months since, there has been a cultural change at Deceuninck. The focus is even more firmly placed on our existing customers and providing the support they need to grow their businesses. We’ve invested in joint
6 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
marketing initiatives and tailored sales support across the board, for customers big and small depending on their individual requirements. This cultural shift has been recognised by customers too, with our most recent customer satisfaction survey showing high satisfaction levels. “Meanwhile more fabricators have seen precisely how Deceuninck can help them differentiate against the competition with for example the perfect offering for the growing heritage market with our Heritage Window Collection, as well as our market beating colour offering of 26 colourways in stock for profile, ancillaries, cills and trims. “As UK MD, I’m looking forward to continuing to work together with the excellent team at Deceuninck UK to deliver what the market wants and needs to help our customers to stay ahead of the competition.” www.deceuninck.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Euroseal Increases Extrusion Capacity
With Six-Figure Investment Specialist extruder, Euroseal has announced six-figure investment in its manufacturing facility, increasing capacity and expanding its service offer. Completed in the summer, the major investment programme includes the installation of a new twin-screw extrusion line, mezzanine floor and the construction of a new tooling design workshop and servicing facility. Chris Duff, Business Development manager, Euroseal, said: “We have had an exceptional year to date, running close to capacity throughout the first half of the year running a standard shift pattern – capacity can be further increased (+40%) by the use of a continental shift pattern. “That had put pressure on our storage facility and our extrusion lines. The creation of the mezzanine floor allowed us to increase
our materials storage by a further 70 tonnes and the space to bring in a new line, increasing our overall capacity.” With one of the UK’s most technically advanced extrusion facilities, Euroseal has extensive experience in the manufacture of a diverse range of thermoplastic extrusions, including rigid profile and co-extrusions in PVC, wood composite, HDPE, Polystyrene, Polypropylene and ABS. With capacity to extrude profile from 40g to 6kg per metre and 0.7mm to 10mm thick, this includes construction products including curtain walling pressure plates, conservatory and window profiles, and cladding. It also manufactures electrical extrusions; automotive profiles; hygienic wall and ceiling profiles and garden decking. Euroseal’s fifth twin screw line
– and with a further four single screw lines, it’s ninth in total – the investment gives Euroseal a high level of service and product flexibility. It has also built on its established partnerships with global tooling and extrusion machinery manufacturers to include an inhouse tool design service – also offering financial support for customers to invest in tooling on larger volume projects. Duff explained: “Our expanding maintenance workshop allows us to carry out our own maintenance programmes, reducing downtime and increasing the quality and performance of lines. “We can also support our customers in developing and designing their own product and tooling. This starts with CAD design but goes far beyond dimensions. Understanding of the extrusion process, speeds and behavior of varying thermoplastics is key to effective design. “We have that in house and are sharing that with our customers, in the design and commissioning of new tools.” www.euroseal.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 7
TRADE NEWS
Hazlemere
Commercial Proud To Be
Exor Safe Contractors
Architectural glazing experts Hazlemere Commercial are proud to be Exor-approved safe contractors. Exor Safe Contractor is a leading Health and Safety Assessment scheme. It’s been designed to help simplify health and safety responsibilities for organisations that employ building contractors. Having gone through 12 continuous years of rigorous annual vetting, time and time again Hazlemere Commercial have been judged to have the competencies and processes in place to protect employees, clients and end-users. The High Wycombe-based education and commercial installation specialists are part of Exor’s list of vetted contractors, which was established to help public bodies find and employ suppliers who offer outstanding service and an uncompromising commitment to health and safety. “The public procurement landscape has changed drastically over the past decade, and now more than ever, organisations are under pressure to guarantee best practice when it comes to health and safety,” commented Hazlemere Commercial Sales Director Tony Beale. For more information visit www.hazlemerecommercial.co.uk
New SME Product Will Reduce Crippling
Late Payments The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) today (12 July) launches a new debt management product for small businesses and the self-employed in a bid to help them avoid the devastating effects of late payments. In the majority of cases, small businesses that use it can expect to recover 100 per cent of the debt owed whilst not being charged any fees or commission. About a third of payments to small businesses in the UK are late. Eradicating this would avoid 50,000 business deaths a year, growing the UK economy by £2.5 billion. The average value of a late payment owed to a small business is £6,142. Dave Stallon, commercial director at FSB, says: “Late payment has been a huge and debilitating problem for smaller businesses for too long. Whilst we persist in asking the Government to tackle the worst payment practices, we’ve now introduced this new product to empower small businesses to recover their debts in the most
8 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
simple and effective way possible so they can focus on running their businesses.”
Users of the tool simply need to register online, load the debtor information and amount owed. A solicitor’s letter will then be sent on their behalf, giving a seven day deadline for receipt of payment. In the vast majority of cases like these, a solicitor’s letter is all it takes to receive payment. In the unusual event that this doesn’t happen there are further steps that can be taken. The impact of late payments on small businesses can be shattering. An FSB report shows that 37 per cent have run into cash flow difficulties, 30 per cent have been forced to use an overdraft and 20 per cent say late payment has hit profits. At the extreme end, cash flow difficulties have caused businesses to fail. www.fsb.org.uk
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TRADE NEWS economic growth. This slowed in the first quarter of 2017 to just 0.2% – the weakest in 12 months. “The Office for National Statistics attribute this slowing to the decline in growth to consumer facing industries and a slowdown in household spending”, Palmer says. He adds that this has also evidenced in figures from payments provider Visa, which reported the steepest fall in consumer spending for four years this summer. Visa also highlights a cut back in spending on big ticket items.
Robert Palmer
Winds of
Change With the impact of Brexit now starting to bite, understanding long-term industry drivers is now more important than ever, according to Palmer.
The window and door industry is ‘not immune from the impact of Brexit and faces strong economic headwinds’ – that’s the warning from Robert Palmer. According to the head of the research specialist, the UK window industry faces dual challenges of a tougher second-time replacement market and wider economic uncertainty as the UK exits from Brussels. “The post-Brexit phoney war is
The window and door industry is ‘not immune from the impact of Brexit and faces strong economic headwinds’
coming to an end and the realities of what will result in the case of a hard Brexit are now beginning to dawn”, he says. This, he argues, is already exerting an impact on consumer confidence and with it
10 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
“This is also noted by researchers GfK which recorded a major dip in the number of consumers considering now to be the right time to make big-ticket purchases”, says Palmer. He continues: “Consumer credit is not inexhaustible. According to the Bank of England consumer credit grew by 10.3% in the 12 months to May, higher than expected. Some economists say that consumers are confident enough to increase their borrowing. “But the financial regulatory bodies have signalled their concerns about difficulties some consumers will have in making repayments. With inflation rising and wages static the reality is that consumers’ disposable incomes will continue to fall.” Trends in housing are another area, which Palmer suggests may curb growth in the window and door sector in the coming year. He says: “The housing market has slowed, partly as a result of increases in stamp duty and changes in tax on second homes and investment properties and partly because of the availability of property.
TRADE NEWS
“From strong double digit growth in 2013 and 2014 housing transactions barely moved in 2015 and 2016 and look set to actually decline in 2017 particularly in London, where issues surrounding affordability are most acute. “This isn’t necessarily all bad news – some rebalancing and cooling of house price inflation is perhaps inevitable and to be welcomed, especially if more new homes can be built to ease issues of supply. The negative for the window and door industry is that there is a direct link to house moves and investment in home improvements.” Palmer returns, however, to the argument that it is uncertainty surrounding Brexit which is the greatest threat to UK economic growth. “The ill-fated general election is seen by some as an opportunity to soften the Brexit terms or even, though much less likely, abandon the whole process altogether. That is debatable but what it did do is to increase uncertainty. For instance how long will May remain as PM with her hard Brexit agenda? Are the soft Brexiters now in the ascendancy? And for that expected, unexpected event, who is actually in charge?”, he asks. With a new study due for publication at the end of the summer, Palmer refused to be drawn on a detailed analysis of the window and door. He suggested, however, that tougher second-time replacement sells and the shift away from home ownership, are driving longterm changes of their own. According to figures published by Palmer in its last report: The Window, Door and Conservatory Markets in Housing in
Great Britain (Oct 2016), first time window and door replacements have dropped from 80% in 2000 to less than 30% in 2015, with ‘replacement of replacement’ installations now accounting for 70% of all installations. He argued that this was driving increased focus on aesthetics, “Homeowners want something that is tangibly different and the appearance of windows is increasingly important in the market”, he said. “That in turn is driving innovation in the industry and the shift to premium finishes and foils in retail markets. While there will always be a place for standard budget white PVC-U, there has been definite shift in consumer expectation.” He added that this shift to higher end-offers was also driving growth for aluminium and significant growth in sales of aluminium bi-fold doors. He also forecasts ‘exponential growth’ in the solid roof conservatory market as a second key area of opportunity. “This is to a degree the point”, continues Palmer, “Things are in our view going to be tougher but that does not necessarily mean that all parts of the industry will struggle. If the economy slows, as we are expecting, then, as always, high end and innovative products are more likely to weather the storm, while cheaper commodity products will become more vulnerable.” *The new edition of the The Window, Door and Conservatory Markets in Housing in Great Britain, will be published by Palmer Market Research at the end of August. For more information log on atpalmermarketresearch.co.uk
Endurance
Reports An
Impressive
First Half
To 2017
Endurance® Doors has enjoyed an impressive first half to 2017, with sales up nearly 45% and with a large number of new customers already in the pipeline, there’s a firm expectation for this trend to continue throughout the remainder of the year. In 2016, the solid core composite door manufacturer enjoyed growth of 40% and so the figures for 2017 show an increase in performance, as existing customers enjoy considerable organic growth, with new customers coming on board nearly every week. Endurance® Doors has done much to develop the sector over the last 17 years and recent investments in the product, marketing and business operations are doing much to help fuel this impressive sales performance. Several new brochures, point of sale materials and one of the sectors most impressive online Door Designers have been warmly received by customers over the last 18 months. There’s also impressive lead generation activities through their online presence and Endurance® Doors have been enjoying an increase in web traffic of over 300% year on year in the last few months, as they push for further market penetration. www.endurancedoors.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 11
TRADE NEWS
REHAU Commits To Promoting And Improving
Industry Standards also be assessing the impact of new regulations, developing workable solutions to issues which may exclude some companies (namely small/micro fabricators) and ensuring System Companies are well represented and their voices heard in Industry Standard setting forums.
Aluminium
Glazing Design
Centre Is An
Instant Hit
The Aluminium Glazing Design Centre in Blackburn has been an instant success for AluFoldDirect, with more than 200 installers and builders coming through the doors in the first few months since opening. “This is the only dedicated showroom and advice centre for aluminium glazing outside London and it’s clear from the superb reaction that window installation companies have been waiting for it,” says Craig Miller, Managing Director of AluFoldDirect. “Once first-time visitors see that we offer Everything Aluminium under one roof, it gives them the confidence that they can come to us whatever they need. We also welcome new visitors to tour our factory and see how our manufacturing process is set up to deliver what they want, when they want it. “We’re also finding that installers and builders are bringing their customers to the centre to discuss design options on projects. It gives them a place to show a professional, expert image and reinforce good customer service, and we already have lots of regulars who are coming back again and again”. www.alufolddirect.co.uk
REHAU’s Marketing and Technical Director, Gareth Jones, has been chosen to chair the Glass and Glazing Federation’s new Systems House Group, a collective set up to maintain and raise standards among window and door system providers. In the last three years, REHAU has made a firm commitment to being more actively involved with the GGF to help promote the industry, maintain and raise standards. This latest development highlights this continued effort by the company to become a central influencer in the industry. At the first meeting in Birmingham in May, Gareth Jones was elected to chair the Group, which also means he will take up a seat on the GGF Board and the Home Improvement Executive. The scope of the Systems House Group’s activities will include providing valuable input into the overall Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) strategy as well as looking at how to tackle restrictive planning conditions. The group will
12 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
Gareth said: “Historically, REHAU has very much kept itself to itself, but three years ago we made a conscious decision to be more open and approachable and take an active role within the wider industry. We are ardent supporters of the GGF, providing co-operation, resources and expertise where it is needed, and are proud to be representing window and door system companies both on the coal face and Board level issues that really matter.” Gareth’s appointment sees him join a group of REHAU employees already playing a role in the GGF, including Irene Smith, Marketing Communications Manager, who is a member of the GGF’s Marketing Communications Committee, Mark Gajda, Materials, Testing and Quality Manager, who sits on the Home Improvement Technical Group and a number of members of the REHAU sales force regularly participate in regional events. REHAU is also a regular attender to the GGF’s largest specialist group meetings, the Window and Door Group, and a hot off the press appointment was recently made in Declan Coulter, Divisional Sales Manager for Ireland and Scotland, who has been elected to chair the Ireland Southern Region. www.ggf.org.uk
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TRADE NEWS
Deceuninck UK
Exceeds Expectations Deceuninck is pleased to announce that its UK sales have exceeded targets, as reported in its bi-annual global review. Managing Director, Rob McGlennon explains: “Deceuninck UK represents a relatively small proportion of Deceuninck’s overall global sales but with the UK window market flat at best this year, Deceuninck UK’s sales are up 20% in June compared with June 2016 and look set to be 25% up in July. This growth by and large is coming from our customers, as well as new customers switching to Deceuninck. “Sales can only grow in a flat
market when a meaningful point of difference can be achieved. Deceuninck customers have this in abundance. Our Heritage Window Collection and Slider 24 sliding door continue to provide growth for our customers, as does our unique colour offering of 26 colourways in stock on our profile, ancillaries, trims and cills. Customers have switched to us this year because their previous suppliers simply couldn’t deliver colour quickly enough. With Deceuninck they can and are seeing sales grow as a direct result. “Deceuninck is a business built on relationships. That means we
don’t just assume we know what our customers want and what they’re happy with or, as importantly, unhappy with. We employ an independent agency to ask our customers directly what they think and then we listen and act on what we need to change. We’ll be publishing the results of our most recent customer survey in detail soon but the headlines are that satisfaction levels have remained high for another year and have even improved on the year before. Across the board we are performing well with our highest ratings coming in for products that meet industry standards, on time deliveries, customer service support, products’ appearance and features, product quality and electronic ordering. “We’re not resting on our laurels, it’s still a tough market we’re all operating in, but it’s great to see our customers reaping the rewards of the truly customer focused approach we take. This joint success also means we can continue to reinvest in the business to not only keep our customers ahead of the competition but also to support their growing businesses.” Contact Rob McGlennon on 07818 383385to find out more.
New £5,000 Security Guarantee From Solidor Solidor has launched a new, 5 Star Security guarantee worth £5,000. Installers can now offer this guarantee to homeowners who buy a Solidor with a TS007 3* Ultion cylinder and 2* Lock Lock handle. All homeowners have to do is register for the guarantee within 14 days of installation, and they’re covered for up to 5 years. “It’s a fail-safe, no quibble guarantee that totally removes the risk of purchase,” explains Gareth Busson, Head of Sales & Market-
ing at Solidor. “If a burglar breaks into a Solidor with a Lock Lock handle and snaps the Ultion 3* cylinder, the homeowner can claim up to £5,000 of uninsured losses. No other door manufacturer offers that.” The Lock Lock handle from Brisant Secure was introduced to the market at the FIT Show, with Solidor as its official launch partner. Flick the switch on the inside and Lock Lock’s unique, patented spindle block is activated, so the door can’t be opened from
14 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
the outside, even if the cylinder is breached. “It also looks fantastic, and complements our range perfectly,” adds Gareth. “With the 3* Ultion cylinder PAS24:2016, Approved Document Q and Secured By Design as standard, Solidor is already the most secure composite door on the market. Lock Lock sets us further ahead, and we’re putting our money where our mouth is by offering a unique guarantee that sells itself.” ww.solidor.co.uk
TRADE NEWS energy-efficient glass products for European residential and commercial buildings.” He adds: “Guardian is excited about the growth we’ve seen in Poland — and confident that the Czestochowa location is well positioned to meet our customer’s needs. We’ve enjoyed strong support from the city of Czestochowa, the Katowice Special Economic Zone and the Polish government.” Guardian Glass’ new float and coated glass plant is planned to be located adjacent to the company’s existing plant in Czestochowa, Poland. (Photo Guardian Industries Corp.)
Guardian Glass To Construct
Second Float And Coated
Glass Plant In Poland Guardian Industries has approved the investment for an additional float and coated glass manufacturing plant in Czestochowa, Poland, to meet the growing demand for float, coated and fabricated glass products across Europe. The new facility location is planned to be adjacent to the company’s existing plant, with preparation and execution of the project starting immediately. The facility is expected to begin oper-
ations in the third quarter of 2019, and will create more than 150 new jobs. It will pull 1,000 metric tons of glass per day and will include a technologically advanced glass coater. Guardian Glass President and CEO Kevin Baird says: “The new facility will be the biggest green field capital investment in Guardian Glass’ history and will further position us as a leading producer of high performance, safety and
Further evidence of the company’s commitment to Poland, Guardian Glass’ existing float line in Czestochowa will go through a repair project at the start of 2018 that will increase its production capacity. “We look forward to continued growth in Poland and neighboring countries. The co-location of the two plants will create a competitive and efficient structure to deliver a wide range of glass products and will contribute to generate long-term value for our customers in the region,” says Guus Boekhoudt, Vice President of Guardian Glass in Europe. In addition to the Czestochowa plant, Guardian Glass operates facilities in Oroshaza, Hungary; Thalheim, Germany; and Ryazan and Rostov, Russia, among its 10 European float plant locations.
Pro-Can Canopies Now Available From National Plastics
National Plastics has just announced that Pro-Can canopies will be available through its UK trade counter network. Geoff Foster, National Plastics’ Managing Director, said: “Pro-Can canopies don’t compromise on quality and use the best materials and the latest production processes. We’re proud they are available through us.”
Pro-Can canopies are constructed in the UK using high quality GRP, polycarbonate and steel and have been designed with the tradesman
as possible is done in the factory. A complete fixing kit is included in each pack, including a full installation guide, Rawlplug fixings and with fixing templates where required.
in mind. All products are robust and supplied fully protected and shrink wrapped to ensure they reach site in perfect condition. They are easy to fit and come with the minimum number of separate parts because as much assembly
All nine Pro-Can canopies are available via the National Plastics network which include the Clear Top Flat and Clear Top Curved, the Flat Top Thin and the Flat Top Deep, the Classic Flat, the Peaky Top Boxed, the Double Top Open, Double Top Sunrise and the Big Top. www.nationalplastics.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 15
TRADE NEWS
SolarFrame Partners With Mila On ADQ And Much More SolarFrame, based in Rotherham, is one of the first fabricators to take advantage of Mila’s new initiative to create a library of test data for customers who want to be able to meet the demands of Approved Document Q in the new build market. Mila has invested in an ongoing programme to carry out the PAS24 security testing required for ADQ on windows and doors in a range of different profile systems and with a number of different hardware combinations. This growing bank of test data is now available to be cascaded down to Mila customers like SolarFrame, giving them a simple and cost effective route to ADQ compliance. As a Eurocell fabricator, SolarFrame is using the data generated from Mila’s successful tests on Eurocell’s LogiK profiles with hardware from Mila’s ProSecure and ProLinea ranges. As long as SolarFrame’s windows and doors match one of the specifications tested by Mila, then it can be assured that its products will fully comply. This is a huge advantage for a company like SolarFrame which is supplying into the new build market directly and to trade customers who are working on new build projects.
It is the latest example of the long term partnership between Mila and SolarFrame which has existed since the fabricator was founded by Managing Director Steve Taylor in 2009. Steve says he chose Mila at the outset as SolarFrame’s hardware supplier because of its proven reputation for quality, and the integrity and commitment of the team led by Richard Gyde. Eight years on, Mila continues to supply all of SolarFrame’s hardware requirements. Steve Taylor says: “I know there are probably suppliers out there who are marginally cheaper than Mila, but for us, quality, reliability and customer service matter more than a few pence on a window handle. “We know that Mila’s product quality is always guaranteed and that they will never let us down on supply or deliveries – our line OTIF for example, is currently 99.1%. We are a regional fabricator serving the needs of customers within a 25-30 mile radius of Rotherham. With this sort of business model, it is reputation which matters, whether that is in the retail sector where we do around 25% of our business, or in the trade sector which accounts for the rest. We simply can’t afford for
16 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
our reputation to be tarnished in any way, so we always choose suppliers like Mila who we know we can rely on all the time.” Mila’s relationship with SolarFrame goes back to Richard Gyde and Steve Taylor’s shared background in the industry, but it is now very much a team effort with Mila’s Area Sales Manager Steve Bettley, Key Account Manager Julie Holmes, and Technical Manager Strafford Cooke all playing their part in supporting the fabricator. As well as the ADQ testing initiative, this includes introducing new products, advising on hardware do’s and don’ts and investing time learning about SolarFrame’s ongoing plans so that the products supplied keep pace with their objectives. Richard Gyde added: “SolarFrame buys virtually 100% of its hardware from Mila, but we are never complacent about our relationship with them. We are constantly looking for ways to improve and add value to their business and our investment in PAS24 testing for ADQ is just the latest example of that.” Further details are at: www.mila.co.uk and www.solarframe.co.uk
Committed to delivering the best hardware experience in the industry. It’s in our DNA
TRADE NEWS
Epwin’s Excellence
As Standard’s Partnership With FENSA Demonstrates
The Ambition Of The Scheme Epwin Window Systems is working with FENSA as its preferred partner to deliver self-certification for installers that are part of its ground-breaking Excellence as Standard programme. Sharn Samra, Epwin Window Systems Marketing Director, said: “EAS is about delivering the best service from manufacturing to installation. EAS wanted to align with an accreditation body that also strives for excellence within the glazing industry. Working with FENSA will ensure that all EAS members will be able to instil consumer confidence.” Jon Vanstone, FENSA Director of Registered Business, said: “We are
delighted to be working in collaboration with the Epwin Group. FENSA is continually looking for ways to enhance its service offering on the compliance front to make things simple for installers. This new partnership represents a fantastic strategic opportunity for our leading brands to leverage value for the benefit of our members and clients. FENSA will be keen to say that if a business is under the Excellence as Standard banner, they’re OK.” To demonstrate the partnership, members of the Excellence as Standard programme will receive a card branded with both FENSA and Excellence as Standard as well as access to FENSA training
18 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
and priority information on new FENSA products. Excellence as Standard advocates excellence at every stage of a project – from manufacturing through to the physical installation in a consumer’s home. Homeowners will benefit from the reassurance that all aspects meet a high quality industry standard and in turn help the installer gain a competitive advantage while delivering the best possible service across the customer journey. When an installer signs the Excellence as Standard charter, they are making a pledge to commit to striving for excellence in fenestration in a culture that permeates every level of a member’s business. In return, they will have access to a wealth of support and tangible benefits designed to drive quality and sales. These can be divided into six areas: effective lead generation, quality products, the EAS Academy, marketing support, partner benefits and the support team. www.epwin.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Construction Bounces Back
After A Recent Stall In Growth
After a torrid month in May for construction, figures began to move in the right direction across June, with contract awards increasing by twelve per-cent, as a number of high profile projects were given the green light. The latest edition of the Economic & Construction Market Review from industry analysts Barbour ABI, highlights the levels of construction contract values awarded in June across all regions of Great Britain, which totalled £5.5 billion based on a three-month rolling average, an increase on the £4.9 billion from May.
tion sectors, it was Residential building that produced the highest value on the month, reaching £2.5 billion, bouncing back admirably after a dip in May when it decreased to £1.7 billion. Furthermore, four of the top ten biggest projects in June came from the Residential sector. There were also monthly increases in Industrial, Commercial & Retail and Medical & Healthcare. The largest decrease came from Infrastructure, which lacked a high value project on the month to help increase its figures.
