Glass News March 2024

Thermoseal’s Sales Director

Mark Hickox argues that the Future Homes and Buildings Standards were an opportunity missed, but are they just a red herring?

On December 13, 2023, the government finally opened the consultation on the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, which will run until March 6. At the heart is a significant shift away from a ‘fabric first’ approach to improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, and towards mechanical services, such as heat pumps.

To say this was a missed opportunity would be an understatement. We know from the work we’ve done with our IGU manufacturing customers that many had prepared their operations for an expected increase in demand for triple glazing.

As a key supplier to the window industry, we have invested heavily in triple glazing, including new machinery and tooling, which will produce spacer bar in more thicknesses –ready for units with varying cavity depths.

And we know other suppliers – to varying degrees – had gone some way to preparing for more triple glazing. After all, we have been talking about it for long enough.

RED HERRING?

So, as an industry, we were as prepared as we were going to be, and this (apparent) last-minute decision to backtrack on the 0.8W/m2K U-value requirement for windows going into newbuild properties is an opportunity truly missed. Put it this way: do you think we are going to take the government seriously if/ when they indicate they are going to lower U-values in the future?

HOT BOX

As it happens, all this will do is slow down the move to triple glazing. Demand will still increase – it just won’t happen as quickly as if the government had legislated for it.

Two things will ensure this is the case.

For the first, I would like to draw your attention to this paragraph in the consultation document:

“For new dwellings, the U-value of a window should be determined using one of the following: a) calculated using the actual size and configuration of the window; b) measured using the hot-box method set out in BS EN ISO 12567-1 for windows and in

BS EN ISO 12567-2 for roof windows.”

In other words, the government is proposing to move away from the standard window configuration (1230×1480 open/fixed) to measure the U-value of windows, and to improve the accuracy of window modelling.

So, if your windows currently only just scrape a 1.2W/m2K U-value, and they are typically smaller than the previous standard window configuration, then you may need to incorporate triple glazing into your designs just to meet the current regulations.

The second thing is that we know from customers who supply products into the newbuild market that some developers are choosing to specify triple glazing in order to meet the target fabric energy efficiency rate without designing in more expensive insulation options. Furthermore, the triple glazed windows also act as a positive marketing tool.

And if one developer plans to go down this route, it won’t be long before others follow suit.

Continued on page 28...

The answer is automation. With a fully-automated IGU line, you can make your output quicker, more consistent and higher quality than ever before – and Edgetech will be on hand to help you every step of the way. Plus with recent changes to capital investment tax, investing in the future of your business is even more cost effective.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE?

SPEAK TO EDGETECH TODAY.

Writing this on a sunny Sunday afternoon, Spring has definitely sprung! There’s even some warmth in the sun and very different to the seemingly never-ending wet days we’ve had of late. But there is certainly something wrong with the seasons: snowdrops, daffodils, some blossom on the prunus, and even some tulips out and hedgerows bursting into life. It’s mid-February and we used to get snowdrops in January, daffodils in March and tulips in late April/early May! Perhaps this bodes well for our industry and windows and doors will be fitted over a longer season….

What won’t help is the UK going back into recession although some pundits believe that we are already coming out of it as soon as it has been announced. What we do need is confidence, with inflation under control and wages on a controlled but upward trend; that and a stable government that’s prepared to do what the voters have asked for but the chances of that happening with any of that lot in Westminster is pretty slim.

