5 Jobs Saved As 58 Glazerite adds 94 Free Retrofit Livingston uPVC Windows
value for installers at Training Course every step Launched
CONTENTS
W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS
TRADE NEWS 4 VIEWPOINT 32 PEOPLE 52 TRADE FABRICATION 58 TIMBER WINDOWS 64 PRODUCT NEWS 66 MACHINERY 80 ON SITE 84 MARKETING & INTERNET
88
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
92
AWARDS 96 CHARITY 98
You can now receive your industry news in a range of formats: Newscast, Website, Social Media, and a magazine. So whatever your preference is for catching up with the latest innovations and news in the industry, there is a Window News format to suit everyone. We aim to keep readers up-to-date with the latest industry news, trends, technical innovations and suppliers. Our web format means that we can be in the right place at the right time – wherever that may be. The contents of Window News are provided for general use only and do not constitute general advice and should not be relied upon. Views/opinions, replies and specific advice expressed by external persons are not necessarily those of Window News and are not subscribed to by Window News. To see the full terms and conditions please visit: http://www.windownews.co.uk/window-news-disclaimer/ Privacy Policy: http://www.windownews.co.uk/window-news-privacy-policy/
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Cover picture: Fenestration professionals advised to review portfolios following energy efficiency drive for historic homes, read more on page 8 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 3
TRADE NEWS
Brisant Acquires
3 Star Lock Business Deseo
2023: A Record Year for (left to right) Deseo’s MD, Mark O’Sullivan with Brisant CEO Nick Dutton
On Friday 5th January Brisant Secure acquired the business and intellectual property of Deseo Locking Systems Limited for an undisclosed sum. Deseo, based in Braintree, is an innovative trailblazer with critical security patents to its name. The patented Deseo ALPS cylinder incorporates the UK and European patented Automatic Lock Protection System (ALPS). A statement from Brisant Secure said: ‘This system resists all wellknown and many lesser-known forced entry methods. Unlike other 3* cylinders that give protection when attacked, Deseo ALPS gives maximum security at all times. This clever, innovative design therefore protects against all existing attacks. And it’s this elegant, simple design concept that also protects against most of the attack methods burglars and locksmiths might imagine’. Deseo Locking Systems’ Marcus and Mark O’Sullivan stay on with the business and Mark joins the Brisant Secure board as Deseo Director. www.brisant-secure.com
ERG Scotland
Installer ERG Scotland has posted record annual sales figures of £5.8m for 2023, marking the end of another fantastic year of trading for the Invergordon-based business. Covering the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, ERG has grown 30% year-on-year and broken the £5.5m barrier for the first time in the company’s 50-year history, claims the company. Headed by the husband-andwife duo of Ian and Greer Joy, ERG is now firmly established as one of the region’s largest home improvement companies. “We couldn’t be prouder of our team,” begins Ian Joy, ERG’s managing director. “We set an ambitious target to raise our business further. I’m delighted to say that everyone associated with the company has done a fantastic job in ensuring that we all have a record-breaking year. “The success that we’ve achieved, despite the tricky trading conditions and economic
4 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
uncertainties, is testament to the hard work, tenacity and dedication of our staff members who work incredibly hard to deliver an exceptional service to the families and communities of the Highlands.”
Key to ERG’s monumental growth this year has been the adoption of new marketing strategies and continuing to work closely with their manufacturing partner, Conservatory Outlet. The Scottish retailer has committed to growing their presence on social media and has undertaken several localised campaigns to boost brand awareness across the Highlands and Islands. To help achieve this, ERG’s sales and marketing teams have made the most of Conservatory Outlet’s free training courses, with individuals attending the West Yorkshire manufacturer’s social media roundtables and enrolling on the company’s sales and product training academy. “We’ve leaned on Conservatory Outlet for support,” continues
TRADE NEWS
Jobs Saved As Livingston uPVC Windows Business Bought Out Of Administration
Ian. “ERG Scotland enjoyed a strong end to 2022 and their team has allowed us to build on that through 2023 and give us the advice and tools to succeed. “Our accomplishments this year are a testament to the hard work, tenacity, and dedication of our team. Together with the excellent operational advice, and marketing expertise from the teams at Conservatory Outlet and DigitalKOG, we’ve had a fantastic 2023. “The support that we receive for being part of the Conservatory Outlet Network has meant that we’ve been able to quickly pivot our plans to react to everchanging market conditions and stay ahead of the competition. Next stop £6m!” Congratulating ERG on their record year, Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, Greg Kane, added: “ERG’s performance this year is nothing short of incredible. Ian, Greer, and the team have never lost sight of putting the customers first by delivering a fantastic product backed by incredible service. “It’s a delight to work with them and we look forward to many more years of supporting their growth.”
Ken Pattullo, managing partner at Begbies Traynor in Scotland
Following the appointment of Ken Pattullo and Jamie Taylor of Begbies Traynor as joint administrators of Livingstonheadquartered Evoframes on 17th January 2024, a sale of the business and assets has been completed, saving all 76 jobs. Established in 2020, Evoframes is a major supplier of fenestration products to trade customers across Scotland, including trade counters, builders, joiners and window fitters. Offering a wide range of bespoke uPVC windows and doors, it also has its own dedicated fleet of trucks delivering direct from its factory to the customer. Unfortunately, the company suffered from rising interest rates, together with reduced customer demand and increasing raw material costs,
resulting in it becoming unviable. Following an accelerated M&A process to find a buyer for the business, a pre-packaged sale to Rooms & Views took place, with the deal saving all 76 jobs at the Livingston factory. Based in Buckley, North Wales, the buyer is a longestablished UK uPVC window manufacturer. Ken Pattullo, managing partner at Begbies Traynor in Scotland, said: “Unfortunately, like many businesses, Evoframes was severely impacted by higher interest rates as well as increasing costs over the last year. We are pleased to have completed a sale which sees the business continuing in the hands of new, but experienced owners and providing a more secure future for the 76-strong workforce.” WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 5
TRADE NEWS
November Builders Merchant Sales Slide -5.7%
As Volumes Drop -12.1% Year-On-Year The latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report shows builders’ merchants’ value sales were down -5.7% in November 2023 compared to the same month in 2022, with volume sales falling -12.1% and prices increasing +7.2%. Compared to November 2022, six of the twelve categories sold more in November 2023 compared to the previous year. But falling sales in the three largest categories contributed to an overall decline in volumes, with Heavy Building Materials (-7.0%), Landscaping (-7.4%) and Timber & Joinery Products (-10.9%) all selling less. Month-on-month, total merchant sales were down -4.4% in November compared to October 2023. Volume sales decreased -7.5% and prices
increased (+3.4%). There was no difference in trading days. Only one of the twelve categories increased enough to compensate for falling volumes and that was Workwear & Safetywear (+10.9%). Seasonal category Landscaping was the weakest (-14.2%). Total merchant sales in the year to date (January to November 2023) were -4.9% down on the same period in 2022. Volume sales were down -13.8% while prices rose +10.3%. With two more trading days in the most recent period, like-forlike sales were -5.7% lower. Nine of the twelve categories sold more, with Renewables & Water Saving (+31.2%) the only standout. Again, the three largest categories – Heavy Building Materials (-2.8%), Landscaping (-12.2%) and
6 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
Timber & Joinery Products (-14.6%) each sold less. Mike Rigby, managing director of MRA Research which produces the BMBI report says: “November was another difficult month for the UK’s builders’ merchants. Following major storms in September and October, November delivered yet more wet and windy weather and widespread flooding which delayed planned construction work. The housing market is still in the doldrums with high mortgage rates, sizeable deposits and affordability affecting new house sales and the new build market. Rising rentals are also putting the squeeze on future house buyers. Housing RMI, however, has been more resilient. While November building activity was hampered by the weather, repair and maintenance work increased by +3.8% in the three months to November (source ONS). “According to the long-standing GFK Consumer Confidence Survey published on December
TRADE NEWS 15th, consumer confidence is rising (up +2 points to -22, a 20-point recovery from the battering it took under Liz Truss’ short-lived Government. In fact, it’s rising on all five of GFK’s metrics, but on the three that matter most to building, Personal Finance situation over the last 12 months was up two points to -14, 14 points higher than December 2022; and
Personal Finance situation for the next 12 months was up one point to -2; 27 points better than December 2022.” Joe Staton, Client Strategy Director GfK, says: ‘Despite the severe costof-living crisis still impacting most households, this slow but persistent movement towards positive territory for the personal finance measure looking ahead is an encouraging sign for the
Second Silver Score
For Mila’s SupaSecure
year to come.’ “The Major Purchase Index was also up one point to -23, 11 points higher than December 2022, which is particularly encouraging for home improvements in 2024,” Mike Rigby suggests. November’s BMBI report is available to download at www.bmbi.co.uk leverage; and the tester has a full five minutes per tool rather than three to try to attack the escutcheon with full force to access the cylinder. “It’s so arduous that the received wisdom used to be that the maximum rating achievable by door hardware was Bronze. Mila’s SupaSecure products have obviously changed all that and we’re very proud to have raised the bar in this sector.”
Mila says fabricators now have even more choice when it comes to offering the ultimate in high security stainless steel door hardware. The Mila SupaSecure TS007 two star escutcheon has achieved the same Silver grading in the Master Locksmith’s Sold Secure attack test as the Mila SupaSecure door handle did just weeks earlier. It’s an impressive achievement, given that there was only one Silver graded escutcheon previously and no
Silver graded handles. Mila’s technical director Strafford Cooke says it means fabricators can now offer the same level of reassurance to customers on door security – whether they are pairing their 1 or 3 star cylinder with a handle or an escutcheon. He explains: “The Sold Secure attack test is more intense and more sustained than the PAS24 security test. It uses a more ‘heavy duty’ set of tools, which includes an electric drill, longer crow bars and even a scaffolding pole for greater
Part of the reason for the products’ success in the Sold Secure attack test is their inherent strength – both are investment cast in Mila’s Supa stainless steel, which is the same process typically used for aerospace components. And both also feature clever features such as chamfered backplate shoulders and a rotating anti-drill disc. Strafford added: “In both the handle and the escutcheon tests, the doors eventually showed some signs of damage, but the Mila SupaSecure products emerged almost completely unscathed. That’s testament to both the quality and design.” Unsurprisingly, the Mila SupaSecure escutcheon and handle both come with 25 year guarantees on the mechanical operation and the surface finish. https://bit.ly/3wfukzl WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 7
TRADE NEWS
Fenestration Professionals Advised to Review Portfolios Following Energy
Efficiency Drive for Historic Homes Installers and fabricators are being advised to adapt their portfolios to meet rising demand for high-performance frames sympathetic to traditional housing designs in the wake of the Government’s new energy efficiency drive for historic homes. Announced by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, the wide-ranging review will look to tackle barriers to making houses built before 1919 more energyefficient in line with the UK’s net zero emissions commitments. With the drive focusing on protecting the beauty of the affected buildings, polymer solutions supplier Rehau is highlighting how fenestration professionals could review their existing frame offerings to secure more retrofitting work. “It is well-known that retrofitting historic buildings, including listed properties and those in conservation areas, can pose unique challenges for both the homeowners and project stakeholders,” explains Russell Hand, head of product management and technical at Rehau UK. “This new drive from the government should therefore be welcomed as a key step to ensuring energy-efficient housing in line with legislation such as the Future Homes Standard.
“However, the drive to make these structures fit for the future should not come at the cost of their aesthetic appeal. As a key factor in building thermal performance, windows should be one of the first structural components to be considered for upgrading work. Consequently, window fitters and fabricators would benefit from including frames in their portfolio that can assuage concerns over ugly or inappropriate retrofits if they are to win new business from people who own or live in historic
8 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
homes.” Though aesthetics and thermal performance remain key considerations when specifying for such properties, Rehau is advocating the benefit of fenestration professionals adopting a holistic approach when considering new frames for their portfolios. By doing so, installers and fabricators could create a competitive edge as demand for traditional frame designs increases. “It is clearly vital that installers and fabricators should lead on kerb appeal and energy efficiency when selecting frames for this particular market,” Russell concludes. “However, this should not be at the cost of other important features that may influence or sway a homeowner’s decision when selecting an installer. For example, while our own Heritage Vertical Sliding window system can be marketed on its u-value of 1.2 W/m2K and customisability with colours, Georgian bars, run-through sash horns and other window furniture, other factors may also be considered. “Promoting jointing and sash options, security accreditations, weather performance and other considerations may provide the difference if businesses are to thrive in what may soon be a booming market. We would therefore advise fenestration professionals to work closely with their supplier to see what is possible. For example, at Rehau, our commercial team are already working closely supporting fitters and fabricators to demonstrate how new uPVC window designs can work alongside other features on historic buildings, including shutters.” To find out more about Rehau’s Heritage Vertical Sliding windows, click here: https://bit.ly/3Umnpyr
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TRADE NEWS
Endurance Doors
includes an extensive period as a new build and domestic fenestration installation manager.
completion of the Creates Academy Of Excellence Upon Endurance Academy, those Endurance Doors has implemented a new training initiative which the company says provides further added value for its installer partners whilst ensuring a better customer experience for homeowners. Known as the Endurance Academy, the new initiative entails a free, one day course that’s held at the brand’s dedicated consumer-focused showroom in Brigg, North Lincolnshire. With an emphasis on hands-on
learning, it covers a variety of topics including how to conduct more effective pre-installation surveys, best practice door installation and improved door handover to the homeowner.
During the course, attendees are also given a tour of the nearby Endurance Doors manufacturing plant. The course is delivered by Ian Longstaffe who is the business’ dedicated training manager. He has over 27 years of experience in the fenestration industry which
10 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
attending receive a GQA level qualification and certificate. Ian Longstaffe says: “The Endurance Academy delivers benefits both for those buying and fitting our products. “For the homeowner, a new door is a major investment that also contributes significantly to the kerb appeal of their property. Given these facts, they want the reassurance of the highest levels of quality at every stage of the process – from the point of production to the point of
TRADE NEWS
Framexpress Report
Most Successful Year In Its History
On top of celebrating a quarter of a century in business in 2023, Framexpress has also reported the year as its most successful on record. At the start of 2023, the Telford-based fabricator set out ambitious targets to increase revenue by 10%. installation. “Having their door fitted by professionals who have attended the Endurance Academy instantly provides the peace of mind that the work is carried out by skilled and competent individuals. “Following on from that, our installer partners can use the fact that they’ve completed the Endurance Academy as an extra selling point for marketing purposes. “It can also save them the cost of potential call backs and remedial work by optimising their ‘right first time’ capabilities.” https://endurancedoors.co.uk
In addition to a £300,000 investment into new machinery; an ever-expanding workforce; multiple new customers; an additional 15,000 ft² manufacturing facility space; and the launch of its new Fire Doors By Framexpress range of fire doors, Framexpress reported a 16% uplift in revenue in 2023, compared to the previous year. Stuart Green, joint managing director at Framexpress, discusses the company’s performance, saying: “2023 was definitely a year to remember for us. Not only did we reach a significant milestone with our 25th anniversary, but the business grew more than we could have ever imagined. We know that the industry has been
extremely volatile throughout the year. We’ve sadly seen many businesses fall, but there were also many that thrived, and we’re incredibly grateful to be one of them.” “Our performance in 2023 exceeded our targets and then some,” Mark Westbrook, Framexpress’ joint managing director says. “We not only credit the relationships we have taken the time to build with our customers over the past 25 years, but we have always recognised the value in continuing to invest back into the business, too. “We know that without the right machinery, a well-resourced facility and the right team members, we wouldn’t be seeing the results we have achieved over the past year. It is a testament to our team and our dedication to providing our customers with nothing but the highest-quality products, and it is something we will continue to strive for in 2024.” www.framexpress.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 11
TRADE NEWS
Introducing
Dynamic Hardware: The New Name In Hardware Solutions Dynamic Hardware, a recently established hardware manufacturer founded by industry veteran Tony Chadwick, brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the market. Specialising in window and door hardware solutions, the company aims to assist fabricators and installers with its product range. Tony Chadwick, CEO at Dynamic Hardware, said: “From our hardware design innovation to the standards we set, nothing but the best will do. Combined with great industry prices that benefit fabricators’ bottom lines, Dynamic Hardware customers can be sure of success.” Tony highlights three factors that set Dynamic Hardware apart from mass market offerings.
The first is its product design strength because all Dynamic Hardware’s products are designed in-house by industry experts with a track record in intelligent hardware innovation. Tony commented “When you choose a Dynamic Hardware product, you benefit from superior design for outstanding functionality, superior aesthetics for an exceptional look and feel. Subject to minimum confirmed order quantities, the team can also work with companies to develop bespoke hardware solutions that give your business a unique competitive edge.” The second is its manufacturing strength that ensures control and quality. All Dynamic Hardware’s products are manufactured in
12 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
its own state-of-the-art 50,000 sqm manufacturing centre in South-East Asia and it has its headquarters and warehouse in Walsall in the West Midlands. Tony noted: “Because we don’t work with third-party suppliers, we have complete control of our supply chain. It means we have reliable supply and quality every time.” The third is a depth of industry experience that brings insight and understanding. The senior leadership team at Dynamic Hardware has been involved in hardware design and manufacture for over 40 years, which gives a depth of expertise few can match. Tony said: “We define our values as secure, quality and professional – and we’re committed to bringing those values to every business relationship and every interaction.” Tony concluded: “Dynamic Hardware combines hardware expertise and experience with a relentless focus on excellence to give you the products that make the difference.” dynamichardware.co.uk
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TRADE NEWS
Keystone Market Research
Launches UK Consumer
Fenestration Trends
Report, Sponsored by Epwin Window Systems Keystone Market Research, a research consultancy set up last year specialising in fenestration, has announced the launch of a new quarterly UK consumer trends report and omnibus service for the industry, sponsored by Epwin Window Systems. This initiative aims to deliver ongoing essential insights for strategic decisionmaking, against the backdrop of a challenging economic climate,
where every pound spent must count. The inaugural report explores a wide-ranging selection of topics, including consumer preferences on window, door, and extension roof glazing styles, frame materials and purchase priorities, as well as likelihood of purchase of fenestration products versus competing home improvement
14 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
projects like kitchen and bathroom remodels and market value forecasts. Additionally, it provides critical information to inform marketing decisions, including consumer-friendly product terminology and the sources homeowners turn to for information on available products, providing actionable insights for businesses, says Keystone Market Research. Gerald Allen, head of marketing at Epwin Window Systems, the sponsor of the report, underscores the importance of supporting installers with enhanced market understanding: “In an environment where every lead is crucial, empowering installers with the knowledge to align their offerings with current consumer trends is essential. We commissioned Keystone Market Research to undertake a consumer research
TRADE NEWS project for us last year, and their skilful approach delivered comprehensive results that exceeded our expectations and provided valuable data to shape future decisions. When we heard Keystone were considering tracking consumer trends regularly, we could see the huge benefit and insight that this would bring to companies throughout the industry, and we’re happy to be supporting the launch of this game-changing service.” Charlotte Hawkes, founder and director of Keystone Market Research, emphasises the significance of using the right data to drive business decisions: “While it’s important to discuss and monitor market development and trends within the industry, this is often based on historical data and supposition. In order to accurately track which product
styles are likely to be popular in the future, the primary focus must remain on understanding the preferences and priorities of the group that are actually going to define what becomes successful for the market: the end consumer. Our new report seeks to provide insights that enable businesses to stay attuned to consumer demands and adapt their strategies accordingly, for more accurate lead nurturing today, and investment in the right areas for tomorrow.” From the Spring issue there will also be an omnibus option introduced, enabling companies to submit their own unique questions. Keystone Market Research says this costeffective solution provides fenestration companies with the opportunity to receive private, expertly analysed
Framexpress Invest £300,000
In New Machinery
nationally-representative results tailored to their specific needs. There is also the possibility of further localisation of the main report data on request to enable installers to personalise offerings based on subtle regional differences, or on precise demographics if companies would like support understanding the needs of more targeted audiences. The first report is available now, with single report or annual subscription purchase options. The first 30 companies purchasing an annual subscription will receive one omnibus question slot free of charge for use during one of the three remaining consumer surveys in 2024. For more information or to purchase the report, please visit www.keystonemr.co.uk
the new Urban SV 500 Corner Cleaner, Urban AKS1860/4 Verti Quad Welder and Urban AKS 5550 Inline Welder are helping meet the increasing demand for Framexpress products, following its record-breaking year of business, says the company. Stuart Green, joint managing director at Framexpress, discussing the latest investment says: “We’re always looking for ways to continue upholding our exceptionally high-standards, and our latest investment into new machinery is just another example of that. “For the past 25 years, we have dedicated our time and expertise into developing the highest-quality products, mastering our faultless manufacturing processes and delivering on our exceptional lead times for our customers, some of which have been with us since the very beginning. We understand that the only way we can uphold this quality is by reinvesting in ourselves to ensure this doesn’t change.”