Michael Dall, Lead Economist at Barbour ABI, said: “The construction sector bounced back after an election-focused month in May, as the residential sector once again performed strongly, continuing the trend of it holding the construction sector steady. However with declines in value from Hotel, Leisure & Sport and in particular Infrastructure, there is continuous pressure on Residential to achieve high values every month.”
London led all regions with 26 per cent of the total construction contract value for June. This was greatly helped by the North Quay Poplar development contract award, worth £800 million, the largest project across all of construction on the month.
Looking at construction in June across the UK regions outside of London, the dominance continued across southern England with the South East in second place for construction contract value with £713 million awarded, followed by the South West in joint third place with the North West, each tied at £627 million.
“With the Government’s increasing focus on raising the levels of major infrastructure projects, it’s surprising to see a lack of development in this sector across June. The anticipation however, is that we will see larger public sector contracts come to the forefront, such as offshore wind farms, energy plants and motorway upgrades as we continue into 2017.”
Across the various construc-
Commenting on the figures,
www.barbour-abi.com WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 19
TRADE NEWS
Deceuninck UK
Exceeds Expectations Brian Smith, GGF Director of Home Improvement and Membership
GGF Reinforces Its Approved Consumer Code To BBC Listeners The GGF issued a statement to BBC Radio Surrey recently following a request for comment on the recent conviction of Zenith Staybrite, a large regional double glazing company who were found guilty of using illegal high-pressure sales tactics and falsely claiming offers were time limited. The company was ordered to pay fines and costs of £330,000. In the statement the GGF stated; “Though Zenith Staybrite are not GGF Members, it was very disappointing for the glazing industry in general to hear that this company has been practising such illegal high-pressure sales methods. No doubt they will be urgently reviewing their sales and pricing policies as a result, if they have not already done so. This conviction underlines the importance of the GGF’s Consumer Code of Practice which was approved last year by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. It is the only approved Code
in the glass and glazing industry and all consumer facing GGF Members have to adhere to it.
The GGF Consumer Code of Practice can be viewed and downloaded free of charge from the GGF’s consumer website, www.myglazing.com. This award winning website was created last year to provide first class information and advice to consumers on making the right decisions when considering replacing their windows and doors and how to go about it. In complying with the GGF Consumer Code of Practice, Member companies must not engage in any high pressure selling techniques. The Code includes clear rules that Members must not state inflated prices for goods and services above those of the company’s price list, or offer discounts or “special one day offer prices” which are not true. Only genuine
20 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
discounts agreed by the company must be applied. Whilst there are many reputable installers in the glazing industry, the GGF recommends that consumers use a GGF Member company for complete peace of mind. There is a search facility by postcode on www.myglazing. com. We would also recommend that consumers obtain at least three quotes before deciding on their choice of supplier, ensuring that, as given by all GGF Members, their chosen supplier gives a minimum seven days from date of contract in which the consumer can cancel without penalty should they change their mind after ordering.” Brian Smith, GGF Director of Home Improvement and Membership commented, “At every opportunity the GGF will be highlighting why homeowners should refer to our Consumer Code and why they should use GGF Members to ensure they are safeguarded against malpractice and illegal operations.” www.myglazing.com or www.ggf.org.uk
TRADE NEWS
Greater Customer Service At
Coastal
Window and door hardware specialist Coastal Group has completed a significant 6-month investment programme, expanding its headquarters, systems and infrastructure. Designed to further increase the level of customer service the company offers, In what is the biggest investment in its history, Coastal has just completed works on major new office and warehouse development. In addition to several thousand square feet of new operational space including significant new warehouse space, greatly improving stockholding, the investment has also seen the creation of new packing lines and a state of the art Enterprise Resource Planning system creating greater cohesion between front and back office operations. The result means a quicker, more efficient and seamless service for Coastal customers – from point of contact at initial enquiry, through to speedier picking and dispatch of order. The new office and warehouse expansion follows on from the recent launch of Coastal’s new website and publication of its new Product Ordering Guide (POG). www.coastal-group.com
Idyllic Introduction For Penrith’s New Independent Network Member North Lakes NLG Window Systems has been quick to take full advantage of its Independent Network membership, having joined the pioneering installer support organisation just six months ago. Recently rebranded from Network VEKA, Independent Network recognised North Lakes with one of two ‘Best New Member’ awards at its annual Members’ Weekend. The Penrith-based company has been full of praise for the benefits that membership has brought, such as training; marketing support and heightened customer confidence. Martin Smith, who owns and operates the company alongside his wife Lindsey, commented: “Independent Network really helps to make the most of being a VEKA installer. Not only are customers reassured that they’re buying one of the industry’s leading doors and windows, but they’ll also be fitted to the highest standards – guaranteed. “Since joining, we’ve attended various Independent Network training days, and feel more than ever that we’re fully ‘up to speed’ with industry advances as a result. The courses also provide a great opportunity to meet other member companies and get a sense of the culture of Independent Network. There’s a great
22 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
camaraderie among everyone involved, and we’ve been made to feel welcome throughout. “It’s early days for North Lakes with Independent Network, but we’re extremely pleased that we decided to join and look forward to further exploring the support available in future – apprenticeships; affiliate partnerships; marketing and online support… there’s so much on offer, it’s hard to remember it all!” Only companies that meet a stringent set of standards can become Independent Network members. They are then continually assessed to ensure those standards are maintained, with homeowners completing customer satisfaction awards to both trigger their ten-year insurance-backed guarantee, and highlight any issues arising from the installation. “Having such a comprehensive grasp on what customers think about our work, including wordfor-word testimonials has been a very useful marketing tool”, Martin continues. “We’ve showcased the info on our website and social media, and find it a great way to illustrate that we’re not just making empty claims about the quality of our work!” www.inveka.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Morley Glass & Glazing Shares International Industry Best Practice
uPVC windows and glass. Operating from a modern production facility, with a total area of 13.000 sqm and €200m turnover, Qfort is currently planning an expansion into the integral blinds market, and knew it would benefit from a visit to Morley Glass & Glazing. During their visit, the teams from Pellini and Qfort got the chance to hear from Morley MD Ian Short and the team at the business on what they believe are the secrets of their success.
(L-R) Pellini team members, Davide Colombelli, Alessandro Pellini, Hana Svobodova, Alfredo Bonvino and Elena Anelli with Morley MD Ian Short (centre)
Morley Glass & Glazing was pleased to play host to a delegation from ScreenLine® integral blind systems manufacturer, Pellini SpA, in an international knowledge-sharing initiative last month.
bined with outstanding product quality. Morley Glass & Glazing’s Uni-Blinds® are the most popular sealed units featuring Pellini’s ScreenLine® integral blinds in the UK.
The two businesses have a long relationship of sharing best business practises, and share the ethos of design excellence com-
Visiting from their headquarters in Codogno in northern Italy, Pellini brought with them Qfort, Romania’s largest manufacturer of
Ian commented: “Morley’s industry-leading 10-day delivery promise, its second-to-none customer service and the sheer amount of passion and enthusiasm our staff have for providing the best possible products all play a part in what makes our business model so successful. “We’re always happy to meet with other companies to share best practise ideas and, having had a fantastic working partnership with Pellini for a number of years now, we’re always happy to welcome them back to Morley.” www.morleyglass.co.uk
GGF President Steps Down The GGF says it is with regret that they announce Alan Burgess of Masterframe Windows Ltd has resigned his position of President with the Glass and Glazing Federation with immediate effect.
ue in this role and to step down prematurely.” GGF Vice President, John Agnew of Independent Glass has now been elected by the GGF Board as the new GGF President with immediate effect.
Alan has been involved with the GGF for over 20 years and as well as having two terms on the GGF Board, he has also been Chair of the GGF Window and Door Group and Home Improvement Executive. On leaving the position, Alan commented, “It is with real regret that I feel unable to contin-
Alan Burgess
John has been on the GGF Board for many years and is the Chair of the GGF’s Glazing Executive. On taking on the role John commented, “I would like to thank Alan for his contribution to the Federation and I look forward to serving as President and working on behalf of all the GGF Members.” www.ggf.org.uk WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 23
TRADE NEWS
Material Prices
Are Soaring A third of small building firms say that soaring material prices are squeezing their margins and almost a quarter have had to pass these price increases onto consumers, according to the latest research by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).
say that they’ve actually made losses on projects due to material price increases – this is most likely to happen when a particular product or material jumps up in price mid-project when then builder has already quoted for the work. Perhaps unwisely, some builders are absorbing these extra costs as opposed to re-quoting for the project.”
Construction SMEs have reported a range of material price increases since the depreciation of sterling following the EU referendum in June 2016. Small building firms were asked which materials have increased the most and the results were as follows: • Timber • Insulation • Bricks • Blocks • Windows • Plasterboard / Slate (joint sixth) • Boilers and radiators • Porcelain products The impact of these material price increases includes: • 85% of builders think material price rises could drive consumers to hire rogue traders in an effort to save money on their building projects; • One third of construction SMEs (32%) have had their margins squeezed; • Almost one quarter (22%) have been forced to pass material price increases onto their clients, making projects more expensive for consumers; • More than one-in-ten builders
report making losses on their building projects due to material price increases. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Material price increases have left builders under severe pressure. This research shows that following the fall in the exchange rate, timber is the material that the majority of builders say has increased most in price but the problem doesn’t end there – everything from insulation to windows to bricks and blocks are soaring in price. A third of builders report that these price increases are eating into their already razor-thin margins – and this on top of increased wages and salaries stemming from long-term construction skills shortages. Furthermore, one-in-ten builders
24 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
Berry concluded: “Material price spikes aren’t just a problem for builders – they’re also a problem for the home owner, with almost one quarter of builders saying that they have had to pass on price increases to their clients. This means that building projects now cost significantly more than they did this time last year. What with stagnant wages and price inflation across the economy, consumers are feeling the pinch and it might be that they decide not to commission that loft conversion or extension after all. Or worse still, 85% of builders believe that home owners will be tempted to hire rogue traders who are quoting a lower price than a professional building firm such as those that belong to the FMB. If that’s the case, material price rises could lead to a flurry of botched jobs and distressed consumers. We’re calling on home owners to hold their nerve – they’re better off commissioning a more modest project from a professional builder than a high spec project from a cowboy. Don’t take the risk.” www.fmb.org.uk
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TRADE NEWS
Roof Maker Lights Up
Hit ITV Programme Roof Maker is set to star in ITV’s hit home improvement show Love Your Home and Garden. The company has donated several of their industry-leading rooflight products to ITV, and will feature in two episodes aired in late August.
Roof Maker CEO Paul Mildenstein commented: “We’re absolutely delighted to be involved in Love Your Home and Garden – not just because it gives us the chance to introduce our bestin-class products to millions of people across the UK, but also because it allows us to support an incredibly worthwhile cause.”
Fronted by Alan Titchmarsh, the programme sees a team of home improvement experts surprise deserving families in difficult circumstances by completely transforming their property, and regularly draws upwards of four million viewers. The first episode features a young family in Eltham with a 9-yearold son who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy. The house isn’t suitable for the child’s needs, so a team of builders revamped the garden, kitchen and living room,
lost most of her vision and can only see if there’s good natural light. Roof Maker products are designed to let natural light flood into the home and were deemed perfect for the project.
making it wheelchair accessible. The second episode focusses on a family in Banbury whose mother suffered a stroke a few years ago and was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She has since
Donating products to ITV is the latest in a series of charitable acts by the respected firm. Earlier this year, Roof Maker formalised its long-running support of East Midlands children’s hospice Rainbows by pledging to give it a percentage of the profit made on every product it sells. For more information visit www.roof-maker.co.uk
Castle Building Products Launches Residence7 Castle Building Products has invested in machinery and tooling to make Residence 7 (R7), part of Residence Collection. The Didcot based trade fabricator wanted to offer a high end option to its installer customers. R7 is the unique 75mm system that is flush inside and out. It’s designed to look perfect in traditional homes and sleek in modern homes too. Perhaps uniquely, with its colour range, strength and cool looks, it is a true timber-alternative. Castle Building Products has invested in R7 to extend its range into the growing market for premium quality PVC windows. Castle Building Products Joint MD Mike Richmond says: “R7 is the only fully flushed sash window on offer, and we think it’s the best flush sash window on the market. We’re looking forward to getting out there and talking to our customers about it. Residence Collection is giving us great support, and is helping us sell R7 into our existing customers.” R7 is available in a range of modern colours de26 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
signed to suit any type of home. “We love the colour range,” adds Mike. “There’s something for every home. R7 is very fitter friendly, and the fact that it’s 75mm makes it very easy for us to handle.” Residence Collection Managing Director Martin Dickie says: “R7 is very versatile. It’s flush outside so it looks like traditional timber windows, but it’s also flush inside, which gives it a cool and sleek look. Fabricators have endless opportunities with R7.” www.cbpoxon.com
TRADE NEWS
Spectus Marks Mercury’s Many Happy 15th Anniversary In Business
Re-Turns
For Rapierstar
Screws And Fixings From Left to Right: Nic Rossano (Epwin), Martin Halford (Mercury Glazing), Paul Lindsay (Epwin), Steve Cross (Mercury).
To help Mercury Glazing Supplies Limited mark its 15th year in business, Spectus recently presented company owners and Directors Steve Cross and Martin Halford with a commemorative plaque. Paul Lindsay, Epwin Window Systems’ Sales Director, said: “We were delighted to present this plaque to Steve and Martin. We have worked with them and their team throughout Mercury’s 15 year history and we have a very strong and productive relationship.” Mercury is one of the UK’s largest fabricators of Spectus’ market-leading Vertical Slider and enjoys a close continuous partnership with the systems house. The partnership looks set to grow even stronger as Mercury plans to grow its business by 35% in the next three years. Paul commented: “Mercury is a progressive business that offers a good quality and service and we value the strength of the relationship we have with them.” Mercury has succeeded for the past 15 years because it is a company dedicated to exceeding customer expectations. In the Spectus Vertical Slider it has got a product that does just that.
Attention to detail and precision crafting make it one of the best PVC-U alternatives to traditional timber box sash windows on the market. Equal sash widths, traditional ovolo styling on all planes, flush gaskets, a deep bottom rail and a 128mm frame all ensure beautifully authentic aesthetics. Dedicated end caps and cills plus optional features such as a weather bar or Georgian bars give the ability to add bespoke features. And with the latest addition of a mechanically jointed option, the authentic aesthetics of the window go to the next level when needed. While the aesthetics are beautifully authentic, the Spectus VS is a 21st century window at heart. It’s available in the 28 colours of Spectus’ Spectrum range (including 10 colours from stock). It is easy to open thanks to the spiral balance mechanism while travel stops ensure child safety. It can achieve a Window Energy Rating of A+ and a U value of 1.3W/ m2K. It is PAS24 compliant and designed to achieve Secured by Design status. It is practical for installers too: it has 150mm and 210mm cills and 10mm/20mm/50mm frame packers for maximum flexibility in the installation. www.spectus.co.uk
Rapierstar is marking 25 years of ‘turning something small into something great’ with its fasteners and fixings for the residential and commercial property sectors, with investment in a brand refresh to reaffirm its position in the UK and Ireland. The Cheshire-based designer, developer and supplier of specialist fasteners and fixings, has reached its quarter century milestone this year, producing a family of award-winning branded product ranges, including StarPVCU, StarTurn, StarFix, StarPin & StarNail and StarAlu, which serves the majority of UK windows and doors manufacturers. Since its inception in 1992 under the leadership of Group Managing Director, David Furness, Rapierstar has grown into a multi-million-pound turnover business. He explained how the company has reached this significant landmark: “We are consistent in the design, performance, import and delivery of our branded products, never waivering on quality, standards and procedures to produce reliable, specialist screws and fixings.” He continued, “Our established relations in the Far East and import expertise ensures our stock holding and supply can respond on a next day delivery year-round, which is a crucial service for industry.”
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 27
TRADE NEWS portunity for installers to win new business through offering finance, or part finance options” Improveasy are a specialist home improvement company offering a wide range of financial solutions that installers can use to win business more easily.
Improve Not Move Trend Sparks Demand For Consumer Finance A rise in homeowners choosing to improve or expand their homes rather than move has sparked demand for installers looking to offer consumer finance for a range measures such as windows, doors and conservatories. Strong house price growth and the high cost of living has seen the continuation of the improve not move trend. The sector has been remarkably resilient against recent political turmoil, with neither Brexit nor the General Election yet affecting consumer spending in this area. Instead, builders and installers are seeing an increase in demand for a range of home improvement services including double-glazing and conservatories, refurbishments,
conversions and extensions – and finance options to cover these. Austin Barcley, Director of Improveasy, comments: “Many homeowners are staying put and investing in their homes. For example, upgrading their windows and doors or refurbishing kitchens and bathrooms. “It is also common now for young adults to move back in with their parent’s due to high living costs, creating demand for expansion projects such as loft conversions to comfortably house multiple generations under one roof. “For some of these projects, homeowners are turning to finance options to help make their dream home a reality, presenting an op-
Companies do not need to be FCA regulated as they will become Appointed Representatives (AR) and will appear on the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) register. Once trained, they can then begin offering finance options in a responsible and compliant manner, under the Improveasy brand. On top of this, companies can also access sales training seminars such as how best to use finance in a sales context; and upsell using finance. Austin comments: “We currently work with lots of companies in the home improvement sector and are looking to partner with more installers, builders and service providers to help them close more sales opportunities. It doesn’t matter if the company doesn’t have previous experience of offering finance or doesn’t have a consumer credit license, as we can help with all of this. The bottom line is that more and more installers are using our service and winning more business as a result.” www.improveasy.com
Mercury Glazing celebrates 15 years Specialist trade fabricator Mercury Glazing Supplies Ltd will be celebrating 15 years in business in July. Chris Reeks, Mercury’s Sales and Marketing Director says: “15 years is an impressive milestone in this industry and we’re proud to have reached it. We’d like to say a big thank you to our staff, suppliers and, of course, our customers, who have supported us over this
time – we’re looking forward to the next 15 years!”
Founded by good friends Martin Halford and Steve Cross in 2002, Mercury has built its name on providing specialist window and door products that add value to a portfolio and a commitment to customer service that goes above and beyond. Chris comments:
28 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
“We believe our success is thanks to our aim to build long-term partnerships with all our customers. We know that the only way to do this is to offer a product range that exceeds customer expectations and is backed up by a service that is proactive and focused on what each business needs. We call it the Mercury difference!”
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TRADE NEWS
Making The Most Of
Heritage With
Deceuninck When market opportunities arise it sometimes takes a while for the new product, service or sector to gain momentum. Timber replica PVC-U windows targeted at the Heritage sector is gathering pace now, but there are some fabricators and installers that are still holding back. That’s why Deceuninck is pleased to announce it’s over and above support in this sector. “We launched our comprehensive Heritage Window Collection at the beginning of the year and as we’ve reported recently, demand for the product has exceeded our expectations,” explains Rob McGlennon of Deceuninck. “The reason for this success is in part thanks to the fact we have designed and manufactured a unique and innovative product, but it’s also thanks to the tangible support we have offered customers alongside. “Our approach is built on relationships – building honest and open relationships with our customers to make sure we’re giving them what they need to succeed. We don’t make the sale and walk away – we offer ongoing support to help customers understand and maximise on the opportunities in the Heritage sector. “Our dedicated sales team remain active with our existing customers long after they have become customers. We see this as part of the customer/supplier relationship. Our sales and marketing departments spend time with customers to find out what support they need to achieve their business growth targets and in what ways we can help. We offer a vast resource of experience and expertise that can be used by our network of fabricators and their installer customers. It’s something we intend to 30 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
build on further too.” Here’s what Natalie Witczak, Senior Business Manager at Connaught Windows and Deceuninck customer has to say: “As a market leading Systems Company we expected Deceuninck to supply us with a certain level of support but they really do go above and beyond. The marketing team has provided us with a number of different brochures which we offer to our customers for sales support, along with profile colour bar sections to support our customers on site. They have also been a great support for those customers with showrooms who want sample windows. We want the right products and great service from our suppliers but Deceuninck genuinely delivers so much more than this which in turn helps us and our customers stand out from the competition.” Rob McGlennon concludes: “With more added benefits such as having 26 colourways of profile, ancillaries, cills and trims in stock for our customers to access within their normal delivery times and such a vast array of marketing materials available to our customers and their installer customers to achieve pull through demand for our Heritage Window Collection, on behalf of our fabricators, our customers can rest assured that the lucrative Heritage sector is completely within their grasp.” Contact Carol Hearn on 01249 816969 to find out more.
PEOPLE
Katie Leese Rejoins Epwin To Manage Excellence As Standard Marketing Director, said: “We are delighted Katie will be managing the Excellence as Standard programme and I’m personally looking forward to working closely with her on our ambitious new initiative.” Katie added: “I’m excited to be joining Epwin and leading the mission to make Excellence as Standard the benchmark for quality in the industry.”
The Epwin Group has just announced that it has appointed Katie Leese as Programme Manager for Excellence as Standard, its groundbreaking new member programme. Sharn Samra, Epwin’s
Katie has over 16 years’ experience in the industry and is no stranger to the Epwin Window Systems – she spent over 8 years as the Brand Manager for Profile 22. It means she has a deep understanding of the industry in general and the Epwin Window Systems’ brands and culture in particular that will stand her in good stead as she takes up her new role.
Excellence as Standard was launched at FIT 2017 and is a powerful new initiative to drive quality in the industry. When an installer signs the Excellence as Standard charter, they are making a pledge to commit to striving for excellence in fenestration. From day-to-day business operations through to product manufacturing processes and physical installations in the home, Excellence as Standard is a culture that permeates every level of a member’s business. In return, installer members have access to a wealth of support and tangible benefits designed to drive quality and sales. These can be divided into six areas: quality products, the EAS Academy, effective lead generation, marketing support, partner benefits and the support team. Epwin’s status and reputation means it can attract the best and brightest talent. The appointment of Katie Leese, with her wealth of industry experience, is a perfect demonstration of this ability in practice. www.epwin.co.uk
Haffner Murat Announces New Sales Director Haffner Murat Ltd has strengthened its sales management team with the appointment of experienced industry man, Mike James, in the position of Sales Director. Dave Thomas, Haffner Murat’s Managing Director, said, “Mike is wellknown in the industry and we are delighted to find a committed and experienced sales professional with a vast knowledge of the fabrication market. Mike brings with him the expertise and industry knowledge to ensure we maintain our momentum as the pace of Haffner Murat’s machinery sales continues to increase. “ In his appointment, Mike will be responsible for developing sales opportunities for the full range of Haffner Murat’s machinery products including the new ITALMAC range of aluminium fabrication machinery.