There are encouraging signs with activity within the trade increasing, particularly when it comes to investment. A trade press visit to the opening of Fire Door Maintenance’s training centre in Greater Manchester’s Bury is a case in point. Much has been talked about the importance of training and having the facilities for us to learn and the very significant investment in this training facility is more than welcome. Fire safety is a hot topic (no pun intended!) and it was sobering to listen to GQA’s Dan Brown as he talked about the importance of ensuring compliance with the latest fire safety regulation and that this accredited training centre will respond to the Hackitt report’s recommendations following the Grenfell Tower fire. The inquiry into the tragedy revealed fire doors didn’t perform as expected. Out of the 120 doors in the building, 106 had been replaced and comprised different hardware from the tested door. Now, thanks to the likes of Harlow Timber Group, West Port, Latham's Steel Doors, Unity Doors, Permadoor, Strongdor, The Sovereign Group, NSG Group, DoorCo,

Rutland, Mann McGowan, Lorient, PDS, and Contactless Check Solutions, IG, GGF, Pilkingtons, Nordan, PWIDF and Specialist Door Solutions who have donated products to this facility, our industry can see what complies with the Building Safety Act 2022 which aims to enhance overall quality, compliance, and competence following a series of tragic events resulting in devastating loss of life.  Importantly, it also displays what doesn’t comply, and that’s where I have great admiration for these companies who have been prepared to show their products in non-compliant roles such that students can understand the issues.

I would urge anyone who is involved in supplying or fitting fire doors, or indeed anyone who wants to learn more about fire safety, to use this excellent centre at Bury. There is a full article on Fire Door Maintenance’s training centre on pages 24 and 25 that will tell you more.

While on the subject of investment, the move by profine in acquiring the Aperture business, that was based at Huthwaite, has achieved a production base for their Kommerling products – a significant move forward from having warehousing and distribution at Lichfield. This will not have been an easy or insignificant investment as a great deal of refurbishment and purchase of new plant has been required. Again, a trade press visit revealed all, and very impressive it was, too. What is also impressive is that they maintained the service to their customers while this revamp of the site took place. This definitely shows confidence in the UK market.

This month Pioneer Trading’s Danny Williams was contacted by the owner of a trade fabricator/commercial installer/ small retail company who is at the point of wanting to sell up. In his Cold Calling column, Danny gives his advice on the subject and I must say I found it very interesting and informative. I’m sure there are plenty of businesses looking at how they may be able to ‘cash out’ at some point and Danny’s insight may just help with those deliberations. Have a look…

Lots of speculation on what the budget may have in store – one minute we’re looking at tax giveaways, and the next, tightening our belts! The UK’s fiscal policies appear to be all over the shop and this doesn’t help anyone’s financial planning. Let’s hope the reins are loosened and the homeowner, and businesses, have some free cash to spend, and especially on home improvements!

Christina Lazenby

Managing

M: 07805

E:

Emma

E: emma@glassnews.co.uk

Justin Lazenby

Finance Director /

Release Enquiries

M: 07711 828710

E: justin@glassnews.co.uk

Chris Champion

/ Editorial Enquiries

M: 07850 267223

E:

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU...

Where were you born and live currently?

My family are working class Nottinghamshire folk. I grew up in a council house, left home at 21 and moved to a town where my Grandad had worked down the pit. I still live local to those places, in a village. It’s peaceful. I enjoy mixing that with the buzz of working in London in the week. I still have family near me. In that respect I consider myself fortunate.

Your education and the subject or activity in which you excelled?

I have an unconventional educational journey from leaving school with nothing, to achieving a master’s in my 30s. When I left school at 15, I went to work in a factory. I’d no qualifications to speak of. I got sacked

for saying something uncomplimentary about the boss. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, so from there I bobbed about and ended up in public services, which I enjoyed. Eventually I returned to education in my 30’s to do a master’s in business administration. My favourite subject is leadership. I started researching leadership as part of a doctoral programme for a while in my 40’s, but it was too much to do that and work full time, so I’ve had to press pause on my academic dreams for now. Specifically, I’m interested in authentic leadership and why we’re often dissuaded from talking about failure and its natural place in us becoming brilliant at the things we stick to.

Your favourite sports or interests?