Framexpress has recently invested over £300,000 in new machinery. Housed in its 50,000 sq. ft. Telford manufacturing facility,
In addition to new machinery, Framexpress has also acquired a new 15,000 sq. ft. facility in Tweedale – a stone’s throw away from its main HQ – and a total of 6 new delivery vehicles. www.framexpress.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 15
TRADE NEWS
The Window Store
Unveils New Expanded Poole Branch Following continued business growth, The Window Store has announced the relocation of its new expanded branch in Poole, Dorset. The relocated Poole depot, which was originally a shared facility with Epwin Group trade counter business National Plastics, opened its doors at its new site at Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole, in November 2023. Karl Lodwick, general manager at The Window Store, said: “The Poole branch has shown impressive growth, so much so that we outgrew the original shared location within twelve months of opening. With increased demand for our products and services, a larger dedicated space was needed. This expansion underscores our commitment to meeting
the evolving needs of our customers.”
The new Poole branch spans 5,500 sqft, making it the largest depot in The Window Store network. Showcasing the new, modern corporate branding, the branch incorporates an on-site showroom offering an inviting and approachable environment, allowing customers to explore the extensive product portfolio. Product highlights include the innovative Ultraframe hup! roofing system, award-winning Stellar Aluminium windows and doors, Safedoors composite doors and a comprehensive suite of Profile 22 frames. To celebrate the relocation, The Window Store is hosting a programme of Open Days commencing with the Poole
16 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
branch on February 14th 2024. Karl said: “Our Open Days allow customers to engage with our expert staff, explore our wide range of products and take advantage of exclusive promotions.” He continued: “This new site allows us to showcase our expanded product range and provides a more immersive and enjoyable shopping experience for our valued customers.” Hot on the heels of the Poole branch launch, The Window Store continues to expand its reach with Open Days planned for its Truro branch on 20th February and its Plymouth branch on 21st February 2024. Each event promises to be an exciting opportunity for customers to connect with The Window Store’s experienced teams and explore the latest trends in windows, doors and conservatories. www.windowstoreplastics.co.uk
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TRADE NEWS
Window Widgets
Zero Land-Fill Journey Ancillaries firm Window Widgets has announced they diverted 42 tonnes of PVC waste from landfill in the last 12 months.
comparison is the equivalent weight to seven African elephants or more than three London buses.
Currently embarking on their second year of zero land-fill waste, Window Widgets has provided an update on their remarkable journey over the past year, reinforcing their dedication to a greener and more sustainable future.
Not only have Window Widgets successfully diverted 42 tonnes of PVC waste from landfill but they have also recycled 10 tonnes of cardboard; 5.2 tonnes of aluminium swarf; 21.7 tonnes of wood and 1.6 tonnes of WE’EE and metal
Diverting 42 tonnes of PVC waste away from landfill to be recycled is a significant achievement for Window Widgets and in
The company achieved zero land-fill waste in February 2021 after a two-and-a-half-year waste management programme. The
18 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
journey commenced in May 2018 with Window Widgets being determined to make a lasting impact on their environmental footprint and took significant steps to achieve this goal. The programme included: • August 2018: The company engaged with a recycling processing equipment supplier and identified specific equipment requirements. These included a compactor for aluminium swarf, a mill-size baler for cardboard waste, and a 50kg baler for LDPE film waste • December 2018: Window Widgets joined forces with Penfold Plastics to ensure that head waste and profile lengths under one metre were recycled, diverting these materials away from landfills
TRADE NEWS • January 2019: The ordered waste processing equipment was delivered and put to use, enabling the recycling of cardboard, plastic and ali swarf waste materials • Throughout 2019: The company diligently segregated all waste into specific bins, compacted, and bailed it before removal from the site. This systematic approach ensured that waste materials were efficiently managed and prepared for recycling • November 2020: Recognising
the need for further efficiency in waste management, Window Widgets ordered an additional compactor to aid in the compaction of waste materials February 2021: Window Widgets moved their waste collection to Archer Recycling, who transported all general waste to Javelin Park for incineration. This strategic shift marked the final step in the journey towards achieving zero-landfill status
since achieving zero landfill waste.
Andy Taylor, group QSHE manager at Window Widgets, remarked, “We take immense pride in the progress we’ve made
Family Fabricator Stedek Celebrates 30th Birthday
“The diversion of 42 tonnes of PVC waste from landfill reinforces our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and our determination to make a positive impact on the environment. Sustainable practices not only benefit our planet but also contribute to a more responsible and resilient business and we look forward to continuing our hard work for a more sustainable future.” www.windowwidgets.co.uk It was around that time that Stedek began offering the range it would become most closely associated with – The Residence Collection. In the years that followed, Stedek developed what it came to call Residence Excellence – R9, R7 and R2 windows made with ‘uncompromising care and attention’, and a laser-like focus on the details. Alex continues: “Today, the Stedek range is bigger than it’s ever been. As The Residence Collection has continued to expand, we’ve expanded with them – we now offer their complete suite of windows and are in the process of adding another new Residence door to the offering.
Steve Page (left), Emily Page (centre) and Alex Page (right)
Stedek, long-standing family business and proud purveyors of The Residence Collection and Aluplast, are celebrating their 30th anniversary.
new challenges, Steve ran the business as managing director until 2016, when he handed his responsibilities to his children, Emily and Alex Page.
The company was founded in Walsall by friends Steve and Derek, who’d met while working at a local window fabricator.
By the time they took the reins, both had already absorbed the Stedek philosophy, and were ready for the challenge, as Alex explains.
In 1994, they bravely struck out on their own, and Stedek was born.
“The business dad handed over to us had a very clear set of values. Quality is everything. Attention to detail is paramount.
The pair worked together for many fruitful years, laying the foundations for Stedek’s future success. Then, when Derek left to pursue
“We simply took what he’d started and modernised it – bringing in even more great products, and working to maintain the same great service.”
“On the PVCu front, we’re proud to partner with Aluplast, another excellent supplier, and we’ve seen strong demand for their products, especially their flush sash windows. “The future will bring challenges – it always does – but we’re fully confident that Stedek will rise to them and continue striving to become Britain’s most qualityfocused fabricator.” www.stedek.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 19
TRADE NEWS
Conservatory Outlet Passes to provide products and services that meet customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. They also need to enhance the satisfaction of their customers through the effective application and implementation of systems.
Speaking after being presented with the renewal certificate, Scott Brittain, Conservatory Outlet’s group head of technical, quality and continuous improvement said: “This achievement underlines how committed the company is to the quality management system, ensuring that our Premium Retail Network and their customers receive market-leading products that truly are best-in-class in terms of performance, quality and security.
The ISO 9001:2015 certification acknowledges Conservatory Outlet’s high standards, with a clear and dedicated focus on performance, excellence and innovation within the fabricating and fenestration sectors.
“The assessors were once again delighted with our exceptionally high standards. We’re thrilled with the feedback that we’ve received and we’re looking forward to working towards renewing and gaining further
ISO Accreditation Conservatory Outlet, the Yorkshire-based manufacturer of windows, doors and other home improvement products, is celebrating after once again passing its ISO 9001:2015 assessment.
This marks yet another year the company achieved this globally recognised standard for quality management. To achieve this International Standard, organisations must demonstrate their ability
Scott Brittain, Conservatory Outlet’s group head of technical, quality and continuous improvement
20 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
TRADE NEWS
International Seal Of Quality For Kestrel
Powder Coating
qualifications in 2024.” Conservatory Outlet has seen its Premium Retail Network record year-on-year growth over the past twelve months. The company says it is looking forward to its annual submission for its PAS24 accreditation early in the year and is set to expand its product portfolio with new advancements to its collection of windows and doors. Managing director of Conservatory Outlet, Mick Giscombe, concludes: “Renewing our ISO 9001 accreditation for another year is an impressive achievement. It underlines how seriously we take quality and continue to push forward to make improvements across all aspects of the business, which only benefits our clients and customers.” www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk
Birmingham based Kestrel Powder Coating has become one of the elite companies awarded a Qualicoat coating applicator approved licence, assuring the quality of its powder coating service for extruded aluminium profiles. Qualicoat is an independent, globally recognised product certification scheme. To gain recognition, applicators must use Qualicoat licenced products and employ a precisely specified process for the powder coating service. Kestrel Powder Coating, sister company to Kestrel Aluminium, has been providing powder coating to the relevant quality standard (BS EN 12206) for many years. The Qualicoat certification adds an additional layer of rigorous assessment, with inspectors examining each step of the Kestrel process to ensure that every stage of production and customer service is carried out to consistently high standards.
The certification is a welcome recognition of the degree of training and focus on quality improvement that Kestrel has developed in recent months, with a dedicated team determined to see the company joining the limited number of organisations in the UK market to hold this prestigious quality mark. Nicki Baylis, general manager at Kestrel, is delighted with the recognition. She said: “The Qualicoat licence demonstrates both the quality of our service and our ambition to be seen as a quality leader in the provision of powder coating services within the UK.” Kestrel Powder Coating supplies high-quality finishes in a wide range of RAL and BS colours. The company anticipates that the Qualicoat licence will attract new customers, who demand this rigorous quality certification. kestrelpowdercoating.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 21
TRADE NEWS
Everyone’s Invited
To Sternfenster’s Birthday Celebrations
Sternfenster has launched a year-long celebration for its 50th birthday, with giveaways, industry engagement, and new products and initiatives.
karting,” Nathan said, “but we’ll also be talking about why we’ve achieved this massive milestone – which is more than many companies can say.
“A birthday is much more than an extra candle on the cake,” sales director Nathan Court said. “It is an opportunity to reflect on your successes and plan for an even better future. It is also a brilliant marketing opportunity – so brilliant that we’ve been planning how we are going to celebrate for almost a year.”
“For example, we’ll be continuing our leading work on sustainability. We are in the process of installing more solar panels at our Lincoln factory, and we will develop marketing assets to help our customers engage with homeowners on the issue of sustainability – which is working because demand for triple glazing alone continues to increase monthly.”
Sternfenster will be unveiling new products and strategies as each month in 2024 passes, but Nathan said the company will be focusing on five key areas: events, employees, customers, social media and giveaways. “We’ll definitely be doing some fun stuff, like golf days and
The biggest impact where Sternfenster’s 50th birthday celebrations will be felt is on social media. Over the course of the year, the company will be sharing what it views as the key industry innovations, and how the company has changed since it
22 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
was established in 1974. “We want to have a conversation with the industry, and to share our memories of the last 50 years,” Nathan said. “For example, we have plundered our archives, and unearthed some fascinating memorabilia, such as old adverts, radio jingles, and faded photographs. “We are also sharing our thoughts on what we think are the key innovations in the window industry, and inviting our customers to talk to us about why they choose to partner with Sternfenster (www.linkedin.com/ company/sternfenster).” Sternfenster will also be giving the LinkedIn users the opportunity to spin a wheel of fortune on its LinkedIn page, where they can win everything from a Sternfenster mug to free CGI video assets. “Our 50th anniversary was too good of an opportunity to miss, which is why we’ll be making the most of it all year round, and promoting ourselves for the next 50 years,” Nathan said. “Find us on LinkedIn and join the conversation.” www.sternfenster.com
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TRADE NEWS
Carl F Goupco Supports Customers
Throughout Testing As the industry transitions to the newly introduced PAS 24:2022 standard, independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has reported an upturn in demand for its product testing support. This detailed testing customer support ensures a seamless process from product selection and sampling to manufacturing, testing, and posttest advice. John King, sales director at Carl F Groupco, explains: “Our team provides hands-on support throughout the entire testing process. The pre-test fit-up process is exacting and extends
beyond our products to cover additional elements such as screw selection and reinforcing requirements. Operatives are trained, and support is provided wherever needed, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring a successful test result.” John continued: “On the day of the test we accompany the fabricator at the independent test centre, ready to address any last-minute queries. It’s a complete end-to-end testing support service that our customers value.” The value of this service is a view
24 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
John King, sales director, Carl F Groupco
shared by Affordable Window Systems, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of aluminium and PVC-U windows and doors. Affordable Window Systems sought PAS 24 accreditation for its new flush casement window featuring the Yale Flush Sash Shootbolt system and turned to Carl F Groupco for support. Gary Adshead, health, safety and quality assurance at Affordable Window Systems, said: “The support provided by Carl F Groupco throughout the PAS 24 testing significantly streamlined the process for us. Their team collaborated closely with us and our various partners, facilitating the coordination with hardware manufacturers, profile and fixing suppliers to ensure the best test outcome. As shown in our flush casement project, we often run indicative testing with Carl F Groupco to address potential
TRADE NEWS
Frame Fast Make
‘Smart’ Move With
Kubu Partnership
issues and ensure a successful first-time pass.” Gary further added, “Our partnership with Carl F Groupco dates back to 1992. One of the reasons we continue to work with them is down to their collaborative approach and consistent delivery, especially during critical moments. Their team actively engages with us and understands the needs and complexities of our business.”
Frame Fast says it is providing customers even greater opportunities to sell more products by partnering with Kubu, with all doors and standard windows now manufactured to be compatible with Kubu Smart Security. Derby’s largest trade fabricator of PVCu and aluminium windows, doors, conservatories, conservatory roofs and composite doors has made the move as part of its ongoing commitment to offering customers the best tools to succeed.
The strength of Carl F Groupco’s service support rests on the knowledge and expertise of its staff. John said: “With almost twothirds of our team having a decade or more of service, coupled with continuous internal training and in collaboration with our hardware supply partners, we remain at the forefront of industry knowledge providing invaluable assistance to our customers.”
“We’ve always focussed on being a trusted and reliable partner for installers and builders in the East Midlands,” says Nigel Leivers, Frame Fast managing director. “We’re constantly investing and innovating to build those strong relationships and to help them grow. Becoming a Kubu partner is just the latest way we are achieving this.
www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk
“Smart technology is the way the market is moving and I’ve been particularly impressed by
Kubu, both as a product and as a company. “With fully concealed sensors working in tandem with highsecurity multi-point locks, our customers can now offer outstanding physical security with the added benefit of smart technology and stay ahead of the competition.” Ryan Bromley, co-founder of Kubu Smart Security, added: “Frame Fast’s commitment to innovation and customer success resonates deeply with our mission at Kubu. We’re thrilled to partner with a company that not only values cutting-edge technology but also puts trust and reliability at the forefront. “This collaboration will help redefine home security standards across the East Midlands, empowering installers with smart, secure, and sleek solutions that today’s homeowners are seeking.” www.framefastuk.com getkubu.com/trade WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 25
TRADE NEWS
Vista’s XtremeDoor
Chosen For Flagship Decarbonisation
L-R – Saffron Housing Trust’s Sustainability Project lead Richard Egle and The Climate Show’s Tom Heap
Scheme Featured On Sky News exceed energy-saving standards. XtremeDoor composites from supplier Vista Panels have been selected for a flagship scheme by the Saffron Housing Trust, a project recently featured on Sky News’ the Climate Show with Tom Heap. Saffron Housing’s first wave of a government-led Social Housing Decarbonisation scheme saw 126 homes retrofitted with energysaving upgrades, including new windows, doors, solar panels, insulation and air source heat pumps in order to reduce their carbon footprint and help residents save on energy costs. In some homes, where additional measures were needed in order to improve the effectiveness of the heat pumps, new energy-efficient doors were needed, and with a U-Value of just 0.87 W/m2k, Vista’s XtremeDoor composite doors were the perfect choice, says the company.
Ian Smith, Vista’s sales and marketing manager, comments: “We are incredibly proud to see our XtremeDoor composites used in Saffron Housing Trust’s flagship scheme, and to have them featured on Sky News’ the Climate Show is a fantastic recognition of their exceptional quality and energy-saving capabilities. “At Vista, we recognise the significance and urgency of reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards more sustainable living – by offering doors with superior U-Values, we’re proud to contribute towards the government’s decarbonisation goals. “Being featured on Sky News further highlights the importance of our contribution to this cause, and motivates us to continue innovating and developing products that not only meet, but
26 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
“We remain dedicated to supplying high-quality, stylish, and functional composite doors that not only enhance homes, but also help reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Together with partners like the Saffron Housing Trust, we can pave the way for a more sustainable world.”
Saffron Housing Trust’s Sustainability Project lead Richard Egle said: “We are proud to have completed the installation of energy-saving measures on hundreds of Saffron homes, with the help of key partners such as Vista Panels. “We have all worked hard in achieving this milestone, and we look forward to improving the energy efficiency of many more homes in the future, with upgrades such as thermallyefficient composite doors.” www.vistapanels.co.uk
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Scan to View the Iron Guard 3* Cylinder Range T: 01733 393330 (Peterborough) T: 01236 721557 (Cumbernauld) E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk @carl_f_groupco Carl F Groupco Carl F Groupco
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TRADE NEWS
Senior Invests In Its In-House Powder Coating Facility It’s out with the old and in with the new at Senior Architectural System’s HQ as the aluminium fenestration systems manufacturer unveils several upgrades which will make its state of the art powder coating facility even more sustainable, says the company. By utilising the latest gas burner technology and high performance insulation materials, Senior will be able to significantly reduce the gas consumption required for its powder coating process, claims the company. Senior has also installed the latest automated profile handing conveyor system which will work with the advanced powder coating technology from Gema that is already in place to further boost productivity. These latest investments follow on from the significant IT process
updates that have been recently made to Senior’s vertical powder coating line. These have given Senior full control and greater flexibility of the pre-treatment and curing capabilities of its vertical powder coating line and has also helped contribute to lower gas usage. Located within the company’s main UK manufacturing facility in Denaby, South Yorkshire, according to the company, Senior’s powder coating facility is already one of the most environmentally friendly of its kind, reducing waste and significant amounts of excess product being sent to landfill each year. The inhouse facility, which also supports the products manufactured at its nearby Thermal Improvement Centre in Rotherham, allows Senior to better meet the demands
28 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
of its customers by eliminating the need to outsource and reducing the risk of delays to project timelines. Embodied carbon through transportation is also reduced as Senior can consolidate deliveries across its extensive range of aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall systems. The new upgrades will improve both the operational and environmental efficiency of Senior’s powder coating facility and will also help increase capacity. As well as offering an almost unlimited range of colours and coatings, including specialist solutions such as antibacterial and UV resistant finishes, Senior can now also provide a new ultra matt powder paint coating from Akzo Nobel. The company says, this new paint option is a cost-effective alternative to anodised aluminium, giving a more consistent finish, superior colour retention and enhanced durability. Senior’s aluminium fenestration systems, finished in this new ultra matt coating, are currently being installed at a new commercial office project in Manchester which is at present the largest live project in the UK to utilise this new powder coating innovation. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
Unifold Doors
From Unique Secure Part L Compliant BFRC Ratings
TRADE NEWS look at how we can enhance and extend our range to ensure we offer our customers product solutions that embrace changes in market conditions, consumer demands and relevant legislation. This includes the need for ever increasing levels of thermal performance.” The certification awarded to the Unifold range by the BFRC is significant. It demonstrates that the doors meet the energy efficiency requirements of the updated Part L of the Building Regulations for both new build properties (U-value of 1.6) and for replacement fenestration products installed on existing dwellings (Energy rating Class C). “Our ability to effectively enhance the Unifold range so that it could secure its recent BFRC ratings is a testament to our product development and technical expertise at Unique. Door panels can be stacked inside or outside of a room as well as to the left, right or split to stack on both sides. Door sets can also be manufactured to replace entire walls.
