Window News Magazine March 2022

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GGF Speaks Out On Building Regulations

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New Korniche Bi-Folding Door

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New RoofWright Lite Tablet App

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F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n : s h e e r l i n e . c o m / R E A DY | 0 1 3 3 2 9 7 8 0 0 0

W CONTENTS

W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

TRADE NEWS 4 VIEWPOINT 34 DEAR GERALD 40 PEOPLE 42 PRODUCT NEWS 44 MACHINERY 64 ON SITE 68 FIT SHOW 80 MARKETING & INTERNET

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EVENTS 84 CHARITY 86

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Cover picture: Pilkington PlanarSupplied For Major Retail Park, read more on page 76 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 3

TRADE NEWS good for the health of the occupants, we must trust in homeowners to open windows to ventilate their properties. After all, that was the guidance issued by the government during the COVID pandemic.”

The window and door industry is in an impossible position where the new regulations will not have homeowner support. In a FENSA survey undertaken in 2021, 94% of responses said that homeowners will not want trickle vents in their windows.

GGF Speaks Out

On Building Regulations

Contradictory measures will cost homeowners The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has expressed its concern that two government guidance documents, due to come into effect in June 2022, contradict each other and will increase the cost of heating to homeowners at a time when energy bills are already at an all time high.

The changes, which require the majority of replacement windows and doors to be fitted with trickle vents, contradict regulations which will come into force at the same time that require such products to be more energy efficient.

Chris Beedel, head of government advocacy at the GGF said: “From the 15th June 2022, Approved Document L requires the majority of replacement windows and doors to be more energy efficient, which will help keep people warm by ensuring less heat escapes their home. But in a cruel twist, 4 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

GGF Group managing director John Agnew MD said: “This is an overwhelming majority and whilst we have shared this information with the policy makers, the government are resolute that the changes will come into force regardless. For many years consumers have taken steps to reduce drafts in their homes and make them easier to heat, this change to the building regulations is a complete U-Turn!

Other concerns passed to the government about these changes include: • Increased fuel costs for those in fuel poverty • Trickle vents are often taped up or closed by occupants to reduce drafts, rendering them pointless • An increase in noise from outside the home • Vehicle emissions and particulates may enter people’s homes

Chris Beedel

Approved Document F, will require that holes are punched into the new windows and doors in order for them to provide sufficient additional ventilation to meet the government’s new standards.”

Chris Beedel continued: “Whilst there are many occasions where better ventilation in homes will be

John Agnew finished: “Clearly we would like to see the introduction of Approved Document F deferred until such time as these issues have been properly addressed.

Once again it will be the average working family that will be impacted through additional heating costs, which could cost up to £500 per year. www.ggf.org.uk

F.H. Brundle

TRADE NEWS

Cuts The Ribbon On State-Of-The-Art North-West Facility

Premier

Arches Celebrates Record

Breaking Month F.H. Brundle, stockist of steel and wrought iron components has kicked off 2022 with the opening of a state-of-the-art new branch.

The long-standing family firm has moved its existing Haydock site to a new location in Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside.

The cutting-edge facility can stock over 10,000 products, with more than 3,000 individual bins, and more than 1,000 pallet spaces.

It incorporates its own dedicated sales desk, as well as a trade counter for free collection, and a showroom displaying a wide range of the company’s products.

To ensure customer orders are picked and packed with both speed and accuracy, warehouse staff have access to handheld technology to help locate and organise items in

stock, as well as automated steel cutting equipment.

F.H. Brundle director Michael Brundle comments: “After 15 years at Haydock, it became clear we’d begun to outgrow our existing site, and that if we were going to continue offering an outstanding service to customers around the region, we needed to expand.

“That was a big decision. It’s taken us two and a half years, and extensive investment, to get the new site in Newton-le-Willows to where we want it to be.

“However, that effort was more than worth it. The new facility is a dramatic improvement on what we had before, and leaves us excellently placed to continue serving valued customers in the area for many years to come.” www.fhbrundle.co.uk

Thanks to recent strategic investments, February has seen a record month for arched and angled frame manufacturer Premier Arches, outperforming the same period last year by an impressive 105%.

The company has also beaten its October 2021 sales by 29% and its November 2021 sales by 12%, typically two of its busiest months of the year.

Managing Director Sean Greenall comments: “Sales in February have outperformed all previous months since the birth of Premier Arches in 2015, including last summer, which is unheard of seeing as February is both a short and typically quiet sales month in the fenestration industry.”

In recent months, Premier Arches has seen an increase in demand from fabricators for fully glazed products, one reason Sean attributes to the company’s record sales.

WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 5

TRADE NEWS shared the view that the changes could have gone further. He said: “The U-Value of 1.2 represents only a small improvement on where we are now, but we can all see the direction of travel. At least there’s a bigger incentive now for architects to calculate the psi value (which is heat loss per metre at the edge of the glass) and that’s a more accurate reflection of the true performance of the window.”

Changes

Lively debate at AluK’s Part L podcast

To Part L – Too Far Or Not Far Enough?

AluK’s very first podcast in October 2021 was on the topic of Part L – asking representatives from across the industry to contribute to a debate about the expected changes and the impact these were likely to have on the window and door market.

Now that the new Regulations have been published, with a reduction in notional U-Values for windows and glazed doors in new build homes to 1.2 and limiting U-Values of 1.4 for replacement windows and glazed doors in existing homes, AluK has gone back to some of those podcasters and asked them what they make of the new rules and whether they think they go far enough.

From AluK’s point of view, head 6 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

of process and certification, Dale Pegler, said: “The changes are broadly in line with what we were anticipating, albeit with a few surprising additional amends within the released document. However, AluK is already well on the way towards ensuring we have a full range of product options which comply with the regulations. We would perhaps have liked to see some mention of the assessment of embodied carbon in construction materials, because environmentally, this is just as significant as thermal performance – and of course, aluminium is a 100% recyclable material.”

Mark Taylor, technical director at architects Allies and Morrison, welcomed the lowering of the U-Values in the notional dwelling, but

By contrast, Gareth Allen, technical and training manager at Saint-Gobain Glass, felt that the pace of change is probably about right in terms of moving towards the government’s target of a 30% reduction in carbon emissions from new homes. He said: “What came out of AluK’s podcast was an acknowledgement that some sectors will find it harder than others to comply even with this fairly conservative shift to 1.2 for new dwellings and 1.4 for existing.

“Saint-Gobain Glass is certainly committed to doing our part to support the whole industry on that journey, and we’ve already got products available which will help with compliance, and we’re seeing a return to normal stock levels.”

John Miles, from Assent Building Control, agreed that, given the fragility of the construction sector at the moment, the new Regulation will deliver the right amount of progress at just about the right pace.

One thing he pointed out though was the relative lack of pushback from the industry on the changes, suggesting perhaps that many had actually expected the notional U-Values to be lower. He did say that, in practice, many architects are likely to specify U-Values for windows which are lower than 1.2 if they are using SAP calculations to balance glazing with the overall efficiency of the building fabric.

This, he added, is likely to lead to more widespread use of triple glazing in new build, very much in line with the thinking during the

TRADE NEWS podcast.

John also warned that the transitional arrangements are not as generous as many people think, stating: “Only plans for projects which have already been approved are likely to come outside of the new rules. In reality, fabrica-

tors and installers will need to be making the changes now ready for projects which start after June 15.”

Kevin Jones, the GGF’s technical officer, confirmed that the Federation is in contact with the DLUHC to give feedback on the published document, but remained confident

that the industry will rise to the challenge.

AluK will be announcing a series of special Part L update events for customers next month and already has a dedicated Future Homes Standard web page at: www.alukgb.com/learning/fhs

Fifteen Jobs Created At NBP’s New Hinckley Depot

An initial 15 jobs have been created as NBP’s 30,000 sq ft super-sized Hinckley Depot in Lime Kiln Lane opens for business. The new depot means customers in the Midlands now have access to some of the biggest brands in building plastics which includes roofline, drainage, composite decking, cladding, insulation, sealants and much more.

The business already has two highly successful depots in Leeds and Bolton and chose Hinckley to be the location of its third depot to facilitate expansion into the Midlands.

Customers in the region will get the benefit of faster deliveries of more products as stock levels are kept high at all locations, says the company.

Heading up the depot is experienced manager Phil Durnall, who understands what customers want.

“We have £1 million of stock in the depot which means we can offer next day delivery on 1,000s of products. It’s this top level of service that separates us from competitors,” says Phil. “We already

have 4 new vehicles out and about on the roads fulfilling orders, and that’s only going to increase as we add new customers.”

Steve Jones, sales director at Northern Building Plastics Ltd, adds: “This new Midlands depot in Hinckley provides even greater support to customers and seals our commitment to next day delivery on a massive range of products. We can achieve this promise as NBP’s model has super-sized depots filled with stock to support customers who like the convenience of knowing products are available fast.

“We expect 40 jobs to be created in total including drivers, warehousing and sales roles, with the rest being filled in the next few months as the number of customers grows.”

Opening the new Hinckley Depot is part of NBP’s plan to offer more coverage across the UK and more super-sized depots are planned.

For more information, visit www.nbp.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 7

TRADE NEWS This gives it the capability to reprocess up to 45,000 tonnes of post-consumer and post-manufacturing PVC-U per year – the equivalent of preventing 3million windows from going to landfill annually.

Use of recycled material also delivering a reduction in CO2 emissions of 90,000 tonnes compared to virgin feedstocks as well as a 90% energy saving.

Consumers Reject ‘Plastic’ Home Improvement Products – Poll A new poll reveals almost half of UK homeowners would not purchase home improvement products containing plastics because of concerns about the impact plastic pollution is having on the planet.

“As a starting point it’s clear that for a lot of UK homeowners, plastic-building products are being tarred with the same broad brush as bottles, bags and other single use plastics.

The findings of the independent survey conducted by leading pollster, YouGov found that 44% of total respondents flatly rejected the prospect of buying home improvements manufactured in ‘plastic’.

“The increased awareness about the impact single use plastics are having, is great. For our industry, the fact that this survey reveals that consumers aren’t drawing a line between them and low maintenance, long-life and fully recyclable plastic building products, is a warning of things to come – unless we act now and start to communicate effectively with the homeowner.”

A further 27% were unsure and 29% said it would not dissuade them from buying them.

At the same time, of those surveyed, 69% said that windows in their homes were currently manufactured from PVC-U. This compared to 23% for wood, 7% aluminium, 2% other, while 14% of respondents were unsure of material used in the manufacture of the windows installed in their properties.* When asked if they knew what the abbreviation ‘PVC’ stood for, 54% admitted that that they had no idea.

“The results highlight a challenge for the PVC-U window and door industry”, said Rob McGlennon, managing director of Deceuninck.

8 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Rob continued: “We’re not alone, a number of other systems companies have also invested. That however, amounts to nothing, if we don’t communicate what we’re doing to the end-user.”

The Deceuninck commissioned study also found that 63% of UK homeowners surveyed said that they would be more likely to purchase home improvements, which they saw as being more ‘sustainable’** while 38% said that they would be prepared to pay more for them.

“As we’ve highlighted, the survey isn’t all stick – there’s a lot of carrot their too. People will choose products which they see as more sustainable over those that they don’t, and are prepared to pay more for them”, continued Rob.

PVC-U is a highly recyclable building material with a Building Research Establishment Green Guide to Specification A and A+ rating for domestic and commercial application.

“It is, however, another wake up call for the PVC-U window and door industry and anyone who works within its supply chain.”

This is founded on a recognised Reference Service Life of at least 35-years and that PVC-U can be recycled up to 10 times without impacting on performance.

*Total adds up to more than 100% as some respondents stated that more than one window and door material-type was installed in their properties.

Deceuninck has invested more the €15million in support of PVC-U recycling in one of the world’s most advanced recycling and compounding facilities.

**Sustainability defined for the purpose of the questionnaire as a how much energy a product or service uses in manufacturing or delivery, or if it includes recycled material or can be recycled.

www.deceuninck.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS which are often used to locally stiffen up key areas are neglected in cheaper sections to reduce material and cut cost. It’s not only the geometry but also the coatings that are important, BS7412 states that galvanised coatings must be to Z725 specification, thinner coatings applied to cheaper reinforcing may be up to 3 times thinner.

Such coatings are intended only for internal use and should not be exposed to the elements, which will be a problem if the steel is kept outside.”

Not All Reinforcing

Is Equal With fabricators looking at their margins and trying to reduce costs, Phil Parry, business development director at Epwin Windows, sounds a note of warning when it comes to purchasing reinforcing from alternative suppliers. He says: “When you buy reinforcing from your systems company, you’re essentially buying the reassurance that it complies with a myriad of regulations. In other words, we’ve done the testing so you don’t have to.”

The issue with fabricators sourcing their reinforcing from elsewhere is that they will be deviating from the product specification Type Tested by the systems company. Phil said: ”The use of independently sourced reinforcing means all test results and data supplied by the systems company will be invalidated. As a result, re-assessment and re-testing may be necessary to comply with the relevant standards. This 10 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

is a process that could cost tens of thousands of pounds for each system and each variant so isn’t a cost-effective solution.”

Such tests include BS6375 (Parts 1,2 & 3 – Performance of Windows & Doors) and PAS24 (Enhanced Security of Windows & Doors). It also includes BS7412 (Specification for Windows & Doors Made From PVC-U Hollow Profiles), which is the standard to which PVC-U fabricators are assessed to successfully achieve a Kitemark licence.

Phil explains: “Reinforcing plays such a major part in the performance of a window. A component which may on the face of it appear to have similar geometry and surface coating, could be vastly inferior. The difference in a few mm here and there could make a large difference to the I value (stiffness).

Key features such as ‘dutch folds’

Calculations provided by the systems supplier are affected too.

These include Window Energy Ratings and U value calculations, and perhaps more importantly, structural, barrier loadings and wind loading calculations.

Phil continues: “Then there’s ongoing product development. Systems suppliers retain the right to alter or amend product specifications without prior notice. Non-approved third-party suppliers will not be aware/informed of ongoing R&D which may affect the fitting of reinforcement.”

Phil concludes: “Simply swapping one type of reinforcing for another cheaper option can seem like a good idea. But when an Epwin Window Systems product uses reinforcing from another supplier, it isn’t an Epwin Window Systems product any longer so it isn’t covered by our testing accreditations or warranties. You’ll need to get confirmation from us and your certification body about what additional testing may be required.

The bottom line is it could be a false economy. You may find the money you save with the cheaper reinforcing is far outweighed by the additional admin and testing costs – or the reputational risk of supplying products that don’t comply with the regulations. We would urge any fabricator to think carefully before sourcing reinforcement for other suppliers.” www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS that we made our last major investment in our manufacturing capacity, but the strength of growth that we have seen for Uni-Blinds, particularly over the past two years, has exceeded our expectations. This required us to commission further new machinery earlier than we had anticipated to ensure we stay ahead of the curve.

The Uni-Blinds production line at Morley Glass, where up to 6,000 integral blinds units can be manufactured every week

Morley Glass Boosts Uni-Blinds Manufacturing Capacity

As Integral Blind Demand Jumps 46% Morley Glass has invested more than £750,000 to increase its capacity for manufacturing its UK market-leading Uni-Blinds range of integrated window and door blinds by a further 50%.

these will enable Morley Glass to manufacture up to 6,000 high quality integral blind units every week to support the growth in demand from its nationwide installer base.

The investment comes in a year when Morley Glass has produced record volumes of Uni-Blinds, up 46% versus the previous year, reflecting the strong demand that installers are experiencing for the ultra-modern shading and privacy solutions provided by the range.

The new plant means the Morley Glass factory in Leeds now incorporates five systems for manufacturing the Uni-Blinds SV System, a cordless sliding Venetian blind that utilises a patented magnetic system to enable long term, effortless operation. This system continues to be the most popular option amongst UniBlinds installers, accounting for 70% of all Uni-Blinds sold, driven by homeowners who want a sleek shading and privacy system that will perform reliably over a long service life.

A new state-of-the-art production line for making insulating glass units complete with ScreenLine Venetian blinds in the cavity has been installed, which means Morley Glass now has three dedicated production lines in all. Installed by long-standing machinery partner Best Makina, 12 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Ian Short, MD of Morley Glass says: “It was only four years ago

“Importantly, it gives our factory the capacity we need to respond to the growth in Uni-Blinds sales over the coming years and supports our change of focus to being 100% an integral blind unit manufacturer. With sustained long term growth over two decades and recent annual growth of around 50%, we know how important it is not to rest on our laurels and we are already planning ahead for the next investments.”