Commenting on his appointment, Mike said: “I am delighted to join Haffner Murat at such an exciting time. The company is renowned for the success of their machinery range and I firmly believe they are in the best position to challenge the market to increasingly accept production automation. I am delighted to be working with such a talented team.” Mike brings with him over 30 years of industry experience in sales, management and business development. From 2002 onwards Mike was with the Eynsham Group where he sat on the main operating board as Sales Director. Previously Mike was with the Epwin Group for 15 years. www.haffnermurat.com WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 31
PEOPLE
BM Aluminium
Addresses Skills
Shortage
New Sales
Nigel Headword, Sales Director
Jack Antosch has joined the team of LogiKal software technicians at BM Aluminium in Tewkesbury. Aged 18, Jack has been recruited as a trainee, but is already supporting customers with technical queries and updates. Over the past 10 years, BM Aluminium has largely been able to mitigate the effects of the skills shortage by successfully training its own team. Senior installations technician Dan Hodges and junior technician Ben Knight, for example, both originally joined the company as trainees and benefited from the comprehensive workplace training programme which is in place. In his new role, Jack is working closely with customers to customise their LogiKal software so that it takes into account bespoke options such as hardware and glass and enables them to generate their own reports. www.bmaluminium.co.uk
Sioned Webb, Marketing Director
And Marketing
Appointments At AluK AluK has announced two significant changes in the structure of its commercial management team designed to help customers make the most of the enormous opportunities which lie ahead in aluminium. Nigel Headford has been appointed as Sales Director, with overall responsibility for sales into both the commercial and trade/residential markets. Nigel has been in the industry for 32 years and was previously head of AluK’s commercial division, so brings a huge amount of experience with him. Alongside Nigel, AluK’s Head of Marketing Sioned Webb has been promoted to the role of Marketing Director and will be
32 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
shaping the company’s future marketing and product development strategy. Both Nigel and Sioned will be working closely with customers to identify and secure growth opportunities across the trade, residential and commercial sectors and overseeing the roll out of all the new AluK products which generated such excitement at the FIT Show. Sioned is already helping to establish AluK as the most exciting aluminium brand in the industry and will be particularly focused on making sure customers get the most from their partnerships with AluK. www.aluk.com
PEOPLE
BWF Appoints A Fully Dedicated Training Manager
Funding, and core qualifications being radically reformed, there are huge opportunities for BWF to help develop the training environment that the industry needs.
The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has appointed a new Training Manager to help ramp up work in the education, training and skills arena for the joinery and woodworking industry. Tony Batchelor joins the BWF team following former Membership & Training Director Dave Campbell’s departure. Tony will be responsible for delivering on the BWF’s three core training objectives: increasing recruitment into the sector; maintaining and developing high quality qualifications and delivery partners, and fostering a culture of continuous learning in the industry. The new role will focus exclusively on training and Tony will also support the development of associated commercial products. BWF Chief Executive Iain McIlwee commented on the new appointment: “Perhaps the biggest change the joinery sector currently faces is to the skills landscape. With CITB’s role under review, changes to Apprenticeship
“We have a good training strategy, but to meet these challenges and opportunities head on we need a fully focussed and dedicated training post within BWF. Now for the first time we have a dedicated training manager role which isn’t split with other responsibilities. As such I am delighted to introduce “no and Tony”. Tony is a vital part of our plan to attract talent into our sector and he has the experience to help BWF develop the right infrastructure and qualifications for the joinery sector. “In short he will be a fantastic addition to the great team that we already have in place.” With a wealth of experience on construction industry training matters through working at CITB, Tony has previously engaged with construction industry representatives across the four home nations to develop National Occupational Standards, training and qualification solutions, and trailblazer apprenticeships for a wide range of occupational areas. Having spent the early years of his working life in the public transport sector, Tony worked on training and skills projects for much of his subsequent career including a spell contracted to the British Council to deliver training on vocational and educational projects in Asia. www.bwf.org.uk
Edgetech
Gives A Warm
Reception To
Returning
R&D Expert
Warm edge pioneers Edgetech are welcoming the return of a key former member of senior staff after a three-year hiatus. Gary Shoesmith served as Edgetech UK’s Director of Operations and Quality between 2008 and 2014, and now rejoins the organisation as Technical Development Manager.
Gary’s appointment significantly bolsters Edgetech’s local R&D capabilities. Working with Ohio-based R&D colleagues from US parent company Quanex Building Products, and reporting directly to Edgetech UK Managing Director Chris Alderson, Gary will be charged with spearheading a number of key projects aimed at further developing Edgetech’s already industry-leading product range. www.edgetechig.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 33
PEOPLE
Cornwall Architectural Glass – London
Strengthens Team With Senior Appointment
Cornwall Glass has announced the appointment of Adam Shaylor as Sales Manager of its newly acquired architectural glass business. Cornwall Glass completed the purchase of Hayes-based multi-laminate specialist, LW Architectural Glass at the end of March, now operating as Cornwall Architectural Glass – London. Adam who has held previous senior sales roles within the glass industry with Nicholls & Clarke and Glassolutions / Saint-Gobain, culminating in a role as Head of Strategic Sales, said Cornwall Architectural Glass – London, brings a unique set of
specialisms to market. “Our business is manufacturing architectural, laminated & toughened glass. By not having a laminate cutting table, it means every piece of glass produced is unique. This bespoke offer means that we’re ideally placed to serve the architectural glass market”, he said. Adam continued: “The opportunity to build this specific business type from the ground up, doesn’t come along very often. Cornwall Glass has an incredible culture and I’m delighted but also very excited to be part of the team. Our potential is huge due the to the capability, expertise, service and product offering. It’s a really strong combination with massive potential” Cornwall Glass Director, Mark Mitchell, said: “Adam brings a vast amount of experience, expertise and technical understanding to our team. That understanding will be vital in communicating what is a highly specialised offer to a market with huge growth potential going forward.” cornwallglass.co.uk
GGF Pays Tribute To Rick Caen The GGF was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Rick Caen of R.E.C. Glazing on 16 June 2017 after a long battle with cancer. Rick had been a GGF Member since 2001 and a regular attendee and contributor to the GGF’s Kent, Surrey and Sussex Region together with the Federation’s Insulating Glass Manufacturers Group and Glazing Components Group. Peter Stuttard, GGF Regional Manager commented, “Rick was a committed and passionate GGF Member and will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.” The GGF will be represented at Rick’s funeral and 34 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
any GGF Members wishing to attend the funeral to pay their final respects are advised that it will take place on 13 July 2017 at 1.30 pm at Croydon Crematorium, East Chapel, Mitcham Road, Croydon, CR9 3AT. The Wake is being held at CMOBO Bowls Club, Waddon Well, Waddon Way, Croydon, CR0 4HY. The family have asked for no flowers, but will accept donations to Rick’s favourite charity. Cheques can be made payable to Anerley Across and be sent to R.E.C. Glazing, 50a Willow Lane, Mitcham, Surrey CR9 4NA, who will make sure the charity receives the donations.
PEOPLE
Apprentice To
Appointment
Hurst Expands
National Sales Team Leading door panel and composite door manufacturer Hurst Plastics has bolstered its operations with the appointment of Steph Van Heerden within its sales team.
South African born Steph is a well-known and experienced figure in the glazing industry. His recruitment as Regional Business Manager, covering Scotland and the North West, is part of Hurst Plastics’ ambitious growth plans to serve a greater network of customers nationally. Steph joins Hurst Plastics’ established sales team during an intensive period of investment within the business. The investment programme is enabling Hurst to consistently deliver a superior quality product and high levels of service, whilst extending its geographical reach throughout the UK. Mark Atkinson, Sales Director at Hurst Plastics, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Steph to Hurst Plastics. He is a highly regarded sales professional and will be a great asset to our team as we strive to secure
new business and develop stronger connections with more customers nationally. We value everyone who works for Hurst and we’re pleased to draw high calibre people to the business with attractive benefits and the opportunity for greater career development.”
“Now in our 20th year, we’re incredibly proud to have experienced significant growth in every area of our business over the last 12 months. This is, in no small measure, down to the efforts of our growing sales and customer service teams, who are dedicated to delivering an industry-leading service. “Recently, we have also made a substantial investment in to new vehicles for our national sales team and our transport department. By delivering more than 95% of our doors on our own fleet, we will be able to maintain our on-time in-full record of above 98.5%. With this boost to the sales team and more investments planned, it’s sure to be another successful year for Hurst!” www.hurst-plastics.co.uk
Michelle Wootton, Order Processing Team Leader (Left) & Shona Thompson, Roof Order Processor (Right)
Yorkshire based fabricator Conservatory Outlet Ltd has appointed its ambitious Business Administration apprentice in a full time permanent role. Shona Thompson, who began her apprenticeship at Conservatory Outlet in March 2016, has deservedly achieved a permanent role in the company’s order processing department after successfully completing her Intermediate Apprenticeship Certificate in Business Administration – Business Skills Sector. Shona applied for the apprenticeship in the hope of securing full time employment, and began her Apprenticeship qualification whilst working with Conservatory Outlet. Her core modules included Communication in a Business Environment, Principles of Providing Administrative Services, Understanding Employer Organisations and Store & Retrieve Information, which have given Shona a solid grounding in interacting directly with major customers on a daily basis. conservatoryoutlet.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 35
WINDOW SYSTEMS
Deceuninck UK
Exceeds Expectations
The REHAU TOTAL70C 70mm 5 chamber chamfered profile range.
What’s In A
Number? Since they were first introduced to the market in the mid-1990s, REHAU’s 70mm window profiles have grown in popularity and today remain one of the company’s staple product lines. Its once popular 60mm window profiles, however, continue to show a slow decline. Is it time to stop the production line for 60mm profiles, or will there always be a place in the market for both sizes? Here, Gareth Jones, Marketing & Technical Director - Window Solutions, from REHAU discusses:
At this year’s FIT Show, we proudly displayed our newly extended TOTAL70 product range, including a whole host of new options for customers including a flush fit solution, a parallel window and additional colour foils. Originally launched in 1995, this 70mm range has certainly stood the test of time and this is due in part to the versatility of the profiles (available in chamfered and sculptured systems) and our continued investment in the product line which ensures it remains as relevant today as it
36 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
was when we launched it, more than 20 years ago. To put its success in context, last year, 80 per cent of the revenue in REHAU’s overall turnover in the windows solutions division was generated by 70mm profiles. Not bad for the comparatively new kid on the block. Before REHAU launched the 70mm TOTAL70 offer, the market was largely focused on 60mm frames but the ben-
WINDOW SYSTEMS time for the windows industry to cut its losses, just as the music industry dropped cassettes in favour of CDs. Manufacturing is a costly process, particularly when resources are poured into the production of items which do not sell in great numbers. Surely it makes better business sense to allocate manufacturing and marketing capabilities to keep up with demand for our most popular profiles and drive new sales in growing markets? But what if 60mm profiles are more akin to vinyl records, which continue to occupy a steady proportion of the market, without being a widely consumed, mainstream product? Certainly, in some areas of the country – namely the south west – and in Ireland, the 60mm profile is still very popular. They may change their preferences to suit our reduced range, but its more likely that we will be pushing these customers into the arms of a competitor by not offering them the products we know they want. So by cutting the 60mm ranges, we will just be giving away 8 per cent of the revenue in windows solutions every year and losing loyal customers and installers, which are worth much more.
The REHAU TOTAL70S 5 chamber profile range.
efits of having a bigger frame quickly became apparent. The extra 10mm of depth allowed old 3” timber frame windows to be replaced easily by installers, effortlessly covering the previous work without having to do lots of trimming up to make good the installation. The 70mm profiles were also very much perceived by customers as a better window – and it was really marketing that drove this. Not for the first time did marketing within the industry, and outside the industry, lean towards a bigger means better message. While the 70mm market was growing, there was still very much a demand for 60mm profiles and REHAU relaunched its 60mm offering with TRITEC in 2002. Designed as a natural replacement for REHAU’s legendary S702 system (introduced when integral gaskets were new to the market), sales of 60mm profiles at the time accounted
for 60 per cent of the market. Today TRITEC is just 8 per cent of our business.
However small the market is for 60mm profiles, it currently remains a relevant part of the windows industry. These niche markets may not be as profitable, but they are important for the variety and identity of the UK window’s market. As we take our next steps as an industry we cannot be sure where the path may lead, but as a responsible manufacturer we will always make choices based on substantial research and market knowledge.
The figures would seem to suggest that 60mm profiles are on the way out, and perhaps it’s
For more information about REHAU please visit www.rehau.uk/windows
The REHAU Tritec 60mm system.
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 37
WINDOW SYSTEMS
Modplan Reveals Popularity Of VEKA/
Halo’s Flushsash Window
VEKA fabricator Modplan added VEKA/Halo’s FlushSash window to its range earlier this year and Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director, says the window is proving a hit with customers. “The heritage market is buoyant at the moment and the VEKA/Halo FlushSash has the credentials the sector demands. But as well as being the perfect heritage product the flush aesthetics mean it’s also proving to be a popular alternative to aluminium on contemporary projects.”
The FlushSash window replicates 19th century windows, helping to keep the heritage feel of older homes. This feel can be enhanced with heritage detail options such as monkey tail handles and ornamental peg stays when required. But, as Heidi says, as well as offering everything heritage applications need, the window also has a modern feel to its aesthetics, which makes it a popular option for architects and specifiers looking for a cost-effective alternative to aluminium in new build projects.
Strength In Numbers Steel has always been an integral part of the strengthening of window and door frames. Today it’s more important than ever, as homeowners demand wider windows with more glass and thinner frames. Fenestration reinforcement specialist Anglo European refers to them as real-world windows and they are far bigger than the size that gets tested to meet the requirements for certification. “Surprisingly no changes have been made to the sizes of windows being tested for certification, even though there has been a big increase in the number of windows that exceed this size,” says James Lister, Operations Director for Anglo European. “We believe 38 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
It is available in a range of woodgrains and coloured finishes in the 30 colour options of VEKA’s Variations collection. While the window may have heritage looks, the thermal efficiency credentials are certainly modern day, thanks to the five chamber construction that gives it a U value of 1.3m2k using 28 mm glazing. And for when even better credentials are needed, a triple glazed version is also available. The security is impressive too because it achieves BS7950 and PAS 023/024. The FlushSash window is manufactured in Modplan’s dedicated factory near Newport, Gwent with orders for coloured frames being fulfilled in Modplan’s dedicated on-site painting facility. It means customers benefit from a quality product backed up with the quality service for which Modplan is renowned. Heidi concludes: “We pride ourselves on being a one-stop shop for installers and making their lives as easy as possible. The FlushSash window is an essential component of a heritage portfolio and we are delighted that so many of our customers are benefiting from what it has to offer.” www.modplan.co.uk
that the only way to tackle this issue is to have accurate information from testing real-world windows. We have an extensive testing schedule that covers all the main window systems in the UK. “The first test results are back. We have chosen the sizes our customers are typically making, and they are wider than 1,500mm. “We have calculated and tested the optimum level of reinforcement for real-world windows and we will soon be launching a new warranty scheme based on the results. Investing in testing means we can offer real assurances to fabricators, who in turn can pass them onto installation companies.” www.angloeuropeangroup.co.uk
WINDOW SYSTEMS needed from a 21st century window system. The result is the most considered window system on the market.” Even the quickest of glances at Optima’s credentials backs up what Gerald says. Optima isn’t just one system, it’s three: a sculptured system, a chamfered system and a flush casement system. This means that a single system opens up a world of project opportunities. The versatility is enhanced in the ancillaries available. The range is said to be the widest on the market and includes cills, baypoles, accessories and packers. The system also fully integrates with other products from the Epwin Group stable such as the commercial Flush Tilt -Turn window which is especially suited to medium to high rise buildings to provide a complete and coherent solution. Optima has a six-chambered outerframe and a five-chambered sash, which can also be used with RCM thermal inserts to increase the number of insulating chambers. Revolutionary additional centre seals to the outerframe give outstanding insulation and weather protection. Combined with intelligent glazing innovations it means that Optima double glazed units are capable of achieving a U-value of 1.2 W/m2K. And with triple glazing filled with Argon gas, U-values as low as 0.8 W/m2K can be achieved.
Is Profile 22’s
Optima The Most Considered System
On The Market?
Profile 22 launched its Optima system last year and it has been incredibly well-received: record numbers of fabricators have come on board since the launch and it won New Product of the Year at the 2016 G Awards. For Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager at Profile 22, the reason Optima has been so successful is simple: “When we designed Optima we went right back to the drawing board and looked at what fabricators, installers, architects, specifiers and consumers
Optima combines a host of features to maximise security and strength. A central Eurogroove gives the sashes greater rigidity. The secure bead system passes security tests without glazing clips and is ready for proposed enhancements to PAS24. Installation has been considered too. For example, the Optima system incorporates a deeper drainage channel and features strategic local wall thickening for better screw and hardware retention. The dedicated floating mullion on the French doors and windows is self-holding on the first fix, so it can be easily clipped in, making the installation a fast and simple process. But perhaps the best indication of Optima’s quality is that it’s a Profile 22 system. And like all Epwin Group companies Profile 22 is committed to only bringing to market the products that will enhance the lifestyle of consumers and the businesses of its fabricators and installers. And when you look at Optima you can see that commitment in action. www.profile22.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 39
WINDOW SYSTEMS
Dempsey Dyer’s Unique Sash Horn Offering Brings A Touch Of Class To Casement Windows Having already strengthened its extensive uPVC portfolio by offering both the Deceuninck flush sash and the Slider 24 sliding door, respected fabricator Dempsey Dyer has now expanded customer choice even further, introducing premium-quality uPVC mock sash horns designed to make casements look like sash windows. Produced using the firm’s new state-of-the-art CNC machine, the new sash horn accessory provides installers with an excellent way of capitalising on the continuing popularity of vintage-look products and sash windows more generally, offering end-users a simple and relatively inexpensive route to much-sought after traditional aesthetics without the greater expense associated with sash windows.
“At Dempsey Dyer, the watchword is always choice,” commented company MD Peter Dyer. “Some people like sash windows, and will accept nothing less. Others love the vintage appeal of sash windows, but would rather
stick with casement windows, whether that’s through wanting to avoid the cost and disruption of having existing windows replaced, or just personal preference – and for these consumers, our new mock sash horns are perfect.” The sash horn product is just the latest in a string of new offerings from fast-growing Dempsey Dyer. Revealed at last year’s FIT Show, the Heritage Flush Sash is one of the newest additions to the company’s catalogue – a vintage-look uPVC sash window balancing A+-rated thermal efficiency with PAS24-compliant security, exceptional weather performance and convincing traditional aesthetics. The firm now also offers Deceuninck’s Slider 24 – the new best-in-class door solution offering weather resistance performance, including achieving Class E8A water permeability with a rating of 450Pa, Class A3 wind resistance of 1200Pa and Class A4 air permeability with a rating of 600Pa. www.dempseydyer.co.uk
Genesis Vertical Slider Achieves PAS24:2016 Accreditation Bison Frames has just announced that its Genesis Vertical Slider has achieved PAS24:2016 accreditation. Mark Tetley, Bison’s Director, said: “We are delighted we can now offer a PAS24 option on our Genesis Vertical Slider. We are told it sailed through the testing process with ease, which was great to hear.” The accreditation will extend the appeal of the Genesis Vertical Slider even further since it now means it is Document Q compliant and can be used in new dwellings and dwellings formed by a material change of use such as barn conversions. It also provides extra evidence of the security of the product in projects where this is
a feature that is complemented with other details such as optional Georgian bars, colour coordinated pile seals, run-through horns and a deep bottom rail that all combine in a product that is perfect for the heritage sector but is equally at home in modern buildings too. High quality hardware and a range of colours and woodgrain foiled finishes complete a very attractive package in terms of aesthetics.
particularly important. The Genesis Vertical Slider is perhaps most famed for its mechanically jointed construction,
40 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
But while the looks may be heritage, the Genesis Vertical Slider is very much a cutting edge window. As well as the PAS24:2016 accreditation, it can also achieve a Window Energy Rating of A and it has the benefit of low maintenance. genesiscollection.co.uk
WINDOW SYSTEMS
Epwin Window Systems’ New Universal Two-Part Cill Demonstrates How A Simple
Product Development Can Add A Wealth Of Value Epwin Window Systems has just announced its latest product development: a universal two-part cill. Gerald Allen, Epwin Window Systems’ Marketing Manager, says: “The universal two-part cill is a simple product evolution but the advantages its brings are extraordinary. We already know from feedback on the launch at the FIT Show what a difference it will make in so many areas.” The universal two-part cill means
that door and window cills are installed in a two step process. The receiver is fitted during the construction process and the cill nose is fitted when the project nears completion. The universal two-part cill offers the solution to the perennial problem of the cill nose getting damaged. Gerald comments: “Cill noses are easily damaged and we know how frustrating installers find
it.” The development means that damage to low level cills in construction projects can be avoided. It also solves the problem of damage to cills during refurbishment projects and makes it much easier for installers to rectify any accidental damage to cills inflicted by homeowners post-installation. In short, says Gerald: “Two-part cills are easier to install, easier to protect during the construction process and easier to repair in the future.” The universal two-part cill comes with a choice of noses, all of which are compatible with Epwin Window Systems’ profile brands, Spectus, Profile 22 and Swish Windows. The cills are also available in all 28 colours in the colour ranges. Epwin Window Systems is renowned for consistent product development. In the release of its new universal two-part cill it’s demonstrating why this approach is so intelligent and how the smallest of changes can sometimes make the biggest of differences. www.epwin.co.uk
New Back Detail On Swish 24/7 Window Suite Swish looks set to enhance its status even further with the introduction of new 24/7 outerframes with new back edge detail. The back edge detail suites with Swish’s newly extended range of ancillary profiles as well as other products used in Swish installations such as sliding patio doors, flush casements and composite doors. Gerald Allen, Swish’s Marketing Manager, commented: “The new back edge detail on our outerframes means that when a homeowner invests in a complete suite of Swish products they will be investing in products that sit beautifully and coherently together.”
The new outerframe was developed in a way that would mean no change in the manufacturing process would be required. This ensured the changeover would be rapid and seamless for fabricators, something Gerald says was very much appreciated. The introduction of the new outerframes gives Swish installers yet another point of difference in an already compelling offering. The company says seven out of 10 homeowners recognise and trust the Swish brand thanks to its combination of thermal performance, security, great aesthetics, quality, easy-care, durable materials and choice all wrapped up in
a brand that’s confident, reliable, high performing and ethically sound. Swish has a policy of continuous improvement, something that is reflected in the introduction of the new outerframes. www.swishwindows.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 41
WINDOW SYSTEMS areas and listed buildings, while offering features and performance that would be entirely at home in a luxurious new-build development. VEKA Group’s Marketing Director Dawn Stockell explains: “Vertical sliding windows have seen a great renaissance in recent years, due in no small part to their beautiful aesthetics. Original timber-framed units however are known for being draughty and hard to maintain, and can even swell and contract from season to season. There are no such worries with the VEKA Vertical Slider, which can even achieve the revered A+ Window Energy Rating depending on the glazing fitted.”