Unique Window Systems has gained third party verification of the energy efficiency of one of its most popular ranges. Following testing accredited by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC), Unique’s Unifold brand of aluminium bifold doors has been certified as offering a door energy rating of C in accordance with Approved Document L, the doors meet the energy efficiency requirements of the updated Part L of the Building
Regulations for both new build properties (U-value of 1.6) and for replacement fenestration products installed on existing dwellings (Energy rating Class C). Sunil Patel, joint managing director at Unique Window Systems, explains: “Our success in securing BFRC certification for the Unifold range directly reflects our commitment to continuous improvement.” “As a business, we continually
Unifold doors, are also supplied with high security hinges and locks as standard, which have been tested to PAS24, in accordance with Approved Document Q. Summing up, Sunil Patel adds: “Our ability to effectively enhance the Unifold range so that it could secure its recent BFRC ratings is a testament to our product development and technical expertise at Unique.“We’ll be making further additions and refinements across our product portfolio imminently as we work to ensure our installer partners are perfectly placed to meet pending challenges and opportunities. “This includes the imminent roll out of the Future Homes and Buildings Standard in 2025.” www.uws.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 29
TRADE NEWS
Heritage Trade Frames
Unveils New Showroom
And Training Facility
Longstanding Epwin Window Systems fabricator Heritage Trade Frames has unveiled a brand-new showroom and training centre at its headquarters in Bolton. The impressive facility has been purposely designed to showcase the company’s extensive range of high-quality windows and doors, featuring products from the Profile 22, PatioMaster, and Stellar Aluminium collections. Completed in December 2023, the newly unveiled showroom is testament to Heritage Trade Frames’ commitment to providing customers with innovative and high quality product solutions. The spacious and meticulously designed space allows trade customers to experience the craftsmanship and advanced features of Heritage’s diverse product offer. Lee Darcy, sales and marketing manager at Heritage Trade Frames, commented: “The new
showroom and training centre represents a significant milestone for Heritage Trade Frames. We’re delighted with the new facility and by working closely with the Epwin Window Systems’ team, we have put together a dynamic display of products in both PVC-U and aluminium providing visitors with a firsthand experience of the exceptional quality and advanced features of our window and door solutions.”
One of the showroom’s highlights is the integration of smart technology with selected products fitted with Yale SensCheck, demonstrating Heritage Trade Frames’ dedication to staying at the forefront of industry advancements. Lee said: “Yale’s SensCheck is the next generation in smart window and door sensors, offering homeowners enhanced security and peace of mind. The Yale SensCheck Window Sensor monitors the state of the window. It can detect
30 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
if the window is open, locked in a closed position, or locked in a partially closed position. If the window is tampered with the sensor will send alerts directly to the homeowner. To fully appreciate the benefits SensCheck delivers, visitors to the showroom now have the opportunity to interact with these products, gaining a greater insight into the seamless integration of the smart home solution.” In addition to showcasing Heritage Trade Frames’ advanced product range, the new facility serves as a comprehensive training centre and meeting hub. Lee said: “The training centre will run various workshops and training sessions to ensure our customers are wellversed in the latest industry trends and technologies.” A 360-degree virtual tour is also available allowing customers to experience the showroom from the comfort of their own devices. Lee concluded: “We are incredibly proud of our new showroom facility, and it’s been a great effort by the Heritage Trade Frames and Epwin Window Systems’ teams. We’re delighted with the result.” www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
TRADE NEWS supplier of choice for Express Trade Frames (ETF) Window Ware And Express asince they opened their doors in Fleetwood in 1999.
now, the two fenestration firms have just signed Trade Frames Celebrate And a new 2-year trading agreement to further set the seal
Successful 25-Year Partnership on their enduring supply partnership.
ETF managing director, Scott Law, explains: “The help and support Window Ware gives us is second to none and we can always count on them to deliver cracking service, competitive prices, and have the leading brands we like in stock and ready to ship!”
George Esler, Window Ware area sales manager NW and ETF managing director, Scott Law
UK fenestration hardware provider, Window Ware, is celebrating with longstanding customer, Express Trade Frames, as their successful supply partnership reaches a quarter-century milestone. The Bedfordshire-based hardware specialist has been
Scott admits: “2023 was a particularly busy and challenging year for us. As part of our business expansion plans, we moved into a new, larger factory, bringing our PVCu and aluminium fabrication together under one roof. Knowing Window Ware had our back with quality components, trusted technical support and dependable deliveries gave us one less thing to worry about during the relocation!” Richard Bryant, Window Ware’s commercial director adds: “We are incredibly proud to be celebrating this important milestone with one of our longest-standing customers, Express Trade Frames, and delighted to be able to play a part in their continuing success story.” www.windowware.co.uk
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VIEWPOINT
The Business Pilot Barometer offers a monthly analysis of the key trends defining window and door retail. It draws on real industry data collated by Business Pilot, the cloud-based business management tool.To find out more see www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer
The Business Pilot Barometer
Increase in leads and sales defies expectations By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot Both leads and sales rebounded in January, heralding a positive start to 2024 despite the wider market appearing sluggish.
Before we pulled off the data from Business Pilot this month for the Barometer, we had a chat in the office about how we thought the first month had gone, and we were all surprisingly upbeat. ‘Surprisingly’ because many of the discussions in the trade press and online had been downbeat. For example: inflation is still too high, Bank of England interest rate isn’t coming down quick enough, the cost of energy is still fluctuating wildly, global supply chains are in trouble now there is fighting in the Red Sea. These sentiments were accompanied by published reports that said that some parts of the UK construction industry struggled in the second half of 2023.
None of that is wrong, and we have to weigh all of those factors (and more) into our decision32 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
VIEWPOINT
making process. The reason why we were more upbeat in the office was because despite the negativity, we knew things were beginning to look up after positive conversations we’d had with window companies – including those who do use Business Pilot, and those who don’t. We could see the picture was more positive than the news would have us believe, but being the sticklers for data that we are, we waited for the figures to be published before making up our minds.
Sure enough, average sales were 58.4 – back up to what it was in November 2023. Not only that but they were 43.4% higher than a year previously, and 42.4% higher than the same period in 2022. And when it comes to leads, the brakes have been removed. At an average of 139.8, the average leads were 25.6% higher than November
2023 (ignoring the typically quiet month of December) and 23.2% higher than the same period a year ago. It is also worth noting that average lead times had dropped significantly to 16.4 days, which is 53.7% quicker than November 2023 (an average of 35.4 days) suggesting that homeowners have started 2024 with a determination to carry out home improvements and are making their minds up quickly.
This is supported by recent reports that the house market is picking up, which has accompanied a 0.7% rise in average house prices and a continued fall in mortgage rates. Interestingly, the biggest bounce back in leads by material type by some margin was PVC-U. Coupled with a slight fall in average order value to £3,150 (down 5.9% on December 2023), this suggests that the volume end of the market is partly responsible for the increased activity. www.businesspilot.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 33
VIEWPOINT significantly longer, alternative routes as a result. We’re assured that there’s now a US led international naval force in place to defend the Red Sea, but there’s no sign yet of confidence returning to the sector; and the vast majority of ships are now making the journey from Asia to Europe via the Cape of Good Hope. That’s another 3500+ nautical miles and another 10-15 days at sea. If the current situation continues for much longer, the vast majority of UK importers are likely to be looking at delivery delays and rising transport costs – because it doesn’t just take longer for containers to arrive here, but also longer for them to be shipped back empty ready for their next cargo.
An Early Warning Richard Gyde, Mila managing director
Post COVID and post Ukraine invasion, the global hardware sector had just been getting used to a period of relative stability when it comes to logistics and freight costs.
However, that stability seems to be coming under increasing threat from the spate of attacks by Houthi rebels on ships in the Red Sea making their way to and from
the vital Suez Canal transport link; and I think the market needs to be alert to some potential warning signs ahead.
23 commercial ships have been targeted since mid-November – triggered in part by the current crisis happening in the Middle East – and we’re seeing a growing number of freight companies deciding to switch to safer, but
34 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
At the moment, shipping container costs are nowhere near the record levels we saw in the pandemic, but we’re already being quoted prices which are up 175% compared to last year, and we are hearing talk of the dreaded freight surcharges once again. Some of the big retailers, including Next, have started warning consumers that some items might be delayed over the coming months, and, as a responsible supplier, it’s only right for us to do the same in this market as well, so that we manage the expectations of trade customers. My understanding from the Mila supply chain team is that carriers are in a much better position than they were during the pandemic to make operational adjustments because there’s now a degree of overcapacity in global shipping, but we are keeping a very close eye on developments, and Mila will be updating customers directly as soon as we have more news. Richard Gyde Mila
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VIEWPOINT
Renovate
Or Relocate? We talk to Dave Broxton, Managing Director at Bohle, about how companies can capitalise on the current trend for quality home renovations. More homeowners are renovating their homes with a view to the future, with a recent study finding that 62% of homeowners who had undertaken renovations planned to stay in their property for 11 years or more (Houzz). And an estimated 1 in 10 potential sellers are choosing to invest in quality renovations as opposed to moving home, according to Your Mortgage Expert, citing the the current mortgage and housing market pressures as factors in their decision.
“I think what we’re seeing is a real opportunity for installers to capitalise on this burgeoning home improvement market”, Dave Broxton, Managing Director of Bohle, says. “By offering high-quality and highperformance products that will stand the test of time, businesses can increase their margins and also reduce the likelihood of callbacks, which is a win-win scenario for both fitters and homeowners.” Made to last This long-term view for homeowners is especially crucial in more skilled renovations, where
36 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
Dave Broxton
costs tend to be more of an investment, and products need to be installed to last. “Home renovations can often be quite an easy process”, Dave says. “For instance, a bedroom can be transformed with a quick lick of paint, or a dining room given a new style by re-furnishing. “However, due to the cost and household disruption involved in a bathroom renovation, once it has been installed to the homeowners’ choosing, the chances are that the
VIEWPOINT mounting plate is designed to perfectly locate the cover cap, which guarantees a firm and precise fit. “Supplying quality hardware in tandem with quality products is an ideal way for installers to create a truly premium package, offering the aspirational design that homeowners are looking for, while commanding a higher margin, and resulting in fewer call-backs, both of which improve the bottom line”, Dave explains. Quality is king
bathroom will then be left alone for a considerable period of time. “Because of this, we are seeing people gravitate towards higher value bathroom installations. This means there is no better time for installers to have the Juna Shower Door Hinge in their product portfolio.” Aesthetics and ease Developed and designed by Bohle, the new Juna hinge for glass shower doors boasts minimum gap dimensions, which give a clean high-quality appearance. Other modern aesthetic features include no visible screws, a practically continuous sealing strip, and the above-average return angle of 20°, which closes the glass door automatically. Tested to 100,000 cycles, the Juna Shower Door Hinge is made from brass and stainless steel with a load capacity of 50kg per pair – a necessary requirement for ever
larger shower doors. To reassure the installer and homeowner, Juna comes with a 5-year guarantee. “If a glass company is installing a beautiful new glass shower screen into a premium bathroom, the last thing that both the homeowner and installer would want, is for the fixtures to negatively detract from the product itself”, Dave explains. “Juna emphasises the style within the bathroom, rather than minimises it, and it is the perfect combination of aesthetics and performance for the homeowner.” The Juna shower door hinge was also designed with the installer in mind. For example, the zero-position adjusting screw is easily accessible and enables convenient adjustment: the clamping screws and the zero-position fixing screw have uniform screw heads, which can all be tightened with just one tool, simplifying installation on site. Furthermore, the centred
Aside from the possible quality implications of a cheaper alternative, there is also a rising consumer sentiment against massmanufactured, discount products, according to Dave. Perhaps a by-product of the global focus around sustainability and ethical production, 67% of consumers now regard the behaviour of a company as important as what it sells (Ernst & Young (EY)). “While the German design and manufacturing is winning loyal customers, Bohle has seen homeowners and installers turn away from the Far East for their hardware,” Dave says. “The shift in consumer behaviour towards the quality end of the market is one reason for this, as is the increased pressure on secure supply and sustainable manufacture. “The bulk of Bohle’s products are now manufactured in Europe and distributed locally through our subsidiary network. They are produced in an energy efficient manufacturing environment that will become even more sustainable this year, when our manufacturing site in Haan in Germany will generate the majority of its energy via solar power, thanks to a substantial photovoltaic installation.” For more about Bohle’s product and service offer, including the latest Home Improvements brochure, visit www.bohle.com.
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 37
VIEWPOINT disposable income. Indeed, it is this top-end, middle to upper class demographic of the market that remains strong and will continue to be a key driver for home improvement sales. Predicted cuts by the Bank of England will ease the borrowing burden, which will make borrowing for home improvements more affordable, while a predicted 5% rise in house prices could increase homeowner confidence and spending power.
Opportunities
Will Be There For Year Ahead, Says TWR Group Laura Richardson, Director of North East uPVC and aluminium fabricator TWR Group, looks at where the opportunities will be in 2024. The market is undoubtedly tough now, certainly on the domestic side of things, due to the current cost of living. Smallmedium businesses can buckle down and keep their costs under control, it will be more of a struggle at the top end for those bigger companies that
Coupled with potential tax cuts in the Spring budget, there could well be a spring in homeowners’ steps which could translate into a surge in home improvement spend, particularly with the promise of lower interest rates. Homeowners, empowered by cheaper mortgages, might choose to stay put and invest in their existing properties, further fuelling the potential for home improvement projects and windows and doors. A target market of higher earners bodes well for companies who can manufacture and supply higher-end energy-efficient windows and doors, and we are perfectly placed to cater for the desire for enhanced comfort, security, and energy efficiency.
While the landscape might seem a little stormy at the moment, however, it’s not all doom and gloom and there will certainly be opportunities out there.
For those fabrication businesses that don’t specialise in more aspirational products, 2024 could be an even harder slog. It’s the reason we have become a valuable invisible partner in many fabrication businesses to help them to help them take on projects that they would usually have to turn down due to not having the time, capacity, skillset, or resources.
The global energy squeeze continuing to bite is the most obvious one, which will keep the demand for energy efficient windows and doors high from homeowners who have
That could be the way for suppliers to take advantage of the opportunities that will present themselves and be able to compete in the market and, ultimately, win more business.
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38 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
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VIEWPOINT
Change, Challenges And New Opportunities In 2024 Richard Hall, managing director of Reynaers Aluminium UK, looks ahead to what’s in store for the fenestration industry in 2024 as new legislation is expected to drive change through the introduction of the Building Safety Act and the build-up to the Future Homes Standard in 2025. The past few years have seen considerable change for the fenestration industry – tighter regulations, economic
uncertainty, and supply chain challenges. As we venture into 2024, the situation continues to be unpredictable with high interest rates and further increases in the cost of living continuing to impact investment in projects. However, opportunities in aluminium remain – new regulations are imminent, and digitalisation can provide customers an even greater service.
40 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
Richard Hall
According to the latest Construction Industry Forecast from Glenigan, commercial project starts are expected to see an increase of approximately 8% in the next 12 months, and then a further 7% in 2025. The Glenigan report also suggests a 4% increase in private housing project starts in 2024 and an 11% increase in 2025. Whilst we’d all like to see growth in both commercial projects and private housing developments, the latest Construction Products Association (CPA) forecast suggests a marginal fall of -0.3% in construction output in 2024, which includes no growth in private housing for either new
VIEWPOINT Future Homes Standard Great strides have been made in increasing the thermal efficiency of window and door systems to cut energy use and support global efforts to reach net zero. Our comprehensive Part L campaign in 2022 outlined changes to Part L and the continuing requirement to achieve lower U-values, as well as the comprehensive range of compliant window, door and façade systems we can provide. Now, following the recent release of the consultation document, which sets out Government plans for changes to the Future Homes Standard in 2025, we acknowledge that these have provided the industry with mixed news. However, you can be reassured that Reynaers will continue to innovate aluminium solutions that are fit for a better future. We already have doors, windows and curtain walling systems with U-values as low as 0.8 W/m²K without compromising on aesthetics, functionality and performance. Sustainability remains a key commitment for us. build or repair, maintenance and improvement. In addition, the latest Insight Data report shows a concerning decline in the overall number of fabricators and installers over the past five years. However, the demand for aluminium windows and doors looks set to continue, with the number of aluminium fabricators continuing to increase, standing at 921 in 2023. This is a good sign for the aluminium windows and doors supply chain. Whilst the economic backdrop is one of uncertainty, Reynaers will rise to the challenge, developing innovative solutions to support the growth of our customer base.
Proof of testing, certification and an accessible trail of traceable information will be essential for any parties involved in building projects to evidence the golden thread of information. With tighter regulations for buildings above 18 metres, curtain walling and window systems for highrise projects will need to be specified at the design stage – and demonstrate that they do not contain combustible material. Reynaers welcomes this tightening up of standards – the company is committed to manufacturing quality products, backed by robust testing to demonstrate performance, supported by easily accessible product information to clearly evidence accountability. Digitalisation Digitalisation will continue to be a major focus. Reynaers has a range of new digital solutions due to be launched throughout 2024, including digital passports, a new digital document portal, enhancements to our BIM offering, and an embodied carbon calculator
To support sustainable building design, Reynaers will introduce a number of new and updated products throughout 2024 and beyond, which will provide further improvement in the thermal efficiency and sustainability credentials of our windows, doors and curtain walling. All of which will be tested and certified to stringent standards.
We aim to bring absolute clarity to product information, which will deliver the accountability needed for the golden thread and sustainable building design. Product-specific manuals will also be made available through our new digital document portal to support fabricators and installers to find information and instructions easily.
Building Safety Act The introduction of the Building Safety Act will have a significant impact on the construction industry as a whole, driving up standards in manufacturing, specification and installation to support improved safety and accountability.
Supporting customers is at the heart of Reynaers’ ethos and throughout 2024 we will continue to work to raise awareness of incoming changes to make sure the information and products are available to meet that. www.reynaers.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 41
VIEWPOINT much take for granted. James told us: “Over the years, Emmegi’s sales manager Martin Linnell has spent the time to really understand ATB’s operation, and we trust his advice on which machines will best help us achieve our objectives. The Emmegi range is huge as well, so we know that, as we move forward, they’re always able to supply a machine which is an exact match for our needs.
By Your Side
For The Long Haul By Ian Latimer, managing director, Emmegi (UK)
In our experience, most customers who invest in fabrication machinery genuinely want to build a partnership with their supplier. There’s a clear acknowledgement that you get more from your machinery company if you allow us to really understand how your business operates and how you want it to develop, and trust us to be by your side for the long haul. Obviously, that works best if your machinery company, like Emmegi (UK), already has a strong track record, an experienced and knowledgeable team and, crucially, the resources required to guarantee that they will be around for as long as you are. We’ve seen the perfect example of that recently with the supply of a new Phantomatic M3 machining centre and Classic Magic electronic saw to ATB Systems
in Stourbridge, more than 25 years after they bought their first Emmegi Comet Isola machining centre and original Classic Magic saw.
Over the past two and a half decades, ATB’s factory has become an impressive ‘Emmegi manufacturing zone’, with more than a dozen different machines supplied by us brand new, and several purchased pre-owned via sales auctions. Unsurprisingly, the investment in production machinery has almost directly tracked the growth and increased output of the business. If you ask ATB’s fabrication manager James Sabey why the company continues to put its faith in Emmegi, he’s clear that’s it’s about more than just quality and price – although the fact that the original Classic Magic saw is still in daily operation shows that Emmegi machine quality is something that ATB can very
42 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
“Since the arrival of the Comet Isola and the first Classic Magic, ATB has grown and also diversified and our range now includes bespoke lightweight windows and doors for portacabins and temporary buildings, automatic door barriers and aluminium louvres, alongside more traditional windows, doors and curtain walling. Emmegi has supported us in that diversification and helped us get the right mix of machines, without any hard sell.” The customer/machinery supplier relationship obviously goes beyond just the purchase of new machines though. We’ve supported ATB with responsive service and regular machine maintenance over 25 years and, like all our customers, that ongoing support is key to our partnership with them. James Sabey also said: “ATB Systems is a quality focused business, so we rely on Emmegi to keep the machines operating in top condition. They have the resources required to do that and we’ve been impressed at the service we’ve received – especially given that a couple of our machines are now more than 20 years old.” Since 2013, Emmegi (UK) has supplied ATB with two 12 axis electronic corner crimpers, three 300S bead saws and one 400S single head saw, three Phantomatic M3 3-axis CNC machining centres, a Classic Magic double mitre saw and a Lilliput 320 end milling machine. www.emmegi.com/en/home www.atbsystems.co.uk
Back to
Black B160 EXCLUSIVE TO MORLEY GLASS
0113 277 8722
sales@morleyglass.co.uk
VIEWPOINT The negotiations leading up to the purchase of Forward Glass were believed to have taken much longer than the average acquisition, but Mark says he was in no rush to see signatures on the dotted line.
Forward Planning We talk to Cornwall Group’s chairman Mark Mitchell about why the company is on the acquisition trail.