The addition of new production lines at Morley Glass’s 50,000 sq. ft site near Leeds comes hot on the heels of a number of other recent investments by the company. In the second half of 2021, the company replaced its machinery for processing post-consumer waste glass for recycling with a new automated plant capable of handling much larger volumes.

And in the same period, Morley Glass added six Luton vans to its fleet to maintain its industry-leading 10-12 day lead time on UniBlinds, when ordered by 10am on Thursdays.

Ian adds: “In a competitive market we never stop investing in our machinery, innovative products and processes to ensure window and door installers get the very best quality products backed by superb service. That’s what our recent investments are all focused on giving our customers total confidence in the Uni-Blinds brand every time they order.” www.morleyglass.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

DGCOS Says Let’s Talk About

Mental Health

The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) is shining a light on the very real issue of mental health in our industry, by challenging us to open up about the unspoken struggles being faced by many. Chief executive of DGCOS, Faisal Hussain, explains why the organisation is asking everyone to take a few minutes to participate in an upcoming Fenestration Industry Mental Health Survey.

“Mental health is a much under talked about subject. It’s a topic I’ve thought about for a while, but it was really brought home to me following a frank and open conversation I had with an installer just before Christmas.

He runs a respectable, quality installation business with several fitting teams doing about 10 to 20 jobs a month. After congratulating him on what was an apparently commercially suc14 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

cessful year thanks to the massive home improvement boom, the reply was very different from what I expected. Rather than the positive conversation about sales and profit growth I thought we were going to have, he stopped short and simply said: “I’ve had enough Faisal.” The long and short is that he was exhausted from back to back jobs; negotiating delayed lead times with insistent customers; juggling admin, sales and credit control from consumers who owed him significant monies for high value completed jobs; and the fact that some days he struggles to walk due a bad back that he’s had no time to visit the doctors for.

“This dismal picture got me thinking about how many others in the industry were feeling the same and most importantly, what is the price we’re paying in terms of our mental health?

While this story is anecdotal, it is sadly backed up by statistics and what is really concerning is, when you apply these statistics to the demographics of our sector, which mainly consists of men. According to MIND, Men aged 40-49 have the highest suicide rates in the UK driven by society’s expectations and the traditional gender roles where men are less likely to discuss or seek help for their mental health problems. This may sound stereotypical but it’s a fact.

“The third Monday of January has been dubbed ‘Blue Monday’, claimed to be the time when people feel most down every year. Whether you think it’s a marketing gimmick or not, at least it hit the headlines and got a conversation going about mental health. In fact, it prompted DGCOS to put our money where our mouth is on this issue, and for every installation that was registered on our online portal on ‘Blue Monday’, we donated £1 to mental health charity MIND. And to further this conversation, DGCOS will be launching a Fenestration Industry Mental Health Survey over the coming weeks. We will be asking for everyone to take a few minutes to contribute and hopefully together, create a brighter future.

“DGCOS is never afraid to talk about the issues that others steer clear of or to confront head on the real challenges faced by our industry. We will never hold back if it means drawing attention to them in a positive, constructive way that can help create change for the better.”

The Fenestration Industry Mental Health Survey will be launched soon. Keep an eye out by following us on LinkedIn – @DGCOS – Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme www.dgcos.org.uk

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TRADE NEWS

Slowing Q4 Sales But Third-Best Quarter In A Record-Breaking Year

Total value sales data from Britain’s Builders’ Merchants shows Q4 2021 recorded the third-highest quarterly BMBI sales ever, rounding off a record-breaking year for merchants. However, with growth driven exclusively by pricing – not volume – the figures suggest the 2021 trade boom has inevitably slowed.

Quarter 4 2021 total value sales were 14.7% higher than 16 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Q4 2020, with no difference in trading days. All categories sold more. Timber & Joinery Products was out in front (+28.2%), follow by Landscaping (+14.4%) which recorded its highest quarterly sales of the year. Heavy Building Materials (+11.1%), Kitchens & Bathrooms (+10.0%) and Plumbing Heating & Electrical (+9.6%) grew more slowly. The weakest category was Workwear & Safetywear (+0.1%).

Comparing Q4 2021 with Q4 2019, a more normal pre-Covid year, total value sales were 21.0% higher this year, with the benefit of one more trading day.

Nine of the twelve categories sold more, including Timber & Joinery Products (+44.4%) and Landscaping (+40.6%) which were well ahead of other categories. Like-for-like sales were up 18.9%.

Quarter-on-quarter, sales were down 12.7% in Q4 compared to Q3, not helped by four less trading days in the most recent period. Only Workwear & Safetywear (+15.3%) and Plumbing Heating & Electrical (+9.0%) sold more, while Renewables was weakest (-30.3%). Like-forlike sales were 6.9% lower than in Q3.

December 2021 sales were significantly down compared to November 2021 (-33.0%), with five less trading days. This impacted the overall Q4 results.

However, the decline in sales between November and December is in line with previous years’ results.

Compared to December 2020, when large parts of the country were subject to tiered Covid

TRADE NEWS restrictions, total sales were up 16.3% in December 2021 with no difference in trading days. All categories sold more, as Timber & Joinery Products (+25.0%) and Landscaping (+18.8%) again finished ahead of the rest. Heavy Building Materials (+14.7%), Kitchens & Bathrooms (+10.7%) and Decorating (+7.2%) grew more slowly than merchants’ overall.

Total value sales in December 2021 were 26.5% higher than the same month two years ago, helped by two more trading days this year. All categories sold more but much of this growth can be attributed to Timber & Joinery Products (+50.4%) and Landscaping (+48.6%) which continued to significantly out-perform the others.

Like-for-like sales

were 11.6% up.

Emile van der Ryst, Senior Client Insight Manager – Trade at GfK Retail & Technology UK adds: “This is a year that merchants can look back on with pride, as they were adept at efficiently adjusting to unique market conditions and maximizing returns to the best of their abilities. The year 2022 does however bring a dark cloud of even more price increases, further economic difficulties for consumers and potential geopolitical issues further afield. It won’t be an easy year, which makes predictions even more difficult, but there’s an expectation that the market will remain relatively flat. Only time will tell, but right now signs point towards a bumpy year.”

Developed and run by MRA Research, the BMBI – a brand of the Builders Merchant Federation – is a monthly index of builders’ merchant sales, and the most reliable, up-to-date measure of Repair, Maintenance, and Improvement (RMI) activity in the UK. The index is based on actual sales from GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data, which captures value sales out to builders from generalist builders’ merchants, accounting for over 80% of total sales from builders’ merchants throughout Great Britain. An in-depth review, which includes commentary by sector experts, is provided each quarter.

The Q4 2021 BMBI report is available to download at www.bmbi.co.uk

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WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 17

TRADE NEWS

Rapierstar Supports Newview’s Bold Move Into Window Manufacturing Fastener specialist Rapierstar has collaborated with Carl F Groupco and Eurocell to help long established South Coast installer Newview to launch its new window and door manufacturing business, Newframe.

A new state-of-the-art 15,000 sq. ft PVCu window and door factory in Worthing will produce around 500 units every week using Eurocell systems, plus Newframe’s own new range of composite doors branded ‘Coastal Composites’ to service their growing New Build client list plus aviation noise contracts. More than £1m has been invested in new machinery and technology to create a manufacturing facility capable of delivering on Newframe’s goal to raise the bar in terms of quality and service in the local market, as well as for customers across the south of England.

To assist in the set-up of this new 18 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

venture, Rapierstar was invited to provide all the specialist advice needed to develop a fastener specification that will optimise both manufacturing efficiency and safety, as well as long term finished product performance and quality. It means that everyone in the Newframe factory benefits from clear guidance on which fasteners to use for the many different applications across all window types.

Rapierstar produced a series of standard operating procedure sheets to help train the new staff to select the correct fasteners for each of the cells within the factory. These pictorial sheets show which screws work best with the Eurocell profiles and the hardware supplied by Carl F Groupco.

As a long term supply chain partner of Carl F Groupco and Eurocell, Rapierstar was ideally positioned to provide this techni-

cal support. Ultimately, the collaboration will help to ensure that Newframe can take advantage of the market opportunity they have identified for a commercially ethical window factory in the heart of the south, with family at its core and British-made products.

Production director at Newframe, Mark White, said: “We’re really excited to have our new factory up and running and really value the support of all our supply chain partners, including Rapierstar. The support from Carl F Groupco in particular has been amazing and hugely important for us to have them as a one stop shop for all our hardware requirements.

“Being able to manufacture our own windows and doors allows us to offer shorter lead times, reduce the distance products travel from factory to fitting, and give us better control of customer orders and contracts. It also means we have been able to develop a window and door specification and product portfolio that we believe is the best in our market, with the highest quality in everything right down to the tiniest component.”

Carl F Groupco’s Andrew Price, area sales manager, added: “The

TRADE NEWS Newframe window and door range benefits from some excellent hardware products from brands including Yale window and door hardware and Siegenia tilt and turn gearing which combine with the advanced design of Eurocell profile systems. But to enable the full benefits of these market-leading products to be realised, everyone involved in this new factory project wanted to ensure that the fastener specification was right from the outset, hence why advice from Rapierstar’s technical consultant Paul Balfe was so important.”

The creation of the Newframe factory has already created 15 new jobs, with the factory employing staff through the Kickstart scheme for young people, as well as returners to work, or anyone wanting a different career path working for a locally-owned family company. It is providing windows and doors for high profile clients including Heathrow Airport and Network Rail plus many national housebuilders, as well as local installers and building trades.

Paul Balfe, technical consultant at Rapierstar said: “We were delighted to be invited to provide

technical assistance and collaborate with our colleagues at Carl F Groupco and Eurocell to achieve the right suite of fasteners for Newframe. Through our development of a Recommended Fixings Manual (RFM) for Eurocell systems, we already had a detailed technical reference point for fastener types and sizes, but that was just the starting point – we also helped the Newframe team to familiarise themselves with the products and ensure that the correct screws are used in the assembly process.” www.rapierstar.com

Success With Veka

Recycling Inspires Scotia Windows To Drive Further

Green Initiatives When Gavin Smith took the reins as managing director of Ayrshire-based Scotia Windows and Doors in 2021, one of the earliest decisions he took was to revise the company’s arrangements for dealing with waste PVC-U, including virgin offcuts from the company’s frame fabrication facility and increasing volumes of post-consumer frames that Scotia consolidated for its trade customers With recycling previously managed by a local agent but with inconsistent service levels and, crucially, no discernible audit trail for the material, Gavin decided to switch to VEKA Recycling Ltd, one of the UK’s only companies able to collect and fully re-process new PVC-U profile offcuts and old frames, in-house. From May 2021 Veka Recycling has been supplying at least one articulated vehicle weekly to collect the material, which is simply pre-sorted into special bins provided by Veka

Recycling. Additionally, to streamline all of Scotia’s profile recycling needs, Veka Recycling now also removes scrap aluminium for re-processing.

“When I reviewed our arrangements last year for disposing of our PVC-U offcuts and the old frames that we handled for our installer customers, I was unhappy about many aspects of the arrangements, not least that we had no real idea where the material ended up,” said Gavin. “We also moved to a new, larger facility at the end of 2021 and the throughput and management of material had to be reliable in anticipation of the sort of volumes that we are now producing,” explained Gavin.

“When Veka Recycling was introduced to me I was impressed that the company would collect all of our material and that it then processed everything in its own advanced re-cycling plant and

according to an audited trail. We were further impressed to learn that our material would be turned into new products and even new window profiles, within days of leaving our yard.

“All of that was important to us as a company and the commitment that we make to our customers, who include some of the country’s biggest housebuilders, that every aspect of Scotia Windows and Doors is run to the highest, certifiable standards.,” added Gavin.

“It is fair to say that the Veka Recycling service has now inspired us to embark upon a programme of measures that will reduce our carbon footprint in many other ways, both to satisfy our own commitment to the environment, and also as more of our customers, and their customers, demand it,” added Gavin. www.veka-recycling.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 19

TRADE NEWS tainty COVID has generated within the industry throughout the past two years, we have committed to significant capital investment to ensure our laboratory is the benchmark for acoustic, smoke and fire testing, here in the UK. In turn, this will help our clients ensure they can continue to market their products in line with the very latest regulations, in a timely and efficient way.”

Warringtonfire Invests

In UK Testing Laboratory To Meet Increased Demand

Further investment has also been made to improve the facility’s sustainability credentials, with the installation of a new cold abatement system to extract fumes and odours from the test area, as well as fitting energy efficient LED lighting throughout the laboratory.

Alongside this, the company has added more floor space through a new purpose-built building to ease congestion and improve working conditions, allowing staff to build test specimens away from the furnace.

New digital viewing technology has also been introduced at Warringtonfire High Wycombe. The package enables customers to watch live product testing remotely at higher quality and has the capability to share live test data from Warringtonfire’s control system.

Warringtonfire, a world leader in fire testing, inspection and certification services, has made a significant investment in its High Wycombe testing facility to meet the growth in demand for acoustics, smoke leakage and fire resistance testing.

The transformation of the facility includes refurbishment of its onsite fire resistance and smoke laboratories. This comprises new smoke leakage testing equipment, a complete re-lining of two test furnaces as well as installation of a new cold abatement system to extract test fumes from the fire laboratory environment.

20 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Alongside the additional fire resistance testing equipment, Warringtonfire’s acoustics laboratory has also been revamped, with new acoustic measuring equipment to enhance and improve testing capabilities.

Lee Wade, general manager at Warringtonfire High Wycombe, said: “We have seen a surge in demand for the smoke testing of products. This is being driven by both regulatory changes as well as an increasing appreciation from our customers of the value that testing and certification adds to their products.

“That’s why, despite the uncer-

“Given the changing ways we and our clients have had to adapt, we’ve increased our focus on digital technology. This includes new video packages, better viewing angles of tests in ultra-high definition, and the ability to zoom in on specific areas of the test and our furnaces,” said Wade.

“In order to maximise the potential of the investments made throughout the site, we’ve also embarked on an internal programme to train and upskill our colleagues in testing capabilities, technical qualifications, and project management.

This will help our clients stay ahead of any regulatory changes, and help them continually improve their products.” www.warringtonfire.com

Get the perfect finish with Rio furniture Following the successful launch of the new Rio Flush Fit window, REHAU are pleased to offer a range of high quality, complementary hardware. The range includes key locking, beautifully-designed monkey tail and tear drop handles, dedicated Rio TOTAL70 Chamfered and Sculptured pegs and stays. All hardware is fully zinc-casted for a solid, high-quality finish and optimal longevity.

Windows. Reinvented for modern life. enquiries@rehau.com Tel: 01989 762600

TRADE NEWS

What Does 2022 Hold In Store

For Sealants And Adhesives Prices?

2021 saw British manufacturers, importers and suppliers of sealants and adhesives face product shortages and associated price

rises across the board in 2021.

BASA (British Adhesives and Sealants Association) is predicting that these trends will continue

in 2022 with a continued squeeze on product availability and rising costs, albeit less significant than 2021.

Inflation is not restricted to the UK, nor to industrial commodities. The UK Retail Price Index stands at 4.6% and in the USA, consumer prices have risen at their fastest rate in almost 40 years, with inflation up 7% yearon-year in December 2021. The prices of the raw materials used in the manufacture of sealants and adhesives continues to rocket. The latest information from the British Coatings Federation indicates that solvent prices have risen by 78% in the last 3 months to the end of November 2021 compared with a year ago with resins and related materials prices 39% higher.

Oil prices, which rose by 50%

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TRADE NEWS in 2021, look set to continue to grow in 2022. A lack of production capacity, increased demand as the pandemic starts to wane, and limited investment in the sector could lift crude to $90 or even above $100 a barrel in the third quarter of the year. In addition, silicone prices remain high, although they have abated somewhat from last year’s record highs.

Due to these massive price hikes, some chemical companies have been forced to introduce force majeure measures which resonate through the sealant and adhesives sector. BASA members which could have been more agile, swapping suppliers to achieve better prices and more secure supply, have been prevented from doing so by the UK REACH regulations.

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But it is not just raw material costs putting pressure on the price of the sealants and adhesives used in so many finished goods and packaging, some of them global, some specific to the UK. Delays, increased paperwork, and growing tariffs and duties as a result of Brexit have now filtered through to finished goods.