New VEKA Vertical Slider Raises The Bar
The brand new VEKA Vertical Slider was one of several innovative and exciting window and door systems debuted by VEKA Group at the FIT Show 2017, and it has all the hallmarks to become a modern classic. Vertical sliders – traditionally known as sash windows – are among today’s most coveted window styles, and not only in the heritage market with which they’re most associated. With its new VEKA Vertical Slider, VEKA Group has embraced traditional design cues to create a window that is suitable for conservation
The system couples the fully sculptured PVC-U profile with practical and stylish innovations, including neat sash stop end caps to keep leaves and other debris out of the profile, and optional run-through sash horns for an authentic period appearance. Clipin horns are also available, or for a more contemporary look, the VEKA Vertical Slider can be specified without horns. “Our technicians have tackled the shortcomings of timber-framed sash windows head on”, Dawn continues. “A bottom gasket minimises draughts, and a variety of opening options puts paid to the notion that vertical sliders aren’t versatile!” The VEKA Vertical Slider is available fully mechanically jointed and with the option of a deep bottom rail – also mechanically jointed – and of course, both sashes can be tilted inwards, providing greater ventilation and ease of cleaning. The options don’t end there, with VEKA Group’s full Variations suite of 29 colour and woodgrain finishes available for the VEKA Vertical Slider, and the most popular shades provided X-Stock or within a four-week period. www.vekauk.com
Smart Announces New Addition To Alitherm Range Smart Architectural Aluminium has announced a new addition to its proven Alitherm range, with the launch of the Alitherm 500 range of high quality windows.
Providing both side-hung and tophung options, this flush casement window system is the perfect solution for period properties. Recreating the traditional appearance of flush-fitting timber windows, the sash profile sits flat, in-line with the outer frame, to provide a completely uninterrupted aesthetic appearance.
security and high weather performance.
At the same time, Alitherm 500 delivers all the thermal efficiency, performance, security and maintenance benefits of a modern aluminium solution, providing the assurance of a ‘B’ Window Energy Rating, an ‘A+’ BRE Green Guide rating and Kitemarks for both
42 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
Designed to meet the requirements of Document L of the Building Regulations, Alitherm 500 windows incorporate Smart’s innovative polyamide thermal break technology, which significantly reduces thermal transmittance and enhances the overall U-value of the product. The system can achieve a U-value of up to 1.4 W/ m²K, depending on the system and glass unit. www.smartsystems.co.uk
WINDOW SYSTEMS
Spectus’ New 85mm Outerframe Solves
Three Common Issues In One Spectus has just launched a new 85mm outerframe and it solves a wealth of problems for fabricators and installers. Martin Althorpe, Spectus’ Technical Director, says: “Our message is simple: if you’re struggling with doors and windows, stop. Our new 85mm outerframe has the answers.” The new and bigger outerframe solves three of the biggest problems that installers face when fitting doors and windows. The new outerframe means that fitting hinges to the frame becomes a lot easier because there’s no need to try to avoid damage to plasterwork or having to make good the sur-
or aesthetics needed. The bigger size also means no need to use packers on any apertures, saving time, extra expense and ensuring a much neater finish. Martin comments: “We launched the new 85mm outerframe at the FIT Show and installers and fabricators were quick to see the benefits. All installers want to complete a neater job in a faster time and all fabricators would like a little extra tolerance in manufacturing. The new 85mm outerframe fulfils both these wishes.”
rounds and décor. Trickle vents are also easier to accommodate with no compromise to functionality
The 85mm outerframe is a perfect fit for the Spectus Elite 70 bevelled suite and is available now, from stock, in the market’s favourite colours, Classic White and Anthracite Grey. www.spectus.co.uk
Profile 22 Adds Optima Window System
To U-Comply N To Provide Quick And Easy Way
To Calculate Thermal Efficiency Ratings use U-Comply N to demonstrate Optima’s compliance with the new regulations.”
U-Comply N can be accessed at technical.epwingroup.com. The calculator has been approved by BSI as a Notified Body and automatically creates BSI Approved Notified Body Reports for CE marking.
Profile 22 has just added 24mm and 28mm variations of its Optima window system to U-Comply N, an online calculator that allows fabricators and installers to calculate thermal efficiency ratings. Gerald Allen, Profile 22’s Marketing Manager, said: “The U-Comply N calculator now allows you to demonstrate compliance on any number of Optima window specifications. As well as eliminating the significant costs involved in testing different specifications of windows, you can also
The calculator has been designed to be easy to use and work across all devices, which means it can be accessed on the go as well as in the office. It also offers complete flexibility in window construction options, so the thermal efficiency of even the most bespoke of projects can be calculated. Gerald commented: “The newly updated calculator will be a vital tool for in-house and administration teams. It will also provide a valuable selling tool for sales teams.” Pricing for the calculator is simple: a single oneoff fee allows a fabricator or installer to create an unlimited number of reports. www.profile22.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 43
PRODUCT NEWS
Endurance Go Keyless
With Yale Conexis
Commercial
HAB21 Offset ‘D’ Pull Handle
Launched By Blu™ 316 Marine Grade stainless steel window and door hardware manufacturer bluTM has added to its growing range with the launch of a new commercial pull handle. The bluTM HAB21 Offset ‘D’ commercial pull handle is a sleek, stylish handle designed to thrive in demanding commercial environments. Featuring a back-to-back fixing system, the HAB21 Offset handles offers: • Highly secure and simple to use back to back fixing system • The unique bluTM Super-satin finish built to last in even the most challenging environments thanks to its 316 marine grade stainless steel • 1.5mm wall thickness giving a higher quality feel and additional longevity • Tailor-made for heavy duty commercial use, or any location where style and performance is required. blu-performance.com
Endurance® Doors have become one of the first door manufacturers in the UK to introduce the new Yale Conexis™ L1. This brings to market a Bluetooth enabled keyless smart door lock, that can be operated by mobile device and that meets PAS 24. This revolutionary development by Yale and adopted by Endurance® Doors, represents a new era in smart home technology in terms of security and is backed by one of the most trusted and recognisable consumer brands. As well as achieving PAS 24, the lock is also fully compatible with the existing and highly regarded Winkhaus Trulock, multi-point locking system specified by Endurance. The Yale Conexis™ L1 allows homeowners to configure, control and unlock their entrance door via any Android or Apple device through a secure Bluetooth, low energy App. The functionality also facilitates the ability to create and send mobile keys from around the world and also to keep track of everyone entering the property. This smart lock, also benefits from a backup battery and a tamper alarm,
44 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
for beneficial long-term performance. There is also a unique Twist and Go functionality, providing users with the option to turn their phone around 90 degrees to unlock the door, in addition to other options of key tag, key card or phone tag. Through the Yale wireless module, there’s also the possibility to integrate the Yale Smart Home Alarm or Smart CCTV range through the App and additionally, can also be connected to other smart home networks with the appropriate module. Stephen Nadin, managing director of Endurance® Doors commented: ‘Smart lock technology has finally arrived for the entrance door market and we believe this is an important statement from us, in becoming early adopters for what is a fundamentally embryonic, yet important part of the sector. Entrance door keys are a legacy of decades gone by and whilst the humble key isn’t dead yet, this is an exciting move for us, the composite door market and Yale.’ www.endurancedoors.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
High Security: Carl F Groupco’s Hot Topic Growing demand for high security hardware is reported by Carl F Groupco. The introduction of Document Q, which stipulates adequate prevention of unauthorised access and safe means of escape for new buildings, has triggered an increase in fabricator enquiries for compliant high security hardware solutions. Security standards are also a hot topic for hardware manufacturers developing affordable solutions to achieve accreditation. The Trojan Sparta 2* door handle, introduced in the 2017 edition of Carl F Groupco’s catalogue, is one example – the handle is intrinsic in achieving TS 007 when used
long-standing focus on security and expertise in standards, John Mitchell, Technical Manager for Carl F Groupco said: “We ensure that we understand the standards that impact hardware and we share this knowledge with our customers to support them both in product selection and throughout the testing process. Document Q has been a particularly significant development that has impacted the industry and is driving change in hardware selection.”
alongside a 1* cylinder, such as the CFG1* profile cylinder.
Safety and security features play an important role in Carl F Groupco’s portfolio, which currently comprises over 7,000 product lines. The company also supplies one of the largest selections of PAS 24 and Secured by Design approved window and door hardware ranges to the UK market.
Confirming the company’s
www.carlfgroupco.co.uk
The Trojan Sparta 2* door handle from Carl F Groupco: intrinsic in achieving TS 007
Aluminium Tilt & Turn
stay-bearings, for a clean appearance that keeps the emphasis on the sleek aluminium frame.
Made Easy With Sealco & GU
It has a clamp-on system that can be installed without any drilling, meaning there’s no need for fabricators to prepare the frame profile, for faster and easier aluminium tilt and turn window manufacturing.
Window Fabrication
Sales Director, Alan Malcolm says: “At Sealco, we’re always on the lookout for hardware that makes life easier for customers and gives them the opportunity to make the most of market trends. There’s a lot of growth in aluminium windows right now, as homeowners see how great their bifolds look and replace their windows to match.
Independent hardware distributor Sealco is now the exclusive UK stockist of the clamp-on GU Uni-Jet C-Concealed tilt and turn system for aluminium windows. The aluminium tilt and turn window hardware system has fully concealed pivot-rests and
“GU’s Uni-Jet C-Concealed system is perfect for fabricating aluminium tilt and turn windows more efficiently. The clamp-on system is simplicity itself and because it is concealed it puts the focus on the window. It’s a robust piece of kit that’s suitable for any sash weight up to 130 kg.” Sealco holds massive stocks on over 4,000 lines and there’s free next day delivery to mainland UK on orders over £50. www.sealco-scotland.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 45
PRODUCT NEWS
Solidor First To Launch Lock Lock Solidor is the first to launch the new security handle, Lock Lock, on its composite doors. The Lock Lock handle from Brisant Secure was introduced to the market at the FIT show, with Solidor as its official launch partner. Lock Lock is a stunning new addition to Solidor’s wide range of handles and is available to order from end of July. It passed the TS007 2* security test with ease and is designed to be used with the 3* Ultion cylinder. The patented design protects against cylinder picking, bumping, drilling and snapping. Flick the switch on the inside and Lock-Lock’s unique spindle block is activated,
so the door can’t be opened from the outside, even if the cylinder is breached. Lock Lock’s curved design is available from Solidor in five different finishes – the polished Gold handle perfectly complements Peacock Blue from the luxury door colour range. The chrome and gold finishes are achieved with two layers each of copper and nickel (conventional handles have just one), ensuring it looks better for longer. Gareth Busson, Head of Sales & Marketing at Solidor, comments: “Solidor is already known for being one of the most secure
composite doors on the market, with PAS24:2016, Approved Document Q and Secured By Design as standard. With Lock Lock and Ultion, we’ve got a practically unbeatable combination we’re calling 5 Star Security. And with 99.8% of orders delivered on time and in full, it’s backed by 5 Star Reliability. There are no compromises with Solidor.” www.solidor.co.uk
Tommafold Bi-fold Door Gear is Secured by Design Accredited Tommafold bi-fold door gear, a Runners Sliding Systems product has been accredited by Secured By Design, this is following a review of Tommafold’s PAS 24:2016 test report evidence and Tommafold’s safety features. Runners Sliding Systems, a specialist in sliding door gear has joined Secured By Design, (SBD). Secured By Design is a group of national police projects focusing on the design and security of new and refurbished homes, commercial properties and car parks and a police initiative that supports the principles of ‘designing out crime’ through physical security and processes.
The Secured By Design accredited Tommafold gear has a number of security features, including a Tommafold locking flush bolts, Tommafold secure hinges and a Quest Reliance D8 multi-point lock. Security has featured prominently in the design of Tommafold, with concealed fixings, there are no external parts that can be damaged. Tommafold door
46 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
hinges cannot be removed from the hinge shaft once installed, have a 10mm heavy duty shaft and a security locking screw that’s only accessible from inside the property. Years of development has produced an extremely durable and secure product that is easy to install. Daniel Wells, Director at Runners Sliding Systems commented “We are delighted to join Secured By Design, security is an important part of our offering, as experts in door gear and hardware we are always looking to further develop the security features of our product range”. www.runners-uk.com
PRODUCT NEWS
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PRODUCT NEWS
New VEKA Imagine Door
Lifts Expectations Debuted at the FIT Show 2017, VEKA Group’s brand new Imagine Lift & Slide Patio Door is the latest addition to its luxurious, innovative and technically advanced Imagine suite of doors. Designed to ‘let nature into your living space’, the system can incorporate between two and four sashes; any and all of which can be configured to ‘lift and slide’ depending on the user’s requirements. And, thanks to its safe and secure construction – utilising extra large steel reinforcements within the profile – the Imagine Lift & Slide Patio Door is strong enough to easily handle both residential and commercial applications. Dawn Stockell, VEKA Group’s Marketing Director comments: “The Imagine Suite remains one of the industry’s most significant developments in terms of doors, with each new addition embracing
its ethos of quality, capability and style. The Lift & Slide Patio Door is no exception, offering luxurious expanses of glass while providing ‘best in class’ levels of insulation depending on the glazing used. We’ve pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, facilitating creative door designs that could only have been imagined before.” That’s not to say that the Imagine Lift & Slide Patio Door is intended only for wider openings. Its easy-to-operate sliding sashes are as effortless to use in small doorways as they are across large frontages opening onto lawns, patios or terraces for example. “We wanted the Imagine Lift & Slide Patio Door to be elegantly stylish from any angle; inside or out”, Dawn continues. “Visible surfaces have been kept to a minimum even in floor-to-ceiling installations; maximising the
48 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
natural light let in, and creating a sumptuous sense of space. Sliding sashes close flush to the frame, and drainage has been fully concealed within the sash.” The Imagine Lift & Slide Patio Door is available in a range of finishes (19 colours and woodgrains from VEKA’s Variations colour collection) across all installation options. Aluminium covers can be specified in those finishes too, further increasing the system’s versatility as part of a broader design scheme. The same flexibility applies to hardware, with products from all major manufacturers catered for. “The Imagine Lift & Slide Patio Door met with a fantastic reception at its FIT Show launch”, Dawn adds. “What our technicians have achieved with its multi-chamber profile, Neopor inserts and thermally broken threshold has addressed the industry’s expectations for energy efficiency using doors of this type. We look forward to hearing from our installers about the new projects it opens up, and customer reactions to its solidity and understated good looks.” www.vekauk.com
PRODUCT NEWS
Dempsey Dyer Strengthens Door Range With Invisifold
Yorkshire’s Dempsey Dyer has added to its extensive offering with the innovative Invisifold slide and swing door.
ate partial walkways and provide ventilation anywhere along the opening.
Renowned for its versatility, the Invisifold system converts a conventional patio or French door into a highly-flexible, sliding and folding solution, allowing homeowners to create large openings to outside spaces. The Invisifold system is quite unique, as every sash can be operated independently to cre-
“Whilst we are well-respected in the industry for our timber expertise, we are incredibly passionate about uPVC too, offering an extensive and diverse range of quality products,” comments Dempsey Dyer MD, Peter Dyer. “The Invisifold is the latest addition to our uPVC range and allows our trade
customers to stand out from their competition with a truly innovative door solution.” “We’re celebrating 40-years in business this year, which we firmly believe can be attributed to our unwavering commitment to quality products and a reliable, professional service which we have had since day one. Constantly strengthening our offering with the likes of Invisifold and helping our customers to win new business is just one of the reasons why many of our customers have worked with us for decades.” The Invisifold is available in a wide range of colours and woodgrain finishes, allowing homeowners to authentically replicate the look of Dempsey Dyer’s famous timber range. A sleek appearance is achieved through concealing the hinges and hardware within the frame rebate, with only the handle and cylinder on display. The slide and swing door can be specified with innovative options from VBH, which allows the sashes to fold closer together for an uncompromised opening. www.dempseydyer.co.uk
Monza II Now Available Composite door manufacturer DOORCO announces further investment to meet increased customer demands, with the development of new tooling giving an upgrade to their flagship Monza door. “Demand for our Monza door, which set a new benchmark in contemporary entrances, trebled in the last year,” explains Dan Sullivan, DOORCO’s MD. “Previously manufactured at DOORCO UK we’ve now invested in new tooling also taking the opportunity to enhance its design and styling.
“The Monza II has a superior look and feel and new features include full 4mm GRP skins, consistent throughout the door and a deeper feature groove giving greater definition and higher quality finish. We have redesigned the panels too – the Monza II has 8 wider panels, compared with the 12 on the original door, and the grain definition and look on the mid panel has been changed to book match design, improving the overall aesthetics of the door. www.door-co.com WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 49
PRODUCT NEWS
New Door Styles Help Safedoors’ Diamond Range Shine
Following success with their premium Platinum Range of composite doors, door manufacturer Safedoors is adding new door styles to their popular Diamond Range of high-insulation foam core composite doors.
The new door styles are designed to guide homeowners through the range and help them to find a door that matches their property and their tastes. Whether it the Traditional style of the Aintree or the Cheltenham which expertly replicates the classic design of timber, the more Contemporary style of the Plumpton with modern glazing options or the Heritage style of the Cottage or the Chepstow. The new styles aim to highlight the vast choice available in the extensive Diamond Range. “We have seen great success with our new door styles for the Platinum Range, providing even the most discerning homeowner
with a vast array of options and choices. We wanted to add that option to our Diamond Range,” comments Sharn Samra, Marketing Director at Safedoors. “Adding the Traditional, Contemporary and Heritage styles along with recently an extended choice of colours, design options and hardware, gives not only our installers an even stronger product to sell but a range of products that can match any property.”
Safedoors have enhanced their Diamond Range of composite doors following demand from installers and customers. They are now available in a further six colours including Aubergine, Duck Egg and Anthracite Grey, and in two new designs; Ascot and York. The doors can be customised further with an extended range of hardware and glass options. Everything from handles and letter plates to knockers and numerals
50 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
can be chosen, meaning customers can create a bespoke door to stand out from the crowd or compliment their property. “Our composite door range allows installers to reach both ends of the market with a superb composite door,” concludes Sharn. “Whether consumers are looking for a timber core, premium composite door or a highly-efficient and durable, foam-core composite door, both the Platinum and Diamond ranges offer a wide range of choices and designs.” Worcestershire-based Safedoors specialises in high-quality timber and foam core composite doors for the trade market. Building a strong reputation and drawing knowledge and experience from sister company Permadoor – one of the original composite door manufacturers in the new-build and social housing sector, Safedoors has become a trusted partner of installers across the UK. www.safedoors.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
Distinction Doors New Nxt-Gen Door
Is Proving Popular With Fabricators sleek and impressive finish.
The design innovation of the nxt-gen door is evident and the comprehensive range of style and colours is similarly impressive. Chantel explains, “The nxt-gen range is available in six styles and seven standard colours (White, Red, Blue, Black, Green, Chartwell and Anthracite Grey) with bespoke colour options available too. Perennial favourites Anthracite Grey and Chartwell are also available pre-pigmented reducing lead times even further. All in all, nxtgen is a compelling composite door.”
Distinction Doors recently launched its new nxt-gen composite door and demand has been increasing ever since. For Chantel Roach, Distinction Doors’ Sales and Marketing Director, there are many reasons why more and more fabricators are turning to the new nxt-gen door, not least of which is that it has simply taken composite doors to the next level. “First and foremost, the nxt-gen door is quicker to fabricate with machining time being cut by an average of two minutes across all six door designs. Secondly, there are significant cost savings to be made in waste reduction as each door is delivered pre-apertured along with the consistent letter plate position-
ing across all the styles in the range.” says Chantel. Glazing is similarly as impressive as the nxt-gen door is quicker to glaze and uses a notable 50% fewer glazing consumables. Furthermore, the intelligent door design is easier to deglaze with no sealant to the internal beading. Stock holding is also reduced as all doors come pre-fitted with internal beads. The nxt-gen door’s stunning aesthetics with its clinical sightlines delivers superb symmetry with the glazing apertures lining up perfectly with the depression mouldings. The glazing system is unique and sits flush within the frame and has an internal glass retention bead to create a
Distinction Doors also offers comprehensive technical support for fabricators adding the nxt-gen door range. Chantel says, “Our technical team works with customers to put together machining specifications for the door as well as assisting with any training requirements. Furthermore, for customers needing assistance with developing marketing materials, support is available from Distinction’s in-house marketing department too.” The success of our industry is built on innovation and in the nxt-gen door you can see this in action. With a door that is quicker to fabricate, offers a reduction in waste and product inventory, available in a comprehensive choice of styles and colours and comes with Document Q as standard, it’s not surprising so many fabricators are adding the new nxt-gen door to their portfolio. To find out more about the new nxt-gen door visit distinctiondoors.co.uk/nxt-gen/
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 51
PRODUCT NEWS
StormMeister Moves Ahead In Flood
Protection With Extrudaseal Specialist flood door manufacturer, StormMeister, has developed a ground-breaking flood door system, which uses the pressure of the flood water itself on gaskets to create a water-tight seal. An evolution of StormMeister’s patented Active Flood Sealing system, its new solution extruded by Extrudaseal, can be applied during manufacture, eliminating any requirement for any specialist onsite installation. Malcolm Snape, Managing Director, StormMeister explained: “Flood door designs traditionally rely on the compression of the door gasket to form a seal against water. This is achieved through the addition of extra locking points. “The problem is that this can make operation difficult, requiring an element of force to compress the gasket using the handle, something which can make everyday operation problematic. “Our patented Active Flood Sealing System, exploits the pressure created by the flood water to form a seal, with just two extra locking points and without compromising operation and day-to-day use.” Developed in partnership with Lancaster University, the StormMeister system for inward opening doors employs complex single multi-chamber gasket to create a watertight seal. This allows flood water to pass through an outer-frame gasket and then into a water chamber. As the water chamber floods, an expansion chamber is compressed – in effect using the pressure of the flood water itself to create a seal. Now extruding more than 10,000 km of gaskets in the last year, alongside weather seals, Glazepta tapes and U-channels, pressure plates, box sections and bi-folding door seals for leading systems, plus an extensive ‘back catalogue’ of extrusions, ExtrudaSeal serves fabricators and installers nationwide. Customers save an average of 30 to 40 per cent, on gaskets by buying product in from ExtrudaSeal, as a third party, compared to buying it from their systems company, claim ExtrudaSeal. In addition to its existing product offer, it also works with systems companies, fabricators and installers to develop bespoke 52 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
solutions. “I went down to see Extrudaseal and explained to them what I was trying to do. Keith, their technical manager, went out of the meeting and came back in with this flipper seal. It was exactly what we were looking for”, said Malcolm. “We have since worked with Extudaseal and Lancaster University to take what started out as a two gasket solution installed on site, to develop a single solution which can be applied during manufacture.” The StormMeister flood sealing system is available for use with Rehau profiles, however, subject to licencing agreement by patent holders StormMeister and their existing licencees the same principles have potential application to other PVC-U systems. Fully compliant with PAS1188, it’s been fully tested to withstand water up to a depth of 600mm for 48 hours. “It’s a very challenging extrusion”, says Paul James, Sales Director, Extrudaseal. “What you’re dealing with is not only a multi-chamber extrusion but one with multiple dimensions and thicknesses, which make it a very technical product and one that requires a huge amount of skill to get right. He continued: “If you’re trying to keep water out you need to extrude product to exacting tolerances, so this is never going to be a one size fits all product, but there’s no reason why the same principles couldn’t be applied to other systems”, he continued. The wettest ever December saw 16,000 properties hit by flooding at the end of 2015, with northern and western parts of the UK registering more than double the average rainfall. According to accountancy firm KPMG, the loss of property and the disruption caused by Storm Desmond collectively cost more than £5bn. In 2007 when a similar pattern of flooding hit, total insured claims were £3.2bn. At the same time Britain continues to build an average of 10,000 homes a year on floodplains. www.extrudaseal.com
PRODUCT NEWS
The Virtu-AL Composite
Door Has Landed
A completely new breed of composite door has been unveiled by Virtuoso. Virtu-AL – the UK’s first aluminium textured, smooth non-woodgrain finish composite door – has been created to help installers make the most of the surging popularity of contemporary aluminium products.