“People are well aware of some of the options available to them out there, such as private investors, which may offer an attractive initial price, but don’t necessarily have
Mark explains that the business is very similar to Bristol-based Mackenzie Glass, which Cornwall Group bought from Pilkington Glass in 2017. It is an independent, family-owned business, selling single toughened, processed glass and stock to the trade. “Forward Glass has a turnover in excess of £10m a year, employing over 100 people and, looking ahead, we have plans to broaden the offering,” Mark says. “It has three toughening plants, which brings the total at Cornwall Group to eight. “Forward’s typical customers are sealed unit manufacturers, traditional glass merchants and shop fitters. This is an area where we have a lot of experience, so it provides the perfect opportunity to expand our operations beyond our traditional base of the South West.”
At the beginning of December 2023, Cornwall Group acquired Birmingham-based Forward Glass, which stood out as the Group’s most substantial deal to date. “We’ve made no secret of the fact that we are willing to talk to glass company owners who are looking to leave the industry – most likely to retire – but want to leave their businesses in safe hands so their employees are looked after,” Cornwall Group’s chairman Mark Mitchell says.
“Forward Glass is the Midlands’ largest independent toughened glass manufacturer and stock distributor, and will continue to trade under its own name,” Mark says. “It is a great fit for us, and would rather spend time getting the details right rather than rushing into it and repenting at our leisure.”
Mark Mitchell
their eyes on the long-term health of the business. “Cornwall Group, on the other hand, is family owned, and we make investment decisions based on what we expect to see in five years’ time – which is typically beyond the horizon for many investors.”
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For many businesses in the glass industry – as well as the wider construction industry – acquisitions are currently low down on their list of priorities. With the cost of borrowing still higher than desired and high inflation making it difficult to price projects realistically and competitively, anything other than the most urgent spending plans are largely being put on hold. “It is a General Election year (which
VIEWPOINT
always causes a certain amount of instability in the markets); inflation is still double what it should be; cost of borrowing is high, energy costs are still double where they were two years ago; the cost of labour is set to rise considerably; and many companies will be approaching the end of their tax years uncertain if they have made any serious profit,” Mark says.
‘Cold Roof vs
Warm Roof’ the timber cassettes loosely fitting in between the rafters.
“I understand why many companies are either putting spending plans on hold, or even looking to sell. But I would argue: can you afford not to invest? “The decision to buy Forward Glass was made months ago, and it fits our medium to long-term strategy. So, it was always unlikely to be derailed by small economic blips. In fact, we are already committed to buy new plant and machinery at the Birmingham site, and we will be introducing an apprenticeship programme. This will make us stronger for when the market improves in a year to 18 months’ time. “What’s the point of not investing, and trying to weather a difficult patch, only to be unprepared for when the increase in demand materialises?” This is a strategy that Cornwall Group is already following across its other sites. Recent investment across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset include: a new sealed unit line, a new heat soak oven, and a new cutting table, to name just a few. “If you order a new toughener, then it will take a year to arrive, and a new purpose-built lorry will take at least nine months,” Mark explains. “So, you’ve got to be one step ahead. “That is why we bought Forward Glass, and that is why our door is always open to new opportunities – not just in the South West, but right across the country.” www.cornwallglass.co.uk
These ‘cold roofs’ are being marketed incorrectly as ‘warm roofs’. Simply Google ‘Cold Roof vs Warm Roof’ to check the roof you are being supplied is a true warm roof. Alternatively email us or tag us on social media and we’ll happily help out.
Chris Cooke
The emergence of the solid roof market has been in response to the fact that there are over two million conservatories in the UK that are in urgent need of upgrade. The replacement of a roof gifts homeowners the opportunity to re-ignite the enjoyment of an additional room all year round. And yet, we’re also seeing strong sales of new installations too as the glazing industry further moves into the realms of the single-story extension market. While ‘warm roof’ design is the accepted as the best standard for roof construction in the UK and indeed for local authority building inspectors, we’re seeing some adoption of timber cold roofs, which are already suffering from condensation nine months of the year (Google dew points). Some of the cold roof samples we have are shocking too with
The solid roof replacement sector is still gathering pace and we’ve assisted several trade partners and consumers with our award-winning WARMroof, to replace a failing cold roof. The perils of these ‘inferior’ roof types is considerable with the threat of condensation, emergence of mould and even rotting timbers over time. Surely as an industry we must focus on the supply of roofs that are ‘warm’ by definition and not just in name. Because if we fail to do this, we are failing the trade and ultimately the consumer with roof solutions that could be deemed not fit for purpose. So, if anyone’s in any doubt a ‘warm roof’ enjoys full insulation above the rafters and not just loosely in between as defined by the wider construction and roofing sectors. You have been warned! Chris Cooke Director Prefix Systems
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 45
VIEWPOINT
Coastal Group Celebrates 20 Years
Coastal Group was born on the shores of Cornwall in 2003, selling a small range of door handles. Coastal has since grown to employ over 50 members of staff, manufacturing and supplying joiners, door and window manufacturers, specifiers and end users with high quality hardware that lasts.
Coastal Group is celebrating 20 successful years of manufacturing and supplying door and window hardware throughout the UK and beyond. Company founder Anthony Jenner marks the milestone and looks back at how it all started.
“All four of my sons have come on board and work very hard to grow the business further,” Anthony continued. “I’m proud to hand the company over to them. I remain by their side and keep in close contact with the business but am confident that they have it in control, with help from a great team.”
Of Manufacturing And Supplying Hardware
“I left school with no qualifications, starting my working life as a carpenter and joiner,” explains Anthony. “I used to jump on the tube every day to the Ritz and Carnarvon Hotels in London, doing joinery and general maintenance. I loved the work and soon trained in plumbing and heating engineering which meant I could offer a more comprehensive service.” Anthony then moved into sales, working with Pret A Manger to develop their packaging before selling laundry products to high end retailers such as Harrods, Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and John Lewis. Other roles included manufacturing, fitting out offices and project management before moving to Cornwall around the turn of the millennium. “These varied experiences and different job roles developed my understanding of what business is about,” explained Anthony. “As I neared 40 I wanted to start my own business that could provide for my family’s future and be an asset to the local community.” 46 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
Coastal Group now provides a full service to the trade, supplying a wide range of high quality door and window furniture, locks, hinges and more. The company has been through a lot since its inception, with recessions, global conflict, supply chain issues and changes in technology. “One of the biggest challenges has been getting good staff who want to come on the journey with you but I feel we have the best and most dedicated team who are key to our continued success.” Coastal Group is particularly proud of the technical support and specialist advice offered to the trade. “We’re lucky to employ people who have worked as joiners, some of whom are former customers of Coastal,” explained Anthony. “That’s one of our key strengths that our current customers really appreciate. Being able to speak their language and truly understand their challenges is essential.” Coastal Group continues to support the industry by
VIEWPOINT
VIEWPOINT
Marketing Support to Grow Your Sales left to right – Bradley Jenner, Loren Jenner, Anthony Jenner, Brooklyn Jenner, Wayne Jenner
creating how-to guides and videos to answer the most frequently asked questions and challenges. Anthony’s oldest son, Loren Jenner, now manages operations at the business, supported by his three brothers and a growing team. “I’m proud to have the opportunity to carry on what Dad started,” said managing director Loren Jenner. “We’re lucky to have amazing staff who are passionate about what we do who help move us forward every day.” As part of the 20-year anniversary, Coastal Group hosted a celebration team day at the iconic Eden Project in Cornwall. “The event was a chance to thank staff for their hard work, share our vision for the future and celebrate individual and company achievements,” continued Loren. Guest speaker Sir Tim Smit closed the event with an inspiring talk about building something great. Coastal Group is already embarking on the next stage of its journey, with new products, services and training in the pipeline. “We’d like to thank all our customers and suppliers who have supported us on this journey so far,” concluded Loren. “We look forward to sharing the next twenty years and beyond.”
Give your marketing a boost in 2024 with Marketing Support from Coastal Group. Take advantage of a wide range of marketing tools including custom brochures, posters, display boards and cases, all branded with your company logo to maximise impact. y Reach more customers y Upsell door and window hardware y Increase sales
Get in touch with the team at Coastal to discuss how we can support your marketing efforts in 2024. Email: sales@coastal-group.com Tel: 01726 871 025
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to learn more.
coastal-group.com WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 47
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 47
VIEWPOINT
Selling The Savings
Rob McGlennon
The price of wholesale gas continues to rise: the ongoing
“We’re not seeing the improvements in the cost-ofliving crisis that we thought we would be seeing by now”, says Deceuninck UK managing director, Rob McGlennon. “Inflation was forecasted to drop to 3.7% but in fact it has increased to 4%, which is double the Bank of England’s
With the latest Ofgem price cap increase coming into force, and inflation defying the odds by rising once again, the importance of selling energy efficiency and sustainability has never been greater, according to Deceuninck UK MD Rob McGlennon.
conflict in the Middle East, fears over possible sabotage to the Finnish gas Baltic-connector with Estonia, and industrial action at gas production facilities in Australia have all played their part in the 5% increase in the Ofgem energy cap that came into force on 1st January. This 5% increase equates to almost a £100 annual price rise for consumers.
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VIEWPOINT it ‘powerfully’ demonstrates how replacing old windows can save homeowners money while reducing their carbon footprint.
a subject that is on consumers’ minds: last year, the Google search ‘ways to reduce my carbon footprint’ increased by 101% (ThinkWithGoogle).
According to the Energy Calculator, owners of a detached house on mains gas will save over £18K in ten years if they upgrade from singleglazed wooden windows to triple-glazed Heritage 2800 from Deceuninck. They will also save almost 28 tons on emitted carbon.
“At Deceuninck, we not only provide our customers with the most energy efficient products, but also ensure that we are playing our part for the environment in operating efficiently and sustainably”, Rob says. Deceuninck has committed to ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse emissions through the corporate carbon reduction scheme, Science Based Targets (SBTi).
“We are in an industry where the benefits for homeowners are quantifiable and tangible, if you have the correct tools to produce the figures”, says Rob. “We’ve provided the Energy Calculator as a free plugin, to allow our customers to really sell on these benefits.” Deceuninck are also channelling their energy saving ethos into their products, with their Elegant system.
2% cost of living target. “And with the cost of our energy increasing too, there is clearly a consumer demand for increased energy efficiency which fabricators and installers can meet.”
Calculating the costs Deceuninck is supporting its customers to take the energy efficiency message to the homeowner through its Energy Calculator. Available to Deceuninck customers as a website plugin,
Available in Deceuninck’s extruded insulated thermal reinforcement, which maximises design potential without the need for traditional steel reinforcement using embedded steel wires in a low-density insulating foam core, it is claimed to deliver a 30% increase in thermal efficiency with 40% savings on materials and weight, when compared to windows manufactured using a traditional steel reinforcement. Deceuninck says Elegant is also easy to recycle at the end of life, and it feeds into a model of window manufacture that not only delivers significant carbon saving during its lifetime, but also lowers carbon in manufacture, for example by using renewable energy and recycled raw material.
Significant progress has already been made, with Deceuninck cutting its CO2 emissions from its operations by 21% in just two years. “If you’re a fabricator or an installer and you did nothing but continue to buy Deceuninck windows and doors, your business and products are automatically becoming more sustainable, simply from the work we are doing upstream”, explains Rob. Setting the standard “The Future Homes Standard really was a bombshell, in terms of its decision to retain notional u-values at 1.2W/m2K”, says Rob. “However, just because increased energy efficiency has not been forced upon us, we as an industry cannot rest on our laurels.”
A sustainable approach
“Energy efficient and sustainability are driving consumer demand today”, Rob concludes. “Understanding the sustainable benefits and improved thermal efficiency of products could be winning you work now.”
This low carbon manufacture is
www.deceuninck.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 49
VIEWPOINT
Partnering For Success Over the past four years, AT Precision has carved a niche as a leading UK hardware supplier for window and door fabricators. And with a focus on in-house manufacturing, quality and affordability, they’ve earned a loyal following. We sat down with Sales Director Michael Hewitt to discuss their latest innovations, commitment to sustainability, and how they’re helping fabricators thrive in a competitive market.
So, Michael, let’s start with the basics. Can you tell us a bit about AT Precision and what kind of value you bring to the UK window and door fabrication industry?
Absolutely! AT Precision is more than just another hardware supplier. Our core mission is to empower businesses with highquality hardware solutions that are both innovative and affordable.
We manufacture a wide range of products in-house, from the sleek and contemporary Everglide range of aluminium bi-fold hardware to the Everseal range of gaskets, as well as our very own high-quality range of aluminium profile. We’ve also recently introduced Recycled Thermal Reinforcement bars thanks to an in-house recycling scheme, as well as the EcoLath range of uPVC roof laths and joists. And with competitive
50 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
Michale Hewitt
pricing thanks to our streamlined processes, we help our customers stay ahead of the curve without compromising on performance. Sustainability is also crucial to our ethos, so you’ll find plenty of ecofriendly options in our offerings, from recycled materials to energyefficient production practices. AT Precision seems to be on a roll lately. What’s driving this momentum? Firstly, we listen to our customers, as it’s their needs and demands that fuel our innovation. The recent launch of our EcoLath roof laths and joists, and the introduction of Recycled Thermal Reinforcement bars, are prime examples. Customers want sustainable options, and we’re delivering. Secondly, we constantly invest in our manufacturing capabilities. Our recent £370K investment in a
VIEWPOINT
New extrusion line
new extrusion machine expands our capacity and product range, giving us even greater control over quality and cost. You mentioned affordability. How do you manage to offer competitive prices while maintaining high quality? It’s a balancing act, but one we’ve mastered at AT Precision. The secret lies in our commitment to in-house manufacturing. By cutting out the middleman, we eliminate unnecessary markups and keep costs lean. This translates directly to competitive prices for fabricators. But competitive pricing doesn’t mean compromising on quality. In fact, in-house manufacturing gives us complete control over every step of the process, from sourcing raw materials to the final polish. We meticulously choose our suppliers, ensuring they meet our rigorous standards for durability, performance, and sustainability. Ultimately, our mission is to empower businesses with exceptional hardware at attainable prices. We believe that affordability and quality shouldn’t be mutually exclusive. By bringing both to the table, we hope to be a
AT Precision’s in-house recycling scheme
trusted partner in building secure and cost-effective windows and doors.
energy-efficient machinery, we constantly strive to do more with less. This means less energy consumption, less raw material usage, and ultimately, a smaller carbon footprint.
Sustainability seems to be woven into everything you do. Can you elaborate on your green initiatives? You’re right, sustainability is not just a trend for us, it’s ingrained in our DNA. Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond boxticking and translates into real, tangible actions in every aspect of our operations. Let’s start with materials – we actively seek out recyclable materials for our products, reducing our reliance on virgin resources. For example, our EcoLath roof laths and joists are crafted from a high percentage of recycled plastic, giving them excellent performance while minimising environmental impact. We also implement a closedloop recycling system within our facilities, capturing waste material and reusing it in production, further reducing our footprint. We’ve also invested heavily in lean manufacturing practices to optimise our production processes and minimise waste. From streamlined workflows to
Finally, with rising costs and fierce competition, what advice do you have for window and door fabricators to stay ahead? Partner with suppliers who share your values and priorities. Look for companies like AT Precision who offer quality, affordability, and innovation. Embrace sustainable practices – it’s not just good for the planet, it’s good for business. And most importantly, build strong relationships with your customers. Understanding their needs and exceeding their expectations will solidify your success in the long run. AT Precision’s message is clear: innovation, sustainability, and customer focus are the cornerstones of our success. By partnering with us, fabricators can not only secure high-quality hardware at competitive prices, but also future-proof their businesses in a rapidly evolving market. www.atprecision.co.uk
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PEOPLE aluplast strengthened its technical team at the end of 2023 with the appointment of three highly experienced individuals, in a move that will support both new and existing customers.
Graham Colls
Meet aluplast’s
New Technical Team
Graham Colls (head of technical applications and operations), Andrew Stafford (external technical applications engineer), and Andrew Ballinger (product application support engineer), are on hand to support customers on a wide range of issues, including switching over to aluplast from other systems, providing technical advice to architects and specifiers, and designing and testing products so they comply with Building Regulations. With more than 100 years of window and door experience between them – having worked for fabricators, installers and other window companies – the three engineers have already built up strong relationships with customers. Part of Graham Colls’ remit is supporting customers with new product development.
Andrew Stafford
“One of the biggest changes I’ve seen over the 40 years I’ve worked in the industry is the degree of professionalism that customers now expect,” he said. “And that includes end users, installers and fabricators. “They expect to see professionalism in terms of certification, proven testing, and the general way that products are presented to the customer. The whole subject can be quite complex and we need to guide and to steer our customers through those processes.” Andrew Stafford spends much of his on site with customers.
Andrew Ballinger 52 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
“I’ve found that customers value technical support very highly,” he said. “For example, if a new product is introduced, then they
PEOPLE need to know the nuts and bolts of how the different elements fit together.
providing an audit, so they know what to expect, and there aren’t any unknowns.”
“Also, the machinery needs setting up, and training needs to be given to the fabricator.
Among other responsibilities, Andrew Ballinger is tasked with supporting customers with technical drawings, technical manuals, BFRC ratings, thermal simulations, and wind loadings.
“When it comes to helping a fabricator move over to the aluplast system, we can offer a very comprehensive support system internally and externally. We try to give them as much help and assistance as we can to make the transition very, very smooth. For example, we start by
“Also, the need for thermal simulations is on the rise again,” Andrew said. “We can help our customers prove they manufacture some of the best thermally rated windows and doors by supporting them through the testing process. “I’ve been at aluplast since November, and already I’m loving it. I enjoy the day-to-day challenges, it is a great product and we all get on well as a team.”
Andrew also provides architects with the correct technical information during the design process, which creates leads for aluplast customers as projects are put out to tender.
Jordan Kingman
Returns To AluK As Head
Of Architectural Projects
www.aluplast.co.uk of projects, with a real willingness to work collaboratively with both architects and contractors. He is delighted to be back: “I can’t wait to start reconnecting with specifiers on behalf of AluK again. We’ve recently implemented NBS Chorus so that we can work even closer with design teams in the future, and I’m really looking forward to helping our fabrication partners get involved in some exciting new projects.” As well as heading up the commercial sales team, Jordan is also now responsible for AluK’s Design Studio in Shoreditch, where there are full size products on display and a regular programme of architect-focused events and CPDs. He added: “The Design Studio is a really good example of our collaborative ethos – it’s a space which is open to all and a great location to bring project teams together.”
Aluminium systems company AluK has reconfirmed its commitment to the commercial and specification market, with the appointment of Jordan Kingman to a new role as head of architectural projects.
An experienced façade engineer, Jordan was specification manager at AluK from 2011 until 2020. During that time, he played a key role in helping the company build its reputation for adding value at the design and specification stage
Jordan is the latest experienced figure to re-join AluK, after managing director Russell Yates returned to the company in September 2023. He follows Paul Greenaway who also rejoined the team in November as an area sales manager. uk.aluk.com WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 53
PEOPLE fed back into the smooth running of the business, and happy customers. “I originally started in the PVC panel department before moving over to composite doors ten years ago. I’ve seen demand for composite doors grow from about 25 a day, to up to 100 a day. It’s gone from strength to strength, and I’m glad to have been a part of it.”
(from left): Kevin Wheatman, Laura Tyas, Andrew Haysom, Lee Opie, Cherril Bilton, Rob Nightingale, Mark Atkinson.
100-Year Milestone
For Hurst Employees Five Hurst employees have each received special awards for reaching their 20-year milestone with the leading door manufacturer.
service mark. This represents a quarter of our 170-strong workforce, with over half having been with us for more than 10 years.
Representing different parts of the business, Rob Nightingale, Lee Opie, Cherril Bilton, Laura Tyas and Andrew Haysom were presented with either a crystal tankard or wine glasses in recognition for their long service – and received an extra week of holiday.
“Collectively, these longserving employees contribute an impressive 900 years of experience, forming a substantial knowledge base for the business.”