And with new customs procedures introduced on 1 January 2022 – including the removal of some of the temporary customs and VAT easements for goods moving between Great Britain and the EU – these costs will continue to mount in the sector.

Labour shortages and wage inflation at all levels continues to play a role in the sealants and adhesives market. BASA members are reporting that up to 25% of their workforce has been absent in January 2022 either

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infected with COVID or isolating afterwards. This had led to a drop in productivity as firms struggle to juggle processes and people for maximum efficiency. Anecdotally members have been forced to deploy senior managers and technicians to packing and warehousing roles just to fulfil orders on time.

BASA members have absorbed many of these rising costs and changed their manufacturing schedules to mitigate against shortages and increased lead times; all have been compelled to pass on some price increases.

Every BASA member is working hard right now to meet demand, communicate with suppliers and customers, and to try to manage the supply chain in unparalleled circumstances. www.basa.uk.com

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TRADE NEWS

Wolverhampton Glass Provides

Free Install

For Struggling

Customer Roland Hunt, (Centre) and the Wolverhampton Glass Team

West Midlands-based installer Wolverhampton Glass came to the rescue for a customer who was made redundant just a few days before the completion of his conservatory roof installation.

Mr Hunt had contacted Wolverhampton Glass to replace his old plastic conservatory roof, but disaster struck just before the installation date as he was made redundant unexpectedly.

When the 58-year-old looked at his finances he knew he would not be able to afford the final payment which included having the roof fitted, leaving the project unfinished.

He need not have worried though.

When Wolverhampton Glass heard his plight, they did the install for free, much to Mr Hunt’s delight.

Managing director Neal Harper explained: “We had the roof in stock and had only taken a deposit, but Mr Hunt simply couldn’t afford to have it fitted after being made redundant and was understandably devastated when he told us.

“We agreed that he would have to cover the cost of the roof and to be fair to him he did not argue and paid the balance of that cost. “ www.wolverhamptonglass.co.uk 24 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

New CNC Machine Investment To Drive Down Lead

Times For Euramax Solutions uPVC window and door manufacturer Euramax Solutions has invested £300k in a new CNC machine at its 205,000 square foot facility in Barnsley.

The upgrade to the Avantek’s SuperCut cutting and machining centre will drive down lead times, significantly improve dimensional accuracy, and improve reliability by around 5-10%, says Euramax.

And with the company supplying to the off-site and modular construction sectors, national builders’ merchants, new build and holiday home and leisure markets, the new investment will strengthen its lean manufacturing and highly efficient ‘just in time’ approach.

tion of CNC machinery will make our uPVC profile processing and cutting even quicker, even more accurate in terms of cut size, preparation details, handles, and even more reliable.”

Euramax Solutions managing director Nick Cowley said: “Our customers expect our products to be to the exact same high-quality standard and ready to go on arrival every time.

“As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of uPVC windows and doors, we pride ourselves on being a real asset as a supplier with our quality and service and it’s important for us to be able to fulfil customer orders as quickly as possible. Our new CNC machine will help us to continue to do that; it’s a significant investment and shows the confidence in the market that we have.”

“Upgrading to the latest genera-

www.euramaxuk.com/

TRADE NEWS saw the highest midweek attendance for a game in more than 20 years when we beat Hereford 3-0.”

5 Star Windows and Conservatories has established a strong reputation across Worcestershire and the surrounding counties, having installed more than 32,000 windows and completed over 3,250 conservatories, orangeries and lifestyle extensions during the last two decades.

Magic Of The Cup

The company, which is part of the Conservatory Outlet network of retailers, is looking to capitalise on recent investment in its £150,000 training academy and the introduction of new products across its two showrooms in Kidderminster and Worcester.

Sales For First Time

Richard went on to add: “We have always been very proactive when it comes to our marketing, and this is something we really focused on when Covid-19 first struck.

Helps 5 Star Pass £12M 563563247A leading home improvement specialist in Worcestershire is on course to hit a record year – buoyed in part by the power of local sponsorship.

5 Star Windows and Conservatories, which employs more than 120 people at its two showrooms in Kidderminster and Worcester, has seen orders go past £12m for the first time in its 22-year history.

Driving this growth has been a shift in consumer spending during lockdown towards homes and a new commercial deal with Kidderminster Harriers that has seen it become a main sponsor and the sole sponsor of the North Stand at Aggborough Stadium.

In addition, the 5 Star brand has been displayed on the sleeves of the first team’s home and away strips during the National League North Season and during the club’s historic run in the FA Cup, which saw it come so close to knocking out Premier League West Ham United.

“I like to think we’ve become a lucky charm for Kiddy and, likewise, it has certainly helped drive new business to our company,” explained Richard Manser, managing director of 5 Star Windows and Conservatories.

“We are deeply passionate about our roots and the town we work in and wanted to put something back and make a bit of a statement in the process. The relationship with chairman Richard Lane has been really strong and the exposure our brand has received has been phenomenal, including live television and all the press coverage in the lead-up to and after the games.”

He continued: “What has been really telling is the ‘feel good’ spirit it has created, and we’ve had numerous customers come in and say they’re visiting us because we’re backing our local football team.

“It is superb to see Kiddy doing so well and people coming to watch their games. Just last week, we

“Rather than hold back on spending, we decided to continue with all our activity, and, in some instances, we increased what we were doing, including a really productive radio advertising campaign and our own 5 Star jingle.

“One other example is in digital marketing where we tapped into the backing of Conservatory Outlet and its agency DigitalKog to target new customers. This was a great success, and the combined expertise and creativity has seen our enquiries grow by more than 25% over the last eighteen months.”

5 Star Windows and Conservatories has capped a strong year with its recent accreditation to IS014001.

The award, which covers its environmental policies, joins its existing ISO9001 (quality) and ISO45001 (health and safety). www.5starwindows.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 25

TRADE NEWS

Excell Trade Frames

Marks Two Decades Of

Success With Rehau Celebrating its 20th anniversary with polymer supplier Rehau, a North-West manufacturer continues to deliver first-rate window solutions following pronounced growth in the commercial sector.

From its factory in Astley, Excell Trade Frames Ltd. (Excell) manufacture uPVC windows and doors – using profile supplied by Rehau.

According to the company’s directors John and Jill Oliviero, the company’s dedication to providing premium-grade products was a key factor behind its partnership with the polymer manufacturer, which began in 2001.

“Technology used in the production of window frames has vastly improved since the 80s, and we’ve always been keen to be at the forefront of that change.

As such, when first looking for a supplier, we wanted one at the forefront of research and development,” John explains. “Rehau’s long-standing experience and reputation as a polymer innovator 26 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

meant they were exactly who we were looking for. Once we’d established ourselves as a partner, things took off from there – we’ve experienced exceptional growth ever since, so we couldn’t be happier with our choice.”

Due to exponential business demand driven by the partnership, the company has moved three times to larger premises in the Manchester area, and now operates from an 18,000 sq. ft. factory with 38 employees. With Rehau’s products as its flagship range, the business was able to expand successfully into the commercial sector in 2013.

“We have to attribute this expansion due to the variety of products we’ve been able to produce, alongside the support we’ve received from Rehau,” Jill continues. “Rehau’s continual input on consumer trends, such as sustainability, has affected window system design and has been integral to Excell keeping ahead

in the market. For instance, the versatility of the Total70C means we’ve been able to develop windows and doors that meet the needs of the trade, retail and commercial markets.”

“Moving forward, we’re keen to continue growing in all areas, particularly exciting is the launch of the Rio flush fit window and door system; its high energy efficiency rating will save our customers money, while being made from recycled materials means it has strong environmental credentials. Looking back to our first factory in Irlam, we’re thrilled to have come as far as we have. With Rehau by our side, we’re looking forward to another twenty years of accomplished partnership.”

Trisha Naik, area sales manager for Rehau, said: “Excell has done exceptionally well over the last two decades and we’re proud to have played a part in its success.

Having to move three times due to business needs is proof that the company has built a well-deserved reputation in the window manufacturing industry. We feel assured knowing that the profile we provide is being put in expert hands, and are keen to see where Excell takes it next.” https://bit.ly/34jm3Nk

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TRADE NEWS

Focus On Safety And Quality With

Fleet Upgrade

Sternfenster has added four new lorries to is fleet, which prioritise the safety of other road users while ensuring all products reach their destination damage-free, as well as upgrading its existing vehicles.

The 18-tonne ULEZ-compliant DAF lorries represent an investment of £480K and are modern additions to the trade fabricator’s established fleet that offer improvements in key areas.

Primarily, the hard-sided trailers are fully kitted out to comfortably transport 70 frames and 175 glass units per box: carpet-lined runners on the walls, and foam protection on all securing poles, reduce impact damage, while extra pole locking positions have also been included to secure the glass stanchions.

28 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

“Sternfenster is committed to guaranteeing that all windows and doors leave our premises in perfect condition,” Sternfenster’s sales director Nathan Court said.

“It is also our responsibility to ensure that they are delivered to site in one piece and blemish-free, which is why we’ve invested in our fleet.

“The window and door supply chain has come under immense pressure over the last two years.

We need to do all we can to reduce the areas in production where pressures can occur, and that includes delivery.

“As well as focusing on the careful handling of products, all our lorries are tracked, so that customers can be kept up to date with estimated delivery times.”

Sternfenster has a people-first strategy, which has influenced the design of certain aspects of the tractor unit. For example, all vehicles are fitted with DVS (driver vision standard) and forward-facing cameras to help ensure the safety of all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.

Driver comfort is also paramount, and the cabs are kitted out with microwaves, televisions and fridges.

“We are a recognised as an Investors in People Silver Award-winning employer, and we understand that looking after our staff is not only the right thing to do, but we also benefit as a business,” Nathan said. “In the case of our drivers, if they are refreshed and happy when they deliver our products, it helps to reduce the possibility of human error.”

Sternfenster has also spent a further £60K refurbishing its existing lorries to bring them up to a similar standard.

For more information visit www.sternfenster.com www.sfplus.com

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TRADE NEWS

Innovative Design And Engineering Key To New

Korniche Bi-Folding Door Made for Trade (MFT), home to the Korniche brand of products, recently held a press day at the company’s showpiece headquarters in Stockton-on-Tees. Primarily it was intended as a detailed look at the new Korniche bi-fold door, into which the company has injected all of its considerable resources, both financial and human over a num30 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

ber of years, to bring the finished article to market.

And you won’t have long to wait to see the Korniche bi-fold door; MFT will no doubt be giving it pride of place on the company’s stand at the upcoming FIT Show in May at the NEC, Birmingham.

The door will also be showcased

on the Made for Trade stand at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, also at the NEC, at the end of March.

Over the past few years MFT has made significant investments into marketing the company’s products not only to the trade but also to consumers. It has been a deliberate strategy, particularly with the award-winning and highly successful Korniche lantern, to get homeowners to ask for the product by name. Now, that same ethos is being applied to the Korniche bi-folding door.

At the heart of the Korniche brand is a mission to bring inspirational

TRADE NEWS

products to light via innovative design and engineering. Created as a completely new system from the ground up, the MFT engineering team behind the Korniche bifold has produced a product that encompasses precision, simplicity, and refined aesthetics to design an uncompromised class-leading glazing option driven by perfection.

The combination of smart technology and inspired visuals means slim, industry-leading sightlines for the consumer thanks to low-profile extrusions, along with robust long-lasting functionality and security with extreme elegance.

Every single component from the polyamide thermally broken

profile with sharp clean paint lines to the smallest unseen fitting has been meticulously engineered.

The bi-fold doors and their durable frames come rigorously tested to keep homes fully protected - they are certified to the advanced PAS24:2016 standard and include a three-star Yale locking barrel, high strength shoot bolts and multi-point FUHR locking. In fact, the Yale locking barrel and FUHR locking mechanism are the only components of the bi-fold door that aren’t MFT engineered.

Clever security details include a unique new shoot bolt handle with an anti-back drive element.

As a result, even if left unlocked a forced entry attempt can’t rotate the handle to open the door. Other innovative design touches include a shoot bolt handle that is impossible to open if the key is left in the lock (therefore preventing any possible damage), sealed bearings in the stainless-steel wheels, and lateral rollers residing in a unique pivoting axle that allows the wheels to follow any misalignment in the stainless-steel tracks underneath.

MFT says the doors have been rigorously tested to glide effortlessly with class-leading smoothness for

years to come.

Engineered with versatility in mind, configuration allows either a standard threshold or a rebated integrated cill with a low 52mm step-over height, whilst build options allow sashes up to 1.25m, systems up to 6.5m width and 2.5m height, and between one and seven sashes in total. All are in multiple configurations of stacking and direction, whilst frame and doors are available in white, grey, black or dual colour for a striking contrast, plus any BS or RAL colours in matt, satin or gloss for striking big impact projects. All are expertly powder coated for a consistently smooth, low maintenance and durable weatherproof finish. High-quality bespoke hardware is available to match or to contrast; the traffic door and shoot bolt handles are available in black, white, grey, polished chrome or brushed stainless steel.

Made for Trade are also claiming a world first – and one which MFT believes looks set to be the standard by which all other systems are judged – with a unique and patented clip-in internal glazing bead that is likely to be of maximum interest to the installer. The mechanism WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 31

TRADE NEWS uses an outer section of traditional powder coated aluminium to match the surrounding sash, yet with the high tolerance to work as the clip-in bead element. Thanks to the high precision materials and manufacturing tolerances with no wedge gasket used, the result is that beading time for the installer can be reduced to a matter of seconds per sash. Furthermore, a unique deglazing tool is supplied with each kit that engages down the glass line to remove beads quickly and easily in a couple of seconds, enabling glass to be removed without risk of damage to the powder coating finish of the bead or sash.

Korniche bi-folding doors are supplied pre-assembled and ready to glaze, whilst high efficiency insulated glass unit options include Planitherm Total Plus or Planitherm One as well as laminated options, with low-E coatings that minimise the amount of ultraviolet and infrared without compromising the amount of light transmitted. The doors come with a comprehensive 10-year manufacturer’s guarantee against all part and manufacturing defects.

Made for Trade has seen tremendous growth - notably since 2016 – and particularly since the launch of the Korniche Lantern in 2017.

Turnover during this period has risen from £8.3M to an estimated £45M - £50M in 2022. The company has a clear mission: ‘To deliver The Best Products, with the Best Service at the Best Price.’ And a vision to have the Korniche brand recognised nationally as a mark of innovation and quality.

During the tour reference was made to new products in the pipeline. Visit the company’s stand at the FIT Show and you might just be lucky enough to receive a hint as to what these might be! https://bit.ly/3JiLxdb Completed customer orders 32 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

TRADE NEWS

Richard Gaunt explains the company’s history that led to the Korniche brand

Bradley Gaunt highlights the unique engineering behind the Korniche bi-folding door

Ashley Gaunt runs through the production processes WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 33

VIEWPOINT

Fabricator Calls

For Change

In Trickle Vent Legislation That

Could Escalate Energy Prices For Homeowners The boss of a major window and door fabricator has hit out at new Government legislation due to come into play in June that will see trickle vents become mandatory on all refurbishment/replacement projects.

Conservatory Outlet’s Greg Kane believes the ‘ADF1’ regulation contravenes the demand for houses to be more energy efficient and could instead lead to homeowners facing up to a £500 increase in energy costs.

34 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

The experienced CEO, which has been in the sector for more than 20 years, is now calling for Ministers to rethink and make the introduction advisory rather than mandatory.

This proposed solution would mean that a double glazed, double sealed PVC-U window is replaced with the same type of window that carries product test certificates showing that the airtightness has not been made worse. The decision is then down to the homeowner if they

want to introduce trickle vents or not.

“ADF1 makes no sense whatsoever, it is just going to cause more financial pressures for the end consumer at a time when fuel bills are already set to go through the roof,” explained Greg Kane, CEO of Conservatory Outlet.

“It goes against other legislation that is coming in to improve energy efficiency and we’ve yet to see any concrete evidence for punching holes into what will be hundreds and thousands of doors and windows every year. To make matters worse, the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) predict that 94% of homeowners don’t want trickle vents.”

He continued: “There are also significant concerns around an increase in noise and possible pollution from car emissions finding their way into buildings.

“We have to give people the choice and this is what we will be joining with the GGF to lobby

VIEWPOINT Government and opposition MPs to consider.”

Government seem hellbent on putting in regulation that will cause an unregulated grey economy develop.

Conservatory Outlet employs over 150 people at its manufacturing facility in Wakefield, where it fabricates more than 10,000 windows and doors every year.