Virtually indistinguishable from a smooth, powder coated aluminium door, the Virtu-AL door is available in four sleek and modern styles which are totally exclusive to Virtuoso. The designs are complemented by a range of traditional or contemporary hardware, which includes a new inline flat pull bar.
Tony Craggs, managing director of Virtuoso,previously known as WB Group, says: “We are tremendously excited to launch this unique ultra-modern new door, which is a step change for the industry. The Virtu-AL door is like nothing else out there and it’s certain to open up some fantastic new opportunities for installers who want to broaden their scope beyond standard composite doors and take advantage of the growing consumer appetite for modern, aluminium style products. “Previously, homeowners had to choose between a pricier aluminium door or a woodgrained composite door but not now. Our high performance Virtu-AL door looks and feels just like a premium aluminium door and it has all the thermal and performance characteristics of a composite door. So now, if a homeowner wants to achieve the high-end contemporary look of an aluminium door but without the price tag of aluminium, they can with this aluminium alternative door.” “The Virtu-AL door is set to revolutionise the industry and this launch means that composite doors can compete in the
same field as aluminium doors for the first time ever. This door combines the best features of an aluminium door with those of a composite door and it brings much greater variety for homeowners who are no longer restricted in their choice of entrance door.” Described as the ‘ultimate aluminium companion’, the aluminium alternative door has been developed to complement the crisp, clean features of other aluminium fenestration products to enable end users to create a cohesive look for their home.
Incorporating realistic detailing and a smooth finish to replicate the appearance of an aluminium door, the Virtu-AL door consists of a 4mm GRP skin on a robust 44mm composite slab. Like all Virtuoso doors, it is available in a number of standard colours and it can also be sprayed to match any RAL colour in Virtuoso’s in-house spray booth. And, just like a composite door, it will not warp, twist or flake. Engineered with security in mind, the door is PAS 24 and Document Q compliant. The door also comes with a comprehensive guarantee to cover its structure and finish. The Virtu-AL door can be sourced through Virtuoso’s door designer software – Gateway. Gateway is a bespoke door designer package which has been enhanced to bring even greater functionality to customers and help them to design, order and price standard and bespoke composite doors. With the recently launched Gateway 2 package, homeowners can now design their own Virtu-AL door on-line. www.customade.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 53
PRODUCT NEWS
Orchard Joinery Opt For Tommafold Bi-Fold Door Gear Orchard Joinery, based in Heathfield, near Kidlington has been operating in the Oxfordshire area for over 25 years and make bespoke windows, doors and other timber constructions, for example orangeries, conservatories and staircases. The company also often work with buildings linked to Oxford University, refurbishing grand windows and entrances and is known for the high standard of joinery required to work with iconic buildings in Oxford city centre. Glen Ancil, owner at Orchard Joinery, commented “We have been using Tommafold door gear for all our bi-fold doors for a while now. We like it because of the high quality gear and the fact that it’s easy to install and very adaptable” Tommafold is a unique, patented folding door system, providing all the components required to create
a premium result for timber bi-fold doors. Tommafold has a patented, superior hinge handle set that offers a substantial forged handle, matching hinge set and has a 10 year warranty. Daniel Wells, Director at Runners Sliding Door Systems commented “The ordering process for Tommafold is very easy. Our customers call us and provide basic details about the bi-fold door that will be installed, like how many doors and the size of the entrance, then our customer service advisers put together and dispatch the exact kit required to install the door, this saves our customers the hassle of thinking about all the components needed for each and every installation”. Security has featured prominently in the design process of Tommafold gear, with concealed fixings, there are no external parts that can be damaged. Tommafold door
54 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
hinges cannot be removed from the shaft once installed, have a 10mm heavy duty shaft and a security locking screw that’s only accessible from inside the property. Glen added, “Over the years we have suggested adaptations for the Tommafold kit and Runners Sliding Door Systems, the UK and European distributor have used this feedback as part of their continuous improvement of the kit itself” Manufactured using high grade stainless steel, Tommafold is available in satin stainless, polished stainless and polished brass finishes, allowing the doors to be used in a variety of settings. Daniel added “Tommafold has recently successfully completed a PAS 24:2016 test, a product assessment specification and a primary reference in the building regulations approved Document Q1” www.runners-uk.com www.tommafold.com
PRODUCT NEWS
New Bi-Fold Door Set To
Hit The Market Ambitious fabricator TWR Trade Frames has added a new bi-fold door to its portfolio of products. The company has launched its new bi-fold eternAL door, which will give installers a product that has superior aesthetics and excellent security; as well as market-leading weather performance that will help them capitalise on demand for premium aluminium systems. Terry Richardson, Managing Director of TWR, comments: “In the residential sector, bi-fold doors are being installed with conservatories and we are also seeing this product proving particularly popular as a replacement for French doors, as well as holding its popularity in the commercial market. “eternAL bi-fold doors can be used in both sectors and has been engineered with installers in mind so they can complete jobs quickly and efficiently.” eternAL doors feature slim sightlines and can be manufactured up to 1.2m wide and 3m high. Multiple threshold options and an ultra-smooth bottom running track make access and operation easier for the user. It also features a polyamide thermal break for increased thermal insulation and is Document Q and PAS24 compliant, giving peace of mind to the homeowner. eternAL doors also offer a range of benefits to the installer too, such as an adjustable jamb for easy and efficient installation. The launch of eternAL is part of TWR’s growth strategy and Managing Director Terry Richardson says the brand will help installers capitalise on sales opportunities at the high-end of the market”. eternalsales@twrgroup.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 55
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
PRODUCT NEWS
Guardian Solar Control Glass
Gives Architects Freedom To Play With Colours And Reflections On The BNL-BNP Paribas HQ In Rome The headquarters of the BNLBNP Paribas Group building is a stunning example of how to successfully combine innovative architectural design with optimum comfort and wellbeing for the building’s occupants. The project also stands out for its high level of commitment to environmental sustainability, which will see it certified as class A and LEED Gold, with reduced energy consumption compared to traditional buildings. Designed by Italian company 5+1AA Alfonso Femia Gianluca Peluffo architectures, the building was created in such a way that it integrates into the surrounding urban environment. Due to the clever structural glazing, the aesthetics are visually appealing, reflecting the building’s surroundings on all sides and changing its appearance
depending on the time of day and the weather. It helps transform the building into a mirage-like structure, whose appearance continually changes as it catches the reflections of the sky and the city lights, whilst at the same time avoiding being seen as an obstruction to views. The aesthetics also provide the perfect transition between the Tiburtina Station and the surrounding residential districts. As Alfonso Femia, Founder Partner, President and CEO at 5+1AA and project manager states: “With its dynamic, reflective colours, the glass in the building seeks its own dialogue with its surroundings and with the lights of Rome. Night or day, the glass provides unique, ever-changing light reflections,
56 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
colours and transparencies.” For the structural glazing, Guardian Glass supplied five different products from its SunGuard® range of solar control glass – SunGuard Solar Silver 10, SunGuard Solar Silver 20, SunGuard Solar Neutral 67, SunGuard HP 35/26, SunGuard HP 43/3. Four of these providing a silver aspect, the other a more neutral appearance. All of these coated glass products provide different levels of light transmission and external reflection to suit the architect’s precise requirements. To learn more about Guardian SunGuard glass, visit www.sunguardglass.com Guardian Glass is a major business unit of Guardian Industries Corp. For more please visit www.guardianglass.com
PRODUCT NEWS
Dempsey Dyer Strengthens Door Range With Invisifold
Clayton Glass have just produced a time lapsed video to showcase the revolutionary, self-tinting SMARTGLASS® Dynamic in action, showing in just a matter of a few minutes the transformation of each individual glass pane
throughout a hot summer’s day, in one of their first conservatory roof installations. This new video is posted on the SMARTGLASS® website at smart-glass.co.uk/products/
smartglass-dynamic and at 2:39 minutes long, visually show the change in state of the conservatory roof glass from clear at either ends of the day to a dynamically darkened tint during the middle of the day, where outside temperatures touched 30 degrees in June. It can also be seen on YouTube, just click the image above. SMARTGLASS Ultra 86 already provides the greatest performance of any conservatory roof glass with fixed performance levels, claim the company, yet the new Dynamic glass offers a better G-value at 10% and tint of 6% when needed during the hottest days of this summer. Yet during the early and latter parts of the day this revolutionary glass technology offers a 60% light transmission, approaching that of a standard IGU, along with an impressive G-value of 34%. www.smart-glass.co.uk
Distinction Glass Shows Its Class Distinction Glass is celebrating the success of its range of triple glazed laminated glazing units for its composite doors. Bethaney Larkman, Marketing Manager at Distinction, commented: “We launched the Distinction Glass brand to give our glass the showcase it deserved and it is doing just that. We can see that the quality and beauty of our range are proving very attractive to homeowners.” While the classic glass designs remain the most popular, contemporary designs have seen a surge of interest. Bethaney commented: “We can see that homeowners are realising that a composite door doesn’t have to replicate a traditional timber door – they can choose a door style and glass design with stunning contemporary looks.”
All the panels have slim sightlines so attention is focused on the beauty of the panel and for extra security the external face is fitted with 6.8mm laminated safety glass to BS EN 14449. Comprising of 23 designs across four collections, the range offers something for all tastes and styles and really raises the bar in glass design.
Distinction’s glass range is renowned for its quality and attention to detail. Each design is triple glazed, something that offers two major benefits. Firstly, thermal efficiency is maintained. And because the decorative panel is enclosed within two clear panes, keeping it clean and pristine is much easier too.
Distinction Doors has been one of the market leaders in composite doors for some time. It is clear that it maintains its position because it recognises what homeowners are looking for. The success of the Distinction Glass range is a perfect illustration of this and the beauty of the range is backed up with practical features too. www.distinctiondoors.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 57
PRODUCT NEWS
Single System
For Residential And Commercial Balustrading
requirement for and cost of, scaffolding, making working at height safer, while easily accommodating imperfections in base materials to guarantee a perfect install.” The EasyMount Vario is also available as a side mounted system for use in private residential applications only, achieving a 0.74kN loading with a mounting distance at intervals of just 40cm. Side mounted and top mounted systems both utilize connecting pins to simplify alignment and support a high precision fit. Bohle has announced the launch of its new EasyMount Vario balustrade system, which has been engineered to be suitable for use across domestic and commercial applications. The highly flexible top mount system, represents the evolution of Bohle’s proven and established EasyMount Vario range. Accommodating glass thicknesses of 12 to 21.52mm and suitable for interior or exterior use, it offers two linear load options in a single system defined by the distance between mounting points. This includes a standard residential application of 0.74kN, when fixed every 20cm or a
1.5kN load with fixings at 10cm centres, making the EasyMount Vario suitable for a wide range of commercial applications. “The latest Easymount Vario balustrade channel offers both strength and flexibility, with two linear load options”, said Dave Broxton, Managing Director, Bohle. He continued: “With larger drilling distances in residential applications, it also reduces costs, while suitable for domestic and commercial applications, minimizes stock holding. “Offering full adjustment from the balcony side of up to 34mm to the perpendicular, the EasyMount Vario also eliminates the
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“What we’re now seeing is a far wider application and appeal of balustrading, particularly in private residential markets. This represents a significant opportunity for glass processors, including in the pull-through of core product that it delivers”, said Broxton. He concluded: “There are also sizeable opportunities for home improvement companies and installers. Adding balustrading to their offer is the logical next step when it can be accessed using an existing skills-set and delivers some exceptionally high margin opportunities.” For more visit the Bohle website www.bohle-group.com/en-gb
PRODUCT NEWS
Flat Out Sales
For Atlas Installers A record number of Atlas Flat Rooflight displays have been popping up all over the UK as a growing number of installers have been catching on to their impressive selling potential.
Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions has reported one of its busiest quarters for the Flat Rooflight since it was launched at the FIT Show last year. Demand for the Flat Rooflight has risen sharply and Atlas is now fabricating at least 50 rooflights a week. 60 Atlas customers currently have an Atlas Flat Rooflight display in their showroom and latest Atlas figures show that these installers are selling a third more rooflights because of it. Gareth Thomas, Sales and Marketing Director at Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions, explains: “It’s been an incredible first half of the year for the Flat Rooflight with sales rising sharply, particularly for those installers who have a Flat Rooflight display in their showrooms. We do encourage our customers to
invest in their showrooms because we know it pays off. There really is no better way to show off the contemporary look and minimalistic design of the rooflight. When homeowners see how good the display looks, it makes an easy sale for the installer. “It’s not just the look of the product that makes the Flat Rooflight popular among installers though. They’re also attracted by its competitive price, our fast five-day lead time on stock sizes and the comprehensive marketing support we provide. The main draw for them however is just how quick and easy this product is to fit. Time is money and this product really does help installers to boost their output and enhance their profits.” The Flat Rooflight is a quick and simple way to bring more light into a room. It is competitively priced to help installers maximise its selling power and increase their profits margins.
The Flat Rooflight displays are just one element of the comprehensive Atlas marketing support package, which has been developed to give installers the resources they need to create a professional appearance and successfully promote and sell to customers. It includes brochures, which can be personalised with the installer’s logo and company details, digital marketing support, direct mail and advertising templates, retail leaflets and showroom display graphics. The experienced marketing team at Customade Group is also on hand to guide installers through their marketing and to develop a tailored programme to help them sell the range of Atlas products. Created to deliver ‘ALL SKY AND NO ROOF’, the Flat Rooflight is claimed to bring ultimate performance and maximum light in a sleek, minimalistic design. It features a 27% slimmer overall frame height to achieve a flush glazed look with minimal internal and external sightlines. It also delivers an industry-leading complete roof (glass and frame) U-value of 1.3 W/m2k, without the need for triple glazing, says the company. www.atlasroofsolutions.co.uk
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PRODUCT NEWS
Soaring Temperatures
With Delighted
Dynamic Consumers As temperatures have soared in early June, the lucky first few consumers with the test installations of SMARTGLASS® Dynamic have been somewhat overjoyed and genuinely astounded with the performance of their glass, which offers unsurpassed G-values in the roofing plane with self-tinting technology. With temperatures touching 30 degree Celsius in many parts of the UK, Mr Haydon Edwards was one of a lucky few that have adopted the recently launched SMARTGLASS®Dynamic, which is a self-tinting glass technology. His lantern roof now provides an acceptable temperature in which to sit during the early afternoon sun, with current temperatures dictating that only the most shad-
ed or technically advanced glazed rooms are habitable. By evening time, the glass is reverting back to a clear state as the surface temperature falls. It’s also a future technology that’s hugely exciting for Mr Edwards, who is providing considerable feedback on a near daily basis, as to the ground breaking nature of this self-tinting glass technology. Each panel reacts independently of one another due to the position of the sun, as he points out and the environment changes shade throughout the day to help keep internal temperatures low and excessive glare to a minimum. He’s also been able to ascertain that this new glass genre almost helps eliminate nearly all glare
from a television and also importantly, will help preserve the nature of furnishings and fabrics. He’s one of the first consumers in the UK to adopt a dynamic living environment with a test installation and has openly offered for others to see it in action. Jason McCabe, commercial and site director for Clayton Glass commented: ‘This lantern roof case study from Mr Edwards is further evidence of the fact that this ground-breaking, self-tinting glass technology works in situ. In time, we fully expect forward think installers to join us in helping to bring to market this dynamic glass revolution, particularly in showroom environments.’ www.smart-glass.co.uk
Fabricators And Installers Sign Up To LEKA Roof Systems Innovative roof designers LEKA systems first entered the market with their new LEKA Warm roof system back in 2015. Since the introduction of the LEKA Warm roof the team at LEKA have trained over 300 people to date through their LEKA training programme designed for fabricators and installers who wish to become official LEKA partners. Rhys Hoddinott, Director at LEKA Systems, said: “The LEKA Warm roof and the newly launched LEKA Orangery roof are real game changers in conservatory roof design and the impact on the industry is reflected in the number of new sign ups and training programmes we have commissioned.”
The comprehensive LEKA Approved training programme is held over one day where all aspects of the product, installation, lead generation, software, sales training and marketing support are discussed in detail before membership status is granted. Rhys explains, “If you have been put off from entering the solid roof market due to not having the correct products then LEKA has the solution for you. The take up to date has been excellent and we are delighted to welcome over 60 LEKA approved company representatives since the 2017 FIT Show.” The newly launched LEKA Orang-
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ery Roof uses the same technological innovation as Warm Roof. It is manufactured from a structurally tested, high grade GRP profile system, which means no cold bridging or condensation risks that aluminium produces. It all adds up to a genuinely lightweight orangery roof that has a U value of just 0.15 W/m²K. The roof is supplied in kit form and delivered in four simple lightweight pre-assembled ladder sections. All materials from the external board to the internal board are pre-cut/ fabricated to exact specifications. It means installation is a two man one day job (excluding the lantern and roof membrane). www.lekasystems.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
New Envirotile Natural Slate Tile Available From Icotherm The brand new Envirotile Natural Slate Tile is available now from Icotherm Solid Roof. It’s backed by an impressive 25-year 8Fix storm-proof manufacturer’s guarantee which runs alongside the 10-year guarantee from Icotherm. Offering a stunning natural slate finish, the new Envirotile is fast to fit on site with a unique interlocking system and is cost-effective because more square metres can be covered with fewer tiles. Dave Jackson, the brains behind Icotherm Solid Roof says: “We designed the Icotherm roof to be quick and easy to fit so installers could be on and off-site as quickly as possible and fit in more jobs. Adding Envirotile and Enviroslate
“The 25-year 8Fix storm-proof guarantee proves the reliability of Envirotile. It runs alongside the existing Icotherm 10-year guarantee for extra peace of mind that installers can offer to homeowners. “It takes just 11.9 tiles to cover a square metre so it’s a cost-effective finish. Plus, the tile looks great. It really does give a natural slate effect, which is exactly what we need from a lightweight, high-performance roof tile for Icotherm Solid Roof.”
to our range of roof finishes will make the process even faster. “It’s a fantastic product. Envirotile is really lightweight, so it’s the ideal tile for completing solid roof conservatory refurbishments. It’s got a unique interlocking, dry-fix system so there’s no need for any cement. And it has guaranteed performance – it has been weather tested in up to 147mph wind loads.
Envirotile is BBA Certified, manufactured from recycled plastic and has a Greenspec award. Icotherm Solid Roof is the fully insulated, lightweight solid roof conservatory constructed from unique structural timber modular pods. It has a cross ventilation system to eliminate condensation. www.icotherm.co.uk
Size Up The Benefits Of A Next-Day Roof Lantern Kit installations,” says Craig Miller, Managing Director for AluFoldDirect. “Customers can have them direct from stock which massively reduces waiting time. In fact, orders placed before 10am can be delivered on the same day for many customers.
Installers switch to stock sized roof lanterns to take advantage of the fast delivery from leading aluminium manufacturers AluFoldDirect. Available for same day or next day delivery the new Technic-AL Roof Lantern kits come in three popular sizes with four colour options.
“It’s worked. Today, lots of installers have switched to our off the shelf sizes. Knowing they’ll get the kit quickly makes it easy because they can plan ahead and create the perfect sized gap in the roof. The Technic-AL Roof Lantern is designed for quick and easy installation too. They can be fitted out of the box in just 40 minutes using AluFoldDirect’s clever, colour-coded installation method.”
“When we launched our roof lanterns we created three stock sizes to suit a big proportion of
In the four-pane design there are two stock sizes – 1m x 2m and 1.5m x 2.5m, and a 2m x 3m in
the multi-pane style. Each of these kits is available in four stock colours – anthracite, white, black and dual anthracite/white. “AluFoldDirect first developed its precision manufacturing in lead times for aluminium bi-fold doors,” adds Craig. “As we have extended our range of aluminium products, we make sure we consistently offer high quality, right first-time aluminium doors, windows and roof lanterns on the fastest lead times. “Of course, if customers need a bespoke size or colour, we’ll manufacture it to order and deliver it in 2 weeks. But we are finding that where possible installers are choosing AluFoldDirect’s roof lantern kits available on same day and next day delivery.” www.alufolddirect.co.uk
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PRODUCT NEWS
Exlabesa Showcases Commercial Credentials Experienced aluminium systems house, Exlabesa, has been showcasing why its products are so readily accepted on commercial projects. Paul Benn, the company’s National Sales Manager, commented: “If you want to take advantage of commercial aluminium opportunities, there really is no better choice than Exlabesa.” The reasons behind Exlabesa’s success in the commercial sector are simple. Paul explains: “Our products have all been tried and tested in a European environment so offer proven success. They have also all been designed to be easy to manufacture and install so they add tangible value to a business.” Exlabesa UK extrudes windows,
doors and facades and all products are fully integrated to provide a complete glazing solution. The product range includes the KWS51 casement window, the KWS75 casement window, rebated thermal doors, tilt turn windows, bi-folding doors, patio doors, thermal and non thermal shop fronts and curtain walling. Also available is the newly launched steel replacement window suite, KS59. It’s a technically advanced framing system with slim sightlines that can be used in punched hole, composite and ribbon window refurbishment schemes as well as new build projects. All its products are extruded in its state-of-the-art Doncaster headquarters which is equipped with two extruders and two age-
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ing ovens, giving the company more capability and capacity than many. An in-house powder coating plant and in-house anodising plant means it can guarantee the quality of all its items and also gives an advantage when it comes to delivery times: mill finish items typically take four working days, paint finish items typically take seven working days and all orders are delivered using its own transport for further peace of mind. Exlabesa also offers fabricators working in – or looking to work in – the commercial sector a wealth of support. Paul says: “We have a great deal of experience inhouse that our customers can call on whenever they need it. Whether it’s help putting together a tender, manufacturing or installation support, we’re always here when we’re needed. We have recently appointed Ripley Foster our National Specification Manager who is working closely with specifiers while further supporting our commercial fabricators too. It means we can add value to any set up.” www.exlabesa.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
QUALICOAT Approved
Two Coat Systems for Architectural Aluminium The global powder coatings specification for powder coating over aluminium now in its 14th Edition has its strength in the ‘triple lock’ approval system, firstly, the pretreatment chemistry, secondly the application process, and thirdly the powder used, where for each of these three elements independent approval and inspection is required. For the vast majority of architectural applications, the standard QUALICOAT approved one coat system is perfect, where the strength of weathering is identified by the Class of powder chosen. BUT there are a few occasions where real consideration can be given to the effective use of two coats. QUALICOAT, in recognition of these developments has now approved a number of excellent two coat systems, these can be seen on the approved powder systems list at www.qualicoat.net “So, why two coats!”, I hear the refrain. “Is this a ruse by the industry to charge more for powder coating?”. Well…..no. Two coats, or multi coat systems have been available in the paint industry from the beginning, starting with wet paints. Powder coatings from their inception have penetrated the paint market well often on economic grounds as it is an effective one coat system. For powder coatings, as the technology has improved the use of multi coat systems has become more common place typically for industrial purposes over steel e.g. for plant, machinery and equipment. For the architectural world for powder coating over aluminium a ‘two coat system’ maybe relevant in specific circumstances. What might these be?
additionally has 100’s of punched, sharp perforations. This multiplies the risk areas considerably. Commercial Warranty. QUALICOAT is a specification label and is not involved in such considerations. The approved applicator however and the approved powder supplier are the parties who offer warranties. Where a location is hazardous; where the coated part is challenging; where a long period warrant is required, a two coat system will help. Two coats provide an additional barrier to the negative weathering effects of UV light, temperature and moisture. And a two coat system can provide superior edge coverage. For these reasons, an applicator who chooses an approved QUALICOAT two coat system may have more confidence in the warranty period to be offered after discussion with their powder supplier.