“We are so proud to be recognising the incredible milestone each of these employees has reached,” sales director Mark Atkinson said. “Their hard work, dedication and passion have helped the company grow, and make it the industry leader it is today. “They join an amazing group of people here at Hurst – remarkably, 42 staff employees have reached their 20-year
Laura Tyas and Rob Nightingale in particular have both progressed significantly within the company, now managing the composite door order processing teams and warehouse respectively. “When I started at Hurst, I was just 16 years old,” Laura said. “I think it is a credit to the company that so many people want to continue to work here continuously. “But we also learn a lot over the years, and that knowledge gets
54 WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024
Warehouse operations manager Rob Nightingale started his career in 2004 as a forklift driver in ‘Goods In’. After stints in various departments, he was promoted to his current position a year ago. “I don’t feel old enough to have worked here for 20 years,” he joked. “I think the biggest benefit that my long service brings to this role is my in-depth product knowledge. “Take the ancillaries section for example. Each product range has multiple variations – colour, handed, compatibility – and if you get that wrong, it will cost someone money further down the line. “I’ve also enjoyed watching the company grow over the last 20 years. It’s a great place to work, and we all get on really well.” Mark Atkinson – who has been with the company for more than 30 years – also reflected on how the company has changed. “We have successfully gone from manufacturing predominantly PVC panels, to expanding our offer, and becoming a leading supplier of composite doors and fire doors, thanks in part to the commitment of our staff,” he said. “Without their dedication and hard work, that growth would simply not have been possible.” www.hurstdoors.co.uk
PEOPLE
Alunet Systems Appoints New Technical Engineer
Stuart Hawkins Joins
Window Ware Area Sales Team Aluminium systems supplier Alunet Systems has announced the newest addition to its team, Tomasz Grzywacz, who has joined as the company’s technical engineer. With an impressive professional background spanning two decades, Tomasz brings a wealth of experience in fabrication and installation, particularly in PVC and aluminium products. Tomasz’s extensive knowledge in the industry is complemented by his proficiency in industryrelated software and database management, making him a versatile and valuable asset for Alunet Systems. His 20 years of hands-on experience have equipped him with a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in working with aluminium, further enhancing Alunet Systems’ commitment to delivering high-quality solutions to its clients.
Window Ware welcomes Stuart Hawkins to the team as its newest area sales manager for the Home Counties and East Anglia.
Tomasz Grzywacz
Tomasz explains: “I’m really excited to have joined the team at Alunet. I am eager to be expanding my skills and implementing them for my personal success and the success of the company. The rest of the staff have been really welcoming, and I’m looking forward to working with them towards more achievements for Alunet Systems!”
In his new role at Alunet Systems, Tomasz is eager to embrace new opportunities and embark on a journey of self-development.
Steve Kendrick, managing director of Alunet Systems, says: “Tomasz has a lot of valuable industry experience and transferrable skills that will be hugely beneficial the company’s continued success and development as we head into 2024, a year of huge innovation for Alunet. As a technical engineer, Tomasz will be crucial in steering the company towards huge advancements and securing the best possible products and services to our customers. The team and I are really looking forward to finding out what Tomasz will achieve!”
Commenting on his new role,
www.alunetsystems.co.uk
Stuart joins the independent UK hardware provider with 17 years of account management experience, including 6 years working in sales for several lock manufacturers, to bring customers a broad perspective and fresh thinking. Stuart said, “When the opportunity to join Window Ware arose, I was instantly interested. Window Ware has a first-class reputation in the industry and, like me, they value trust, integrity, and best practice. That made the company a perfect fit for me and the ideal place to continue my career journey. After a full week of meeting the team and getting to know the business, I am thoroughly impressed, and excited and pleased to be part of this inspiring, professional, and friendly work family.” “I am very much looking forward to meeting both new and existing customers,” adds Stuart, “and continuing to build successful relationships.” windowware.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 55
PEOPLE 2005, the company has Sales And Marketing Director To “Since achieved incredible things, a high-performance Spearhead Growth At Victorian Sliders bringing product to thousands of customers around the UK.
An experienced new Sales and Marketing Director is spearheading Victorian Slider’s ambitious plans for growth in 2024.
“More recently, we’ve made huge improvements in quality and customer service. “In 2024, we want to keep building on those improvements, so we can serve the trade even better.
James Clack joins the business after decades spent at one of Britain’s biggest builders merchants and is already making an impact at the South Wales firm, says the company. Following its acquisition by growth funders BGF last year, Victorian Sliders wants to drive drastic improvements across the board. In his new role, James will play a crucial part in making these ambitions a reality.
“However, we also want to bring outstanding sash window products to more housebuilders, architects and local authorities. James Clack
“I’m extremely pleased to be joining Victorian Sliders at such an exciting point in its history,” commented James.
UAP Appoints New CFO
“In doing so, we won’t just be helping Britain’s buildings retain their historic character – we’ll also be creating lucrative opportunities for our trade customers, too.” www.victoriansliders.co.uk to keep scaling up. My job is to make sure it remains a very efficient, profitable business and that our culture aligns with this aim. “With seven different brands forming part of the UAP group, I’ll be working closely with senior managers to ensure there are consistent goals and ways of working, putting us on the strongest possible growth path.”
UAP, specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has appointed a new chief financial officer (CFO).
level roles at private-equity backed organisations, large multinational firms, and at a global consultancy.
Adam Lumley brings more than 18 years of commercial finance experience to UAP. Throughout his career, he has held director-
Speaking about his responsibilities, Adam said: “UAP has expanded rapidly in recent years and has ambitious plans
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David Jennings, CEO of UAP, commented: “Adam joins us at an exciting time when we want to take the business to the next level. Our new headquarters is key to achieving this along with continued diversification and innovation. “Adam’s experience, which includes proven expertise in growing profitable businesses, is crucial to our long-term strategy. His skills will enable us to identify opportunities for further expansion and efficiency.” uapcorporate.com
PEOPLE
CDW Systems Strengthens Team
with Three New Appointments CDW Systems says it has continued to improve service to customers thanks to the strengthening of its office-based team at its headquarters in Gloucester. The specialist aluminium fabricator’s two most recent appointments include Natalie O’Grady and Shiloh Thomas. Natalie is the company’s purchaser, while Shiloh is a trainee estimator/processor within the sales team. Another recent recruit is Thomas Dwight, who works as an estimator/processor in the sales team and previously worked for CDW Systems before rejoining. Jeremy Phillips, Group Chairman of CDW Systems, said: “Natalie and Shiloh work well together and all three appointments have had a huge impact on customer service and have helped us ensure our clients receive the highest level of support and assistance.
Jacob Bates
JDUK Appoints
New Business
Development
Natalie O’Grady and Thomas Dwight
Manager
“Natalie has helped centralise procurement and it means we’ve now got a dedicated person to look at everything that’s coming in so we can deliver exceptional service on that side of things.” Before the turn of the year, CDW Systems extended its office hours for customers. The office now opens at 7.30am instead of 8am so staff are available for the times when customers need them the most, said the company. www.cdwsystems.co.uk
New Technical Manager For CAB The Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) has announced that Patrick Lewis joins the team to work alongside Justin Furness to lead the Association into 2024. Patrick brings with him a wealth of experience in engineering and standards background. It is expected that Patrick will be able to advise Members with the challenges posed by a tough year ahead. Patrick will also take the lead in representing CAB Members on current legislative bodies and affiliated association events, says the company. To introduce himself to Members, Patrick will be attending the
Spring Forum at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, the event takes place on Thursday 29th February. c-a-b.org.uk
JDUK, a leading door systems supplier, has announced the appointment of Jacob Bates as the company’s new Business Development Manager. Jacob brings a wealth of experience in software sales, partnerships, recruitment, and new business development, making him a valuable addition to the JDUK team, says the company.
Jacob is said to take pride in his enthusiasm and resilience, two vital characteristics that resonate well within the dynamic industry of door systems. When asked about his aspirations in his new role, Jacob expressed his eagerness to expand his product knowledge and elevate JDUK to the forefront of buyers’ minds. Choosing JDUK was a decision influenced by a former colleague who experienced significant achievements in fulfilment at JDUK. “I had been loosely following the company for a couple of years and had seen not only the growth of the business but also the employee spotlight posts that demonstrate staff appreciation, which really stood out to me. I wanted to work under brilliant leaders, and working at JDUK makes this possible,” explained Jacob. www.jdukltd.co.uk
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T R A D E FA B R I C AT I O N
Glazerite adds value for installers at every step The Glazerite UK Group is constantly looking for ways to add value for its installers, whether that’s improving its operations or expanding its range. Late last year, the leading trade fabricator announced it was stepping up its UK presence with the opening of a new manufacturing base in Barnsley. It came hot on the heels of Glazerite’s decision to introduce the Deceuninck 2500 system to its already extensive range. With
Glazerite’s purpose-built North Division now up and running, Glazerite is using the site to focus exclusively on Deceuninck production, and now plans to add the 2800 system later on this spring. With a customer base spanning the UK, the fabricator has chosen to boost capacity and choice and secure further growth for commercial and residential installers. What’s more, Glazerite is strengthening its portfolio
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Rob Brearley, group managing director of Glazerite.
with the addition of a range of aluminium products including AluK casement and Tilt and Turn windows, the Edgeglide+ Sliding Door and Unifold+ Bi-fold Doors. Installations can be further enhanced with the high-end range of Uni-fold blinds available from Morley Glass. Rob Brearley, group managing director of Glazerite, believes the time is now for Glazerite to boost capacity, expand its UK presence and broaden its portfolio. He says: “As an ambitious business focused on the success of our customers, we wanted to make a step change in what we offer and how we do that. Opening a manufacturing facility in Yorkshire was a critical piece of the jigsaw, given the number of installers and connections we work with around the region.” With the Barnsley site focusing on
T R A D E FA B R I C AT I O N
about making our operations lean and efficient. We don’t stop at good; we strive for better every day to produce and deliver the very best we can for our installers. To enable that to happen, we encourage all of our employees to share ideas and best practice approaches to everything they do, whether that’s reducing waste, improving work processes or simply flagging opportunities to enhance what we do day-to-day. “We also embrace innovation, leveraging the power of digital tools to improve visibility of stock and deliveries, and our overall flexibility. Multi-skilling our employees also keeps us agile and responsive to customer needs.” Glazerite’s customer base ranges from large-scale commercial installers to sole traders, with Glazerite tailoring its services and solutions to suit. Rob explains: “Every installer faces their own challenges, from planning and building regulations to specific demands from the end customer. It’s our role as their fabricator to make meeting these requirements and expectations easier.
Deceuninck and Glazerite’s North West Division in Bolton focusing on Veka profile, Rob feels the fabricator is in a solid position to support installers, whatever their end market. Heritage is also covered too, with Glazerite’s Peterborough and Wellingborough operations manufacturing the popular Halo and Residence Collection ranges, along with the Veka Vertical Slider. So what drives Glazerite, aside from the success of its customers? Rob and his team are proudly focused on operational excellence in order to raise productivity. In turn, this drives up quality, which contributes to customer satisfaction – and
success. It is a process that starts with investment in its people and its machinery, with the fabricator welcoming £1million of machinery and other improvements in the last 12 months alone. New assets means improved capabilities, while the embedding of lean manufacturing principles and preventative maintenance has improved uptime and quality. In the background, refined business procedures and internal communications is engaging Glazerite’s employees to play their role on the journey to excellence for its installers and their end customers. Rob explains: “We’re passionate
“We do that with our comprehensive portfolio, efficient operations and a proactive workforce, alongside the provision of technical and marketing advice and exceptional customer service.” By working together in partnership with its customers and staying one step ahead of their needs, Glazerite’s team can continue to add value, whatever the future brings. Rob concludes: “We work hard to ensure everything we do improves our performance, service and quality for the benefit of our installers and take pride in helping them to succeed in their own markets.” www.glazerite.co.uk
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T R A D E FA B R I C AT I O N
Setting New
Standards Warwick North West Director Greg Johnson discusses pioneering growth, innovation and social responsibility in an ever-evolving market…
Warwick North West, a leading name in the industry, is making waves with its remarkable journey of growth, innovation, and commitment to social
responsibility.
Since our inception in 1998, we’ve been at the forefront of providing Eurocell uPVC windows and doors. Over the years, we’ve expanded our product range to include premium Eurocell products and introduced an in-house IGU manufacturing unit, streamlining
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Greg Johnson
processes for our valued customers. In 2015, we underwent a rebranding to Warwick North West, signalling a new era, and in 2018, the expansion into the aluminium market marked a significant milestone, with the introduction of bi-fold doors. A major leap for Warwick North West in the last 18 months has been the further expansion of aluminium products. Partnering with Sheerline and Cortizo, we’ve grown our offerings, providing new opportunities for existing customers and
T R A D E FA B R I C AT I O N
have strategically partnered with workforce organisations Nobody Left Behind and Inside Connections, addressing the industry’s skills shortage by providing training and creating employment opportunities for young people and individuals at risk. Additionally, we collaborate with the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, leveraging valuable market intelligence and establishing connections to accelerate business growth. Our commitment to community welfare extends to partnerships with charities Ykids and Alder Hey Children’s Charity, demonstrating a holistic approach to corporate social responsibility. Looking to the future Looking back, Warwick North West’s journey stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. From our roots in 1998 to our current position as an industry powerhouse, we have continuously adapted and expanded our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
attracting a broader clientele. Despite industry challenges, we’ve maintained robust sales figures and profit margins, surpassing expectations in a difficult market. Strategic investments, including the acquisition of an additional 40,000 square foot manufacturing space and substantial machinery
upgrades, have positioned us for continued success, with a projected turnover exceeding £12 million by the end of the financial year. Partnerships and community engagement Beyond business success, Warwick North West is dedicated to making a positive impact on the community. We
The strategic foray into the aluminium market, coupled with key partnerships and community engagements, reflects our holistic approach to business, and despite industry challenges, we not only weathered the storm, but emerged stronger. As we look ahead, we are poised for the challenges of the ever-evolving market, approaching the future with resilience, forward-thinking, and an unwavering commitment to innovation and success. www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 61
T R A D E FA B R I C AT I O N
Adapting To A Changing
Marketplace Crystal Direct is modernising window fabrication and delivery. We talk to commercial director Kevin Morgan about what this entails, and why it partnered with aluplast to achieve its goals. Crystal Direct was established in 1990 by Martin Randall, and quickly became a leading trade fabricator of PVC-U windows and doors.
The company has always prided itself on leading the way when it comes to industry trends and innovation. For example, the fabricator was one of the first to recognise the market potential for coloured windows and doors, and its logo bearing the tagline ‘No.1 for choice, No. 1 for colour’ is one of the industry’s most recognisable. Looking ahead, the company
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Kevin Morgan
is building on its success supplying high street DIY firms with made-to-measure windows and doors that are delivered directly to site – known as ‘dropship vending’.
T R A D E FA B R I C AT I O N
fills a vital role in the expansion of home improvement e-commerce, where homeowners turn to trusted high street names for their windows and doors, who in turn want to pass on the responsibility for manufacture and delivery to a third party.
the internal walls isolate recycled material – coupled with a triple glazed option, means that we can offer an industry-leading product. “We want to be a unique fabricator, at the forefront of sustainability movement, and our partnership with aluplast underpins the relationship we have with our customers, such as Screwfix, Toolstation and Travis Perkins, as well as our core trade business.”
“Those big companies don’t want to hold the stock,” he says. “They want to have it delivered direct, and they don’t want to play a big part in the touchpoints. “So, through our own fleet, we offer dropshipping directly from a web platform or in a traditional way, where the end user gets the product directly from us.”
aluplast’s investment in product development continues with a new 76mm platform window. The Ideal neo is an exciting new sustainable window suite which satisfies current commercial needs for both performance and design.
Crystal Direct has invested in all the touchpoints that make the buying journey as smooth as possible for the end user. For example, they are notified when they place the order, they get a delivery date, and they are reminded right up to the point of delivery.
“Some of the big brands we deal with are developing their own sustainability brands, and our relationship with aluplast helps us to meet the criteria to be a part of that premium offering,” Kevin says.
Crystal Direct has invested heavily in its fleet so that it can confidently meet its promises of a quick nationwide delivery service.
“We have very big plans for the future, mostly in terms of dropship vending, and e-commerce while retaining all of our core business trade,” Crystal Direct’s commercial director Kevin Morgan says. “The market became really challenging in the years since Covid, which led to a shift in how people accessed windows and doors. “We have been dropshipping for big brands such as B&Q and Screwfix since around 2012, but since the pandemic we’ve been getting enquiries from many other well-known brands.” Kevin explains that Crystal Direct
The company has also built relationship with supply partners so that product features, quality and supply security match customers’ demands. “We recently began working with aluplast, based on the fact that their product is really quite superb both in terms of its performance, its robustness, but also its sustainability credentials, which is really important to Crystal and our customers,” Kevin says. Kevin Morgan “From a sustainability and energy saving perspective, aluplast’s ecotech profile – which offers both performance and a unique extrusion process ensuring the external walls are pristine and
aluplast also helps Crystal Direct keep its ‘No.1 for choice, No. 1 for colour’ promise. The majority of aluplast’s flush orders include colour – now in many hundreds of combinations – and the company has a range of 40 different finishes, including the premium range woodec and aludec foils. The systems supplier continues to invest heavily in it foiling plants with new CNC foiling machines, which allows it to maintain a strong supply. “We have very big plans for 2024 and beyond, and it is important we have like-minded supply partners to accompany us on that journey,” Kevin concludes. www.crystal-direct.co.uk For more information about aluplast, visit www.aluplast.co.uk
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TIMBER WINDOWS
Looking Beyond Misconceptions: Unlocking The Value Of Timber Windows By Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Timber windows not only offer a beautiful and sleek appearance but also present a sustainable choice, providing exceptional long-term value and ultimately reducing costs and maintenance for homeowners. Despite these benefits,
persistent misconceptions over their cost, performance, and durability have resulted in hesitation among housebuilders and homeowners in choosing timber windows over alternatives. Research conducted by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) into the attitudes of homeowners and housebuilders
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Helen Hewitt
towards timber windows revealed overwhelmingly positive sentiments. However, the research also found that some opt for alternatives as a result of misplaced perceptions of timber, particularly around cost and maintenance. Here we explore and challenge three main myths about timber windows and outline the key benefits of their use within homes. Misconceptions around timber windows While housebuilders and homeowners generally
TIMBER WINDOWS timber products to 50 years or beyond, as well as reducing maintenance requirements. This is compared to a lifespan of just 20-30 years for alternatives such as uPVC, which still require maintenance to reach this. Myth 3: Timber products require a great deal of maintenance Maintenance was listed as the top misconception among homeowners and housebuilders. Though 49% of housebuilders emphasised that the length of product guarantee for their windows was the thing that mattered the most, modern wood window frames require far less maintenance than is often thought. In fact, many BWF members offer 10-year guarantees on products with an opaque finish and seven years for products with a translucent finish. A simple rub down with sandpaper and a refresher coat of paint is often all that is needed within the first decade of window and door frames being installed. Challenging these misconceptions
appreciate the appeal of timber windows, there has been a limited awareness of the benefits of timber, leading to the persistence of some misconceptions. Myth 1: Timber windows are less energy efficient Timber is a naturally insulating material, and timber windows can offer better thermal performance than alternatives. Timber’s sustainable properties and high energy efficiency compared to alternatives also
Not only can wood window frames have a long service life often longer than other common window materials - but they can also provide lower whole life costs when maintenance and replacement are factored in.
It’s more important than ever that the benefits and sustainable properties of timber windows are communicated to a housebuilder and homeowner audience. BWF members and the sector at large can play an invaluable role in changing these perceptions. By offering information and guidance on the minimal maintenance required for timber products, we can demonstrate how timber framed windows perform well, outlasting alternatives such as uPVC and aluminium, and deliver much better value in the long run.
Protective coatings and finishes can extend the lifespan of
For more information, visit http://bwf.org.uk/
mean that it’s well placed to meet Homes England’s objective to deliver more sustainable homes. Myth 2: Timber windows are more expensive
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 65
PRODUCT NEWS
5 Star Review For
Carl F Groupco’s New 3* Cylinder Independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has reported positive feedback from its recently launched enhanced variation of the Iron Guard 3* Cylinder. The enhanced Iron Guard 3* Cylinder by Federal was introduced to the company’s extensive portfolio in November last year, and its far-reaching benefits are said to have already proved popular with customers.
hardware offer. After discussions with their regional sales manager, Andrew Price, about the benefits of the new enhanced Iron Guard 3* Cylinder, we were convinced of its security credentials, practicality and value for money.”
Notably impressed were longstanding Carl F Groupco customer, Universal Window Repairs Ltd of Didcot, Oxfordshire, an established manufacturer and supplier of trade windows, doors and conservatories.