“There are so many unanswered questions. For example, thousands of installations are being sold every day for completion after June 15th so what does that mean for them or how will non-compliance be rectified or managed by the Local Authority Building Control.”

The ADF1 legislation, which will go live on June 15th, comes at a hugely pressurised time for the fenestration sector with unprecedented demand being delivered against the backdrop of supply chain disruption and rising material prices.

This latest potential change could exacerbate production difficulties, with new tooling required for the volume of products that will require trickle vents as standard.

Greg went on to add: “As an

Greg Kane

industry, we have worked tirelessly to raise standards over the last twenty years, yet the

He concluded: “We’re hoping most of the glazing industry will put pressure on the Government to rethink before this comes into play. It’s not a case of being against trickle vents, it’s just a case of giving homeowners the choice of doing what is best for their homes and their own personal situations.” www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 35

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 developed by installers for installers.To find out more see www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer

The Business Pilot Barometer The economic side-effects of war?

By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot

We have already warned that the raising of the energy price cap next month will see average household energy bills top £2,000 a year and could even hit highs of £2,350 by this time next year.

That may bring their energy consumption into sharper focus but with so much uncertainty about the impact of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, rising inflation and a squeeze on incomes, the question is will homeowners be prepared to spend?

What we’re seeing on the ground is a definitive slowdown, less so in month-on-month change but on previous years.

It’s too early to say what the impact war between Russia and Ukraine will have on the UK economy but it is likely that it will add fuel to inflationary growth, with prices already rising at their fastest pace for 30 years.

As one of the world’s largest exporters of oil and gas, sanctions on Russia are likely to push wholesale energy prices, already at record highs still higher.

36 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Sales were down 1% February on January this year, leads dropped by 10%, while conversions also fell by 3%.

VIEWPOINT Although relatively small changes, there is clear evidence that with Furlough and Stamp Duty breaks behind them, plus the opening-up of the economy, some of the heat has gone out of the market.

Year-on-year sales in February 2022 compared to 2021 fell by 8%. Compared to 2020 – still pre-lockdown – sales are down 36%.

This is in line with a general fall in consumer confidence recorded by GfK consumer confidence index falling seven points in February to 26 – the lowest reading since January 2021, which was one of the worst points of the Covid-19 crisis.

With UK inflation rising, for those for whom new windows and doors were an aspirational or discretionary spend, the prospect of tying up cash in home improvements may now be less appealing.

Conversely, those with cash, who have perhaps held off improvements because of long lead times and inflated prices, may decide that with energy prices rising, now is a good time to invest.

The point is we don’t know, which is why good business discipline and effective lead management is going to be even more important.

The Business Pilot Sales Dashboard is part of our

leads. It’s there at your fingertips as a day-to-day management tool.

Having that visibility means you can maximise conversions which, when the market is tougher (which we believe it will be), delivers an even greater return.

Business Pilot is a powerful CRM, which mobilises the power of cloud-based technologies, to give installers complete visibility of each and every element of their operation from leads and conversions to job scheduling, cost of installation, service calls, and financial reporting.

comprehensive business management platform.

It tracks leads, demos, daily, weekly and monthly sales, plus closing ratios. You can literally review where you are against KPIs, and the status of

Accessible across all devices, from desktop to phone, it supports installers in running their businesses more profitably.

For more information visit www.businesspilot.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 37

VIEWPOINT

Security

Matters

By Wojciech Brozyna – MD of Aluprof UK

With various security standards now sited for door and window installations, it can be difficult 38 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

to determine which ‘standard’ should be acceptable when choosing new windows and doors. Often confusing is PAS24 and Q-Mark, so what do these ‘standards’ refer to and

what do they mean?

According to the British Standards Institute (BSI), there are currently twenty-three standards that are relevant when specifying windows and doors.

Not all standards are applicable to any one product, but one product will need to pass a selection of these standards, depending on its design and material composition.

One of the most basic specifications for all products, will be a pass to meet ‘BS 63751:2015+A1:2016 – Performance of windows and doors – Classification for weather-tightness and guidance on selection

VIEWPOINT

and specification’. Basically, a standard which aims to determine that the window or door will keep the weather out when used in a given location, perhaps a products most basic function.

With a simple latch, the door or window can be ‘closed’ against the weather and keep the warmth inside and help increase sound attenuation.

Adding a simple lock will improve security, but will it meet current methods of possible attack when an intruder seeks access? The ‘PAS 24:2016 – Enhanced security performance requirements for door-sets and

windows in the UK. Door-sets and windows intended to offer a level of security suitable for dwellings and other buildings exposed to comparable risk’ is a ‘Product Assessment Specification’ which is referenced to in the Building Regulations Approved Document Q1, Security in dwellings. By specifying multipoint locking arrangements for enhanced break-in security and allowing simple egress by the optional use of thumb turn devices on doors, forms part of this standard along with the testing of products. This enhanced security specification has quickly become the minimum requirement for home security, ease of use and what is required in products used in new build homes and home improvement.

them up to standard. Quality certification, therefore, ensures that every door and window in production meets the standard, not just the ones currently undergoing testing.

As explained, PAS24 is a BSI standard, this differs from a Q-Mark which is a mark of quality. Sometimes known as a ‘third-party’ certification process, this approach involves both initial and ongoing standards testing of products that are being produced, together with audits of the production facility. The reason for this?

Random testing of products demonstrates that up to 50% of typical door and window production will initially fail the claimed security standard requiring remedial work to bring

Membership of the Q-Mark scheme is purely voluntary, but any company entering the scheme shows their commitment to offering quality products, as a result Q-Mark is increasingly being specified by contractors. Aluprof UK has several systems of doors and windows which meet PAS 24 and offer Q-Mark certification, more information is available on our website or on the BM TRADA portal where our certificates can be viewed

BM TRADA offer the Q-Mark certification scheme which involves initial type testing and the implementation of factory production control audits. In order to maintain certification, a company undergoes periodic audit testing and factory production control audits from BM TRADA. This certification is regarded in the UK as one of the most rigorous and intensive processes currently awarded.

The quality of the Q-Mark Certification scheme is recognised by the NHBC and the National House Building Council.

aluprof.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 39

DEAR GERALD

Dear

Gerald

Dear Gerald The upcoming requirements under Part F of the Building Regs to fit trickle vents in virtually all replacement windows are causing quite a stir amongst installers – with many complaining about how unpopular they are with homeowners.

That’s completely at odds with our experience in the social housing sector. The vast majority of residents in homes where we are fitting windows understand exactly why they are necessary, and we actually get very little pushback. If we do, our fitters are fully briefed to explain the benefits of background ventilation – and the likely cost of remedials.

I was surprised then to see the figure shared recently

by Dean Bradley of Glazpart that, of 55 sites audited by the government during the consultation on the new Building Regs, only 2 were fully compliant even with the 2006 version of Approved Document F. No wonder that there will now be an Installation and Commissioning checklist that has to be completed and handed over to the homeowner after a window installation that includes sign off on the background ventilation. Knowingly making a false declaration on that will invalidate either FENSA or CERTASS certification.

As I see it, there’s nowhere really to go in terms of

40 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

DEAR GERALD non-compliance. The rules state that a replacement installation should make the ventilation ‘no worse’ and the fact is that if you replace any double gasketed PVC-U window with a like for like replacement, it will increase the air tightness simply because the original will have deteriorated in performance over time.

of trickle vents and, in a post-Covid world, reinforce the importance of bringing fresh air into their homes?

My understanding is that it won’t be enough to take a photograph to justify not fitting a trickle vent either – effectively, you’d have to complete a before and after air tightness test and that would be completely unviable.

The Window Company (Contracts)

I actually think it will become increasingly difficult during the course of this year for installers to buy frames that aren’t routed for trickle vents. Certainly, fabricators we have spoken to plan to make inclusion of trickle vents the default option on their ordering systems. As soon as they effectively become compulsory, where’s the incentive for fabricators to encourage the breaking of the rules?

Obviously, there are relatively few physical inspections carried out to police the Building Regs, but that shouldn’t be a reason for installers to ignore them.

Maybe what’s needed is a better communications programme to persuade homeowners of the benefits

Complete Hardware Support

David Thornton Chairman

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

Technical advice from industry experts

In house fit ups and training

Testing and accreditation guidance

Comprehensive manufacturer guarantees

£millions in stock to support OTIF delivery service

Get in touch and speak to one of our experts today: t. Peterborough: 01733 393330 t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557 e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

PEOPLE

Paul Clegg Named As Non-Executive Director And

Chairman Of The Sash Window Workshop The Sash Window Workshop has announced the appointment of Paul Clegg as a non-executive director and chairman of TSWW Holdings Limited, which owns The Sash Window Workshop.

The Sash Window Workshop specialises in the manufacture, installation and draught proofing of traditional timber windows and doors, offering an installation service across London and Southern England and a supply only service nationwide.

The company was established in 1994 by Richard Dollar and Paul Clegg today has an annual turnover of around £8 million. year come from previous cusThe Sash Window Workshop tomers and recommendations. believes in providing customers with a high-quality product and Having previously been the customer service, a value which chief executive officer of Accsys is reflected in the fact that Technologies Plc from 2009 around half their orders every -2019, the manufacturer of Ac42 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

coya (the high quality, sustainable timber used by The Sash Window Workshop for their windows and doors), Paul Clegg brings a wealth of experience of growing a business within a similar industry. In addition, Paul has also served on several boards, most recently Peel Hunt LLP, Synairgen Plc and currently Honext as well as The Enterprise Investment Board.

Paul Clegg commented: “I am excited to be joining The Sash Window Workshop as the non-executive chairman and look forward to helping the business continue to grow.

Having previously seen the continued success of The Sash Window Workshop from afar, I look forward to being a part of the team going forward.”

Richard Dollar also noted “Paul Clegg joins the company at a very exciting time for The Sash Window Workshop, as we continue to rapidly expand. Having recently invested in an additional workshop and new machinery, we are immensely proud of the success of our business, and we look forward to welcoming Paul Clegg to help us continue to grow in the future.” www.sashwindow.com

PEOPLE

Simon Eshelby Re-joins VBH see him support and develop the company’s nationwide network of sub-distributors and become the main point of contact for profile systems houses. As he has great experience of working with one of the UK’s largest and most successful composite door manufacturers, VBH is confident that Simon has the products and services to expand VBH’s presence within that buoyant market.

VBH has recently appointed Simon Eshelby to the newly created position of distribution & systems house manager.

Simon re-joins the company after six years at another well-known hardware manufacturer where he held sales and product specification positions.

Simon’s new role at VBH will

VBH advise that Simon will identify market requirements based on client feedback, and liaise with the VBH new product development team to develop bespoke greenteQ hardware solutions for key customer partners. Simon will also work closely with the company’s strategic supply partners to aid the flow of their products into systems houses and the distribution network. www.vbhgb.com

New Technical Manager Joins Arrone

Arrone, a Hoppe brand, has appointed Robert Adams as technical manager.

Rob has more than 11 years’ experience working within the architectural ironmongery industry. He has previously worked as a product manager for Yale and joins Arrone from Assa Abloy where he was a technical services manager for almost six years.

Rob said: “Although I’ve got substantial industry experience, I want to ensure that I’m always delivering customers the latest best practice guidance and technical advice, so I’m currently mid-way through my Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) Certificate in Architectural Hardware, which I’m due to complete in September this year.

“During my time at Exidor, which

was later acquired by Assa Abloy , I specialised in panic and emergency exit hardware, so I’ll be using this experience to help Arrone customers with these products.

Being part of a team that has such a high level of technical knowledge across the board and their commitment to customer service plays a big part in what excites me about this new role. The Arrone team has explained its vision for 2022 and beyond, so I’m looking forward to being a part of that and the challenges it will bring.” www.hoppe.co.uk

Glazerite Appoints New Health & Safety Lead

The Glazerite UK Group has appointed Frank Lobb in the newly created role of group environmental, health & safety manager. Frank joins Glazerite on 21st February 2022 and will be based at Glazerite East in Peterborough, with responsibility for all of the Group’s five sites.

Rob Brearley, Glazerite’s group managing director, says: “We’re delighted Frank is joining our team. He brings with him a great deal of experience, which spans the audit and implementation of compliance processes and procedures. He’s also highly skilled at developing relevant content and training programmes, which is a great skillset to bring to our internal capabilities. The health, safety, and wellbeing of our staff and stakeholders and how we manage our impact on the environment are critical to our business. As we continue to grow, Frank’s new role will help us to roll out best practice across all of our sites.” www.glazerite.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 43

PRODUCT NEWS cial and social housing sectors where the enhanced durability can guarantee fewer costly remedials.

The enforced lockdown clearly gave lots of fabricators an opportunity to take stock and review their product offering because we saw an initial surge in stainless steel sales once things reopened in April 2020. But that was been sustained throughout 2021 and we’ve now got almost 100 more customers buying stainless steel handles, letterplates, pull bars, escutcheons and door knockers from us than we did in 2019.

Stainless Steel In The Spotlight

By Richard Gyde, Managing Director, Mila Since 2019, Mila has seen sales of our Supa stainless steel products increase by a staggering 184% and they now account for more than 45% of all the door hardware that we sell.

Mila MD, Richard Gyde 44 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

That’s a massive shift compared to before the pandemic and is probably fairly indicative of what’s been happening right across the hardware sector.

Stainless steel is increasingly becoming the first choice for fabricators, not just for the premium end of the retail market where demand has remained strong for composite, timber and aluminium doors, but also for the commer-

Some of these are fabricators who were previously buying our standard zinc diecast products and have upgraded. Others are new to Mila and are using a switch to our stainless range as an opportunity to switch to a new door furniture supplier as well.

In terms of responding to the increasing demand, we’ve expanded our range and, over the past few months, have invested in unprecedented levels of new stock. As of March, we’ve got more than £1m worth of stainless steel stock in the Mila warehouse ready for sale, and another £1m+ is arriving with us in April.

Fabricators who are still thinking about making the switch can be very confident that we have more than enough on our shelves to keep them supplied. And of course, they can relax knowing that they won’t just be getting a great quality product, delivered on time and in full, but also all the sales and marketing support, technical back up and personal customer service which has always characterised the Mila brand.

Stainless steel obviously has lots of inherent benefits over standContinued on 42

CREATING BRIGHT FUTURES

The Aluminium Systems House with it all in-house From dedicated design teams and rigorous testing facilities, to never-ending stock-holding and an invaluable training academy to name just a few. Discover why, when it comes to looking for the right aluminium systems house, we’re the only one with it all in-house.

To find out more simply call our house on 01291 639 739, visit alukgb.com/ourhouse or get in touch to arrange a tour of our showroom and facilities at our HQ in Chepstow, South Wales.

ALUKGB.COM/OURHOUSE

PRODUCT NEWS Continued from 40

ard zinc diecast material – the most obvious of which is the enhanced durability. Mila’s Supa stainless steel products, available in either SS304 extreme or SS316 marine grade material, for example, all come with a 25-year mechanical operation and surface finish guarantee. The entire range has been independently performance tested for corrosion resistance to BSEN1670 Grade 5 and has sailed through more than 1000 hours in a salt spray test.

We just don’t do short cuts on this range. The SupaSecure handle, for instance, is produced using the same investment casting process used to produce aerospace components, and this is what helps to deliver the extreme strength as well as the superior surface quality. It’s also part of the reason why we can offer the 25-year guarantee across the range on operational performance as well as finish.

The full Mila Supa range includes both standard and high security door handles, pull bars, standard and security escutcheons, doorknobs and door knockers, as well as standard and high security TS008 compliant letterplates.

They are all fully suited, which makes it easy for fabricators to single source on their door furniture, and they can offer either traditional styling with conventional lever style handles or something more contemporary with pull bars in inline, offset, square, D-shape, V-shape, or bow-shape.

In terms of finishes, we also offer a choice of polished or brushed stainless, and polished or brushed PVD gold across the range, apart from on the pull bars which are in brushed stainless only.

All the details on the products in the range and the guarantees are available at: https://bit.ly/37aVhb8 46 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Carl F Groupco Produces Part F Guidance For Fabricators And Installers Hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has just released guidance for fabricators and installers on the new Part F of Building Regulations. Carl F Groupco’s technical manager, John Mitchell, said: “The new Part F of Building Regulations comes into force on 15 June this year. As a responsible hardware distributor, we feel it’s our obligation to ensure that the full supply chain is prepared ahead of this date, which is why we’re releasing this guidance now.”