Alan Maginnis – QUALICOAT UK & Ireland Chairman
The corrosion class of the environment where the building is located is the main consideration, followed by the material to be coated, and then from a commercial point of view, for the warranty period to be offered. Environmental corrosion classes from C1 to C5 are outlined and described in ISO12944-2, where C5 is the most corrosive environment. In more challenging environments (C4/C5) certain aluminium materials and fabrications may be more susceptible to corrosive attack. Let us consider perforated aluminium sheets. Probably the weakest area for any paint finish is the sharp edge. Sheets have 4 sides and potentially 4 sharp edges. A perforated aluminium sheet
Two coat systems over aluminium are gathering traction and have a role to play in the armoury of QUALICOAT approvals designed to better tailor the finish quality to the clients’ requirements. QUALICOAT remains one of the leading specifications because it evolves its approvals and tightens its limits with the 15th Edition due for release later this year. All designed to provide reassurance to the client. Quality and consistency of quality, continues to be highlighted by the association which includes third party testing of all certified powder formulations and pretreatment systems that make up the QUALICOAT approval process. For specification support, any member of the association can offer advice and guidance. For updated information about the use and specification of QUALICOAT in the UK and Ireland, please visit the associations’ website at www.qualicoatuki.org
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 63
PRODUCT NEWS
Colour Choices Made Simple
By REHAU
ity for black and grey PVC-U windows, which mimic the minimalist look of aluminium windows. The Contemporary Collection includes a selection of blacks and greys, including new additions Midnight Black, REHAU’s darkest ever foil, and Smooth Basalt Grey II. The Timeless Collection presents great colour choices for period properties, including Clotted Cream, Chartwell Green and new foils Silver Birch and Windsor. The Traditional Collection presents options for those looking for an old-fashioned timber finish and brings together a number of REHAU’s best sellers including Golden Oak, Rosewood and Mahogany. Finally, the Statement Collection offers more daring colour choices, including reds, blues and greens.
REHAU is making it easier than ever to choose colour foils for its window and door profiles, with a new colour swatch featuring all 25 of its solid and woodgrain laminate finishes. REHAU has been at the forefront of the development of laminate foils for PVC-U profiles for more than 40 years and offers a range of hardwearing foil colours suitable for both internal and external use. PVC-U windows account for 80 per cent of the UK’s total windows market and a quarter of these installations
are now coloured windows. So to make it simple for homeowners, architects and installers to choose the right foil for their application, REHAU’s complete collection has been brought together in a single, handy-sized swatch book so that different foil colours can be easily compared. To make the selection process even easier, the colours have been arranged into 4 individual collections; The Contemporary Collection builds on the growing popular-
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Meg Durrell, Product Assistant from REHAU, said: “We are continuously refreshing and expanding our range of laminate foils to meet industry demand for coloured windows. With so many colours and finishes to choose from, we have created the new colour swatch and colour collections to help guide our trade and end user customers into finding the right laminate for their property.” All REHAU high-performance foil finishes are durable, scratch resistant and can be easily cleaned so they look newer for longer. The laminate is also resistant to UV light, heat and the weather so the colour won’t deteriorate or fade over time. To obtain your colour swatch please visit www.rehau.uk/colour or contact your sales office.
PRODUCT NEWS
Bowater By Birtley Adds
A Splash Of Colour Bowater by Birtley is pleased to offer a full array of colours from its in-house paint line, on its wide range of composite doors. And never has colour been so important as Kevin Kiernan of Bowater by Birtley explains: “Property experts have confirmed that an immaculate front door is the key to selling a house. However, the best colour depends on the position of the property. Pastels work best for city dwellings while natural shades should be used in the countryside. Meanwhile, trending colours are bright yellow, pink and turquoise. We already know the importance of colour, but as its placed under the spotlight by property experts, manufacturers need to be in a strong position to
deliver. “We invested in an in-house paint line so that we have complete
control over the delivery of a wide range of colours. We can colour match any specific requirements for the more individual colour projects and where required, we can also colour match the frame to the door. Homeowners want choice when it comes to the colour of their front door and with recent press articles suggesting that the colour they choose says something about what kind of person they are, there is even more need to offer a whole array of options! “The Bowater by Birtley range of composite doors is about offering choice so the end user has precisely the door they want, not a compromised version of it. Our in-house paint line, number of door styles and the option of single or dual rebate composites allows us to do just that. Which in turn allows our customers to differentiate from the competition.”
The Swish Impressions Colour Range
Now Includes 10 Stock Colours Swish has just announced that 10 of the most popular colours in its Impressions range will now be available from stock. Gerald Allen, Swish’s Brand Manager, said: “Coloured profiles are becoming an increasing popular choice for homeowners. The colours now available from stock covers 88% of our total colour sales and feedback from Swish installers is that it will open up new opportunities for their businesses.” At the same time as making 10 colours available from stock, Swish has also announced that there will be no minimum order quantity on its non-stock colours. Gerald commented: “By
removing the minimum order requirement, colour immediately becomes more accessible and appealing to consumers and installers alike.” The 10 stock colours include two foiled options that are proving particularly popular with style conscious consumers: Black Brown and Anthracite Grey. The other colours include Cream (on a cream base), White, Black Brown / White (on a white base), Rosewood (on a brown base), Rosewood / White (on a white base), Light Oak (on a tan base), Light Oak / White (on a white base) and Anthracite Grey / White (on a white base). www.swishwindows.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 65
MACHINERY
Trade Frame Doubles Up With
Kombimatec
easy enough to sort out.” Trade Frame, who have specialised in the manufacturing of uPVC windows, doors and conservatories since 2001, have benefitted from the excellent customer service Kombimatec offers to all of its customers. “It’s been very good! I really can’t fault them,” Russ explained. “The delivery and installation went without a hitch and because of that we wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Kombimatec to others who might be on the market looking for new machinery.” Providing greater fabrication flexibility than ever before, Kombimatec’s 4HDV Four Combination Head Welder comes with individual start buttons for each head that enables the machine to be operated from any head. Essentially two machines in one, it can be used as 4 heads together, 2+2, 3+1 or 1+3.
Sometimes it’s simply all about being in the right place at the right time. For Trade Frame Manufacturers Ltd this was certainly the case when they stumbled upon Kombimatec at FIT Show 2016 inspiring a working relationship that both parties were excited about. Visiting the last FIT Show to be held at the Telford International Centre before moving to the NEC in 2017, Pembrokeshire-based Trade Frame Manufacturers went with the purpose to view the machinery on offer as they were in need of some new equipment. Impressed with the speed and
ease of use that Kombimatec’s machines offer, according to Trade Frame’s Russ Evans it was an easy decision to make when committing to purchasing a pair of machines from the Bedfordshire-based machinery manufacturer. Choosing a 4HDV Four Combination Head Welder and 6 Axis CNC Corner, Transom and Cruciform Cleaner, Russ explained what it was that sold Trade Frame on Kombimatec’s range. “The fact that they are a UK based manufacturer was a huge plus for us,” he said. “This way if we ever need any replacements parts or a service it’s
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The EV475 6 Axis CNC Corner, Transom and Cruciform Cleaner is the fastest and most reliable of its kind, claim the company. With two separate sets of cleaning tools, each with their own independent programmable movements, it can work on both sides of the joint at the same time. This speeds up the overall cycle time because transoms and cruciforms can be cleaned in one complete clamping sequence. 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 said to be 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. For more information visit: www.kombimatec.com
MACHINERY its colour matching service. Set up by Robert 15 years ago after being inspired by his late grandfather to become a skilled carpenter, Bailey-Hague now employs seven people and has become a specialist in the manufacture and installation of bespoke timber windows, doors and kitchens. The Mighton machinery range came about after the company saw an opening to devise its own brand range of low-cost machinery, designed to make joinery production quicker, easier and more efficient, as Chairman Mike Derham explains:
Bailey-Hague Joinery Praises
Mighton’s X-Cut™
Cross Jointer Having recently launched its own brand range of machinery earlier this year, Mighton Products gave some of its customers the opportunity to provide honest reviews of the machines they have purchased. Timber window and door specialists Bailey-Hague Joinery recently purchased one of the latest additions to the range, the Mighton X-Cut™ machine which produces perfect cross-joints on glazing beads, and praised its speed and accuracy.
“We choose the X-Cut machine because we were hoping the promise of simple set-up and ease of use would make life easier for our employees and improve joint accuracy.” explained Robert
Bailey-Hague of the Leeds-based company.
“Six months on and we wouldn’t change a thing. The machine is quick and easy to set up and has increased not only the speed of our production but also the accuracy. Our Mighton representative set the machine up for us and gave us full training on how to use it. The Mighton demo van visit we booked was really beneficial, and gave us a lot more confidence in our purchase, having seen how the machine worked first.“ Bailey-Hague Joinery has been a customer of Mighton Products for several years, buying beading and paint and making use of
“Our mission when we set about developing these machines was to partner with skilled Craftsmen like Bailey Hague and provide them with products that speed up manufacturing and deliver long lasting end results.” The semi-automatic X-Cut™ joint cutting machine produces perfect cross-joints on glazing beads and comes complete with tooling to suit the timber profile of the user’s choosing. Accurate and consistent, it allows for simple tool change and no lengthy manuals mean it is simple to set up and easy to operate. The machine is adjustable to accept bead profiles measuring from 9mm to 19mm in height and 12mm to 38mm in width and any lengths over 500mm can be used with the option to add extending arms. Demonstrations of any machine in the range are available through the new Mighton Mobile Demonstration Vehicles. The demonstrations give customers the opportunity for a live demo with a Mighton expert, and see first-hand how to get the most out of a potential purchase. There is also a choice of flexible finance options, making the machines easily attainable for small to medium joinery companies. www.mightonproducts.com
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 67
MACHINERY all four sides of the profile. This is automatically linked to the sawing unit which features a 650mm diameter blade with electronic tilt control. A bar feeder and pick up system with adaptive rotating gripper, means that the LMT65 has the inbuilt flexibility to handle different profiles with ease and requires just a single operative.
Paul Ford, Managing Director, Abcell
Abcell Completes
Six-Figure Investment
In Graf SL4FF And FOM LMT65 Abcell has completed the installation of a cutting-edge Graf Synergy SL4FF seamless corner welder and FOM LMT65 aluminium machining and cutting centre, as part of a major investment in its Warmcore fabrication facility. Manufacturing conservatory roof systems from Global and the Guardian solid roof, Warmroof system, Abcell added Synseal’s PVC-U aluminium hybrid, Warmcore to its trade offer in June this year. Supplied by the Promac Group, this new product offer is underpinned by a six-figure investment in the Graf welder and the high-volume and high precision, FOM LMT65 aluminium machining centre. Paul Ford, Managing Director, Abcell, said: “We have been really pleased with the LMT65. The precision that you get out of it is incredible. It maximizes outputs and
The SL4FF has redefined the PVC-U systems market. Pre-cleaning to exacting tolerances, it zip welds the corner joint whilst controlling the flow of sprue, delivering a seamless but incredibly strong corner joint. FOM and Graf Synergy announced the formation of a new partnership, the FOM-GS Group, at the end of last year. This pools significant resource and expertise in cutting edge innovation in PVC-U and aluminium machining technologies, while Promac Group is exclusive supply partner for both in the UK. Joe Hague, Managing Director Promac Group, said: “The SL4FF has been instrumental in making the welding of Warmcore possible, perfectly aligning aluminium internal and external faces, while zip-welding the PVC-U core.
minimizes waste. It’s incredible and key if you want to do volume but do it well. “The SL4FF gives us a great end-product, with a far stronger welded corner and precision finish. It’s what people want – mechanical joints and cleats don’t deliver on strength or finish and they don’t allow you to do the volume.” The FOM LMT65 delivers major efficiencies and exceptional precision in volume manufacture of aluminium products. It features a multi-spindle preparation unit with 360⁰ variable angle access to
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“This not only delivers a better quality product but can also deliver a twofold increase in productivity compared to other traditional manufacturing processes. “The precision that the LMT65 brings to the table is equally impressive. It combines operation to an accuracy of 02.mm with exceptionally high output. “In real terms and as a practical example, this includes the capability to cut and machine a three-pane bi-fold in less than 12 minutes. Together, they deliver exacting manufacture, efficiency and volume.” www.promac.co.uk
MACHINERY
Emmegi (UK)’s Comet T6 Heads To Classic Building Solutions From FIT
question that they would choose an Emmegi machine again for the next phase in their expansion. The other significant factor, of course, was that Emmegi (UK) has its own dedicated team in Ireland led by Sales Manager Jim O’Connell, backed up by service engineers Lukasz Szulc and Paul Adams. This team could guarantee Classic that they would get the very best help and advice and that experts would be on the ground for installation, training and servicing. For instance, Jim O’Connell spent time with Classic’s Managing Director John Cowley and Production Manager Tom Boland early on to understand their precise requirements for the new machine and to recommend the ideal machine to meet their needs. The Comet T6HP is a high performance, high volume option with a 7.7m work area, which is ideal for curtain walling projects. It delivers the precision and flexibility which Classic need for larger scale work but is easy to operate, meaning there is no requirement for them to take on more skilled operators.
L-R: Tom Bowland, John Cowley and Mary O’Sullivan from Classic pictured alongside their new Comet T6HP machining centre at the FIT Show with Jim O’Connell from Emmegi (UK).
As visitors to the FIT Show will have seen, it also comes with an acoustic hood so is fully soundproofed making it the ideal addition to an already busy factory.
The Comet T6HP four axis machining centre which was one of the star attractions on Emmegi (UK)’s stand at the FIT Show, has now taken centre stage at Classic Building Solutions in Cork.
The Comet T6 is one part of Classic’s current machinery investment which also includes a notching saw, dual skin taping machine and bead saw with electronic measuring system – all from Emmegi (UK).
The machine is up and running at the company’s 11,000sq ft Kilumney factory, helping them to increase capacity as they take on even larger projects. Classic Building Solutions is one of Cork’s longest established façade
specialists manufacturing in AMS, Reynaers, Sapa and Schüco. It has been responsible for the curtain walling in some of the most prestigious elements of the city’s recent regeneration, including the flagship Opera Lane shopping development. The company has been using an Emmegi Phantomatic T4 machining centre for the past decade and has been so pleased with the performance and durability of the machine that there was almost no
John Cowley, Tom Boland and Classic’s Finance Director Mary O’Sullivan visited the FIT Show to see the Classic T6 before it was delivered and to meet the rest of the Emmegi team. www.emmegi.com
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 69
ON SITE
Far And Away The Ideal Showpiece
– But Not Far Away When the creators of the industry’s most radical new window and door system heard that a substantial ultra-contemporary house was being planned not far from its head office, the opportunity seemed too good to miss. Fortunately, the owner of the property agreed, plans were drawn up and the result is not only a stunning private residence but also one of the best showpiece installations any manufacturer could wish for.
a show-stopper when Co Antrim based Apeer launched it at Grand Designs Live in 2015, and the finished house has surpassed all expectations, not only for the owner and architect but also for Apeer as a model showpiece for its new innovation.
That system was Lumi, the innovation that had recently proved
“Then, when we saw that the architect’s drawings were so much
“When we began creating the Lumi concept, our mind’s eye put it in a high-value, bespoke contemporary setting,” said Apeer MD Asa McGillian.
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like that mental picture, we could not let the opportunity pass. The result is not only a superb piece of architecture in its own right but also an absolutely ideal setting to bring out the best in the Lumi system.” He added: “Many have been surprised since that Lumi has been chosen as a feature in classical and traditional settings as well as contemporary because it has a simplicity that makes it at home anywhere. But that same simplicity is brought to the fore in such a setting as this.”
ON SITE
REHAU Sliding Door Meets Requirements For New Residential Project
Steve Barker, Managing Director at Climatec and Glen Swatman, Managing Director at SEH Commercial.
The installation makes extensive use of Lumi windows, residential doors and sliding doors, placing them among a variety of exterior materials including white render, grey random stone and shiplap timber cladding. Anthracite grey was chosen throughout for the Lumi exteriors, with the window interiors in Signal Grey. Many of the ground floor windows are single-pane floor-to-ceiling panels, calling on the high technical spec and energy efficiency that lie behind Lumi’s unique good looks. In the case of the large panes, however, the proximity of the site did also prove to be an additional bonus, as Asa explained: “At the time, these were some of the biggest panes we had produced in the system so, in some ways, it was a learning experience for us as well. Being such a short distance away however, we were able to supervise both transportation and installation very closely and at the same time gain many
valuable insights that have now been integrated into our standard procedures.” The Lumi system is as radical in its construction as in its looks, with its triple glazing bonded to an internal core of foam-filled reinforced glass fibre profiles. To the exterior, it shows uninterrupted ‘frameless’ panes of glass while the interior has a more recognisable window profile appearance with a variety of colour and grain options to match any interior. Asa McGillian concluded: “The Lumi system has featured in projects and refurbs of many styles and sizes all around Britain and Ireland in the two years since its launch but this one still stands out as one of the best examples of everything that the Lumi system can achieve. We are all very proud of it and it almost goes without saying that the owner is as thrilled with it as we are.” www.apeer.co.uk
REHAU windows and doors have been selected for a new major project secured by SEH Commercial in partnership with key manufacturer Climatec. The Rosebank project of 37 new residential dwellings for the contractor Mizen Build will see a total of 90 new REHAU AGILA Sliding Doors installed at the site in North London which will be complemented by REHAU’s TOTAL70C windows. The two products were selected for a number of reasons, including meeting the client’s brief for performance, the thermal and acoustic credentials, and the large sizes – particularly concerning the AGILA door. The wide range of colours available was also a key factor in selecting REHAU, with the frames specified in Slate Grey externally and white internally, meeting the required aesthetic of the architect. www.rehau.uk/agila
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 71
ON SITE
Astraseal Commercial Uses REHAU GENEO For £1M
Landmark Berkeley Homes Project Astraseal Commercial completed the latest Waterfront phase of Berkeley Homes’ landmark Royal Arsenal Riverside development in Woolwich using windows and doors fabricated in the innovative REHAU GENEO 6 chamber fibre composite system. Berkeley Homes switched to REHAU GENEO from the aluminium and timber composite systems which had been used on the earlier phases of the project because REHAU’s commercial team were able to work with Astraseal to convince them of the thermal, acoustic and security benefits of the Passivhaus certified and fully recyclable GENEO window system. The 86mm GENEO system is among the most energy efficient
profile systems available – with Uw values from 1.1 W/m2K for low energy houses to 073 W/m2K for Passivhaus installations without the need for high specification glazing. It also offers break-in protection up to resistance class 2 without reinforcement and class 3 with reinforcement, and sound insulation to class 5 without steel reinforcement. One of the key factors for Berkeley Homes was that the REHAU GENEO system has slim sightlines of just 115mm, replicating the look of aluminium and giving residents of the £440,000 – £750,000 apartments almost uninterrupted views of the Thames. It also has inherent strength because it is extruded using the RAU-FIPRO® fibre reinforced composite material which is
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similar to material used in aircraft construction and Formula 1 race cars. This means it could be used to fabricate windows and doors at Royal Arsenal Riverside with full height glazing up to 2.3m and full widths of up to 1.2m without the need for steel reinforcement. Specialist commercial fabricator Astraseal installed 660 windows and 124 doors on the project, as well as working on other elements which would not normally be contained within the window package in order to give the client a ‘one stop shop’ supplier solution. This included aluminium cloaking of reveals, soffits and the underside of balconies. All of the window and doors were finished in smooth Anthracite Grey on the exterior and white on the interior to match the finish of the aluminium frames used on the earlier phases of the development. www.rehau.com
ON SITE
Aluprof On Refurbishment
Back in the late 1960’s, Architect Richard Rogers designed and completed ‘22 Parkside’ with his then wife Su Brumwell, he considers this residential project to be one of the best examples of his early work. He links it to a far more spectacular and famous building, the Pompidou centre in Paris, which he had just begun work on at the time with Renzo Piano. Four years ago, 22 Parkside was granted Grade II listing and is now widely regarded as one of Lord Rogers best examples of his early postmodern architecture. Lord Rogers donated the building to the Harvard Graduate School of Design who appointed architect Philip Gumuchdjian and his practice to refurbish the property whilst maintaining the unique appearance of this iconic structure. One of projects’ features was its design as a kit of parts that could be quickly assembled on site, something
new jointing ‘zip’ gasket, again to match existing, extruded from EPDM. The original aluminium framed doors, windows and ventilators were then refitted into the new panels with new EPDM gaskets. The newly installed panels now have a U value of just 0.4 W/m2K.
that was quite radical at the time. During the refurbishment, one of the main criteria was the replacement of all 36 wall panels. These were the original 2” thick aluminium faced ‘Alcoa’ wall panels, complete with a rigid Asbestolux lining and polyurethane insulated core. With the safe removal of the asbestos filled wall panels, the original aluminium framed doors, windows and ventilators were removed from the panels and refurbished. With the assistance of Aluprof UK, new panels were designed around the company’s high-performance MB-59S system which were of 75 mm thickness and incorporated a rigid polyurethane insulation and fireboard covered with a 2mm powder coated aluminum skin to both sides. The new panels were designed to match the original Alcoa panels and consisted of a
Aluprof are delighted to have been involved with the grade II listed project which typifies the companies flexible and bespoke approach to all construction projects, either new or of a complex refurbishment arrangement such as this. Aluprof’s extensive range of systems which include unitised curtain walling, sliding folding doors and a wide range of window systems are increasingly being specified on a variety of residential and commercial projects across the UK. All systems are designed and installed by selected, specially trained companies to ensure each product meets the Aluprof exacting standards. Further information is available on the company website at aluprof. co.uk and specialist advice is available directly from Aluprof’s UK offices on 0161 941 4005. www.aluprof.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 73
ON SITE
Spectus VS Provides The Perfect Combination
Of Traditional And
Contemporary
Spectus fabricator World Group in Carlisle has completed a stunning window installation in a building restoration in Lockerbie.