Paul continued: “The 3* cylinder provides maximum security compliance, featuring advanced elements such as a patented firing pin mechanism which engages if the cylinder is snapped. Additionally, the cam locks itself down, preventing unauthorised access and providing an additional layer of security and peace of mind for our trade partners, which is important.”
Paul Wanless, director at Universal Window Repairs, explains: “Having worked closely with the Carl F Groupco team, we appreciate first-hand the strength of its
The cylinder’s advanced security features include a unique trap pin, which activates during attempted picking or bumping, locking the plug and preventing access. In
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both scenarios, the cylinder can still be operated safely from the inside of the property. An added advantage is its nonhanded design, with sacrificial cut features on both sides for consistent anti-snap protection, regardless of the fitting direction. For additional homeowner peace of mind, the horizontal keyway with a secure dimple cut key and the visible Kitemark on the face further enhance its security credentials. The nickel finish with a brass barrel is available in double, single, and thumb turn options, as well as keyed-alike pairs, and comes with five keys and a keycard for secure registration and reordering. Paul concluded: “The enhanced Iron Guard 3* Cylinder by Federal is an intelligently designed product that gives a risk-free route to 3-star compliance. The new 3* cylinder has more than lived up to our expectations”. Universal Window Repairs has been sourcing its window and door hardware solutions from Carl F Groupco for over a decade, which includes brands such as Yale, Maco, Siegenia, Cotswold and now Federal. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
UAP Unveils Unique Stadium Door Knocker
Total Hardware Adds Two New Door Knockers To Its Quantum UAP has added a unique door knocker to its range designed to maximise aesthetics and simplify installation. Featuring a patented hidden fixing mechanism, the Stadium Door Knocker eliminates the need for any screws. A waterproof adhesive covering makes the product exceptionally easy to install, according to the company. With a sleek and contemporary appearance, the knocker is available in both stainless steel and zamak with a choice of six different finishes. Convenience is also enhanced by the product’s design. A magnet secures the knocker in place ensuring it only knocks the door when in use and is not moved by the wind. Adding to its durability is a waterproof seal which prevents rusting behind the door knocker. Barry Halpin, national sales director at UAP said: “In the highly competitive world of home hardware, we wanted to create a standout product unlike anything else on the market. The
Hardware Range
Stadium Door Knocker’s design means it is not only very easy to fit and use, but visually unique. “The choice of high-grade metals combined with the colour options widens its appeal and flexibility. Stainless steel is ideal for properties in more coastal areas while zamak provides an affordable, stylish alternative.” To prevent any potential damage during transit, fabricators can install the hidden fix lollipop at the factory and secure the door knocker on site. If needed, the knocker can be easily removed with a screwdriver without damaging the door.
Total Hardware, specialists in window and door hardware, have added two new knockers to their Quantum collection, expanding design choices for entrance doors. The contemporary Quantum Pony Tail knocker blends Art Deco charm with classic aesthetics, featuring an integrated striker plate. The Quantum Doctor knocker offers a classic, period-designed option, face fixed for easy installation. Both designs come in six color options and coordinate with the Quantum hardware range.
The Stadium Door Knocker is available with or without a viewing hole and can be engraved with numbers, text and logos. Matching all types of door, the knocker can be finished in white, black, chrome, gold, polished mirror and satin stainless steel.
Chris Pell, General Manager at Total Hardware, notes that these additions enhance the value of the high-quality Quantum range for fabricators and installers. The Quantum Collection includes a 10-year surface finish guarantee on powder-coated finishes, a 5-year surface guarantee on plated finishes, and a 10-year mechanical guarantee.
uapcorporate.com
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PRODUCT NEWS installers in communicating the aesthetics of a new door to the homeowner. All the homeowner needs to do is scan the QR code next to one of 12 popular composite door styles featured within the Hurst Composite Door Collection brochure. Once selected and scanned, they follow online instructions to view a three dimensional and rotatable 3D door model which they then click on to view in their physical space, in real time. “You can literally hold your phone towards your property and see how different door styles look against your home”, explains Hayley. “It moves the retail door sales experience into a highly aspirational space.”
A New Reality
In Sales Hurst Doors’ new augmented reality (AR) sales tool promises to transform door sales. We report.
According to a Google Consumer Survey, 66% of consumers are interested in using AR to assist them in making purchasing decisions. However, this is contrasted by just 1% of retailers currently employing AR as a sales tool (ThreeKit), exploiting a clear gap in the market that Hurst have capitalised upon to the benefit of their customers. “What our customers are selling isn’t a casual purchase to the homeowner; it’s not like clothing or beauty that can easily be returned.
It’s an investment in their home”, explains Hurst Doors head of marketing, Hayley Barker.
Hurst Doors head of marketing, Hayley Barker “A lot of our customers don’t have showrooms, and we get homeowners understandably asking, ‘where can we go and see the product?’. We wanted to be able to support our customers in that sales experience, and with the appetite for immersive customer experiences increasing, the Hurst Composite Door AR Tool was born.” It has been designed to support
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The homeowner can use the Hurst Composite Door AR Tool to scale the door and zoom in on the fine detail of hardware, glass and finish, as well as view their chosen door in location on their home and take a photograph. Installing the benefits The new immersive offering provides retail door installers with a prime opportunity to piggyback onto the growing demand for AR as a retail tool, and redefine their sales tactics, without having to invest a penny into their own marketing. “We pride ourselves on delivering high quality products and an excellent service. That extends to our marketing support offer,” says Hayley. “We want our customers to have all the tools they need to support them in providing their customers with the ultimate retail experience and guidance when choosing the perfect door for their property. “We have invested in a suite of marketing tools, which already includes a new composite door brochure, which fully integrates with professionally created
PRODUCT NEWS sales videos, and now our new augmented reality sales tool.” An at-home showroom The wider Hurst retail marketing toolkit optimises the end-user experience for homeowners, and makes it easier to understand the sometimes complex technical benefits that a new door can bring, through its easily accessible visuals and videos – taking the pressure of selling the benefits away from the installer. Offered hand-in-hand with the new ‘You’re Home With Hurst’ brochure, it gives the homeowner a showroom experience, in the comfort of their own home. The brochure features QR codes which homeowners can scan and access professionally created and presented video content to learn about the features and benefits of choosing a new Hurst composite
door before using the AR tool to actually see how different door styles look on their home.
glass has also been introduced, including the Bee and Butterfly range which meets the growing homeowner interest in statement doors.
Innovation in product offering The door styles featured in the new Hurst AR Composite Sales Tool, include options drawn from across its Classic, Cottage, Contemporary and Designer Collections. “Not only have we invested heavily in our marketing offer to support our customers, but we’ve also expanded our product offering in order to give our customers a larger choice to secure sales”, says Hayley.
The need to evolve “Homeowners want a different sales experience”, says Hayley. “It’s about design, how their new door delivers technically, but also understanding how it will deliver kerb appeal and contribute to the over-arching aesthetic of their home.
This includes Hurst’s new aluminium-inspired Designer composite collection, which taps into the demand for the aluminium aesthetic but without the heavy price tag.
“The new Hurst Composite Door AR Tool, supports that process, generating a genuine USP for our customers, but combined with our new brochure, QR code videos and wider consumer resources, supports homeowners in making an informed choice and a purchase that they’ll love for years to come.”
And new stylish hardware and
www.hurstdoors.co.uk
New Stable Doors
from DoorCo
DoorCo, a composite door supplier, has launched a purposebuilt stable door range in response to customer demand for stability and design. Technical and Sales Manager Ian Glenister highlights the innovation in the Original stable door slabs, featuring a pre-fitted internal PVC rail for stability. The range is also available in the Gripcore slab, utilizing the newlyengineered hybrid core. With a focus on the classic country feel, the stable doors come in six designs, including Belfry, Sunningdale, Merion, Merion Grid, and Pevero. DoorCo collaborated with Winkhaus and Stormguard for a Winkhaus stable door locking kit and a Stormguard weather bar kit. Fabricators can benefit from DoorCo’s prepping service, streamlining the process of preparing slabs, painting, glazing, and providing weather bar and locking kits. trade.door-co.com/
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PRODUCT NEWS
Hörmann Truedor Adds Agate Grey To
Its Colour Palette The popularity of grey with homeowners choosing a new front door continues unabated, with Anthacite and Slate grey still leading the field, says the company. To offer homeowners a new take on grey, Hörmann Truedor have introduced Agate Grey to their range of composite doors, to provide a lighter, softer shade of grey. With a hint of green, Agate Grey is particularly suited to properties constructed from stone or lighter brickwork. Hörmann Truedor offer the market a selection of colours for their composite door range, with 10 classic and 26 premium
options. Consumers have the opportunity to select a door that will subtly co-ordinate with the exterior of their property or create a real impact. For those looking for a softer colour palate Agate Grey joins other popular organic colours in the range such as Country Green, Sand Dune and Pigeon. Whilst for those
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with a bolder design preference Purple Violet, UltraMarine and Pure Orange can create an eyecatching focal point. The new, state-of-the-art paint mixing system at the company’s IG Doors manufacturing plant means that Hörmann Truedor can match any RAL reference resulting in an endless choice of colour and creativity, claims the company. An online Door Designer is available which allows homeowners to gain inspiration and create a door to suit their property, with the ability to incorporate and mix a range of door styles, glazing, hardware, and accessories together with colour options. In addition, to help Installers illustrate the true colours of the options available, a new sample box is available containing swatches of each of the 10 Classic and 26 Premium colours. truedor.co.uk/colours
PRODUCT NEWS
Clip-In Bead Design Proves A Hit At 23 Doors
has become a cornerstone in 23 Doors’ manufacturing journey. Over the past four weeks, 23 Doors have seamlessly integrated Alunet’s clip-in bead design into their operations. The feedback from their installers is said to have been overwhelmingly positive, with notable improvements in ease of use and a significant reduction in installation time per pane. In an effort to further empower their installers, 23 Doors has created a comprehensive guide and instructional video for the clip-in bead design, now accompanying every bifold door via a QR code. These resources are said to now serve as valuable references, ensuring consistent, troublefree installations.
Aluminium systems supplier Alunet Systems has highlighted the recent success of their client, 23 Doors. Alunet have been 23 Doors’ sole supplier since they launched two and a half years ago and have collaborated closely to help enhance the Manchester manufacturer’s processes. Alunet Systems recently launched their new pregasketed clip-in bead design, an innovative new product that aimed to make the bead installation process faster and more seamless for fitters. Designed for Alunet’s BF73 system, the clipin bead comes pre-gasketed, meaning fitters can save on time during installation, says the company. More than a month after 23 Doors first began using the bead, Alunet’s newest design
Peter Colclough, co-founder of 23 Doors said: “I would recommend the new clip-in bead design to any manufacturer and installer. The service and support from Alunet have been as wonderful as always, and now that we have the new bead we can remain competitive across the industry and continue providing our loyal customers the best products and services possible.” Steve Kendrick, managing director of Alunet Systems, says of 23 Doors’s experience: “23 Doors have always been a really valued customer of ours, and we understand that as their sole supplier, they deserve the best from us. I’m really happy with how they have received the clip-in bead design, because their response is why we developed it. Alunet Systems is all about innovation and excellence, and this feedback from 23 Doors has demonstrated that we’re continuing to achieve our aims.” www.alunetsystems.co.uk www.23doors.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 71
PRODUCT NEWS
Regal Aluminium
Adds New Regal Bifold Plus Door Regal Aluminium has added the new Regal Bifold Plus Door to its growing aluminium product range. Jason Bamford, managing director at Regal Aluminium, said: “The new Regal Bifold Plus Door is the next generation of aluminium bifolds and offers superb slimline aesthetics. It’s the perfect solution for installers looking to make the most of high-end aluminium products and tap into the trend for larger door expanses.” Designed to separate
environments and unify spaces, the Regal Bifold Plus Door has an 80mm deep frame and is claimed to offer ‘excellent’ thermal and acoustic performance, thanks to its 45mm thermal bridge breakage and a glazing capacity of up to 48mm. The intelligently designed door has a slim central section of 100mm, which maximises the glazed surface area. With a choice of bifolding door configurations, the door can accommodate up to 14 sashes
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making it suitable for the largest of apertures. Jason said: “The bifold door is impressive and its slim sightlines are perfect for creating light-filled spaces that are so popular in the domestic sector. And for installers, the pre-gasketed knock-in beads, allow for quick installation whilst leaving a high-end finish.” The Regal Bifold Plus Door is available in a choice of powder coated finishes for customer personalisation. The Regal Bifold Plus Door will be manufactured at the company’s Nottinghamshire headquarters with a seven-day bifold turnaround, says the company. Jason concluded: “Our strategy
PRODUCT NEWS
Roseview Launches Eclipse Trickle Vent Solution
Sash window specialist Roseview Windows has launched Eclipse – a new concealed trickle vent system for their Heritage and Ultimate Rose sash windows.
is always to offer the products that today’s installers need which is why we continually evaluate and, where necessary, expand our range. There has been an increasing focus on products that appeal to consumers who still have discretionary spending power. For this market, the answer is always premium aluminium products that combine exceptional aesthetics with modern day technical, security and thermal efficiency benefits. The new Regal Bifold Plus Door joins a growing portfolio of aluminium products to support this market and early customer feedback on the new door has been exceptional.” regalaluminium.uk
showed Eclipse as a concept at FIT Show 2023, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.”
Eclipse is a two-part hood system that replaces the external trickle vent hood with a foilmatched aluminium cover and separate flyscreen, both of which run the full width of the window. It attaches directly to the top of the window frame without adding any height. The system is manufacturer-tested in accordance with BS EN 13141-1. Roseview director Mike Bygrave explains the new system: “While Part F insists on trickle vents in most circumstances, sash windows are a heritage style. Visible trickle vents can compromise the traditional aesthetic, especially in the eyes of homeowners. “In response we’ve looked at various ways of including trickle vents on sash windows as discreetly as possible, which in turn led to Eclipse. We first
“Eclipse is now one of four methods we offer for including trickle vents,” Mike continues. “We already have a concealed overhead vent option, but as a chambered uPVC profile it requires the height of the window to be reduced by 25mm. Eclipse is a flat aluminium section, shaped to resemble a subtle drip head and foiled to match the window. It fits on top of the window without adding to the height and can be cut back at the sides to fit behind brick or stone reveals. It also has the advantage of having no internal projection that needs to be bridged with trims or architrave.” The company says when ordered Eclipse will come prefitted to Roseview’s Heritage or Ultimate Rose windows and is available to the trade from February 2024. www.roseview.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 73
PRODUCT NEWS
The Residence Collection Unveils Heat Loss Maps
Revealing Benefits Of
Double And Triple Glazing The Residence Collection has launched three heat loss maps revealing the warmth that escapes homes depending on the window glazing.
while improving heating, hot water systems, and reducing heat waste.
These maps according to the company, show that much of a home’s heat loss, 18% in fact², is through in-effective windows and doors, showing installers the downfalls of fitting single glazed windows and demonstrating the positive effects the Future Homes Standard 2025 requirements will have on the fenestration industry, claims the company.
• Average u-value: 5.5 W/m²K • Average heat loss per windows in the home: 52.8 W/°C
The Future Homes Standard aims to ensure that new homes built from 2025 will produce 75-80% less carbon emissions than homes built under the current Building Regulations,
• Average u-value: 0.74 W/m²K • Average heat loss per windows in the home: 7.1 W/°C
Single glazed windows
Double glazed windows • Average u-value: 1.2 W/m²K • Average heat loss per windows in the home: 11.52 W/°C Triple glazed windows
As expected, single glazing loses the most heat, while double
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and triple glazing windows are a superior choice for increasing thermal efficiency, and fits with the requirements of the upcoming Future Homes Standard 2025. Going forward, lower u-values will be key for new builds, with the highest allowable u-value being 1.6W/m²K for new-build developments and 1.4W/m²K for refurbishments. While new-builds will also require air sealing tape around structural openings, says the company. With these standards in mind, all three of The Residence Collection’s ranges are already ahead of the curve in light of these new regulations. Each collection can achieve a u-value of 1.2W/m²K with double glazing and as low as 0.74W/m²K with triple glazing. This means there are already plenty of options in the fenestration market for consumers, installers, fabricators and developers to achieve the Future Homes Standard requirements ahead of the deadline, claims the company. Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection: “We’re so pleased to reveal a
PRODUCT NEWS
visual representation of how single, double and triple glazing holds heat in the home. “Heat loss, condensation and damp forming is a real concern due to low quality windows, especially with the cost of energy remaining high.
“We’re proud to already have u-values that meet the Future Homes Standard 2025, supporting installers in providing their customers with new windows of the highest quality, and ultimately keeping homeowners energy bills low as winter approaches.”
Experts from The Residence Collection uniquely designed three core ranges to authentically replicate traditional timber windows made from modern uPVC materials with low U-values and A++ energy ratings. https://bit.ly/3HHKCDD WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 75
PRODUCT NEWS
Low U-Values On Sash Windows Without Special Glass Sash window manufacturer Roseview Windows now offers sash windows with significantly reduced u-values. The company’s class-leading Heritage and Ultimate Rose sash windows are available with a certified U-value of 1.2 W/m2K without the use of specialist glass such as triple or vacuum glazing. This advance uses Roseview’s new ThermoVFlex system, which is based upon patented technology developed by Rehau. ThermoVFlex centres on improving the window’s u-value through profile enhancements, rather than relying on glass. Roseview managing director Richard Burrells explains: “Until now the only way to reduce the u-value on sash windows below
1.4 W/m2K was with triple or vacuum glazing. Both options carry problems, including cost, weight and practicality. For instance, most sash windows include astragal bars, which are not viable with triple or vacuum glazing. “ThermoVFlex allows us to manufacture a Heritage or Ultimate Rose sash window with a 1.2 u-value, while using the same IGUs that previously gave us 1.4. It costs much less than triple glazing and vacuum units and doesn’t impose restrictions on the use of safety glass, patterns or astragal bars.” “This is a major advance in sash window technology.” Richard continues. “While the Future Homes Standard is maintaining current U-value requirements, finding economically viable ways
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of improving energy efficiency remains important. For new-builds in particular, this gives customers more room to manoeuvre with their limiting values. “Roseview has a long history of innovation, pushing back the boundaries of what is technically and visually possible with sash windows. This is simply a continuation of that, made possible by our close partnership with Rehau.” Richard concludes. Commenting on the launch, Russell Hand, head of product management and technical at Rehau Window Solutions UK said: “Rehau have been setting the standards in window development for over 30 years. Our latest development is a patented technology that can reduce the U-value of our windows without the need for specialist glazing. It’s a significant step which is particularly relevant for sash windows and so it made perfect sense to work with long-standing Rehau customer Roseview to launch this exciting new technology.” www.roseview.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
Think Outside The box With
Fentrade’s ID30 System Fentrade’s design flair has come to the fore with a series of projects displaying its innovative use of aluminium for interior finishes, says the company. Chris Reeks, managing director at Fentrade, commented: “The ID30 internal door and Screening System is a fabulously versatile system. We’ve recently created several projects for homeowners who want to achieve a modern, contemporary aesthetic.” In one recent example, Fentrade’s design team developed a specification for a project involving
we complemented the ID30 doors by creating a stylish set of internal bannisters from standard aluminium.” The ID30’s versatility means it has quickly become a popular choice with Fentrade’s customers. Chris said: “As well as the more innovative projects, our customers have used the ID30 system across domestic and commercial settings, as internal door and screens, as office partitions and to create shower and bathroom spaces.” The versatile system features single and double hinged entrance doors, as well as single and double sliding door sets. All options can be customised with colour, glazing choices and door furniture options fentradealuminium.co.u.k
an ID30 door and internal staircase. Chris commented: “The ID30 offers scope for experienced designers to think outside the box. In this project, for example,
Infinity Rooflights Receive Top Product Accolade, Says TuffX or privacy glass finishes.
“When we initially launched Infinity framed rooflights we quickly became aware of further market opportunities to extend the range. With further research and development, we were soon also able to offer the Infinity walkon units which, like the rest of the Infinity range, meet all required specifications whilst maintaining a contemporary aesthetic,” said Paul Higgins, TuffX’s commercial director.
TuffX’s Infinity range of rooflights continues its success story into 2024 with the thermal walk-on rooflight receiving Top Product recognition from Professional Builder magazine for 2023.
on rooflights are made from toughened laminated glass and suitable for both internal or external installation. They are available in bespoke sizes and with the option of clear, privacy or anti-slip finishes.