The new standard requires additional ventilation to circulate air in living spaces. While this can be achieved in many ways, by far the most economical and practical solution is to use trickle ventilation in both new builds and the replacement market.

In advance of the new regulations, fabricators may need to review their production processes to cope with fitting new products and be aware of the vents required to comply, while maintaining U values. Installers will need to educate themselves on the stipulations of Part F for all scenarios to make sure they are fitting compliant products and advising end users correctly.

There have been several attempts to improve ventilation standards in the past but due to ineffective management of building regulations, they have often been overlooked. John says it’s important that fabricators and installers don’t think these latest regulations will

be the same. “Local Authority Building Control (LABC) is in charge of policing new build installations this time round, requiring confirmation that each building complies. The ultimate responsibility falls with the installer to guarantee their installations comply with regulations but we see it as our job to make the necessary arrangements to supply compliant products and to assist installers with the requirements.”

Carl F Groupco stocks Part F-compliant vents from Glazpart, Greenwood, RW Simon and Yale as part of its extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware components. It operates nationally, including to the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands, from distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld.

With roots stretching back over 70 years, the company says its experienced team is always on hand to offer advice on the most appropriate hardware solution for any project. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Ultraframe

Garden Rooms Trade Case Study Like many in the UK, the team from Folding Doors 2U decided that homeworking offered them a great work/life balance during the pandemic. However, after using their snug for close to two years, they decided it was time to claim back the room within their home in Maldon, Essex, and create a more permanent home working solution.

Having worked with many Ultraframe products over the years, when they spotted that a Garden Room had been added to the product portfolio, the Folding Doors 2U team were assured of the quality, as director Kate Farr explained: “We loved the benefits that homeworking offered us during the pandemic and decided to make this a permanent way of life.

However, we knew that to do this long term, we needed a proper home office solution, rather than using the room that had previously been our snug. Being Ultraframe customers already, when we saw that they had launched a Garden Room solution that we could buy through our supplier, Abcell, we knew the quality would be excellent and it was simple

to purchase, all being from one supplier. We immediately started to plan our new home office and chose the perfect spot for it behind our garage.”

Using an existing base in the garden, a modular size Garden Room of 4.2m x 3.6m was the perfect fit. Available in a max size of 6m x 3.6m, the Studio style Garden Room with a roof height under 2.5m meant that in this case – and as in the majority of situations – Planning Permission was not required. The contemporary design was also perfectly in keeping with their modern property and personal style. On the interior, panelled walls give a luxury feel to the new office space, which is fully air conditioned and heated, while on the exterior, the Garden Room is finished in anthracite grey weatherboard cladding which perfectly complements the modern clean lines of the Garden Room structure.

Continuing, Kate said: “Access to the back of our house is via a single width path and so the fact that the Ultraframe Garden Room comes as a kit was ideal. We also

liked the idea of working with a product in a simple kit form, and rather than a timber garden room, we knew that the materials would be more long lasting. We really liked the flexibility to choose from glazed/solid sides and glazing options. We went for 2 large rooflights and they make a huge difference, inviting in large amounts of natural daylight. During the build we found the Ultraframe video installation guide to be excellent, as was the technical support, and our electrician was impressed with the channels, allowing for ease of cabling. Customer service was great, as was the delivery. In fact, the quick order turnaround was the final thing that made an Ultraframe Garden Room perfect for us.”

Ultraframe Garden Rooms are available in a choice of two styles (Studio or Pavilion) and as alluded to by Kate, can be personalised with fixed rooflights and a range of options for the side walls including additional columns and full-length glazed panels. As with all Ultraframe products, energy efficiency has been a key aspect of the design process, and Ultraframe Garden Rooms offer twice the thermal performance of other premium garden rooms, as well as featuring components that exceed Building Regulation requirements, claims the company.

Concluding, Kate said: “We are thrilled with the finished office which has given us back an additional room and it looks great in our garden, sitting perfectly against our patio and pergola. We use it every day, and often in the evening the children use it too. It is always a comfortable temperature due to it being well insulated and the rooflights make a huge difference. It is great to have a space away from our home for work, but without a commute. We would definitely recommend the product and are currently busy fielding enquiries from our neighbours about ordering theirs!” https://bit.ly/3tD2t7p WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 47

PRODUCT NEWS tom. Parameters extend from 914mm maximum to 758mm minimum.

The snap-fit cassette provides fabricators and installers with consistency in design, and more significantly, colour, where applicable. Distinction Doors coats its cassettes using paint with the same batch number as its associated door blank to ensure a perfect colour match.

According to Distinction’s doors, buyers of the 3 Quarter Lite will benefit from its exceptional performance – incomparable security features; remarkable durability; excellent weatherproofing; superb sound insulation; and thermal efficiency.

The 3 Quarter Lite door blank also meets the specification requirements of PAS 24: 2016 and is Secured by Design approved.

Distinction Doors Announces The Launch

Of New Glazed Door Distinction Doors has announced the launch of a new GRP composite door design, the 3 Quarter Lite. The new door has been created to meet consumer demand for an entrance door with a large, glazed aperture, to let in more natural light.

Versatile and with a high-quality build and finish, the 3 Quarter Lite will prove a popular option for both front and back doors.

Launching in white, it is also 48 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

available in bespoke colours from the Distinction colour palette, on an extended lead-time.

With the glazed area measuring 558mm x 1218mm, the door style can be elevated with three glass designs from the Distinction glass range – Kara Zinc, Palma and Monza.

Available in two sizes, 838mm and 914mm, the 3 Quarter Lite blanks can be trimmed by 40mm off the top and each side, and 70mm from the bot-

The 3 Quarter Lite is featured in the current Distinction Doors brochure and will feature in the new version due later this Spring. It has already been added to the Design Boutique for all Distinction customers and to the door-designer for installers, home improvement companies and consumers, alike.

Andy Grogan, associate sales director for Distinction Doors comments: “Demand for this new door style has been driven by consumers. Traditional, glazed door styles dominated our sales in 2021 and the new 3 Quarter Lite will capitalise on this demand and will enable our customers to give consumers more of what they want – more natural light in their homes.

“As a business, we are proud of our response to market demands and we are extremely pleased to introduce customers to the 3 Quarter Lite.” www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

SUPA STARS TM

MILA.C O.U K/SU PA- STA R S

Mila is digital first online | on mobile | on tablet

PRODUCT NEWS

Innovation At Its Core Sternfenster now supplies doors constructed using the latest Gripcore technology, which, says Sternfenster, takes composite doors into a new league: ‘they are stronger, heavier, won’t warp or crack, and are warmer and more secure’.

The company also says they also offer unique opportunities for installers, with modern design and glass options, and buying from Sternfenster gives you access to industry-leading marketing support and production visibility.

Gripcore doors, developed by 50 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

DoorCo, are made using a hybrid of cross-laminated engineered hardwood, laminated veneer lumber (LVL) timber, and hardwood stiles and rails, then pressed with 4mm GRP skins. According to the company, this robust design means these doors will not move, bow or twist more than 3mm, require minimal maintenance, and has security built in thanks to this unique construction.

“Gripcore technology is a fantastic evolution of the composite door,” Sternfenster’s sales director Nathan Court said. “Our doors, built using Gripcore technology,

iron out many of the irritations that installers have had with traditional composite doors, namely, warping and cracking.

“Too often you are called back to a job because the homeowner says the door won’t close properly. This is because the temperature on the outside and inside are wildly different, which puts the door under a lot of thermal stress. The way Gripcore doors are engineered irons out those issues, and you are left with a product that not only feels substantial, but can tackle the challenges that the great British weather throws at it.”

Homeowners can choose from a unique range of door styles, colours, and glazing options to create the perfect customised entrance door for many property styles: choose Belfry for a cosy country cottage, or Augusta Long for striking urban contemporary, for example.

PRODUCT NEWS

Interest For Avantal Composite

Door Is Considerable white internal face.

It’s a product design and specification that’s been 18 months in the development and Avantal will also incorporate a new flush mounted and matching glazing cassette system. The look and feel are distinctively aluminium, yet at a better price point with dedicated ultra-premium hardware that comes with a lifetime warranty and a 3 Star Sold Secure Diamond cylinder as standard.

Gripcore doors can achieve an ultra-low U-value of 1.0W/m²K or better; and they feature multi-point locking mechanisms and high-grade security hardware.

Sternfenster says it has a range of marketing literature which showcases all composite door styles and options to help your customers choose their dream entrance door.

“Also, by partnering with Sternfenster, you have access to Sternfenster Plus, a next generation, online resource that gives you everything you need to run your businesses more efficiently,” Nathan said. “This includes a live production capacity feed that allows you to check on the status of your quotes, contracts and deliveries, download comprehensive training and marketing materials, and visit a regularly updated news feed.” www.sternfenster.com www.sfplus.com

Endurance Doors are now taking orders for their Avantal composite door, with a number of Installer Partners now gearing up their respective showrooms with a flagship display of perfect product innovation and intuitive design.

Avantal is a game changer for the composite door market and is based on the proven and next generation solid timber core chassis of Endurance, claims the company, yet featuring ultra-matt Black, Anthracite Grey and Signal Grey smooth finishes, along with the woodgrain inspirations of Anteak and Rustic Cherry. The edgebanding has also been upgraded to a textured premium white finish, while the internal face features an ultra-matt, premium smooth

There are five initial urban inspired door designs with the Avantal range with more to come, as the product is developed further to include aluminium inlays among other features.

Like their standard offering, there’s also the benefit of a Moisture Barrier System (MBS) and a well thought-out 3-step wet glazing process to the glazing apertures for long-term product performance.

Stephen Nadin, managing director of Endurance Doors explained the product rationale and said: “Avantal is unquestionably the next stage in the evolution of the composite door market, thanks to it’s ultra-premium proposition. Our Installer Partners are literally queuing up to add it into their respective showrooms and the sales potential for the remainder of 2022 and beyond already looks significant.” endurancedoors.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 51

PRODUCT NEWS minimum sizes, and every unit is manufactured to the highest quality standards using only the globally renowned ScreenLine integral systems from Italian company Pellini.

Like all Uni-Blinds, the pleated blackout is made to order by Morley Glass at its state of the art factory in Leeds and delivered nationwide to customers in as little as 10 days.

Ian Short, MD of Morley Glass said: “We know through feedback from our installers that many homeowners say they would benefit from a blackout blind in specific rooms to suit their lifestyle. For example, those who work shifts and have to sleep during the day, or parents with young children – they can create a better sleeping environment with a blackout blind.

Window Of Opportunity For Pleated Blackout Uni-Blinds

With Long Summer Days On The Horizon Homeowners looking to shut out the bright light of summer evenings and early mornings have a stylish new option open to them this year with the recently launched Uni-Blinds pleated blackout integral blind.

Perfect for windows and doors in rooms such as bedrooms, cinema rooms and children’s nurseries, the high performance pleated blackout integral blind system from Morley Glass is attracting strong interest among homeowners and installers given its ability to transform a room.

For those customers planning ahead for spring and summer 52 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

home improvement projects, this new integrated blind option provides an effective solution for rooms affected by unwanted daylight. Its ‘darkness on demand’ capability is provided through a design that prevents light bleed around the edges, as well as along the cords – a common area for light to leak through.

With eight colours available and a choice of control systems including a cordless magnetic slider, the Uni-Blind pleated blackout system provides a shading and privacy solution to suit every taste. They can be used in all types of windows and doors, subject to maximum and

“That’s why we developed the Uni-Blinds pleated blackout integral blind with Pellini to extend our range. It means that homeowners who want to complete their new windows or doors with integrated blinds – or upgrade their existing windows – do not need to compromise to make their internal spaces perfect.”

The Uni-Blinds pleated blackout is suitable for a range of double glazed unit thicknesses, including an a 20mm cavity exclusively from Morley Glass. Each unit also benefits from a bespoke warm edge spacer bar to guarantee excellent thermal performance.

Ian added: “For any installer looking to expand what they offer to homeowners and gain a competitive edge, as our pleated blackout demonstrates, Uni-Blinds is a superb product range to consider. All our integral blinds units are easy to fit, and we provide unrivalled nationwide support to help our customers deliver the right installation every time.” www.morleyglass.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Jeld-Wen Launches

‘Express’ Timber Window Range

Jeld-Wen has launched Stormsure Express; a collection of coloured timber windows with delivery from 10-days.

In response to growing industry and consumer demand for reliable,

easy-to-install, high-quality products that can be delivered within a short timeframe, Jeld-Wen ’s agile production processes speed up the assembly of standard-sized timber windows, offering guaranteed delivery to site from just 10

days.

Available in six of Jeld-Wen ’s most popular colours, and with a choice of black, polished chrome or satin chrome hardware, Stormsure Express offers a total of 36 design options in a range of sizes and configurations. With a factory-fitted multi-locking system and 24mm double glazing included as standard, the engineered softwood range also benefits from up to 10year paint, 10-year hardware and 10-year glass guarantees.

Using FSC accredited timber, JeldWen ’s windows provide a sustainable, high-quality and attractive alternative to uPVC frames. HiBuild paint is applied as part of the manufacturing process to reduce time spent decorating, while a B-Energy Rated glazing system ensures the windows offer robust protection against the elements all year round. https://bit.ly/3KsMsYj

Do the maths!

Heavy duty rollers.

Individual sash weights of up to 200kg

Win more business. Fit and glaze doors start to finish, in less than

Marine grade finish.

Textured and dual colour options

2hrs!

Call 01249 816 969 or email info@deceuninck.co.uk to find out more.

AS STANDARD

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ERTED -INS G RE

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IN FRAM KET E AS

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Glaze leaves in as little as 5-minutes per unit

Deceuninck Aluminium Stanier Road • Porte Marsh • Calne • Wiltshire SN11 9PX T +44 (0)1249 816 969 • F +44 (0)1249 815 234 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 53 info@deceuninck.co.uk • www.deceuninck.com

PRODUCT NEWS

Stellar Aesthetics Offer A Clear Point Of Difference For High-End Projects ‘Stellar’s unique flush aesthetics have given the multi-award-winning aluminium system a competitive edge to capitalise on high-end projects in the domestic sector’. This is the view of Philip Cresswell, sales and marketing manager at Heritage Trade Frames which has been fabricating the system since it launched in 2019. Philip said: “Owners of high-end and design-led homes are looking for something distinctive when it comes to window and door replacements. Aluminium has long been the material of choice on such projects but until 54 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Stellar, most systems were very me-too. Stellar offers the credentials that give consumers the aesthetic differentiation they are looking for as it’s visually stunning.”

The ability to secure lucrative domestic projects with Stellar is a view shared by one of Heritage Trade Frames’ installer customers, Oswestry Windows and Doors. Matthew Dunne-Smith, owner, said: “We’ve secured several high-end projects recently thanks to Stellar. When consumers see the unique aesthetics and

the modern, contemporary flush styling they are sold. It offers a clear unique selling point that allows us to sell with complete confidence when it comes to securing higher value projects.”

Stellar says the system makes the difference on high value projects for several reasons: ‘Firstly, it’s the only aluminium system on the market to offer a fully flush casement option. It uses the patented Reverse Butt Joint, which means that no dummy sashes or reverse adaptor profiles are needed. This creates a glazing area that’s up to 12% larger, which gives a dramatic expanse of glass. It also delivers products that can be genuinely flush on both the inside and outside, creating the sleek, sophisticated aesthetic homeowners want.’

PRODUCT NEWS

Dekko Reports Over

Half Of Orders Are For

Coloured Products

Dekko Window Systems has seen a strong demand for coloured uPVC and aluminium, with the trade fabricator reporting that 55% of the orders it received in the past year being for coloured profile.

‘Then there’s the immaculate finish that is so important on high value projects. Stellar is a pre-gasketed system that uses patented knock-in beading. This leaves a neat, clean finish on the gasket line as well as making installation quicker and easier. The powder coating uses a marine grade finish as standard and every product is inspected at a distance of one metre, far in excess of the three metres that’s the industry requirement’.

Stellar was developed to set a new standard in aluminium system design. Its multiple award wins would appear to prove it’s succeeded in its aim – as does its position as an ideal aluminium solution for premium domestic projects. www.stellaraluminium.co.uk

Sales director Kurt Greatrex comments: “Coloured profile has been a growing trend across the industry for a while now, especially in the post-lockdown home improvement boom.

“Homeowners have been investing more and more in their properties, and there’s certainly an uptake in people choosing colours rather than the standard white products we’re used to.

“And it’s thanks to our trusted suppliers that we’ve been able to keep up with that demand.