World Group’s customer needed the 18 replacement windows to maintain the heritage feel of the period building and comply with planning permission requirements. At the same time, the customer was looking to create a contemporary feel to the property. Matthew Spooner, Director of World Group, takes up the story: “The Spectus Vertical Slider gave
our customer the type of window he needed, not least because it is very well accepted amongst planners and they will generally sign off its use without any further questions. Finished in Flat Anthracite Grey both inside and out, it provided the perfect combination of heritage and modern.” Aside from the scale of the project – 18 windows – there was one other factor to take into account. The customer wanted to have completely grey windows but as the standard PVC-U sub-
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strate would be white this needed to be addressed to ensure the high attention to detail was met. Matthew comments: “We have over 35 years’ experience and have been manufacturing Spectus Vertical Sliders for many years, so the size of the project was something we were more than able to cope with. When it came to the issue of the white substrate, we resolved this by using our spray booth to paint it and provide the seamless finish the customer was looking for.” The end result is a stunning building that has heritage looks with a contemporary edge. Matthew concludes: “We are delighted with the project, as is the customer because it gives him everything he asked for in terms of the aesthetics. It’s turned a rundown building into something stunning.” www.spectus.co.uk
ON SITE
® PURe
Inspiration
For Best-Selling Author
Senior Architectural Systems’ stunning PURe® FOLD patio aluminium doors have helped add character to the Yorkshire home of USA Today best-selling novelist Susan Stephens by providing the perfect setting to relax with a good book. Fabricated and installed by Dortech Architectural Systems Ltd, Senior’s patented PURe® aluminium folding sliding doors feature as part of a stunning extension to Ms Stephen’s home. Offering slim sightlines that maximise views of the property’s pretty garden, the narrow yet robust aluminium frames of the PURe® doors have been powder-coated to provide an attractive brown finish that further complements and connects with the outdoor space. To complete the stylish extension, a number of the property’s existing hardwood windows have also been sympathetically replaced. Tasked with identifying a system that could match the visual appeal of the original wooden frames whilst offering
improved quality, usability and security, the Dortech team took the innovative step of suggesting a change to aluminium. After reviewing alternative products on the market, Senior’s high quality PURe® aluminium windows were found to significantly outperform cheaper aluminium systems and offer the perfect solution in terms of both performance and aesthetics. Owing to the property’s location in heart of the Yorkshire Dales, it was also vital that the new windows and patio doors offered superior thermal efficiency and acoustic performance as well as ease of operation and an attractive appearance. Commenting on the recent renovations, Ms Stephens said: “I am absolutely delighted with the work that has been carried out and Dortech’s customer service and professional installation has been second to none. Replacing hardwood windows with aluminium took careful consideration, but the PURe®
System looks fantastic and from a performance perspective, it has considerably surpassed my expectations. In fact we now intend to replace all of the windows in the house with PURe® windows!” Ms Stephens continues: “The new extension has provided a fantastic and really flexible space that thanks to the new PURe® patio doors and windows, can be enjoyed whatever the weather. It’s great to be able to open up the living space and enjoy the close access we now have to the garden but even when the blustery weather that we are so familiar with here in the Yorkshire Dales takes hold, the glazing has provided us with a peaceful and cosy retreat. It’s the perfect space for both work and relaxation and I couldn’t be happier!” Awarded a UK patent, Senior’s PURe® range of energy-efficient aluminium windows and doors is the first on the UK market to benefit from an enhanced thermal barrier manufactured from expanded polyurethane foam (PUR). Traditionally used in cladding and insulation products, the innovative use of PUR as a thermal barrier in windows and doors gives the PURe ® range the potential to achieve U-values as low as 0.71W/m2 K when calculated as a commercial CEN standard window and 0.93W/m2 K when calculated as a CEN standard door. Ideally suited for a wide range of applications, the PURe® aluminium windows are available as tilt and turn or casement windows. Senior’s innovative door range also features a choice of the PURe® FOLD and PURe® SLIDE options. seniorarchitectural.co.uk/pure
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 75
ON SITE facade around the complete building. The new extension forming the Social Hub is extensively curved on plan and the versatility of the Aluprof MB-SR50N EFEKT easily forms the new three-story facade. Aluprof’s technical team worked closely with BDA Facade consultants to deliver a thermally efficient solution for a complex detail requirement. The new library now offers an impressive BREEAM Excellent rating.
Aluprof In
Academia’
The New George Green Library at the Nottingham University Campus has recently been extended and refurbished with a new curtain wall facade supplied by Aluprof UK.
Designed by Hopkins Architects the existing library with low ceiling heights has been extended to form a new Social Hub for students. Aluprof’s MB-SR50N EFEKT curtain wall system was specified for the project which ensured that there was no horizontal capping visible and that the vertical capping’s were emphasized. These deep capping’s were cut between floors at 45º to offer an aesthetically pleasing 76 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
George Green was a 19th century, British mathematical physicist who is known for writing ‘An Essay on the Application of Mathematical Analysis to the Theories of Electricity and Magnetism’, now known as ‘Green’s theorem’. Brought up in Sneinton, now part of Nottingham, Green’s life story is remarkable in that he was almost entirely self-taught, he received only about one year of formal schooling as a child, between the ages of 8 and 9. The £20.5 million refurbished library offers space for 8,000 linear metres of books and periodicals, has taken almost 3 years to complete and was officially opened by Prince Andrew on the 17th March 2017. Aluprof’s extensive range of systems which include unitised curtain walling, sliding folding doors and a wide range of window systems are increasingly being specified on a variety of residential and commercial projects across the UK. All systems are designed and installed by selected, specially trained companies to ensure each product meets the Aluprof exacting standards. Further information is available on the company website at aluprof. co.uk and specialist advice is available directly from Aluprof UK offices on 0161 941 4005.
ON SITE
Senior’s Fit For Purpose
At New Sports Centre
ment that reduces the reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems, leading fabricator Aire Valley Architectural Systems Ltd also installed Senior’s thermally broken SPW600e aluminium windows and SPW501 aluminium doors. The attractive slim sightlines of Senior’s SF52 curtain walling has also helped to maximise the sense of light and space and has been used to create a welcoming entrance to the new two-storey building.
Working up a sweat in York St. John University’s new state of the art sports centre is set to be a more comfortable experience thanks to a range of thermally-efficient fenestration solutions from Senior Architectural Systems.
Designed to provide exceptional energy efficiency, Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain walling system was the ideal choice for architects Watson Batty and main contractor Triton Construction. To further ensure a pleasant interior environ-
SafeGuard Successfully Delivers For Ashwood Homes
When Peterborough based Ashwood Homes was looking for a local supplier of quality windows and doors for its Crowland Development, SafeGuard, the major supplier of glass related products and services across the UK, ticked all the boxes. Commercial Manager at Ashwood Homes Adam Murfet, explains: “The Crowland Development consists of 50 plots of 2 and 3 bedroom homes,
The new sports centre, which is part of York St John University’s School of Sport, comprises an indoor sports court, gym facilities, changing room and also creative learning spaces for students. It is the second phase of the University and Watson Batty’s redevelopment of the Nestle Rowntree playing fields which feature a new 3G pitch for rugby and football as well as tennis and netball courts. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
10 of which are affordable units for Axiom Housing Association. As the first new build development in Crowland for many years, we were looking to source a local supplier who could deliver on quality and we certainly found that in SafeGuard. The site sold off plan extremely quickly and all plots were sold prior to completion, which is testament to the build quality. Ashwood Homes handpicks contractors very carefully in order to ensure our reputation for quality is upheld and SafeGuard didn’t disappoint. We would definitely recommend them and invite them to tender on future projects.” Nick Welsh, Managing Director at SafeGuard concludes: “We were delighted to work with Ashwood Homes on the manufacture and installation of all of the PVC-U windows and doors on this local development. Whether it’s a local project or something further afield, quality is a key focus for us, above all else, so it’s great to hear that we deliver on that for our customers.” www.ashwoodhomes.co/crowland www.safe-guard.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 77
MARKETING
Distinction Doors’ Door-Designer Demonstrates The Company’s Marketing Proactivity Door-designer, which can be accessed on the Distinction Doors’ website or at door-designer.co.uk is a perfect demonstration of how to draw homeowners into a brand and its products. Bethaney Larkman, Distinction’s Marketing Manager, said: “A new entrance door is a big decision for any homeowner. With door-designer they can choose every element of their new door before submitting a request for a quote. We also offer a bespoke version of the platform with even more functionality that our customers can use on their own websites and in their own sales processes.” Door-designer is a clever tool that works across desktops, tablets and mobiles that allows homeowners to design their own
door, from the design and colour to the glazing panel, glass and hardware. They can even upload a photo of the front of their home and see how the door will really look. Having chosen their door, homeowners can then complete a form so their nearest Distinction Doors’ supplier can contact them to discuss it further and provide a quote. But as you’d expect from a company renowned for the quality and innovation of its marketing support, a bespoke version of door-designer is available to Distinction Doors’ customers and it’s a tool that turns a platform that’s useful in the sales process to one that’s indispensable. Bethaney commented: “The
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bespoke version of door-designer takes everything a stage further because it gives our customers complete flexibility. It can be embedded on a customer’s website, accessed via a unique company URL or used during a sales presentation. They can change the door designs featured to the ones they stock. They can change the names if they’re using their own brand names. The colour scheme can be changed to suit their own brand identity. They can even add a pricing element if they want to give homeowners an idea of cost. Finally, there is a reporting function in the CMS which allows the customer to download their sales leads.” www.distinctiondoors.co.uk
MARKETING
Profile 22 Launches New Website
Profile has just launched a new website. Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager at Profile 22, commented: “Our website is incredibly important to our marketing strategy: it receives over 2,000 visits a month and over 70% of people are first time visitors. Our new site puts Optima front and centre and is designed to increase engagement across all our chosen market sectors.”
Profile 22’s new website is easy to navigate so visitors can find the information they need quickly. The content of the website has also been updated and expanded. There are clearly defined sections for trade visitors, commercial visitors and homeowners, with each section containing sector-specific information on Profile 22’s products plus relevant, focused information to add further value.
The Homeowner section of the website includes background on Profile 22 and a help and support section that contains everything from product brochures to maintenance guides. The Trade section of the website includes background on Profile 22, product performance figures, service and support information as well as the Trade Hub where product information can be downloaded. And businesses wanting to enquire about working with Profile 22 can submit a simple form to start the conversation. The Commercial section of the website includes background on Profile 22, specification support information, environmental awareness information, case studies and a gallery as well as the Commercial Hub where product brochures can be downloaded. There is also a simple form to enable architects and specifiers to request specification support for a specific project, speeding up the process of getting the information they need. Finally, the new website is consistent with the new Profile 22 branding to create a visually seamless visual experience both online and offline. www.profile22.co.uk.
Dekko Brings Bi-Folds To Banbury For ITV’s Love on Monday evenings to audiences in Your Home and Garden Screened excess of four million viewers, the long-running show sees Alan Titchmarsh and a team of experts surprise families in difficult circumstances by completely renovating their home and garden. Dekko donated one of its sleek and stylish Räum Aluminium Bi-Fold Doors to a project in Banbury, Oxfordshire, that will feature in an episode screened late August.
Dekko Window Systems, one of the UK’s fastest growing premium product fabricator, has helped transform one deserving family’s property as part of ITV’s hit show Love Your Home and Garden.
“The fact that it’s a complete surprise for the family in question is a key part of the show, so that means we can’t give away any more details about the project at this stage,” commented Kurt Greatrex, Dekko Sales Director. “Suffice to say, it’s good to be involved, and we were only too pleased to donate one of our new Räum products. We hope the owners enjoy them for many years to come. www.dekkowindows.com WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 79
MARKETING
The Window Outlet
Shows A Fresh Approach To Customer
Support With New Sales Brochure
“We’re delighted with the positive response we’ve received from customers using our trade brochure,” comments Ben Warren, the Window Outlet MD. “At The Window Outlet, we want to offer our customers valuable sales material that puts their business and our aluminium products in the best light possible. We also deliver training to help uPVC installers break into the buoyant aluminium market and offer clients our showroom to use with their customers.” The new brochure focuses on The Window Outlet’s extensive offering from AluK which includes their BSF70 and BSF70HD luxury bifold doors and the 58BW aluminium window.
The Window Outlet have launched a customer-friendly version of their new aluminium brochure. Designed to help their trade customers sell by presenting a
professional image, the glossy, 16-page brochure showcases the firm’s range of aluminium windows, doors, bifolds and patio doors available from the likes of Reynaers, Shueco and AluK.
In addition, the brochure showcases products from Reynaers, specifically their CP130LS patio door and the CP155LS premium patio door solution. Both patio doors offer a highly-versatile solution with lift and slide functionality and can be configured with either two or three rails. The CP155LS maximises natural light through an innovative ultra-slim middle section. the-window-outlet.co.uk
Double R Launches New Online Presence ble R. “It has been brought up to date with a fresher appearance and more information to make it easier for existing and future customers to find what they need.
Specialist IGU and conservatory roof supplier, Double R Glass & Roofing Systems is pleased to announce the launch of its new look website. “The new look site now better reflects the business Double R has become,” says Ian Sims, Managing Director of Dou-
“Double R is a pioneer – often the first to bring new products to market or implement new manufacturing techniques, so it’s important we have a quick and easy way of keeping the market up to date. “Visitors to the site can now easily see how we help customers stay one step ahead of the
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competition with the very best in roofs and glass with a detailed overview of both areas of our business. We have also updated the site with new and more photography to give those that haven’t been to Double R before, an insight into our operation. There is a comprehensive technical information centre as well, for those who want to know more about the credentials of Double R or the products we supply. We hope visitors enjoy visiting the new electronic home of Double R at www.glassandroofs.com
MARKETING
Hazlemere Commercial Finishes Construction On Brand New Website
Tracy Nelson, the Club’s senior commercial manager, at the Kirklees stadium with Quickslide’s director, Tom Swallow.
Buckinghamshire installation experts Hazlemere Commercial have finished work on their brand-new website.
Teams Up With The Terriers
The mobile-optimised site showcases an extensive range that includes products from Sapa, Reynaers, AluK and REHAU. Visitors can also read in-depth case studies from commercial projects the firm has completed over its three decades in business.
Quickslide In Premiership Partnership
Yorkshire-based trade fabricator and VS specialist Quickslide has announced the continuation of its partnership with Huddersfield Town into a fourth year, as the club joins the Premiership for the first time in its history. Quickslide works with the club, nicknamed The Terriers, on a number of community projects including sponsorship and support for local football teams and using the club as a forum to communicate with other local businesses, suppliers and community leaders. Quickslide Chairman Adrian Barraclough, who has developed the partnership, says that Dean Hoyle, Chairman of Huddersfield Town and a lifelong supporter of the club, has an outstanding record of commitment to the local
community: “As a local business many of our staff live in the area and are supporters of the club too. Our partnership with Huddersfield Town therefore benefits both our business and our people and there are tremendous benefits for the whole community through this association. We share similar ethics.” After signing the new agreement with the club’s Senior Commercial Manager Tracy Nelson, Quickslide Marketing Director Tom Swallow echoed his Chairman’s words adding: “It’s also great for our customers and staff to come and watch the football of course, and this season we will be watching the top teams in England; it’s very exciting and reflects our pride in being a Yorkshire-based business.” www.quickslide.co.uk
“We’re really pleased with our brand-new website,” comments Mark Austin, Sales and Marketing Director at Hazlemere. “We worked with our marketing company Purplex to create a website that not only matches our bespoke approach to business but also our fantastic range of products. The website creates a strong resource for potential clients of our previous projects spanning local authority, education, commercial and residential sectors.” “It’s easy to navigate and use, and is fully optimised for any device. We wanted to create an accessible platform for potential customers to discuss their projects with us and it is great to see it’s already proving to be a worthwhile investment as we have received a number of high-values sales leads through the website.” www.hazlemere.co.uk
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MARKETING
REHAU Releases
New Brochure Showcasing AGILA Sliding Door
Product Packed Directory
From Prefix Prefix Systems have just launched a new 56-page product directory, that’s packed with information on glazed and solid roofs, aluminium systems, URBANroom, OPUS Hybrid systems, related ancillaries and new generation products for the emerging outdoor living sector.
For peace of mind, a contemporary living space and a lighter environment in the home, look no further than the AGILA sliding door from REHAU – that is the message in the window profile manufacturer’s new brochure showcasing the product range.
The impressive, perfect bound publication, showcases the number of products and systems that home improvement companies can now embrace, as they look for better product performance, new revenue streams and a partnership with one of the glazing and fenestrations industry’s most trusted companies. Prefix can offer the entire range listed in the new brochure, from four regional branches, with the added benefit of localised technical support and assistance.
The new brochure highlights the many benefits provided by the AGILA sliding door range and features beautiful visuals to demonstrate how the door appears when used in a home setting.
The development of this new single source directory is an important publication for Prefix, detailing every product within their range, including many of the latest innovations launched at the FIT Show. The brochure has also been carefully sectioned into glazed roofs, solid and tiled roofs, Orangeries, skylights and rooflights, doors and windows, outdoor living, other products and customer support for ease of navigation. www.prefixsystems.co.uk
Clare Higgins, Product Manager from REHAU, said: “This new brochure comes as we begin to see the AGILA door commissioned in larger scale projects and more availability of the door across the industry. The clean and contemporary brochure is designed in a REHAU style but also mirrors the nature of the door, which offers clean lines and a brighter living space and enables customers to match their REHAU windows with a sliding door solution.” Key to the AGILA sliding door range is its slim sightlines, which reduces the amount of visual profile and allows the home to be flooded with light. This can be enhanced further by a number of configurations available ranging from two pane to six pane, which
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can be opened from either left to right. The flexibility of the system also means there is the option to select a triple track frame which can create a cinematic door, bringing any outdoor space into the living area. Despite this feeling of openness the AGILA sliding door range offers enhanced security. The door has a standard 6 point locking mechanism with a 3 star sold secure diamond approved lock cylinder as standard and a ten year guarantee. For further security homeowners can upgrade this to a 12 point locking mechanism, which is able to achieve PAS24 and Secured by Design accreditation. Designed to meet building regulations the range also offers excellent thermal efficiencies. Tested to the highest weather and performance standards the AGILA sliding door range will help homeowners reduce energy costs. Clare added: “As with all REHAU products we have ensured the AGILA sliding door range not only meets and exceeds building standards, but also enhances the home.” For more information visit www.rehau.uk/agila and simply download the new brochure.
MARKETING capability with Salestracker is invaluable, it has produced some impressive results.”
Zac Nedimovic – Astraseal Sales and Marketing Manager
Astraseal Becomes The First To Use Salestracker’s New Email
Marketing Platform, STEM
Astraseal, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of uPVC and aluminium has become the first fabricator to use STEM, the brand-new, integrated email marketing platform for Salestracker from Insight Data.
STEM replaces Astraseal’s existing platform Campaign Monitor and allows the fabricator to design, build and send email campaigns from directly inside Salestracker, using Insight Data’s prospect data for the fenestration and wider construction industries.
“Email marketing is a very powerful tool for us at Astraseal as it allows us to promote new products and product updates, value-added services and promotions directly to both active and potential clients,” comments Zac Nedimovic, Sales and Marketing Manager at Astraseal. “STEM has transformed our email strategy, as we have much more control to design bespoke campaigns, using a targeted and accurate data list and then capture any enquiries or leads all directly in Salestracker. The design time saved and linked monitoring
New Lumi Pod’s
A Show-Stopper At Bristol Trial
Insight Data Operations Manager, Jade Greenhow comments: “We’re delighted Astraseal has become the first to adopt STEM and is already seeing its benefits. As a Salestracker user, Astraseal previously had the laborious task of exporting their data lists from Salestracker to then import them into a separate email platform. STEM eliminates this by offering a powerful email platform directly in Salestracker, allowing users to create campaigns, manage responses and distribute any leads to their sales team, keeping track of every enquiry.” Astraseal is just one of the well-respected names who trust Salestracker for their industry-specific prospect data. Using pioneering ‘live data’ which is built from a variety of verification methods to ensure its accuracy, Salestracker is claimed to vastly improve marketing responses. With the addition of STEM, Salestracker now offers an online database, a powerful CRM system and an integrated email marketing platform. For a demo of Salestracker and STEM, contact Insight Data via email at hello@insightdata.co.uk
A new bespoke display Pod for the radical Lumi window and door range is being trialled by approved dealer Crystal Clear Bristol with a view to rolling it out across the system’s retailer network. The Pod, which is already proving the centre of attention in the retailer’s showroom, is styled directly after manufacturer Apeer’s striking exhibition stand with the specific aim of targeting leads generated by the company’s busy schedule of lifestyle exhibitions. “So many homeowners are knocked out by Lumi at consumer shows wherever we go,” said Apeer Marketing Manager Linda Tomb, “Now, they can step into a showroom and pick up on it immediately, with not only the same products but the same look and style, so they know straight away what they are looking at. www.apeer.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 83
AWARDS & EVENTS
Customade
Group Sponsors G17 Awards
Deceuninck
Sponsors
G17 Awards
Deceuninck is looking forward to another exciting G-Awards event this year on 17th November, once again as one of the headline sponsors of the prestigious window industry awards. Chris Jones, National Sales Manager at Deceuninck says: “Our focus for 2017 has been firmly on helping existing customers to grow their sales. However, we are also keen to show our support for the industry at large and what better way to do that than by sponsoring an event that celebrates excellence in the industry.
“2017 is proving another tough year for our industry with economic and political uncertainty taking its toll, but amongst the day to day struggles it’s important to remember and give recognition to the companies that have remained focused on quality and best practice, companies that have done something special. “Of course, in addition to the recognition the G17 Awards will give to the success stories in the industry, the event itself is so well established it also provides an excellent opportunity for us all to network with our peers and share new ideas. We hope to see you at the event on Friday 17th November and wish everyone who has entered the awards, the very best of luck.”
Claire Miller, Customade Group Marketing Director
Customade Group has become Main Event Sponsor at the G17 awards, which will be held at the London Hilton on Park Lane on 17 November. Claire Miller, Customade Group’s marketing director, says: “The G Awards are the highlight of the year for our industry and we’re very excited indeed to be part of the event. “I’m incredibly proud to be in an industry that’s so enthusiastic about progression and improvement. We’re making giant strides in new product development, people and service and awards events such as this are key to celebrating the achievements of the companies and individuals who excel. “These awards are also about inspiring further development and cultivating talent so it’s terrific to gather everyone together to share our collective passion for the industry and its future. And, of course, it’s a chance for the winners to shout about their achievements, which they should be very proud of. “This event will be the perfect
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round-off to the biggest year ever in Customade Group’s history. This year, the Group became the largest fabricator in the UK and we now offer the widest range of fenestration products out there. We have some ambitious plans for the future and I have no doubt that our customers and the industry as a whole will benefit from this combined ability.” Earlier this year, Polyframe merged with the Customade Group to create the UK’s largest fabricator, with revenues of more than £100 million. The group’s product portfolio now spans across PVC-u and aluminium windows and doors, composite doors, aluminium glazed roof products, sealed glass units and specialist glazing. Operating nationwide, the group employs 900 people in multiple manufacturing sites across the UK. Since the merger, the group has maintained a high concentration of dedicated sales staff. This enables customers to continue working alongside their own regional sales manager, whilst being able to access all the products within the group. www.customade.co.uk
AWARDS & EVENTS
BWF’s “Unwavering Mission” On Behalf Of The Joinery Industry
Hailed At Members’ Day 2017
touched on the tragic events of 14th June, reflecting that, “Yesterday was housing’s 9/11″, and that there would be long term impacts, just like the Ronan Point collapse in 1968. Other speakers on the day included Peter Caplehorn from the Construction Products Association, who explained why “BIM will wash over the entire industry in time”, and Carl Rhymer who discussed what CITB was doing to entice the next generation into construction through initiatives such as GoConstruct and SkillBuild. The event was fully booked, with the breaks between workshops giving 160 attendees an opportunity to network and view the latest innovations and technologies from exhibitors including Headline Sponsors Joinerysoft, Gold Sponsors Vetrotech SaintGobain, Silver Sponsors Qwood and Bronze Sponsors the W18 Exhibition.