Ideal for transforming basement conversions or roof terraces to let natural light into a property while maintaining a building’s thermal efficiency, Infinity walk-
Also included in the range are Infinity framed rooflights, a thermal aluminium fully glazed system available in double or triple glazing, and in clear, solar
“Getting this Top Product recognition is praise indeed. We’ll happily tell everyone how great our products are of course, but being commended by the trades that actually use our products on site and choose them again and again – and who are best placed to judge us against our peers – is a real testament to our success.” www.tuffxglass.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 77
PRODUCT NEWS
Facade Platform Design to Reduce Carbon By Wojciech Brożyna – MD Aluprof UK Platform Design, better known in the construction industry as ‘A Platform approach to Design for Manufacture and Assembly’ or ‘P-DfMA’. It is a specific subset of DfMA, which is the general term for using prefabrication and automation applied project by project basis. P-DfMA is a solution that is designed to be used more programmatically across a range of projects or assets. So, what is ‘P-DfMA’ and how does it help to reduce construction costs and reduce carbon? In this short article, we aim to explain the basis of this innovative approach to construction and suggest how it could revolutionise our future construction requirements. Initiated by the UK Government in 2017 in their drive to cut costs for new buildings, such as schools, hospitals, offices and
social housing, the construction approach takes its lead from the automotive and aerospace sectors. Defining the construction product requirements, such as internal spaces, storey height, access requirements, to name but a very few of these parameters, the aim is to standardise these requirements and begin to create a ‘list of standard parts’ that creates those spaces. Doors are a very good example of this approach, available in a range of materials, sizes and hardware options, once adopted as a standard product across many projects, costs can be significantly reduced. Including offsite construction to this, whether delivering the product to the site as a kit or in a preconstructed form, not only lowers costs but also minimises on-site labour, expedites construction on site, and reduces site defects. The same approach can be used in facades and fenestration products.
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The Forge, London
To be fair, aluminium fenestration has seen much of its construction being undertaken off-site for many years, but much more can be done. Window construction can easily follow what has been done with door sets by adopting standard sizes and hardware options. Windows can be supplied to the site already glazed and installed within panel construction. Curtain wall requirements adopt an off-site unitised construction approach which we know already reduces time on site by approximately 50% whilst further improving quality. A review of five recent projects supplied by Aluprof UK shows the supply of special lengths alone has reduced material supply by an average of 27.5%. Not only does this save on costs but has a significant impact on carbon reduction. But this can go even further. Using a standard product size, profiles can be designed that work nearer to their safety limits over a given size or length which can further optimise aluminium content. Adopting a specification
PRODUCT NEWS
Testing at Aluprof’s own Research and Innovation Centre in Ogrodzona
The Forge, London
of a low-carbon content, usually high in recycled aluminium with low-carbon prime aluminium, further reduces carbon content of these assemblies. It is not just about cost and carbon saving, it is about getting better buildings. From the government’s own analysis under their current construction framework, for every £1 spent just 51% is retained in residual asset value. Reducing time to install on site, reducing wastage, reducing deliveries to site by adopting off-site construction, reducing ‘on site design’, all of which reduce overall site time and programme and all have a big impact on carbon reduction as well. Using a standard kit of parts reduces the need for bespoke designs which can go hand in hard to improve overall quality. It is also an iterative process, what is learnt on one project leads to a fine tuning of the ‘kit of parts’ which in turn leads to even better future construction and a continuation in the reduction of carbon. As a result, the P-DfMA approach increases productivity, while reducing carbon, construction time and cost. In a world first, a major project completed under the P-DfMA is The Forge, located just south of the Thames in the city of London. The building is also the first to adopt the UK’s Green Building Council’s definition of a net-zero carbon building in both construction and operation. With regard to the development
for our clients.”
MB-SE120
of the facade, Aluprof were invited to take an early design role in developing a unitised facade system that meets the P-DfMA specification pioneered by architects and engineers Bryden Wood. Construction was led by Sir Robert McAlpine and Mace, working together in an innovative joint venture partnership. Jaimie Johnston of Bryden Wood comments, “The collaboration with Aluprof was fantastic. It was great to have a partner with such a depth of manufacturing experience who really understood and amplified the benefits of a platform approach. We hope that others will learn and build on the success that was achieved at The Forge and we’ll start to see platforms adopted at scale.” Padraig Delaney, London regional manager for Digital Construction at Sir Robert McAlpine, in his role working with the construction team, sees The Forge as a model for how future projects should be delivered: “The innovation-led approach taken by Landsec has allowed us to push the boundaries with our use of technology. The more data we have, the better our decision making. It is also important we have the right tools to help us get the most from the data. By driving these digital solutions, as we have done at The Forge, we’re transforming the way we will deliver future projects, identifying the value to each stakeholder and ultimately providing the best value
Tom Cherowbrier, Aluprof’s major projects manager comments: “The bespoke system from Aluprof is finished in three shades of bronze anodising which will offer a sustainable finish and an aesthetic appearance for many decades to come. The new system was designed with a standard +/-15mm stack joint for to accommodate the building movement, as well as an impressive non-standard stack joint for the 7th floor which had to accommodate a +20/-30mm movement. The project also has a range of external feature fins with concealed fixing to provide the building with sight-lines of 120mm and 170mm that project 125mm or 225mm from glazing line.” The unitised curtain wall system, designed in close collaboration with Bryden Wood, allowed Aluprof to develop a highly-efficient facade unit. The full-size mock-up unit was rigorously tested in Aluprof’s own Research and Innovation Centre in Ogrodzona where it passed air leakage, impact, wind resistance, and water penetration tests. These units were transported in purpose designed, reusable stillages which were then lifted to the floor plates using a combination of large material hoists and tower cranes for installation by specialist installers NACWL. A key feature of the stillage design was to protect the units from any stress and impact during transportation and lift. The new bespoke system was named MB-SE120 with a Uw value of <1.3 W(m2K). aluprof.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 79
MACHINERY
Emmegi Phantomatic T3 Star machining centre
Design & Supply
Chooses Proven Steel Machining
Option From Emmegi (UK) Emmegi (UK)’s proven track record supplying machines for steel fabrication is what gave architectural and industrial door specialist Design & Supply all the reassurance they needed to invest in a Phantomatic T3 Star machining centre.
the strength and durability to cope with the very different demands of steel profiles over the more typical aluminium.
The Merthyr Tydfil based fabricator has replaced a mix of manual milling and drilling machines with the Emmegi 4-axis Phantomatic, having seen the CNC machine in action both in Germany at one of their steel profile partners and at a similar sized UK based steel door fabricator.
He explained: “From the initial enquiry all the way to the final installation, Emmegi (UK) filled us with confidence that they were the right choice for this investment. The other users we spoke to were very positive about the machine’s capabilities and the potential ROI. We also liked the fact that it could so easily be linked with our LogiKal processing software and give us even better value from that as well.”
Scott Davies, Design & Supply’s director, said he and his team did a good deal of research into the CNCs available, and it was only Emmegi (UK) which could so easily prove that its CNCs had
Design & Supply manufacturers acoustic, fire and security steel doors for trade, commercial and industrial applications. It has a successful 30 year track record and continues to expand.
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Scott Davies added: “The biggest drivers behind the machinery investment were the need to expand capacity and optimise efficiency, and we have really appreciated the input from the Emmegi (UK) team on how best to deploy the machine in order to achieve that. “They have helped us with everything from how to manage cutting lists to how to utilise Emmegi’s own CAMPlus 3D software, and have provided really useful ongoing training.” The Phantomatic T3 Star can machine from any angle from -90° to + 90° and on steel sections up to 3mm. It comes with automatically positioned clamps and has been supplied to Design & Supply with a 4 piece tool magazine. The company now plans to add Emmegi’s specialist Twin Ferro steel saw to run alongside the Phantomatic T3 Star and automate its production still further. www.emmegi.com/en/home designandsupply.co.uk
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MACHINERY
A Perfect Cutting Solution For Multi-Track Systems,
Says Kombimatec Kombimatec has launched a new DGS560 large capacity Electronic Double Mitre Saw, perfect to help fabricators meet demand for increasingly popular larger custom windows and doors. The DGS560 can be used to cut a variety of aluminium or PVC-U profiles and has a mitre blade travel of over 400mm. This makes it ideal for cutting wide multi-track aluminium systems at 45 degrees on the long edge. It can be configured in a 4, 5 or 6m version with the option of an extended cut facility to cut longer than the machines’ bed length, claims the company. Along with this large cutting
capacity, it has the option of a compact HMI (Human Machine Interface) or colour touch screen for controlling the machine. The first has a robust screen and keypad whilst the second uses visual representations of the components and icons on the screen. This user-friendly interface makes it easy to understand and enables safe operation even by operators with limited prior CNC experience. The touch screen is also mounted on an overhead boom keeping it clear of the profile being processed and reducing the risk of any accidental damage. Both control systems have a USB port for uploading and downloading sequential cutting lists created by the operator
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or window making software, and which can also be used for program updates when required. A number of features built into the machine ensure high precision cutting that is clean and accurate every time, claims the company. Kombimatec’s managing director David Parsons said: “Our new DGS560 Double Mitre Saw is designed to help fabricators cut large multi-track systems accurately and efficiently – saving them time and money. It is particularly easy to use with a number of features to make it simple and safe to operate. These include auto-hinging safety guards, two button safety start and two stage clamping.” “We’ve been in the business of designing and manufacturing machinery for Aluminium and PVC-U window manufacturers for over 40 years. We’re proud to continue leading the way in providing what fabricators need to meet the demands of the market.” www.kombimatec.com
MACHINERY
Want To Get Into Aluminium?
range of products that can be offered to homeowners.
Worroll, business KallKwik Says It’s Here To Help Andy development manager at KallKwik,
With Insight Data’s State of the Industry Report showing that the number of aluminium manufacturers is growing fast, KallKwik is here to dispel some of the misconceptions surrounding the material, urging fabricators to invest in aluminium manufacturing to maximise their profits and grow their businesses.
Many window fabricators have been apprehensive about manufacturing aluminium products alongside their existing PVCu offering, due to perceived costs and anticipated changes required in their production processes. However, KallKwik is keen to debunk this myth, highlighting the benefits that aluminium manufacturing offers to their
says “The misconception that aluminium manufacturing is costly and difficult is just not true. With a decent mitre saw, crimpers, and the right knowledge, fabricators can seamlessly integrate aluminium into their operations.”
customers. According to KallKwik, contrary to what many have said in the past, aluminium manufacturing boasts higher profit margins compared to PVCu, presenting fabricators with a promising avenue for business growth. And says the company, additionally, the wider range of aluminium systems that can be produced offers a more diverse
According to the company, KallKwik stands as a reliable partner for companies looking to diversify their ranges and give their customers more choices. KallKwik offers a range of machines, which it says includes top-quality, budget-friendly equipment from Schtec. KallKwik says it also provides expert guidance to optimise factory layouts, consult on machine acquisitions, and offer essential after-sales support. kallkwik.uk.com
Transom Groover Update Solves Foil Issue
The popular choice of frames that are foiled externally and white internally has caused a problem in production as most machines – including the Jade TG300 – will automatically groove both sides of the profiles simultaneously. On single sided foiled frames this causes a minor but irritating delay in the process as the foiled surface should not be grooved, meaning that grooving needs to be carried out manually, claims the company.
Jade Engineering’s TG300 Transom Groover, has been given a whole new lease of life after learning of a production issue that has been causing issues when processing a relatively simple requirement.
The Jade TG300 has been updated following calls from fabricators who have themselves responded to the rise in the number of foiled frames being ordered by homeowners.
Jade responded by adding a facility to the TG300 to enable each pair of knives to be operated independently, allowing the top or bottom knives to be turned on or off according to production needs. “This is a small but significant change that ensures that the TG300 Transom Groover continues to be the leading machine of its type, after being in service for more than 30 years,” said Jade Engineering director Sean Mackey. WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 83
ON SITE
Glazerite Installer Gets Top Marks For Installation lazerite installer, Howard Yarnold Windows and Doors has put the finishing touches on a major installation as part of a local college’s drive to reduce carbon emissions. The Birmingham-based business worked with Nuneaton College in Warwickshire to carry out the installation of new windows, which
also saw the college add solar panels, cavity wall insulation and more efficient radiators in three of its main buildings. Established half a century ago, Howard Yarnold Windows & Doors has a large commercial and residential customer base across the West Midlands, Staffordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire.
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Calum Williams, area sales manager at Glazerite
While its aluminium products are fabricated in-house at Howard Yarnold’s city centre base, its uPVC work is outsourced to
ON SITE
longstanding partner, the Glazerite UK Group. The Nuneaton College project saw windows replaced across three separate study blocks on the site, with single glazed crittal steel windows replaced with more than 70 Veka M70 windows in anthracite grey. The frames were fabricated by Glazerite at its Midlands Division in nearby Wellingborough. Howard Yarnold Windows and Doors, which employs 35 people, is headed up by Anthony Niblett. He explains: “The college wanted to look at ways to reduce their carbon footprint so installing double glazed uPVC windows was an ideal solution as they are much more energy efficient and will significantly improve heat retention. They are also much more aesthetic
in comparison to the original windows, which had been in place since the 1970s.” The work, which is in its final stages, saw the Howard Yarnold team overcoming some challenges onsite. Anthony explains: “The roof wasn’t sturdy enough to take the weight of scaffolding, so we installed some of the windows using a large, truck-mounted cherry picker. We were also only able to give Glazerite notice of the install dates shortly before the installation took place, but they rose to the challenge and delivered everything we needed on time.” Anthony adds: “We have worked with Glazerite to pick up overspill uPVC work for a decade and trust them because they are reliable and flexible, and always produce high-quality windows. We made
the decision last year to cease inhouse uPVC fabrication in favour of aluminium and Glazerite was the only choice to pick up the work and help us fulfil uPVC orders going forward.” Calum Williams, area sales manager at Glazerite concludes: “The college installation looks fantastic, and will go some way to helping them reduce their carbon footprint. “As a fabricator, it’s our job to make installers’ jobs easier. We offer a comprehensive product portfolio and add value in other ways, whether that’s turning a job around at short notice, or stepping in when our customers make the decision to cease in-house fabrication as we have done with the team at Howard Yarnold.” www.glazerite.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | FEBRUARY 2024 85
ON SITE
Senior Finishes Top Of The Class Senior Architectural Systems’ experience in the education sector has led to three of its aluminium systems being used as part of the modernisation of a secondary school and sixth form college in Stockon-On Tees.
The creation of the new threestorey teaching block at Egglescliffe School and Sixth Form College saw Senior collaborate with architects Howarth Litchfield to design and supply suitable aluminium
windows, doors and curtain walls. The fenestration package was fabricated and installed by specialist contractor Frostree for main contractor Kier Construction.
Framing the building’s modern exterior is Senior’s SPW600 aluminium window range, a three chamber, 75mm polyamide thermally broken aluminium window system offering ultimate design versatility. Available in a series of configurations and either single
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or dual colours, Senior says these thermally enhanced windows offer exceptional air permeability, water tightness, and wind resistance. Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall system was used for the scheme, offering specifiers a variety of aesthetic options as well as an enhanced thermal
ON SITE
Residence 7 Windows Installed In Warwickshire
Housing Development
The Residence Collection has completed a Warwickshire housing development with over 60 Residence 7 windows in the No.38 Grey colourway.
performance that exceeds current building regulations. Also offering design flexibility thanks to a range of configurations, the scheme incorporated Senior’s SPW501 aluminium door range to complement the SF52 aluminium curtain wall system. This thermally broken polyamide aluminium door framing system has been designed for high performance in commercial environments, making it ideally suited to the school’s heavy footfall. Named after the celebrated British astronaut Tim Peake, the £7.1m state-of-the-art Peake building was funded by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council as part of its £57.7m investment programme to transform school buildings in the Borough. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
is also available in 21 different colourways.
The project, located on Grange Farm Close in Grandborough, included The Residence Collection through a collaboration with installer, PPH Management Ltd, and fabricator, Stedek Windows and Doors Ltd. Together, they incorporated Residence 7 windows onto nine new-build homes in their No.38 Grey colourway. Employing the timberweld joint manufacturing method to emulate traditional timber joints, over 60 new windows were added to complete the housing development. The selection of Residence 7 windows was driven by both aesthetic and efficiency considerations within the R7 window system. With a flush external and internal profile, these windows offer maintenance-free finishes and a variety of styles. The R7 windows excel not only visually but also in their efficiency properties, boasting A++ energy ratings and achieving a u-value of 1.2Wm2k as standard, claims the company. This collection
Stephen Kelly, director at PPH Management Ltd said: “The Residence 7 windows flawlessly enhanced the visual appeal of the property whilst contributing remarkable durability and energy efficiency. “We take immense pride in our team’s involvement in this project, ensuring the seamless integration of each window to perfection. We’re thrilled to be part of this project with The Residence Collection windows alongside fabricator Stedek Windows and Doors.” Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection, added, “This Warwickshire housing development is the perfect example of how these windows can enhance a new-build property visually while still being highperforming and energy efficient. “We are so pleased that our windows were chosen for this particular project and that the developers are happy with the final product..” www.residencecollection.co.uk
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MARKETING & INTERNET
Distinction Doors Reveals Brochure Refresh Distinction Doors has revealed the latest version of its product brochure following a significant update which reflects changes in consumer buying habits and the company’s current product offer. The brochure boasts a new front cover design – one which puts the product front and centre. The GD03 with side lights is an indicator of the modern and polished door styles which lie within. Inside, Distinction has expanded the section on energy efficiency, revised the glass options to show the current range, and changed the design to present the decorative glass in an inspirational double-page spread. Many of the door images have been updated throughout too.
The cost of energy is still a concern and an important factor influencing consumer purchasing. This, says the company, is why Distinction has chosen to highlight thermal performance at the start of the brochure, ahead of any other product information.
brochure. Distinction’s marketing team adjusted the design to create a double-page spread dedicated to the company’s exclusive glass designs. Chatsworth and Wentworth are highlighted as new and sit alongside best-selling decorative glass designs, including Kara, Palma, Aspen, Lunna, and Scotia which are triple-glazed and laminated as standard.
According to Distinction Doors, when compared to a solid timber core composite door (48mm) and a timber panelled door (44mm), ‘indicative calculations demonstrate that a composite door from Distinction Doors is 50% more thermally efficient than the alternatives’.
Emma Fowlds, marketing executive for Distinction Doors comments on the updates: “Distinction fabricators and their customers depend on us to produce high-quality, inspirational marketing tools. Collateral that will help them sell. One of the key elements of the Distinction sales and marketing package is our product brochure.
The two new obscure glass designs which launched last December – Chatsworth and Wentworth, now feature prominently in the refreshed
“Throughout the brochure we focus on our USPs, to target strongly against the competition and we use design techniques, content, and materials to solidify
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MARKETING & INTERNET our premium brand status, something which our customers use to their advantage. “These updates are important. It’s not only about featuring the latest products but also giving consumers more of what they want. Energy efficiency is an important selling point currently but so too is decorative glass.
This, alongside our paint service, enables installers to work with homeowners to create an entrance door that reflects their individual style. These personal touches are what set a Distinction door apart from the competition and help secure sales.” Paint and glazing services are available as part of Distinction
Using Photography To
Doors’ fully prepped package. The product brochure is available in print and digital formats via the Distinction Doors website or online ordering portal. Distinction customers can also tailor the brochure to suit their own needs using the company’s design boutique. www.distinctiondoors.co.uk can revitalise and refresh interior decor too, and homeowners have normally put much more effort and design into their rooms than the walls outside.
Boost Your Business
Ultimately, it offers a full picture, allowing customers to see what they’re getting both inside and out. We know shoppers research for longer and in more detail than ever before, so great photography can answer this need. When it comes to capturing the big picture, and the little details, it’s unlikely you’ll get everything in one shot. Try a variety of angles and aspects to create a range of imagery to be used for a multitude of marketing purposes.
Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection and Window Widgets, knows just how to build a brand, grow a business and attract customers. Especially when using quality photography to capture the customer experience. The world of marketing is increasingly a visual one, so it’s no surprise that amazing imagery can make all the difference. It helps show the beauty and utility of products, the options and features available, the quality of the installation and the overall sense of aesthetics a window installation can achieve. So how can installers make the most of photography in their own marketing? Every installer knows the difference
Wider landscape shots of the outside of a building can show scale and overall effect, whereas closeups of details and hardware can show off the quality and finish.
their job makes, transforming the look and feel of properties through new windows. But recording the before as well as the after can be key to creating a case study that can tell that story in the future. It might be that new windows have totally transformed a property, offering a new, modern look. Or that a heritage property in a conservation area requires a finish that looks identical to the original, with all the upgrades subtle and in sympathy with the period. For both, a before and after shot is ideal. Remember that, when it comes to photography, there are two sides to every window. Alongside capturing the stunning external finish, it’s just as vital to record the internal aspect. Because new windows
Those closeups can be really important, especially with customers shopping around for the specific options and features they require. So, use photography to highlight the key details that suit specific period homes or heritage styles, as well as any colourways and combinations. This is especially important when it comes to winning business in conservation areas, where replacing windows can mean very specific requirements for colour, style, finish and hardware. residencecollectiontrade.co.uk/
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MARKETING & INTERNET
Epwin Window Systems Publishes Guide To Future Homes Consultation Epwin Window Systems has published a guide to the Future Homes Consultation document to help customers navigate the detail of the proposal. Phil Parry, technical director at Epwin Window Systems, commented: “Our guide explains the proposal and the relevant factors of the report so our customers can fully understand the detail and implications.” The eagerly awaited release of the consultation on the Future Homes Standard has delivered some unexpected developments for the industry including the decision to retain the current notional values, keeping them at 1.2 W/ (m²K) for windows and 1.0 W/ (m²K) for doors. Phil said: “Whilst the proposal to retain the current thermal efficiency requirements has attracted the headlines, now is not the time to be complacent. These proposals are in the consultation period and everyone
in the industry needs to continue to make their voices heard. It’s also important to remember that this is only the consultation document so there could still be changes made depending on feedback.” Phil continued: “One important change that the consultation proposes is to remove the standard window configuration from new building dwellings. This means that each window’s U value will have to be calculated on their actual size. In other words, even the smallest toilet window will have to comply with the requirements, which is significant.” The new guide is available to download from the company’s Connect digital portal. The awardwinning platform also has a live forum where customers can submit their own questions to Epwin Window Systems’ technical experts.
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Phil said: “Given the intricacy of the consultation it is our responsibility to guide our customers through the complexities. This new guide, coupled with the online support via Connect, will deliver the clarity needed for our customers and give them the information they require to respond to the consultation document.” The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, which is responsible for the Future Homes Standard consultation, gathered information from the industry about the future direction of Document L for this consultation. This included the Glass and Glazing Federation Document L Working Group, of which Epwin Window Systems is a part. Phil said: “The consultation period is open now and ends at 11:59pm on 6 March 2024. Responses can be submitted via https://bit. ly/4aK0KSF We would strongly encourage everyone in the industry to continue to make their voices heard.“ www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
MARKETING & INTERNET
Kömmerling’s New Suite Of Brochures
door literature and lift and slide PremiDoor 76 system literature are available, which highlights the ‘technically better’ features of these solutions. There are also new brochures for the vertical sliding sash windows and an integrated new range of WarmCore brochures covering windows, patio door and bi-folding door. Other marketing materials including POS materials and wall posters, as Kömmerling looks to invest further in its brand. This year will also see an investment in an installer campaign and other marketing collateral, along with several product launches.
As the final stages of a global re-brand for Kömmerling conclude, the UK business has launched a range of brochures covering all major systems, which will sit alongside the colour programme which was published in 2023.
Last year, Kömmerling released an eight-page colour brochure explaining its new proGrain and proSmooth foiled finishes, which include both stock and special order options under the Kömmerling branding.
There are detailed 24-page brochures for the C70, O70, flush sash and Kömmerling 76 platforms which cover topics of product performance, energy efficiency, colours and sustainability. Furthermore, the 16-page PremiLine patio
www.profine-uk.com
Whitesales’ Demo
www.kommerling.co.uk
Truck Hits The Road The Whitesales fenestration team’s brand new Demo Truck is primed, polished and ready to hit the road. From February 2024, it will be bringing product demos, training and support direct to fabricators, installers and trade counters across the UK.
Featuring fully assembled versions of both the Whitesales em.glaze flat glass electric rooflight and the em.glaze Skyvu lantern, the truck gives customers the chance to get really hands on with the products and see the quality and operation for themselves.
There is a 40 inch digital screen on board for screening presentations and how-to videos, and lots of samples to illustrate product and colour options.
Both Karl Grandfield and Piers Whites from the Whitesales’ fenestration sales team will be getting behind the wheel. Karl said: “The Truck will massively enhance the customer experience – it’s not just about taking the ‘products to the prospects’, it’s also a good way for us to deliver face to face demos and training.
Piers added: “We think the truck will make a great addition to any customer event or Open Day and help us spread the word about how easy it is to make money from our rooflights. Anyone who wants to arrange a visit can email: sales@whitesales.co.uk and we’ll be in touch to fix the date.” www.whitesales.co.uk
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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
GQA And Absolute Training The work is part of a series of so-called ‘Skills Bootcamps’, which are affiliated to the Government’s ‘Lifetime Skills Guarantee’, funded through the Department of Education’s National Skills Fund.
far successfully completed the green energy Skills Bootcamps through the partnership formed between the awarding and qualifications-writing body GQA Qualifications and Absolute Training Solutions. Skills Bootcamps take the form of flexible courses of up to sixteen weeks. They are fully funded for anyone aged nineteen or over who is employed either full-time or part-time, unemployed, selfemployed, a serving prisoner due to be released within six months of completion of a Skills Bootcamp or on temporary release. A cost subsidy is also available for employers wishing to make use of Skills Bootcamps in order to re-skill staff or develop their responsibilities.
Twenty-four learners have so
Skills Bootcamps are offered
Solutions Get Twenty-Four Skills Bootcamp Learners Over The Line GQA Qualifications and its approved centre, Absolute Training Solutions are together helping to give self-employed people the opportunity to build up sector-specific knowledge, learn new skills and further enhance their job opportunities within the green energy sector.
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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT Sean Monaghan of Absolute Training Solutions said: “We are proud to have been selected as a training provider for the Skills Bootcamps initiative, which is a great means of not only helping self-employed individuals gain further opportunities including supervisory roles or management positions, but a way of helping them gain new skills to develop and progress within the green construction sector. Mental health and welfare are important areas within any sector, and the course has been designed to help self-employed learners develop their personal skills, ways to deal with stress and a growth mindset.
in several sectors including Digital, Technical, Green Skills, Logistics, Construction and Rail. Absolute Training Solutions and GQA Qualifications have concentrated mainly on the area of Green Skills, providing training and Level 3 NVQ qualifications in Cladding Occupations and Curtain Wall Installations with the aim of helping to further the careers of self-employed installers. Interestingly, the course content not only focuses on job knowledge and NVQ evidence, but also covers a number of different topics including health and safety, personal development, equality, diversity and online courses to help develop positive attitudes and behaviours including mental health awareness.
“We’d like to thank The Growth Company as the lead provider with whom we have been working during this initiative. The Growth Company is an awardwinning social enterprise with a mission to enable growth, create jobs and improve lives. The DfE provided funding to The Growth Company, and as a specialist subcontractor we work in partnership with the latter to deliver this course to GQA candidates. The Growth Company has been very supportive throughout the whole process, especially in terms of provision of advice and guidance on safeguarding and quality improvement.” Speaking about their experience, Skills Bootcamps participant Liam Carter (Fenestration Installation Level 3) said “I learnt many different skills including safety aspects, identifying problems and putting control measures in place. I also learnt more about energy efficiency glazing and the different categories of glass. My new skills will help me on the road to progression within the workplace and help me in the future take the lead on my own gang/
work group as a supervisor. Also, it will raise my income to provide extra for my family. It was an absolutely fantastic experience from start to finish. Paul Wingeatt (tutor) helped me massively during the NVQ level 3 and I would recommend the course to anyone looking to progress.” Drew Hodgkins (Cladding Occupations Level 3) said “The Skills Bootcamp has helped me in many different ways, and I think it has helped me notice a lot more around the site. This includes health risks, how to observe other people’s behaviour and what can happen around the work environment. The skills will help me in the future to be able to work more independently as well as improving my teamworking skills. Overall, the experience has been a good one. I am glad to have learnt new skills and achieved my qualification. All the help provided by my tutor (Paul Wingeatt) and the information provided by Absolute Training Solutions Ltd was fantastic. I would definitely use the service in the future to gain more NVQ qualifications.” Lee Davenport (Fenestration Installation Level 3) observed, “The Skills Bootcamp was really interesting because it taught me about energy efficiency. I learnt about the different types of glass and the rating system put in place. In the future, I would like to be a manager and eventually start my own company. The Skills Bootcamp has put me on the right path to gaining the skills and knowledge to be successful in the future. My experience during this qualification was brilliant. My tutor, Paul Wingeatt, was always available to me for guidance and to answer any questions. I would highly recommend anyone who wishes to gain Continued on page 22
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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT Continued from page 91
qualifications in construction to speak to Absolute Training Solutions Ltd. The materials and resources made available was also appreciated especially on Health and Safety and mental health.” Meanwhile Raimonds Herbergs (Cladding Occupations Level 3) commented “I learnt a lot of things I didn’t know before during my studies with the Skills Bootcamp. I have gained more confidence because the focus was not just on my skills, but on my knowledge, including how I work with people around me. For example, how to help people who are struggling or feel depressed at home or at work. In the future, I will pass on my knowledge and skills to colleagues and also build on the knowledge gained from the NVQ Level 3 and the Skills Bootcamp. Also, I appreciate the support from my tutor and Absolute Training Solutions Ltd. When I didn’t understand the meaning of a phrase, my tutor was able to explain the meaning or use other questions and examples to help me understand. Thanks to all the team.” Speaking for GQA, Jim Gregory, EQA, said: “The fact that Absolute Training Solutions is providing mentorship and engagement through Skills Bootcamps is terrific. They are giving learners opportunities to build sector-specific skills and are increasing their chance of career progression. I am particularly impressed with the fact that the initiative does not focus solely on vocational knowledge, but is helping to develop learners’ positive attitudes and behaviours as this will be invaluable to them going forwards.” www.gqaqualifications.com
Free Retrofit Training Course Launched For Windows Professionals Windows professionals can now access a free course from the UK’s retrofit knowledge and skills provider to kickstart their career in retrofit. The new online course, Retrofit 101, has been curated and designed by The Retrofit Academy to provide anyone wanting to learn about the fundamentals of what domestic retrofit involves and why it is important in driving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Aiming to bolster understanding of retrofit for fenestration professionals and work they may already be doing to improve
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energy efficiency in buildings, the course is designed to unlock the potential for professionals to go on to progress into further retrofit qualifications as they develop their career in the area. As government policy and funding for decarbonising homes and buildings continues to grow, the workforce required to deliver high-quality retrofit at scale must be quickly developed to meet growing demand. The organisation has launched the Retrofit 101 course to give more people than ever before chance to understand the process of retrofit, why domestic retrofit is needed, learn about what goes into retrofit advice and
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT understand the retrofit career paths that are available for people. The new course joins a raft of accredited courses developed and delivered by The Retrofit Academy since 2016, equipping learners to take on PAS 2035 roles such as Retrofit Coordinator, Assessor and Advisor. Having already enrolled over 4,000 retrofit professionals and 7,000 learners, the organisation has designed the course to encourage many more to consider earning their qualifications and capitalising on the raft of career opportunities emerging. David Pierpoint, CEO and founder of The Retrofit Academy, said: “We have been developing and delivering accredited retrofit training courses since 2016 and have unlocked careers for thousands of individuals already. To create the workforce needed to decarbonise all homes in the UK, however, we must go further. With that in mind, we’ve developed our free introductory course with the aim of sharing our wealth of retrofit knowledge with as many people as possible, which we hope will make the world of retrofit even more attractive to a broader talent pool. “Whether an individual is eager to unlock a new career in the built environment, or a company is looking to upskill its team in energy efficiency considerations, Retrofit 101 provides a fundamental starting point to launch into the sector. From here, there is the opportunity to take on more of the qualifications from The Retrofit Academy and take on the thousands of roles opening up to deliver large-scale, high quality retrofit across the UK.” To try out Retrofit 101 for yourself and kickstart your retrofit journey with The Retrofit Academy, click here: https://bit.ly/49fXRas
Student Registrations
Exceed 500 For Building Our Skills’ Bespoke Industry
Careers Fairs In March
Student Registrations Exceed 500 For Building Our Skills’ Bespoke Industry Careers Fairs In March Building Our Skills says student registrations for the first of its series of bespoke industry careers fairs in March has now exceeded 500. “This is brilliant news,” says Mark Handley, Building Our Skills’ partnerships manager. He adds: “Clearly, this new initiative is striking a chord with educators, parents, the industry and students themselves who are seeing the value in it. Our aim is to show the industry to over 1,000 school children and their teachers over the course of two pilot events in March. If the two pilots are successful, these will become annual events enabling us to keep in touch with those who attend as they get closer to thinking about their careers. It is also our intention to expand the number of events into other areas of the country where we are already working with other local education authorities.” As part of the new initiative, Building Our Skills has launched ‘Career Families’ to help students understand the many career options open to them as they get
closer to the world of work. The eleven ‘families’ together encompass over 100 individual roles, demonstrating career progression opportunities, training, qualifications and how students can start out on their career journeys in the industry. For teachers, parents and students who want more information about the ‘families’ and the roles they include, simply email sayhello@ buildingourskills.co.uk and ask for details. The Career Families will be showcased in person at the pilot events to be held in March 2024 as a part of National Careers Week. The first will be in South Yorkshire at the Oakwell Stadium, home of Barnsley FC, and the second in Manchester at the Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City Football Club. Building Our Skills is working in conjunction with the education bodies in South Yorkshire and Greater Manchester to bring these events to fruition. For those in the industry who would like to participate, or would like more information initially please click on this link https://bit.ly/3UpTNjN
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AWARDS
UAP In The Running
mechanism limits the opening to just 39 degrees, preventing keyfishing and manipulation of the thumb turn., claims the company.
Two products designed and manufactured by UAP have made the final of the AI Specification Awards 2024.
of innovative features which maximise security while improving the installer and end user experience, says the company.
David Jennings, CEO of UAP, said: “Achieving recognition in two categories at the AI Specification Awards is testament to the strength of our in-house design team and our commitment to innovation.
Run by the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers in conjunction with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the awards celebrate excellence in architectural ironmongery specification and new product design and innovation.
The lock enables access using a mobile phone, a fob, a push button on the inside, or a thumb turn. It can also be paired with an App which tracks those who have opened the door and allows time settings for different users. The lock features a low wattage, wireless charging unit which takes minutes to install. To maximise security, the Ionic can detect different forms of attack on the door and the fobs can’t be cloned, claims the company. With no third-party server, all data is stored on the user’s phone and the lock’s brain in the door.
For Two Awards
UAP’s Ionic electronic lock has been shortlisted in the Product Design and Innovation (electronic) category while its Soterian Slim TS008 Letterplate has been named a finalist in the Product Design and Innovation (mechanical) category. Both were judged by a panel of experts made up of architects, interior designers, architectural ironmongers and manufacturers who selected just four products in each category. Launched under UAP’s Fullex-ai brand, the Ionic offers a range
The Soterian Slim TS008 letterplate is unique to the UK market. Manufactured for 44mm – 70mm composite, timber and uPVC doors, the product is fast and easy to install, and provides a safer, more secure and convenient solution for the end user. A unique, pivoting serrated stay
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“With multiple patents, both the Ionic and the Soterian Slim TS008 set new standards in the hardware industry. Each has been designed with security, aesthetics and functionality in mind benefiting the whole supply chain including specifiers, manufacturers and end users. “We’re looking forward to the prestigious final and being part of an event which celebrates the world’s best architectural ironmongery projects and products.” A total of 32 outstanding architectural ironmongery projects and products have been shortlisted across eight categories. The winners, including an overall ‘winner of winners’, will be announced on 18 April 2024 at Southwark Cathedral, London. uapcorporate.com
AWARDS comprises eight industry experts, including engineers, architects, and façade consultants.
Schüco Excellence Awards 2024 Now Open for Entries Schüco has announced that entries are now open for the 2024 Schüco Excellence Awards, marking the eleventh year of the event. These industry-renowned awards celebrate outstanding design incorporating Schüco façade, window, and door systems. Presented in partnership with Architecture Today, the awards recognise creativity, innovation, technical expertise, and collaboration to deliver architectural intent.
Participation is open to architects and specialist contractors showcasing projects that integrate Schüco aluminium and steel products and systems. Winning
projects will be announced at a celebratory awards lunch to be held at The Pelligon (formerly known as East Wintergarden), Canary Wharf, London on 27th June 2024.
Schüco welcomes entries that cover projects both large and small, in urban and rural locations, and designed by practices and specialist contractors of all sizes. Winners will feature in a special awards supplement published in Architecture Today and in a special feature online. Architecture Today editor Isabel Allen will serve as the chair for the 2024 judging panel, which
Morley Glass Named Finalist
The awards ceremony will honour accomplishments in eleven categories, featuring perennial favourites like the Individual House Award, which attracts a high calibre of creative entries, as well as newer additions such as the Major Project Award, introduced last year for buildings with at least 1,000 square metres of Schüco façade. Other categories include awards for Commercial and Mixed-Use developments; Education buildings; Health, Culture and Leisure buildings; Individual House Improvement; Refurbishment and Adaptive Reuse projects; Residential developments; Specialist contractors; Steel projects and Sustainability projects. The deadline for entry is Friday 12th April. For full details and to enter, please visit: https://bit.ly/49tllci Saint-Gobain Glass to manufacture new energy efficient glass at its Eggborough factory near Selby.
In Made In Yorkshire 2024 Awards Ian Short, managing director of The post-consumer glass recycling initiative developed by Morley Glass in conjunction with SaintGobain Glass has been shortlisted for another award. The company has been named a finalist in the ‘Sustainable Ethical Manufacturer Award’ category of the Made in Yorkshire 2024 Awards. This is an annual awards programme which highlights excellence in businesses based in Yorkshire and the Humber, with previous winners including Senior Aluminium Systems, Gripple and the UK’s largest caravan and holiday homes manufacturer Swift Group. The shortlisting recognises the Morley Glass post-consumer glass
recycling scheme as one of the best sustainability initiatives in the region over the past 12 months, reflecting the collaboration between the Yorkshire-based firms involved. Morley Glass is based near Leeds, where it crushes end-oflife IGUs collected from installers into cullet, which is then used by
Morley Glass said, “Yorkshire has such a rich heritage of manufacturing excellence and innovation, which is why it is particularly special to be recognised as one of the best. And it is pleasing to be shortlisted given how we’ve structured the scheme to benefit the region at a local community level through the thousands of pounds worth of funding we’ve made available to charities, groups and individuals working on environmental or social improvements.” The winners of the Made in Yorkshire 2024 Awards will be announced at a presentation ceremony taking place on 7th March 2024 at New Dock Hall in Leeds. https://bit.ly/3OwISRx
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CHARITY
Corrivo’s Scott Quig
Raising Money For
YMCA’s Homeless Initiative At the tail end of 2023, Scott Quig, national sales manager at Corrivo, joined by his son, participated in the Burton upon Trent and district YMCA Sleepout. In its 15th year, the Sleepout is an initiative aimed at raising funds and awareness for people facing homelessness. The father and son duo spent a night exposed to cold temperatures, to shed light on the stark contrast between a single night for them and the ongoing, harsh reality for many others who are homeless. During the winter, as temperatures drop, Corrivo is supporting the YMCA in its mission to address
the growing challenges of homelessness. Scott says: “I do as much as I can with the YMCA. Especially now that my kids are at an age where I can get them involved with charity work and give them some experience and perspective on what life is like for people less fortunate than us. It’s a great opportunity for them to learn to appreciate what they have a bit more and hopefully talk about it at school and raise some awareness and money themselves. “I’ve taken part in the sleepouts before and we always donate what we can to local food banks, but I wanted us to do this as a
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family. Unfortunately, we had some illness in the house, so my youngest and I went along. It wasn’t easy, but it’s clear that he now appreciates things a little more and talking to other families and people there helped pass the time. It was a great experience, very rewarding and humbling at the same time.” The YMCA is one of the largest providers of secure and supported accommodation for young people in both England and Wales. Their network has over 9,466 beds, ranging from emergency shelters to sustained longer-term housing and youth hostels. Annually, the YMCA extends its vital support to over 20,357 individuals grappling with homelessness. If you want to support their work or join the cause, visit https://burtonymca.org/sleepout/ www.corrivo.co.uk
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