“Deceuninck, for example, has been a long-standing and reliable supplier of an extensive range of high-performing uPVC products such as flush sash window systems and patio door systems, all available in a wide range of foils and colour coated finishes.

“As with us, colour is a priority for Deceuninck, and they’re able to offer us a quick turnaround on these products, enabling us to offer quick lead times to our customers in turn.”

Further boosting Dekko’s colour sales is the recent launch of 10 new colours by Residence 9.

“We were always able to offer our customers this premium range in a wide range of colours and wood effects, but thanks to their recent expansion, we’re now able to offer exclusive colours such as Clotted Cream, Cotswold Biscuit, Eclectic Grey, and No.10 Black, to name a few, giving our customers a lot more to choose from.”

In addition, Dekko’s Räum collection of luxury aluminium windows and doors are all finished with a durable powder coat paint application, available from hundreds of colours with matt or gloss finishes, woodgrain and textured options, or a special scratch-resistant, low-maintenance Coatex finish. www.dekkowindows.com WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 55

PRODUCT NEWS life.

Fabricators and installers are now able to order colour swatches for 10 brand new colours launched this year, which range from Sage to Honey Oak, and Bronze to Clay. Designed with evolving colour trends and the homeowner in mind, fabricators can order the new colours on special order only, and installers are encouraged to get in touch with their fabricator.

Jo Trotman, marketing manager for The Residence Collection, said: “The launch of our 10 new colours follows an in-depth analysis of market trends and homeowner preferences. Fabricators and installers are increasingly being challenged to offer their customers something a little different to the conventional colour palette, and these colours will give homeowners much more choice to achieve their desired look.

New Colours For The Residence Collection The Residence Collection, has added 10 distinct new colours to its range of innovative windows and doors.

Launched across its three collections, R2, R7, and R9, the new colours combine time-honoured traditional aesthetics with innovative contemporary design.

The launch comes as part of The Residence Collection’s unique Colour Collection, which 56 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

groups 26 colours into 6 distinct categories. Including a Coastal and Forest Collection, and a Industrial and Cotswold Collection, they have been carefully crafted to tailor to varying aesthetic preferences for homeowners and architects.

The Industrial collection is a prime example. The palette represents the deep metallics of an industrial setting, from Bronze to Pyrite, which can transport the home to an urban way of

“Our windows have proven themselves as a great option for a range of period homes and heritage properties, which is exactly why our new colours are in keeping with those traditional aesthetics whilst also offering a contemporary design. We’re looking forward to seeing our new colour range featured in homes and buildings across the country.”

The Residence Collection is known for its unique approach to time-honoured architecture and sleek contemporary design.

Offering a range of innovative designs, The Residence Collection offers double and triple glazing, A++ energy ratings and u-values as low as 0.74w/m2K, already achieving future Building Regulation changes and Passivhaus standard.

You can view the new colours by watching our Introduction video here. www.residencecollection.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Minimise The Effects

Of Weathering

By Angus Mackie – Qualicoat UK & Ireland Chair All materials when exposed to the elements will age in some form and change in appearance over time. Materials like stone and brickwork tend to age very well and offer an aesthetic look for many years with virtually no maintenance. Other materials such as copper take on a patina, a bright green colour in the case of copper, as the surface weathers and builds up a protective surface oxidisation. The effects of UV radiation and pollutants in rain can also have deleterious effect on many building materials often leading to premature failure. These finishes are often coated finishes and require careful specification.

First of all, it is important to con58 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

sider the design of any facade or roof. It is important to consider run-off of rain, as, if allowed to concentrate in any area, this can lead to localised staining, even on brickwork. An example of a run-off detail is the use of drip cills under windows which allow rainwater to run off the facade rather than run down the facade.

Window and facade longevity starts with a high quality aluminium substrate pretreatment and powder coat finish as provided by a licensed Qualicoat applicator. To identify a licensed Qualicoat applicator in the UK or Ireland, simply go to the website www.qualicoatuki.org which is kept up to date with current licence holders.

Often overlooked in the specification process is the choice

of pretreatment system on the aluminium substrate, this is crucial as it needs to completely seal the aluminium surface whilst offering a good key for the powder coating to adhere too. Despite the powder coating being of a consistent thickness, coatings are air permeable and as a result, if the pretreatment is poorly applied, oxidisation of the aluminium substrate over time could cause the finish to lift. UK and Ireland Qualicoat applicators are routinely inspected by independent test house, IFO, to ensure that the latest Qualicoat Standard is being adhered to which ensures that a robust pretreatment has been applied.

Prior to handover of any new installation or building, coated aluminium fenestration will be cleaned down professionally to ensure that the finish is not damaged. It is crucial at this time to have any areas of impact or abrasion damage repaired, should it be present. During cleaning, all the protective tape must be removed from the inside and outside of powder coated surfaces as if this is left on for an extensive

PRODUCT NEWS time, the tape low-tack adhesive can often degrade, especially in UV light, and become firmly attached to the powder coating.

Once handed over to the client, in normal use such as in cities, the powder coat finish should simply be washed down at yearly intervals with clean water or with a ph neutral mild detergent solution in water. This should be enough to protect the visible surface of the powder coat for many years and can simply be done during the cleaning of windows. The powder coat finish wash down is especially important where squeegee bars are used to clean the glass, as their use tends to place the residue of the airborne contaminants directly on the powder coated frame which could begin to etch into the surface finish of the coating. Window cleaners must ensure that all powder coated surfaces are wiped clear of cleaning residue on every window clean.

The original colour of the powder coating can be affected over time by contaminants in the atmosphere and possible UV degradation. Ensuring that the regular cleaning cycles wash down and remove any atmospheric deposits, especially acids that can be present in precipitation, will certainly help reduce possible staining of the powder coating. Elevations in full sun could be affected by UV degradation where there may be evidence of chalking, which appears as a whitening of the surface. Chalking is caused by UV radiation which brings the binder in the powder coat to the surface and is not an indication that the powder coating has failed but is an indication that cleaning has been neglected. Again, regular cleaning cycles should keep any chalking to a minimum. Should a product or facade be allowed to fall into this state, there are specialist cleaning companies who may be able to clean and restore the coating to its original colour.

On all building projects, any

powder coated finishes will come with a cleaning and maintenance regime from the company who coated the aluminium profiles, this may be an independent coater or a systems company.

The cleaning regime will offer a minimum cleaning cycle which will need to be adhered to as well as being regularly recorded. This will ensure the coated finish is maintained within the applicators warranty and will help, should there be any claim in the future.

Powder coat warranties vary in length and are dependent on the powder coat finish used and the location of the installation. For example, where the coating is close to the sea, a marine grade or Qualicoat ‘Seaside’ specification for the coating should be specified and the cleaning regime will often be increased to at least three monthly intervals as the atmosphere is much more corrosive.

Crucial to any maintenance regime is preventative maintenance and powder coating is no exception, if the coating has become damaged, exposing the aluminium, it should be repaired as soon as possible. For repair, either contact the original coater, or approach any Qualicoat approved application who can normally offer guidance. If you have mislaid cleaning advice Qualicoat UK & Ireland offer a basic guide which can be downloaded from their website.

The global Qualicoat standard continues to be incrementally revised with update sheets and a reprint of the standard every year. The 2022 standard is freely available for download at www. qualicoat.net. For details on the availability of various colours and finishes contact any Qualicoat UK & Ireland member for more information. For updated information about the use and specification of Qualicoat in the UK and Ireland, please visit the UK & Ireland Association website at www.qualicoatuki.org

Kolorseal Increases Colour Options For

Customers

Kolorseal Ltd are helping customers to gain more business opportunities, with roofline and rainwater colouring options.

With virtually unlimited choice on colour spraying options for UPVc and aluminium products, there has been a recent increase in interest for gutters and fascias that match window frames and doors, for the company.

Installers are grasping that this adds to the options they can offer homeowners to ensure a look that will complement the property as a whole.

Deborah Hendry, managing director at Kolorseal comments, “We are seeing increasing enquiries on rainwater and roofing products that can be colour sprayed to match the door and window frames on renovation or new build projects.

Traditionally, gutters have been somewhat limited with colour but it is becoming increasingly common for homeowners to take bolder steps when it comes to colour matching their properties.”

Gutters that match the colour of the frames, for example, show a modern approach to property maintenance that will add value to the home by keeping all products in same colour theme. www.kolorseal.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 59

PRODUCT NEWS

Ultraframe

Launches New Structural Support Tools Ultraframe has announced the launch of a new range of structural support tools, designed to help customers when choosing eaves beam reinforcements, or specifying the new Goalpost to achieve large open spans. The launch means that specifying the correct Ultraframe structural support is simple, thanks to the suite of easy-to-use tools.

Commenting about the company’s latest support launch, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “Having recently expanded our structural support offering with the launch of our new Goalpost, we thought this was the perfect opportunity to create a series of easy-to-use tools to help our cus60 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

tomers choose the best structural support system for their projects.

We have a range of tools available, including a guide to choosing the correct structural support for each specific project, a video about lateral stability, an eaves beam calculator, and more. We know that the subject of structural stability can be a tricky one and so we have made the tools as simple to use as possible to ensure that our customers can navigate the topic with confidence.”

easy-to-understand guide to Ultraframe’s structural support solutions, designed to help installers to understand which beam reinforcements or goalpost is best for each extension or conservatory design.

Lateral Stability Explainer Video – A simple animation to clearly explain lateral stability and why it is important when specifying a goalpost.

EAVES BEAM SUPPORT TOOLS Eaves Beam Calculator – Enters the dimensions of a conservatory and use this clever tool to experiment with different beams until the correct beam is identified to support the doors in a design.

Eaves Beam Calculator Demonstration Video – A short demonstration video to show how the Eaves Beam Calculator works.

The new tools available to assist Ultraframe customers with choosing the correct structural support are:

Lateral Stability Flow Chart – An easy-to-use flow chart to help installers determine the lateral stability requirements of a rectangular roof.

Structural Support Guide – An

www.ultraframetrade.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Guardian Glass introduces ClimaGuard Neutral 1.0 Developed specifically to meet the new UK Building Regulations Part L for windows in new and existing residential builds, Guardian Glass has introduced Guardian ClimaGuard Neutral 1.0, a thermal insulating coated glass for double-glazed windows that has a Ug-value of 1.0 W/ m2K and offers improved aesthetics with a more neutral colour and a lower reflection compared to other 1.0 U-value glass products for residential windows, claims the company.

ClimaGuard Neutral 1.0 is a single product solution which can be used in its annealed 62 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

form or can be heat treated for use in safety applications. This means glass processors do not need to stock two different glass products (a heat treatable version and an annealed version) to meet the demand from window makers.

Changes to the UK Building Regulations were published in December 2021 and will come into force on 15th June 2022. One of the five new Approved Documents, Part L (‘Conservation of Fuel and Power’), introduces new minimum efficiency standards for both new and replacement thermal elements, windows

and doors. New build schemes will be assessed under the new SAP 10 (Standard Assessment Procedure) method. From June this year it will be mandatory for all new windows including roof windows and glazed doors, to achieve an improved maximum U-value of 1.6 W/m2K compared to 2.0 W/m2K previously. Taking into account the complete window system (frame, sealant, spacer bar, etc.), this means the notional U-value target for windows in new dwellings is now 1.2 W/m2K. This means that window makers and glass processors will now require a glass product with a Ug-value of 1.0 W/m2K to meet these new regulations.

Gary Frakes, regional sales manager UK & Ireland at Guardian Glass comments: “In order to achieve a Ug-value of 1.0, Guardian Glass has taken a very

PRODUCT NEWS

Swisspacer’s

La Pensilina Glass Canopy System Ticks All The Boxes

different approach, believing that the glass should help bring as much natural daylight as possible into people’s homes, with clearer, less reflective view. Thanks to Guardian knowledge in coated glass innovation ClimaGuard Neutral 1.0 is more colour-neutral with a lower reflection”.

ClimaGuard Neutral 1.0 achieves 74% light transmission for a double IGU 4-16-4 panel (coating on surface #3, 90% argon fill), 14% light reflection and a solar factor of 52%. The product is available on Guardian ExtraClear float glass as standard, on Guardian ExtraClear laminated glass and on Guardian UltraClear low-iron float glass, offering better colour neutrality and a higher transparency for even more natural views of the outside. www.guardianglass.com

Swisspacer’s La Pensilina glass canopy system has received great feedback from Cambridgeshire-based, Rooflgaze Rooflights Ltd, thanks to its modern, minimalist design and wide range of applications.

Roofglaze, which specialises in the design, manufacture and maintenance of flatglass rooflights and roof glazing systems, recently installed 10 La Pensilina canopies in an industrial warehousing unit in Rowley Regis in the West Midlands.

The canopies were required to cover the entrance doors and complement the façade of the building. La Pensilina was chosen over traditional timber or steel canopies as it provided a frameless, minimalist design that is a stunning addition and aesthetic match for the modern warehouse.

Fraser Caithness, Roofglaze sales director says: “With Swisspacer, you know that the products they’re putting into the marketplace are going to be fit for purpose. But with La Pensilina, it’s more about the aesthetics. It looks very modern. Glass is very popular now and it can add a modern flavour to a building, compared to the old timber canopies.

“The La Pensilina glass canopy fitted our client’s requirements perfectly. It’s quite dramatic because you have this piece of glass floating ethereally, and you think ‘Wow!’ People are very keen on these minimalist, modern designs and, in terms of what people are looking for, it absolutely ticks all the boxes.

Certainly, the client was very pleased with the end result. it did what we needed it to do, and it definitely served its purpose.” https://bit.ly/3MrWHhH WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 63

MACHINERY

Haffner

Launches New Machine To

Support Fabricators With

New Part F Regulations With the update to Part F ventilation regulations that is due to come into effect in June 2022, Haffner has launched its new MAC 145 Night Vent Router.

Dave Thomas, chief executive officer at Haffner explains: “With the change to regulations as part of the Governments’ Future Home Standards, we have launched our new MAC 145 Night Vent Router to allow single or double routing on both PVC-U and aluminium profiles. This new innovative twin motor machine, will support fabricators routing profiles for trickle and night vents as they work to achieve the updated Part F ventilation requirements.”

Innovation and technical excellence is said to be evident at every level. The machine incor64 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

porates an intelligent barcode scanner which quickly reads and sets the machine for accurate single or double routing. The CNC machine is controlled by a Beckhoff PLC system and offers a 2.5 metre maximum routing capacity. The machine is capable of routing both sides in one automated operation to further improve manufacturing efficiencies and routing accuracy.

Dave said: “The speed at which we have developed and bought the machine to market is nothing less than incredible and demonstrates the strength and capability of our design and manufacturing teams.”

The machine will be one of a large selection of fabrication machinery on show at FIT 2022 from the Staffordshire-based

business. Haffner, which recently increased its FIT stand space to a record 610sqm, will be showcasing a vast range of machines all designed to help fabricators at every level. The company says it will also be the first ever fully seamless machinery stand in the UK because it will showcase the complete Graf Synergy range, as well as machinery from both Haffner and FOM ranges.

Award-winning Haffner has been synonymous with quality fabrication machinery for many years.

As a business that is ahead of the curve, the new MAC 145 Night Vent Router is another example of the company’s proactive approach to offering the machines that fabricators need.

Dave concludes: “As a business, we pride ourselves on offering the largest machinery range to help fabricators of all sizes and solve their day-to-day problems.

The amendments to Part F have caught many fabricators by surprise but the new MAC 145 Night Vent Router is a machine that will help them to accurately deliver this new requirement as well as free up capacity on their existing machining centres.” www.haffnerltd.com

DELIVERING

THE BEST

IN SEAMLESS WELDING TECHNOLOGY

STAND H21

• Superior transom welding quality

• No imperfections, even on curved profiles

• Utilising patented V-Perfect® transom welding

• Suitable for both V Joints and Butt Joints

• Precision accuracy – delivering a perfect weld every time

• Faster fabrication

• Weld seam elimination

• Fully automated processes

DISCOVER MORE on the range of Graf Synergy machines EXCLUSIVELY from Haffner

Tel 01785 222421 www.haffnerltd.com The Accolade Building, Common Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 3EQ

MACHINERY

The New V-Notch Saw From Jade Engineering Jade Engineering has developed and launched a new V-Notch saw, the first to hit the UK market for some years, claims the company.

The Jade VNS V-Notch saw has been designed and manufactured to comply with the latest manufacturing performance requirements and crucially to include a number of safety features that allow compliance with the latest European and UK safety legislation.