Industry specialists and an array of guest speakers gave the joinery industry the raw materials for success at the UK’s biggest conference for joinery manufacturers. The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Members’ Day on June 15th saw joinery manufacturers from all over the UK descend on Hellidon Lakes Golf & Spa Hotel for a series of expert workshops, networking opportunities and frank discussions about the threats and opportunities that the sector is facing. The day began with BWF President and Managing Director of West Port Timber Windows & Doors Sean Parnaby hailing the federation’s “unwavering mission” on behalf of its members before introducing Prof Tom Woolley as the keynote speaker. As an architect, author and expert on materials health and sustainability, Mr Woolley noted the opportunities
for timber products in construction in an age when, “modern buildings are increasingly made of synthetic hazardous materials”. Boosting industry knowledge has always been a huge part of BWF Members’ Day and this year there was something for every size of joinery business. Expert workshops covered topics which ranged from optimising the design of stairs and windows, certifying fire doors, and changes in the house building market, to heritage & conservation joinery, product liability, and how to keep the joinery workshop safe. Later in the day, leading housing economist Alastair Stewart offered an outlook for construction in a post-Brexit Britain. With the tragic news from Grenfell Tower sending a sobering reminder of what happens when specifiers and the RM & I supply chain get it seriously wrong, Mr Stewart
The day was commended as a great success by those present, with 100% of feedback from attendees rating the event as good or excellent and comments including: “Interesting and informative. At times very thought provoking.” “Well organised and informative.” “Always an excellent use of time.” Members’ Day 2017 was preceded by the BWF’s Annual General Meeting on June 14th at the same venue. The AGM saw the launch of the latest BWF Action Plan and was followed by a drinks reception and informal networking dinner, providing a very popular social opportunity for members to discuss the latest industry issues. www.bwf.org.uk
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AWARDS & EVENTS
VEKA Crowned ‘Employer Of The Year’
At Burnley Business Awards
VEKA Group was thrilled to bring home the ‘Employer of the Year’ trophy from this year’s Burnley Business Awards. The Farrington Road company also gained a further three nominations making it one of its best years yet. David Jones, Managing Director of VEKA Group, who collected the award said: “Having been awarded ‘Business of the Year’ twice in the past, this year we were absolutely thrilled to have been named ‘Employer of the Year’. As one of Burnley’s biggest employers, we have around 400 people from the local area working across all our varied departments and we are very proud of the benefits we offer. “The evening was already one of great celebration for the team as we were nominated in a number of categories, including 2017′s ‘Business of the Year’, ‘John Kennedy
Apprenticeship’ and ‘Manufacturing Excellence’. In many ways, it went hand-in-hand that we should be tipped for both ‘Employer of the Year’ and the ‘John Kennedy Apprenticeship’, as VEKA Group is well known for its commitment to staff training, satisfaction and career progression.”
The Burnley Business Awards takes place once every two years, which means competition is always hotly contested with entrants drawn from all industries across Burnley and the surrounding areas. This year, the ceremony was held in the stunning surroundings of Towneley Hall and, as a prominent event in the region’s calendar, was well-attended by local businesspeople. ‘Employer of the Year’ was sponsored by fellow Burnley business Ideal Recruit. Branch Manager
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Gina Deehan – who personally judged the category and selected VEKA Group as the winner – based her decision on how well the company engaged with is staff and used that feedback directly in the company’s development. “I was really impressed with the way VEKA Group communicates with its staff,” Gina commented. “They are invited to complete employee engagement surveys; the results of which are put back into the progression and profitability of the business as a whole. “During the judging process, there was no doubt in my mind that VEKA Group considers its staff to be its most important asset and the positive attitude it demonstrates towards the employees at every level is commendable.” Gabriela Hammond, VEKA Group’s Head of Human Resources added: “Everyone is delighted to receive this award. Without its employees, VEKA Group wouldn’t be the successful company it is today and so to be recognised in the local community for all we do for our people is a great reward for us all.” www.vekauk.com
AWARDS & EVENTS this, Frame Fast has also added more products to its range to give customers a bigger choice of products. The latest product is aluminium entrance doors designed for modern, upmarket properties.
Frame Fast Makes Finals
For Top Manufacturing Award “Derby is the UK’s capital of manufacturing. It’s home to Rolls Royce, Toyota and Bombardier – or as locals like to say – planes, trains and automobiles,” says Nigel Leviers, Director of window and door fabricators Frame Fast UK. “That’s why being shortlisted for manufacturing in our home town is an incredible achievement and that’s exactly what Frame Fast has done. We are finalists in the Chamber of Com-
merce Awards for Manufacturer of the Year. What makes it even more special in 2017, is that it’s our 20th anniversary.” 2017 has seen Frame Fast expand its Derby manufacturing facility adding a Glass Shop. It’s also created more space for fabricating aluminium windows and doors as well as increasing space for storage and distribution. On top of
“It’s been a big task,” adds Nigel. “But very rewarding. Today we have a complete range of products to suit all our customers whether they’re window installers, builders or house developers. We have a brilliant team at Frame Fast that delivers excellence at every level of the business and we pride ourselves on being friendly and helpful. “Being finalists for the Manufacturer of the Year award is a superb achievement and we are keeping our fingers crossed that we pick up the trophy!” Frame Fast is also a finalist in the Small Business of the Year Award category. Winners will be announced at Pride Park Stadium home of Derby County FC at a glittering award ceremony on 8 September.
GGF Supports The Construction Marketing Awards ing the awards that showcase the best of marketing in the construction industry. Last year the GGF with specialist agency Refresh PR won a Construction Marketing Award for the best mid-range budget campaign for MyGlazing.com – the GGF’s consumer advice website. In terms of marketing and PR, the GGF has had an outstanding last 12 months with strong promotions on MyGlazing.com and a successful campaign to celebrate the Federations 40th Anniversary. In view of this the GGF aims to enter several awards’ categories.
The 2017 Construction Marketing Awards are open for entry, with the closing date being Friday 22nd September. For the second successive year the GGF is support-
James Lee, GGF Director of Marketing and Communications commented, “Following last year’s success and our strong marketing activity in the last 12 months, we will definitely be entering again. The CMAs are unique and significant in the construction industry. I would encourage all glass and glazing companies who have run great marketing campaigns in the last year to enter.” WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 87
AWARDS & EVENTS
Dual Accolades For
Saint- Gobain
The Saint-Gobain Glass team celebrates being named British Glass’ Company of the Year 2017
Flat glass manufacturer SaintGobain Glass is having a double celebration after it came top in two categories at the Glass Focus Awards 2017. The business was named Company of the Year at the award ceremony for its commitment to the continued improvement in its production facility, focus on sustainability in reducing environmental impacts and also enhancing the wellbeing of its staff. Reducing energy consumption of its furnace, making healthier meals and snacks available on site and recently delivering its first year with zero tonnes of waste going to landfill are just some of the initiative that led judges to crown Saint-Gobain winner of the top accolade. Meanwhile, electrical mainte-
nance apprentice Samantha Coolledge beat off stiff competition to take home the Apprentice of the Year award, with judges particularly impressed by her leadership and project management skills. In their remarks the judging panel, which was made up of six experts from across the glass sector and its customers, also praised Samantha for her positivity and ability to be proactive in every task she undertakes. The Glass Focus Awards aim to showcase the outstanding breadth and quality of achievement in the glass industry and are organised by British Glass. The glazing industry’s representative body, British Glass works with all parts of the supply chain to ensure that glass manufacturing, particular-
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ly in the UK, has the resources, influence and skills to remain commercially successful, innovative and sustainable. Taking place at the Royal Armouries in Leeds on Thursday 15 June, the award ceremony included six categories open to all companies working in or with glass manufacturing, covering areas including health and safety, sustainability, innovation and apprenticeships. The seventh award, British Glass’ Company of the Year, is chosen from the British Glass members who entered in any of the other categories. Presenting the Company of the Year award to Saint-Gobain, British Glass chief executive Dave Dalton said: “British Glass’ ability to represent and serve the UK glass industry depends directly on our relationship with members – their participation is the foundation of our credibility and influence. Over the past year SaintGobain has been a proactive force in the British Glass membership – involved in shaping our industry’s response to key challenges at a strategic and a practical level. I’m pleased to recognise that commitment with this award.” Following her win, Samantha is on track to complete her electrical maintenance apprenticeship later this month, and has already secured a full-time job as an electrical trade operator on the company’s float line. In the autumn, she will be invited to the Glass Sellers banquet at the Mansion House in London to receive the Worshipful Company’s Apprentice award as the livery company works to stimulate interest in all aspects of glass with a special emphasis on education. www.saint-gobain.com
AWARDS & EVENTS
Fire Door Hardware Hots
Up For Architects A new CPD seminar on architectural ironmongery for fire and escape doors has been launched for architects, interior designers and specifiers.
As the training is RIBA approved, architects will be able to receive double learning points for attending a presentation of this CPD.
The RIBA-approved CPD module has been produced by the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and is delivered exclusively by GAI members across the country. These architectural ironmongery companies play a crucial role, working with architects, interior designers, contractors and others to schedule and specify the hardware for every door and window
specifiers understand the legal, financial and ethical risks around the specification of hardware for fire and scape doors, as well as the correct ironmongery for different types of doors and the best way to check and maintain them once they’re installed.
Other RIBA-approved CPD modules from the GAI include workshops on the basics of door hardware specification, and on ironmongery and compliance with accessibility regulations. in a building and to produce a full fixing schedule of hardware items. This latest CPD module helps
For further information, contact Douglas Masterson on technical@gai.org.uk
Devoted To Progress Conference A
Hit With Everglade Customers Granit Architects, what Brexit could mean for business from PwC’s Anna Wallace and the benefits of being a part of the GGF from James Lee. Sales & Marketing Director, Jay Patel also launched three brand new products: Ecotherm 70HI, high insulation aluminium windows; aïr MOD-Series, new generation entrance doors and aïr 20SL, minimal frame sliding doors. Devoted to Progress – Everglade’s 2017 Customer Conference proved a massive success at its London HQ and Showroom on Friday 7 July. Everglade customers and prospects gathered for the annual event, to hear about the latest trends in glazing from architect Emily Osler from London-based
Jay said: “The Everglade Trade Customer Conference has become a real highlight of our year and we love inviting customers and prospects to get the firstlook at new products, learn about what’s going on in the wider industry and join us for our legendary hospitality. “This year, we’ve gone the extra mile with some fantastic guest
speakers. Emily gave us a great insight into what architects and homeowners are looking for in glazing. Most trends she identified overlapped with an Everglade product so our customers know that they can go out there and win that business right now. “Anna from PwC talked to guests about Brexit. It’s the word on everyone’s lips at the moment and I think her talk has provided some much-needed information and reassurance for all of us. We also heard from GGF’s James Lee, who talked to our customers about how they could make the most of a GGF membership and its consumer schemes.” Jay added: “It’s our customers who join us year after year that make these events really special, so we always want to make sure that they get a lot out of joining us for the afternoon.”
WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017 89
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
Woodworking And Shopfitting Centres
Of Excellence Reshaping Training Infrastructure
The British Woodworking Federation and National Association of Shopfitters have completed the first-round auditing of their Centres of Excellence. Robert Hudson of the National Association of Shopfitters announced last week “We are delighted to announce today that all of our Centres have passed with flying colours and we are now ready to get cracking with phase two of the project, the integration of new qualifications, developing short courses and looking for other colleges to join the network, ensuring national coverage”. “This is really great news, but more than the headline, this is about us readdressing and rebuilding our relationships with the Further Education Sector. With more and more companies reporting that the training infrastructure is not delivering the quality people that they need, the strategic significance of this project cannot be underestimated. More so it is encouraging that the project is attracting a lot of interest, not just from within the woodworking sector, we know other industries are now looking at this model”, reported Tony Batchelor the new Training Manager at the British Woodworking Federation. “The Industrial Strategy and various reports on the training infrastructure are identifying the need for change and the new training landscape starts to open the door to greater flexibility. For these changes to deliver the improvements we need industry and training providers are working together – not operating in silos. We have to a more modular agile training environment and working with these colleges is helping us to understand how we can make this work”. 90 WINDOW NEWS JULY - AUGUST 2017
Research conducted as part of the first year of this project mapping demand with supply has identified: • More than a fifth (22%) of surveyed employers feel that the quality of existing apprenticeship provision is poor • College provision for architectural joinery is found to be difficult to access, shopfitting and wood machining provision is also relatively sparse, with a complete absence of provision for these two specialisms in Scotland and Wales • Employers who need these skills face greater difficulties sourcing and training up new recruits, with less choice available, and face higher travel costs for apprentices to attend the nearest college • More needs to be done to invest in high quality provision and to better improve the potential outcomes for individual apprentices and employers alike. Speaking on behalf of the Centres of Excellence, Wyn Prichard of Neath Port Talbot Group of Colleges said “We are delighted to be part of this project and to work with the team at the BWF who are not just paying lip-service to working with colleges, but rolling up their sleeves and actively working with us to help develop our offering to the sector. It is great to be plugged into the sector in this way and learning more about the membership and their challenges and how we can help. We are particularly excited about the short courses that we will be announcing soon that build on the core qualifications to develop valuable upskilling opportunities.” www.bwf.org.uk
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
The Vocational
College Joins
GGF Supports New
CORGI Fenestration
Marketing Qualification The GGF is supporting the Chartered Institute of Marketing’s (CIM) new qualification, “The Foundation Certificate in Marketing for the Construction Industry”. This is the CIM’s first sector specific marketing programme for the construction industry. It was developed in conjunction with CIM’s Construction Industry Group (CIMCIG) to provide a solid foundation for junior marketers and others with a marketing support role. CIMCIG’s input ensures that the programme meets the specific needs of the industry. James Lee, GGF Director of Marketing and Communications, Chartered Marketer and CIMCIG member commented, “Marketing has become a central and essential function in most aspiring construction companies. It’s very positive that the Chartered Institute of Marketing has recognized the need for this qualification and can now deliver a course to help marketers at the early stages of their marketing career. I’d urge all companies to take advantage of this course to increase the knowledge of their junior marketing staff.” The Foundation Certificate is an intensive eight-month programme that begins in September. The course will equip delegates with practical skills and knowledge that they can apply immediately to make a positive impact within their business.
Course Benefits: • Assess your marketing knowledge levels • Undertake a programme of learning to improve your Construction marketing skills • Achieve a professional qualification • Receive mentoring from an Industry Expert • Receive invitations to construction industry events • Gain access to a wide community to advance your network The course is largely delivered online, but also includes a number of face-to-face workshops. In addition, each delegate will be mentored by an industry expert, whose role is to support the student in learning about the wider industry, providing an insight that goes beyond both the classroom and the student’s own workplace. Chris Daly, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), said: “I am really pleased to see the construction industry working closely with CIM to develop industry-specific training. A strong collaboration between CIM and working practitioners has resulted in a tailored CIM qualification. We are very much looking forward to the first course starting in September, which we hope will become a blueprint for sector-specific marketing training.” www.cimacademy.co.uk
CORGI Fenestration is delighted to announce that The Vocational College (TVC) is the first assessment centre to become registered as a CORGI Fenestration audit centre. The Vocational College completed the first successful pilot registration process for assessment centres, laying the foundation for all further centres wanting to register with CORGI Fenestration. TVC will be the first to issue CORGI Fenestration qualification cards and to place candidates on the CORGI Fenestration Skills Register. Chris Mayne, CEO of CORGI Fenestration commented: “TVC is a perfect fit for us and shares our values of trust, reliability, expertise and quality. TVC is GQA approved and operates throughout the UK, employing qualified assessors with industry experience who we are glad to welcome to the CORGI Fenestration extended team.” TVC will also be carrying out audits of fenestration sector companies on behalf of CORGI Fenestration against the stringent scheme requirements. www.corgifenestration.co.uk
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CHARITY
Winning Team – Dekko
Annual GM Fundraising Golf Day Is Record-Breaking Success GM Fundraising’s annual Golf Day took place on 22nd June in a new venue – Forest Pines Hotel & Golf Resort in Lincolnshire. Not only was an enjoyable day had by the industry’s golfers, but it was also the most successful yet in terms of charitable contributions, raising an astounding £14,899.60 for Hope House Children’s Hospices. “This is the 15th GM Fundraising Golf Day and in terms of funds raised, the most successful yet,” comments Gary Morton. “The Forest Pines resort offered a tough, tight challenge for the teams that entered the competition. The 27-hole/10,000-yard championship golf course is nestled in 190 acres of very tall Pine woodland, consisting of tree lined fairways and water hazards. Dekko Window Systems came away with the winning team prize this year, while Tim Tilley, longterm GM Fundraising supporter and member of the Border2Bor-
der team, won the individual prize with 33 points. “The golf competition was followed by a great evening in the hotel, with a wonderful barbeque style dinner, high quality raffle and very lively auction. Thank you to those that made donations to the raffle and bought on the night, including an Anthony Joshua (World Heavyweight Champion) framed and signed boxing glove, which went for £2,000. “As with previous years, the event was sold out before it was launched. Our Golf day is always one of the most popular events on our calendar and our loyal supporters usually sign up for next year on the day. This year we had more enquiries than ever for companies wanting to enter two teams and new supporters wanting to join – I hate turning people away so we’re now exploring running next year’s event over two
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Individual winner – Tim Tilley
days, returning to either Mottram Hall or Telford in June. “Sincere thanks to everyone that continues to support GM Fundraising with its efforts to raise much needed funds for the children affected by life-limiting illnesses and their families that are cared for by Hope House Children’s Hospices.” If you are interested in taking part in next year’s event, please contact Gary Morton on gary@gmfundraising.co.uk
CHARITY
Super Six Climb Kilimanjaro To Raise Thousands For Heroes Charity
Staff from Essex-based windows and doors company Exterior Plas have raised £11,600 for the Help for Heroes charity after climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, earlier this year. Exterior Plas, who are a REHAU Authorised Partner put together a team of six willing volunteers to undertake the challenge of a lifetime to climb the world’s highest freestanding mountain in April 2017. The team included Managing Director Andy Sheen, who generously doubled the funds raised by Exterior Plas, and presented
Help for Heroes with a cheque for £11,600 at a special ‘Afternoon Tea and Bubbles’ event held on 26 May 2017 at the company’s headquarters in Thornwood, Essex. Andy Sheen said: “We wanted to set ourselves a challenge, and while doing so, raise awareness and funds for the remarkable charity, Help for Heroes. Climbing Kilimanjaro has always been on my ‘bucket list’, and when I started discussing challenges and aspirations with the team, it became clear that there were a few of us with similar interests. Within weeks, we were booked up and ready to go!”
The Afternoon Tea and Bubbles event was attended by Exterior Plas colleagues, clients, suppliers, family members and a representative of Help For Heroes, who presented medals to the six who completed the trekking challenge and gave a talk about how the money raised would be used to help injured servicemen and woman. Glyn Rogers, Head of Sales (window solutions, southern) for REHAU said: “At REHAU, our work with our authorised partners goes beyond supplying products, we get to know our partners and support them wherever we can – on this occasion, it was backing Exterior Plas’ fundraising activity and going along to the presentation event to commend the team’s efforts. Their charitable activity is very reflective of the business’ ethos to go that extra mile, whatever the circumstances, and that’s certainly an approach we share with them.” Established in 1987, Exterior Plas Ltd fabricate and install PVC-U windows, and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories. Its combined knowledge and technical expertise covers all aspects of the window industry from design and build, to complex screen walling as well as standard street to tower block installation.
Emplas Boss To Put His ‘Best Foot Forward’ Emplas, Managing Director, Ryan Johnson is taking on the Great North Run for cancer support charity, Macmillan. The largest half marathon in the world, the Great North run, covers a tough 13.1 miles from Newcastle to South Shields. Ryan is running for Macmillan
in memory of his late Nan, Jean Handy, who received support and palliative care from Macmillan nurses and the Cynthia Spencer Hospice in Kettering. Ryan said: “My Nan, Jean, was loved by everyone who knew her and she’s missed by all of her family and friends. Saying goodbye was very difficult for everyone.
“We were able to draw some comfort from the exceptional care that she received during Jean’s final days from the Cynthia Spencer Hospice, Age UK and the Macmillan nurses, who cared for her, allowing Jean to pass away in comfort and with dignity in her own home.
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CHARITY
Epwin’s Clare O’Hara Generosity
Gearing Up For
Paddle2Pedal Charity Challenge
Of Gala Dinner Guests Raises More Than £15K
For Macmillan
Guests at this year’s FIT Show Gala Dinner have reached into their pockets to raise a massive £15,233.57 following a heart-wrenching appeal for donations to Macmillan Nurses made during the event by Gary Morton, well known for his own charity work through GM Fundraising.
With a call for donations traditionally being made to raise funds for a cause close to the hearts of people connected with the window and door industry, this year Macmillan Nurses was chosen by Leon Day, former owner and managing director of Universal Arches, who sadly lost his partner Jo to cancer earlier this year. Acknowledging the generosity of guests Leon said: “It’s difficult to put into words the magnitude of this incredible gesture and with other donations, we’re now over £19,000 raised for Macmillan who did so much to help Jo, particularly in the latter days. On behalf of Jo’s family and myself, I’d like to thank everyone, yet again this industry has shown how generous it can be.” The JustGiving page (www.justgiving.com/fundraising/leon-day1) for Jo will remain open for a while yet should anyone else like to contribute to this emotive cause.
On 20 August 2017 Clare O’ Hara, Divisional Managing Director of Epwin, and 11 other ladies from the fenestration industry will start the Paddle2Pedal Challenge to try to raise over £50,000 for Hope House Children’s Hospice. The first ever GM Fundraising all-female event is sponsored by the Epwin Group and will see the team canoe 100 miles of the River Wye, abseil the rock face at Symonds Yat, then cycle 120 miles to Oswestry. Clare comments: “I have followed the previous challenges run by GM Fundraising with interest, and thought it would be a great idea for the girls to get involved. It’s great to have the support of Epwin Group too and we’re delighted they’re backing us all the way.” In total, the ladies will cover
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220 miles of roads and rivers and face some tough challenges along the way. Clare says: “Training for P2P has been incredibly gruelling and we’ve all been giving up evenings and weekends to put the hours in. But we’re doing it for the children and their families who are supported by Hope House Hospice and this is what keeps us going when the going gets tough. We will be meeting children and families from Hope House Children’s Hospice when we reach the end of the challenge at Oswestry and I know it will be a very moving and humbling experience for everyone involved.” You can show your support for Clare and help her raise money for a truly worthy cause by sponsoring her at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/oharap2p
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)
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@GMFUNDRAISING
PADDLE