Specifically, says Jade, the VNS has been designed and manufactured in accordance with the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. It is also future proofed by complying with the UKCA Directive, which becomes mandatory at the end of 2022.

66 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

A number of safety features distinguish the Jade VNS from other machines in the market.

One is the unique machine guard which closes automatically as the profile is clamped into place, the only V-notch saw to offer this, says the company. Another is the carefully designed waste disposal chute situated on the side of the machine, that allows excess material to exit the machine without the operator being able to put their hands near the blades. The saw is also safely operated by using a two-handed start sequence.

Operation is simple and effective, with horizontal pneumatic clamp cylinders that are easily adjustable for any profiles. The two blades of the Jade VNS are set at 45° to one another

to form a 90° angle, with the cutting depth easily set by using a simple hand wheel adjuster, measured using a digital position indicator.

The Jade VNS is the latest machine to be developed by Jade Engineering in direct response to discussions with its fabricator customers, who indicated a desire for a rethink for this factory essential: “A number of frame manufacturers have approached us for replacements for their aging V-notch saws over the past few months and after examining our own products and carrying out some research it became clear that the world has moved on,” said Jade Engineering’s Sean Mackey. “We have totally re-engineered this machine to offer excellent cutting performance, great durability but also including the latest safety features. The Jade VNS is now comfortably the best machine of its type available today.” www.jade-eng.co.uk

ON-SITE

AluK Partners

With EYG On PBSA Project In Coventry AluK partnered with commercial specialist EYG on a new luxury Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) development in the centre of Coventry. Aluminium windows, doors, curtain 68 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

walling and entrance systems

by AluK, have been installed at 33 Parkside on behalf of Prestige Student Living.

33 Parkside is aimed squarely

33 Parkside Coventry featuring AluK windows, doors and curtain walling

at the luxury end of that market, with a mix of single bed studios and two bed apartments complemented by a cinema room, roof terrace, fitness suite and landscaped courtyards.

The 11-storey steel framed development was a design and build project by Construction Partnership UK (CPUK) based in Skelmersdale and the architects were student housing specialists O’Connell East Architects of

was an important benefit.

Stephen Watkins, AluK’s head of projects, emphasises the two companies’ proven expertise in this sector. He says: “We have already worked with EYG on similar PBSA projects at Laurence Street in York and Tate House in Leeds, supporting them with technical guidance where required and on time, in full deliveries.”

Manchester.

EYG fabricated and installed windows and doors throughout in AluK’s suited 58BW and 58BD window and door system, while the entrance system is in AluK’s Secured by Design accredited heavy duty GT55 TB system. The curtain walling is AluK’s SL52 flexible capped solution.

Key to the contract was EYG’s ability to work to a tight timeframe, so AluK’s support in guaranteeing product availability and working to short lead times

EYG’s managing director, Nick Ward adds: “We were delighted to work with AluK on this exciting project. We have carried out a number of installations in this sector, having partnered on student accommodation developments right across Yorkshire.

“Our commercial department has the capacity to take on multi-million pound projects and a proven track record of delivering complex projects efficiently and on time. We were thrilled to be asked to collaborate on such a prestigious development and it’s a pleasure to see the finished result, which is inspirational and aspirational student housing, which will be a joy to live in.”

Even with a fall in the number of overseas students coming to study in the UK, the Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector continues to boom. The UK is now second only to North America in terms of value, with market estimates of around £50bn.

Around 25,000 new PBSA beds are still being delivered into the UK market each year and, outside of London, Coventry is one of the biggest growth areas. The tallest building in the city is a new 20-storey student complex, and student living is helping to drive regeneration on many brownfield sites in the city centre, as it celebrates its year as the UK City of Culture in 2021.

With a 4000 increase in UK and overseas student numbers being planned by Coventry University over the next five years, much of the accommodation needs of these new students will continue to be satisfied by the private sector via PBSA. More details at: www.aluk.co.uk and www.eygcommercial.co.uk

ON-SITE

Central Window Systems Helps To Transform Iconic

Victorian Building

Fabricator Central Window Systems has partnered with commercial and domestic installer company Sutton Designs to help transform a Grade II listed building in Solihull into a full-service care home facility.

Planning permission to turn Tudor Grange House into a care home was granted in 2018, but fresh proposals have since been tabled for a more expansive care home made up of 44 residential units and 30 assisted living units.

Working closely with Sutton Designs, Central manufactured over 200 windows for the project.

Owner of Sutton Designs, Jon Gregory, comments: “We’ve 70 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

worked with Central Window Systems on several commercial projects. They understand the importance of meeting tight lead times, which helps ensure that the installation runs as smoothly as possible. In addition, their vast product range means we have a one-stop-shop for our installations.

“Tudor Grange is a very impressive development, and we were delighted to partner with Central and be a part of its construction.”

Tudor Grange House was built in 1887 for Alfred Lovekin, a Birmingham silversmith, and was bought by Sir Alfred Bird – of Birds Custard fame – at the start

of the 20th century.

It is understood to have operated as a Red Cross auxiliary hospital during and after the Second World War, before being acquired by Warwickshire County Council.

It was used as a school for children with special needs until the mid-1970s, at which point it became part of Solihull Technical College.

Central Window Systems director of sales Martyn Elwell comments: “We were delighted to work with Sutton Designs in the redevelopment of Tudor Grange and to contribute to the complete transformation of this historic building.

“We have a strong working relationship with Sutton Designs and we look forward to working with them on many development projects in the near future.” www.centralwindowsystems.co.uk

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ON-SITE

The Benefits

Of Collaboration On Display At Westmark Tower The 110m, 29-storey curved on plan Westmark Tower was the tallest residential tower completed in central London during 2021. Part of Berkeley Homes Central London’s prestigious West End Gate development in Marylebone, it features more 72 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

than 14,000m2 of unitised curtain wall, designed and supplied

by AluK and installed by envelope contractors Martifer.

What made the project really stand out was the collaborative approach demonstrated by AluK

and the other consultants from the outset, which effectively de-risked the process for both the client and the contractor at pre-tender stage. AluK worked with the lead architect Squire & Partners, delivery architect Design Delivery Unit (DDU), façade consultants Cladtech Associates and structural engineers WSP on a RIBA 4 system design for the unitised envelope.

Steven Watkins, AluK’s head of projects, explained: “AluK’s specialist expertise meant that we could create a unitised façade solution for the post-tensioned concrete frame

ON-SITE integrated floating glass balustrade.

With 36 different angles to overcome in a faceted design ranging from 0° to 15°, AluK developed a series of common aluminium extrusions to close the joints and reduce the number of profiles required. The horizontal stack joint uses an aluminium profile to carry the gasket and avoid the incidence of crimping as the cells are stacked around the building structure. What is also significant is that every cell connection provides four lines of system seal to ensure that the façade meets the stringent Cladtech performance specification and the CWCT Sequence B test.

which easily satisfied the design intent, while making sensible savings on metal and accessory costs. As well as accelerating the design of the structural frame, this approach saved Berkeley many months compared to the normal procurement route and meant that the tender returns for the fabrication and installation of the façade were accurate and comparable. It saved the tenderers the normal costs associated with a bid and ensured that all the commercial and design iteration took place pre-bid and was not left to interpretation.”

The challenge for AluK was to work with DDU to deliver a design that was true to the architect’s original intent, whilst addressing the technical issues of a curved on plan façade from the second to 29th floor. All the united cells needed to be dead loaded back to a post tensioned concrete frame with a 3-dimensional floor bracket, whilst catering for the varying facets of the façade.

The final unitised solution features more than 2200 unitised cells of three principal configurations. Each floor comprises: a vision cell, typically housing AluK’s concealed vent and full height glass panes, a panel cell, specifically designed to house specialist internal framework to carry articulated GRC (Glass Reinforced Concrete) feature piers and spandrels, and a recessed balcony cell with an

From the onset of the project, the Berkeley director team set out a time and design model of early engagement, specialist designers and fabricators all within a clear programme. This also included a series of productive workshops sharing client expectations and considerations.

AluK not only facilitated these meetings but also bought into the collaborative ethos and contributed to a highly successful project for Berkeley.

The façade design meets the thermal efficiency requirements of the building at 0.95W/m2K, as a weighted average. Using a 43dB Rw(+Ctr) acoustic glass, it also meets the sound reduction targets.

Tim Gledstone from Squire & Partners added: “Working together early in the design process allowed the design intent to be generated out of the crafted AluK products and industry latest processes. We could celebrate the best of the systems and push their potential to the optimum limits. The AluK design team were exceptional; dynamic and supportive throughout.” uk.aluk.com/en-gb/projects WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 73

ON-SITE

Profile 22’s Optima System Specified For

Community Hub In Leeds

Over 200 Optima windows and doors from Profile 22 were installed in an £11 million community hub in Leeds city centre.

Westerton Walk in Leeds city centre is an extra care housing development comprising of 63 one- and two-bedroom flats with care services, shared lounges and dining facilities. It has been built on a vacant Leeds City Council-owned site and has created a dynamic community hub.

The project required 205 casement windows, residential doors, emergency doors, sliding doors and curtain walling, the system specified was Optima from Profile 22.

The contract to fabricate and install the windows and doors was awarded to Profile 22 Approved Contractor Kingfisher Windows, a manufacturer and supplier of windows, doors and conservatories for commercial and new build projects.

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Optima from Profile 22 is an award-winning fully integrated 70mm window and door system. The system comes with the widest range of ancillaries in the industry and a choice of colour options to support all property types. In this project, Anthracite Grey was used on external faces to provide an attractive appearance. Internally, a white finish was used to complement internal decoration.

The system offers structural strength and security. When correctly specified, Optima casement windows are PAS24:2016 approved as standard. Secured

by Design requirements can also be met where required. Such assurances were important for this project because deterring crime was a fundamental consideration.

Also important was thermal efficiency and Optima meets all requirements for thermal efficiency as standard. Thanks to

its intelligent design as well as double and triple glazing options, thermal efficiency can be enhanced to meet a project’s specified standards, up to and including 0.8 W/m²K or A++.

As an experienced contractor, Kingfisher Windows is used to working with new build developers on projects involving tight timescales on busy construction sites. The fabrication and installation process ran smoothly, despite the additional challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Jonny Reynolds of Kingfisher Windows commented: “We worked closely with all stakeholders and took extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved.”

Now complete, Westerton Walk will help to meet Leeds City Council’s ambition to provide up to 1,000 new extra care housing units by 2028.

Jonny Reynolds said: “This was a great scheme to work on and the coloured frames we used have helped to create an attractive, distinctive development that is providing much-needed facilities and helping to regenerate Leeds city centre.” www.profile22.co.uk

the benefits with BFRC Noise Reduction Ratings

Noise Reduction Window Company Name Ltd PVC-U Casement Window A Rated Windows

A ++

A ++

A + A B

Noise Reduction Door

C D

Company Name Ltd

E

Composite Door A Rated Doors

Noise Reduction (Rw)

(In accordance with BS EN ISO 10140-2 or A ++ BS EN 14351.) Actual acoustic performance for a specific application depends on: the type and A + location of the external noise, the location of the A window or door, and how the elements or fabric of the building perform.

A ++

51 dB

B

Correction for traffic (C; Ctr)

C

(-1; -4) dB

D Licence No. 123456E Review Date: 03/08/2020 Noise Reduction (Rwlicence ) To verify this please

contact

(In accordance with BS EN ISO 10140-2 or BS EN 14351.)

enquiries@bfrc.org

51 dB

This label is not a statutory requirement. It is a voluntary label provided as a customer service to allow consumers to make informed decisions based on the noise reduction performance of competing products.

Licence No. 123456 © Only to be reproduced by permission of British Fenestration Rating Council Ltd

Review Date: 01/01/2019 To verify this licence: enquiries@bfrc.org

This label is not a statutory requirement. It is a voluntary label provided as a customer service to allow consumers to make informed decisions based on the noise reduction performance of competing products. © Only to be reproduced by permission of British Fenestration Rating Council Ltd

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Your products will stand out from your competitors’ and you’ll be able to avoid a race to the bottom on price. Sell using BFRC proven performance and leave your customers in no doubt.

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ON-SITE

The towering wall of glass was made possible thanks to Pilkington Planar™ structural glazing, which uses low-profile stainless-steel bolts and glass fins to hold double-glazed units in place without the need for a traditional framing system.

The quality of the views was further improved by using low-iron glass – Pilkington Optiwhite™ – to give an almost completely colourless appearance to both the face glass and the 15 mm thick supporting fins.

Pilkington Planar

The scheme also features a stand-alone Next store which is the third biggest in its portfolio and a major flagship for the brand.

The extensive glazing ensures that daylight is visible from any point in the store.

When the owners of one of Britain’s biggest out-of-town shopping parks decided to undertake a site-wide refurbishment, they wanted to marry a state-of-the-art customer experience with outstanding environmental performance. Choosing the right glazing system was crucial in achieving these twin aims.

As well as creating a stunning, modern shopping experience, the client also wanted the whole project to represent the highest standards of best practice in terms of sustainability.

Supplied For Major Retail Park

76 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

The centrepiece of Fosse Park in Leicester, a Crown Estate-owned scheme, is a retail terrace which is anchored at each end by a 90,000 sq. ft major retail store. Its whole length features double-height glass shopfronts, giving maximum uninterrupted views in and out by having no opaque framing or other support below 2.7 m in height.

For example, the park features 172 cycle spaces to encourage greener transport choices and

ON-SITE

its external lighting is powered by 500 photovoltaic panels. Of course, the extensive glazing would have a major bearing on the buildings’ ongoing carbon footprint, so the solution needed to deliver excellent energy performance.

For that reason, double glazed units were used throughout the scheme with a combination of air-filled and argon-filled cavities to improve the levels of insulation achieved by the glazing, avoiding excessive heat loss during the colder months of the year.

For the southerly glazed areas of the scheme that are exposed to direct sunlight, glass with either solar-control coatings or laminated interlayers were used.

The double-height glazing that fronts the main terrace also features a Pilkington Suncool™ 70/40 coating. This means that 70% of visible light is allowed through the glass but only 40% of the sun’s energy can pass through, claims the company.

The result is that the excellent views are maintained but the heat-

ing effect of sunlight on the interior of the building is significantly reduced, minimising the need for intensive air conditioning to create a pleasant climate for customers during the summer.

The Fosse Park development covers a large site made up of many different building units, so using Pilkington Planar™ throughout the scheme lends a uniformity of design that helps to deliver a consistent look and feel right across the park.

The two largest elements of the redevelopment were also designed by different architects.

The Fosse Park West area, which includes the main retail terrace and the flagship Next and Flannels stores at either end, was designed

by Corstorphine & Wright, while the Food Central food court was designed by DunnettCraven Architects.

Paul Williams, managing director at installer Vitrine Systems said: “The two parts of the scheme are very different in design because Food Central is an enclosed dining area featuring many hospitality units while the retail terrace

is outdoors. The consistency of the glazing ensures a visual continuation between the internal and external areas.

“The Pilkington Planar™ system allowed us to deliver the architects’ vision for the scheme while maximising sight lines, bringing natural light into store interiors.

“Carrying out the installation during the disruption caused by the pandemic, and the need to always operate in a Covid-safe manner on site – made this an unusually challenging project, especially given its large scale. Despite this, we delivered the project successfully, on time and budget, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our partners at Pilkington UK for their dedication and support in helping to make this possible.”

Lee Shaw, Pilkington Planar™ business development manager at Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, said: “This is another project that demonstrates that Pilkington Planar™ is the system of choice for applications that call for unobstructed views without compromising on structural strength or energy performance.” www.nsg.com WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 77

ON-SITE

Profile 22’s Optima Specified For New Build

Development In Harrogate Over 1,700 Optima windows and doors from Profile 22 were installed in a £38 million tenure-blind new build housing development in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

Skipton Road is a new build development from Home Group built on former agricultural land in Harrogate. The scheme comprises of 214 apartments, detached, end terrace, linked detached, mid terrace and semi-detached homes with two to five bedrooms. Sixty percent of the homes are for private sale and 40% for affordable housing, which is split across affordable rented and shared ownership properties.

A primary aim of the development was to create a tenure-blind community, with no discernible difference between private and affordable homes. This would ensure 78 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

that all parts of the site are equally attractive and would contribute to greater community cohesion.

The aim meant the project’s specification was critical, with every element needing to provide exceptional quality and good value.

The windows and doors specified for the contract were Optima from Profile 22, which had all the credentials required.

With the project needing over 1,700 casement and flush casement windows, residential doors and French doors, it was awarded to experienced Profile 22 Approved Contractor Kingfisher Windows, a leading manufacturer and supplier of windows, doors and conservatories.

For this project, the Optima windows had a textured Basalt foil on

the external face to tie in with the development’s subdued material palette that reflects the surrounding communities. The internal face was white to provide an understated look that would complement any interior design.

Kingfisher Windows is an experienced commercial window contractor used to working on large scale new build developments. The company liaised closely with the main contractor and all the other trades on site to ensure fabrication and installation ran efficiently. As the project took place during the Covid-19 pandemic, the company also put in place additional health and safety measures to protect the health and wellbeing of all staff.

The project is due to complete in March 2022 and Sean Egan, Home Group director of development, commented: “This is a prime site in a very popular town where there is a high demand for housing. We intend to deliver high quality homes which will be sought after by those wanting to live in the area.” www.profile22.co.uk

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FIT SHOW Force 8 and hardware manufacturer J Banks & Co Ltd. FIT Show event director, Nickie West comments: “We really have hit the ground running this year and I am delighted to see so many exciting brands, both new and returning, added to the floorplan in recent weeks.

FIT Show Flies Into 2022 With Record

Breaking Industry Support FIT Show organisers have announced record levels of industry support for its delayed 2021 event, which is due to return to the NEC Birmingham from 10 – 12 May, 2022.

Visitor registration is currently 50% above the same point in the campaign for FIT Show 2019 show, whilst a total of thirteen brands have signed up to exhibit or increased their stand size in the month of January alone.

When FIT Show returns in May it will be the first live European trade show for the glass, glazing, windows, doors, conservatories, hardware and components industry in three years.

Organisers have reported that there will be an exciting line-up which includes a combination of brand leaders, new and exciting start-ups, FIT Show first-timers and some well-known brands who will be returning for the first time in years.

80 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

In January, machinery giant, Haffner increased its space to 610sqm, making it the largest stand in FIT Show’s history, in order to be able to showcase more running machinery such as the Graf Synergy Range. Fenestration industry recruitment experts, Chase Taylor have also taken more space at the show, as did composite decking supplier, Ronjack.

Debut FIT Show exhibitors who have signed up in recent weeks include bespoke metal door manufacturer, Strongdor and modular steel outbuildings manufacturer, Telluria. They’ll be joined by FIT Show first-timers ICB Fabrications, sustainable merchandise supplier, Media HUT, Checkatrade, the online portal for finding tradespeople and Solar Calibre Doors.

Returning brands to join the lineup include machinery experts, Emmegi who are joined by bespoke timber window, door and fire doorset manufacturer, West-Port Timber, window and door manufacturer,

“The lifting of UK restrictions and delay of Fensterbau have boosted both exhibitor and visitor enquiries, making the UK a safe haven for those looking to connect their brand with the market, en masse, via a trade show. We’re proud that FIT Show will be the first major European trade show for the entire industry, post-pandemic.

“In the coming weeks we’ll be running an online exhibitor enhancement day to ensure that all of the brands that have shown their support by choosing to exhibit will be armed with all of the information they need to drive the best possible return on investment.

“We’re working hard behind the scenes on our learning programme, which is taking shape at pace. We’ll be delivering the very latest information about key industry issues, including presentations about the Approved Documents F, L & O covering the upcoming changes to Building Regulations, which are to come into force from 15th June.

“We’ll also have content that helps installers and fitters to do better business – from managing their supply chain and improving efficiencies through to growing their portfolios to increase profitability.

“Our focus from March onwards will include building on the fantastic visitor pre-registrations that we have already amassed over the last few months. We’re excited to start the visitor campaign in earnest ahead of welcoming our entire community back to the NEC in May.” www.fitshow.co.uk

FIT SHOW

Win An iPad Each Day

At ODL Europe’s Stand At The FIT Show Visitors to the ODL Europe stand at this year’s FIT Show will have a chance to win a 10.2-inch 64GB WiFi-enabled iPad each day.

Andy Meakin, head of sales and customer services at ODL Europe, said: “We’re giving away an iPad because it’s a reflection of the quality we deliver as a business. Using an iPad on site visits makes a great impression on customers, not to mention reducing admin time because you enter information straight into the system. Plus, it is great for personal use too.”

To be in with a chance of winning the iPad, visitors to ODL Europe’s stand will choose a key and use it to try to unlock a special composite door. The person who selects the key that unlocks the

door wins the prize. The promotion is running on each of the three days of the FIT Show.

As well as being in with a chance to win an iPad, visitors to ODL Europe’s stand will also be able to see the company’s vast range of composite door and specialist products. The cornerstone of the range is the Capstone composite door slab, which offers an outstanding pedigree. There is a huge range of composite door designs across contemporary, heritage, classic and specialist collections, many of which are exclusive to ODL Europe. Also on display will be a wide variety of unique decorative glass options that have all been carefully designed to work with the door styles, as well as a glazing cas-

sette range that includes the TriSYS® system. Completing the line-up will be the Blink® Blinds + Glass.

Andy Meakin concluded: “We’re looking forward to showing visitors how ODL Europe can help secure a competitive advantage in the composite door market – and to the anticipation of seeing which mystery key unlocks our door too!”

Visitors to FIT Show 2022 can find the ODL Europe team on stand D11. www.europe.odl.com

Veka Recycling: ‘PVC-U Recycling Has Come A Long

Way Since The Last FIT Show’

Alex Hamilton

Veka Recycling is using the FIT Show to engage with installers, fabricators and other systems brands to communicate the importance of recycling PVC-U and how it can help sales and profits at every level of the

supply chain: “Veka Recycling processes end-of-life PVC-U window and door frames irrespective of original manufacture,” says Alex Hamilton, the firm’s head of sales and marketing. “We need all the frames that we can get to put back into the system, especially new window and door profiles. And we also want to encourage installers not only to recycle old frames, but to understand the importance of doing so responsibly and through licenced recyclers. And of course, to use the fact that they are recycling their customers’ old frames to reassure them that the material is being used to make brand new products, including frames.”

Alex added: “So much has changed in PVC-U recycling even since the last FIT Show, in-

cluding the opening of our new plant in Wellingborough and we want to talk to as many visitors as possible about how they can use recycling to close sales and add to their bottom lines, whatever level of the industry they operate at.”

Veka Recycling’s brand-new PVC-U recycling facility in Wellingborough opened at the end of 2020. It was built specifically for the re-processing of end-of-life PVC-U window and door frames, together with sending virgin offcut material back into the system. Significantly, the new plant allows the complete reprocessing of old frames in-house, with no further movement to other sites for refinement. https://veka-recycling.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 81

MARKETING & INTERNET

New RoofWright Lite

Tablet App

Do you sell Conservatories or Orangeries? Well, now RoofWright has brought the latest of its promised developments to market, the RoofWright Lite tablet app. At the touch of a button salespeople and installers now have a fully functioning design studio at their fingertips, and users are already seeing a noticeable rise in conversion rates.

Operating from a tablet the new ‘Lite’ app offers users the opportunity to design and customise their proposals directly in front of the customer, allowing them to input into the process, and to see their dream home including all their personal preferences come to light right in front of their eyes.

With a tap of your finger users can choose a Conservatory style then customise it to the exact

82 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

sales conversion rates, but RoofWright Lite goes even further.

Users can use their tablet to take a picture of the customer’s house and overlay the conservatory design they have just created to show them exactly how it will look when it’s installed.

Speaking about the launch, Dave Blakeman, managing director of RPS Software who produce the programme said “RoofWright Lite is the latest in a long line of developments we are going to put into the market. We are on a really exciting journey which will also see us launch Augmented and Virtual Reality design software during 2022. We can’t wait to show our programmes at the FIT Show in May (Stand R65).”

wishes of the homeowner. Victorian? Double Edwardian? Lean-to?

Users can choose the type of roof glazing, pitch, finials, doors and windows and more. They can give the homeowners the most realistic view of what their new room will look like.

In the meantime, anybody who is interested in the RoofWright Lite app is invited to download the fully functioning dongle-free software for a trial. They can use it and love it for 14 days to see just what an impact it can make on their business.

Just using the design features alone will dramatically improve

For more information visit https://bit.ly/3sO3hXW

MARKETING & INTERNET

Emplas Gets Cyber Certified whole of 2019.

This included Emplas, which was among a high-profile window and door businesses to be targeted in a ransomware attack in March 2021.

Although contained within a 12hour period Emplas lost workstations and access to data, providing even more impetus to a programme which started in late 2020. The NCSC scheme provides a great framework through which press can be measured.

before and after

“Everything has been rebuilt from the ground-up. It’s new.

Every server, every computer is running current anti-virus software, the latest versions of software and all the latest patches” Stuart said.

Emplas has achieved Cyber Essentials Accreditation recognising the steps towards securing its IT systems against cyber-attack as part of a quarter of a million-pound investment in its IT systems.

“The cultural change has been equally as important. We have far better password discipline, two factor authentication, automatic locking of computers. Colleagues now constantly demonstrate alertness to threats such as email attachments etc.

The Government-backed National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) scheme is designed to support businesses in protecting themselves against cyber-attack including ransomware and viruses.

Following an eight-month programme of investment including a major upgrade of its network, servers, power supplies, virus software – and most importantly cultural change – Emplas was awarded the accreditation in December last year [2021].

Stuart Chadwick, head of IT, Emplas, said: “Our business and the service we offer to our customers is built around our IT infrastructure, connecting our portal EVA and the tools our customers access daily to our production systems, our factory floor and right through to distribution.

Stuart Chadwick

“Protecting that against a backdrop of a growing number of cyber-attacks, including many on our own industry, including us, is incredibly important in safeguarding our business and our customers’ supply chain.”

According to the NCSC 2021 annual review the number of ransomware attacks – where hackers extort organisations for the return of stolen data – was three times higher in the first quarter of 2021 than in the

“It’s about striking a balance between not inconveniencing people or putting things in the way so that IT becomes an obstacle versus the need for high levels of security.

“The Cyber Essentials Scheme is very useful in working through things in a very practical way while delivering a step change in security.”

According to figures from the NCSC Cyber Essentials accredited certified companies cut their risk of cyber-attack by 98.5%. www.emplas.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 83

EVENTS

Companies Sign-Up For

2022 Glazing Summit Momentum is already building for Glazing Summit 2022, with some of the industry’s biggest names already on board for the biggest one-day conference in the fenestration calendar.

The event will take place on Tuesday, October 18 at Edgbaston Stadium and despite being 10 months away, sponsors are said to be already queuing up to get involved.

World-leading lock experts Yale are already confirmed as headline sponsors, while others on board include the likes of MACO, Exlabesa, Unique Window Systems, Glazpart, Carl F Groupco Limited, Shelforce, Caribbean Blinds, Business Pilot and Chase Taylor Recruitment.

84 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Paul Atkinson, sales and commercial director of Yale Door and Window Solutions, explained why the company signed up as soon as last year’s event closed – and why Yale has supported the event since its inception in 2018.

“Glazing Summit 2021 was a really valuable experience and it’s the only industry event where it’s not just about selling products,” said Paul. “It’s about the industry getting together, promoting best practice, and learning what the challenges are in different areas of the supply chain.

“It brings together prominent people with plenty of influence in the industry so it’s a major event for Yale to be represented at and a good event to attend. It’s now

a fundamental part of the industry.”

Andrew Scott, Glazing Summit founder, said: “There was a buzz at last year’s Glazing Summit as live events returned for the first time since the pandemic, and this year we are planning to make it bigger and better.

“The support we have had since we launched the Glazing Summit into the industry has been incredible and we are already being inundated with enquiries to get involved.

“The Glazing Summit will confront the big topics head-on once again this year, and if last year’s event was anything to go by, 2022 will sell out fast.” www.glazingsummit.co.uk

EVENTS

Granada Completes UK-Wide Product Launch Schedule

It’s Swine

And Dine Time Granada Secondary Glazing has officially concluded an extensive series of launch events to unveil its new product range.

The events took place in Birmingham, London, Leeds, Bristol and Edinburgh respectively between November 2021 and February 2022, providing Granada’s trade and commercial partners from across the UK the opportunity to get hands-on with its new product range for the very first time.

The centrepiece of each event was a series of window rigs which were constructed in each of the five cities to give those in attendance an exclusive look at the aesthetics and performance of the new system in a real-world setting.

Sales and technical information spanning the entire range was also made available to visitors, with the Granada sales team delivering a presentation at each event that outlined the key improvements from old range to new.

Zoe Grafton, trade sales manager at Granada Secondary Glazing, said she was delighted with the reception to the events: “It’s been fantastic to be able to get so many of our valued customers and partners together over the past few months to demonstrate the new

product range.

“A huge amount of work went on behind the scenes to ensure we’ve been able to create the most high-spec secondary glazing solution on today’s market. The feedback from those in attendance has been incredibly encouraging, and their reception has mirrored the reception we’ve seen in terms of quotations and orders in recent months. We’re now entering phase two of our new product launch and look forward to more exciting announcements soon.”

Rob Cottam, commercial sales manager at Granada Secondary Glazing, concluded: “We had well over 100 visitors join us across the five events, which speaks to the scale and appeal of our new product range. From a commercial perspective, it was a great opportunity to gather architects and specifiers to delve deeper into how the new range can enhance a whole host of project types.

“We’re already begun to work on an events schedule for the coming financial year and look forward to meeting more of our commercial partners over the coming months.” www.gsecg.com

At Manchester PiGs March is fast approaching and that means it’s nearly time for Manchester PiGs, kicking off a busy year for the industry’s biggest and best networking event.

Revolucion de Cuba Manchester on March 17 will be the first of five get togethers taking place in 2022, including a brand-new location.

“The People in Glazing Society, or PiGs for short, gives us the ideal opportunity to catch up with industry friends as well as meeting new people,” says Sarah Ball, director at Balls2 Marketing and organiser of PiGs. “We all share a passion for this fantastic industry that we’re a part of and it’s certainly never boar-ing!

“Our Birmingham event in November last year was the busiest one yet, showing how the popularity just keeps growing and growing, and we expect it to be even Pigger this year.”

As well as the Manchester event on March 17, PiGs will also be taking place at the FiT Show on May 11, in Bristol for the first time on June 23, Birmingham on September 29, and wrapping up with a visit to Las Vegas on October 19, in conjunction with Glass Build America. https://bit.ly/3hQzs2F WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022 85

CHARITY

Rapid Raises Funds For Two Yorkshire Charities

South Yorkshire fabricator Rapid PVCu Systems is kicking off 2022 by supporting two charities.

Rapid commercial director Simon Bingham commented: “We’re very aware that thousands of amazing charities, social enterprises and other valuable community organisations have had a really tough time over the last two years.

From a list of worthy causes throughout the region, the Rapid team were asked to vote on which one they’d like to lend their support to in 2022.

Aurora and Freedom KDC were the two front runners, and since the result was so close, Rapid decided to choose both.

bereavement counselling, advice on hair loss and skin care, and six free beauty treatments for patients, and two for carers.

Founded in Doncaster in 2002, but also with centres in Bassetlaw and Mexborough, Aurora Wellbeing Services exists to provide personalised support for people suffering from cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.

Founded in Doncaster in 2010, Freedom KDC is a social enterprise that aims to reduce social isolation among vulnerable adults with disabilities and additional needs.

86 WINDOW NEWS | MARCH 2022

Rapid suppliers provided an array of raffle prizes, ranging from bottles of wine to hampers from Harrods, which the company’s staff then bought tickets to try and win.

The raffle raised £1,000, and this total was then matched by Rapid’s owners, Modular Group Investments, (MGI).

The firm’s suppliers, staff and management came together to hold a raffle that raised thousands of pounds for Aurora Wellbeing Services and Freedom KDC.

Affiliated with MacMillan Cancer Support and cancer charity Look Good Feel Good, Aurora offers

unemployment.

Through a mixture of training programmes, social events and linking people with work placement opportunities, the organisation helps build confidence and tackle

“The pandemic has made raising crucial funds harder than ever, and so we wanted to do our bit to help them continue their vital work.

“Both Aurora Wellbeing Services and Freedom KDC are fantastic organisations supporting hundreds of people around our region.

“We’re delighted to be able to make a contribution to their work, and have plans to significantly increase our charity involvement in the months and years ahead.” www.rapidpvcusystems.co.uk

CREATING BRIGHT FUTURES

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