My garden is my happy place, I can be found out there from February to November. In December and January, I’m planning for the next season. In February and March, I

If you would like to appear in

THIS MONTH: Sarah Cresswell, Group Strategy Manager, GGF

Prior to joining the industry, Sarah was a management consultant, working with local authorities and the NHS. When not in her garden or walking the dog, you can find her listening to Sylvester Stallone motivational talks, watching Meg Ryan films and mapping out the GGF strategy.

wander around the garden every morning to see what is waking up for spring, and the greenhouse comes back to life. My garden is a place where I can think. The anchor to my mental wellbeing. I love feeling the sun on my face, surrounded by nature.

Your biggest regret in life?

I truly believe every decision I have made has led me to have the life I have now. Of course, I could have made different choices, and been in a different place now. Some of those are easy to see in retrospect, but some I will never know about, and pondering what could have been will only succeed in making me miserable. Nothing exciting is happening in the rear view, it’s all still to come!

The temptation you can’t resist?

A cosey night with 1980 films. Tom Hanks, and Meg Ryan for a bit of low effort entertainment, or Sylvester Stallone for something a little more action.

Someone or something that inspires you?

People roll their eyes at the Sly fascination but for me he is the ultimate go to when you need to give yourself a jolt of selfmotivation. I’ve been to see Sly speak a couple of times, you must actively get into the rhythm of his dialogue but when you do, its inspirational gold. Clever man that Sly. Underestimated.

YOUR CAREER...

When and how did you join this industry?

Coming up six months ago I was looking for my next challenge and came across an opportunity at the GGF who were looking for someone to lead their group strategy development and implementation.

What is your job?

I am the Group Strategy Manager at the GGF. Right up my street in terms of role, in an industry that wasn’t familiar to me. Sometimes that’s helpful because you arrive with no pre-determined barriers, an enquiring mind is required. Some of the factors of this industry are very familiar to public service, like the financial accountability and membership relations. I’m not suggesting I understand everything, but I have a very sound base line, I’m naturally curious and I bring lots and lots of transferable experience and skills.

Your greatest achievement?

My children are an obvious example. I guess my greatest strength is my quiet determination. It’s been tested on many occasions, and whilst I couldn’t say it is always there, I do know it always returns from holidays to serve me well.

AND YOUR FUTURE...

What would you like to do if you weren’t in this industry?

Anything where I could see a purpose to the industry I was in. That or running a garden centre.

A particular ambition?

I will return to my doctoral research at some point. Probably when I have retired though. I take my hat off to those who work and do academic research at the same time.

The way you want to be remembered. Unconventional, determined, kind, honest. With a smile.

or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email chris@glassnews.co.uk

‘Face to Face’,

THE WINDOW STORE UNVEILS NEW EXPANDED POOLE BRANCH

Following continued business growth, The Window Store has announced the relocation of its new expanded branch in Poole, Dorset. The relocated Poole depot, which was originally a shared facility with Epwin Group trade counter business National Plastics, opened its doors at its new site at Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole, in November 2023.

Karl Lodwick, General Manager at The Window Store, said: “The Poole branch has shown impressive growth, so much so that we outgrew the original shared location within twelve months of opening. With increased demand for our products and services, a larger dedicated space was needed. This expansion underscores our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers.”

The new Poole branch spans 5,500 sqft, making it the largest depot in The Window Store network. Showcasing the new, modern corporate branding, the branch incorporates an on-site showroom offering an inviting and approachable environment, allowing customers to explore the extensive product portfolio. Product highlights include the innovative Ultraframe hup! roofing system, award-winning Stellar Aluminium windows and doors, Safedoors composite doors and a comprehensive suite of Profile 22 frames.

To celebrate the relocation, The Window Store is hosting a programme of Open Days commencing with the Poole branch on February 14th 2024. Karl said: “Our Open Days allow customers to engage with our expert staff, explore our wide range of products and take advantage of exclusive promotions.”

He continued: “This new site allows us to showcase our expanded product range and provides a more immersive and enjoyable shopping experience for our valued customers.”

Hot on the heels of the Poole branch launch, The Window Store continues to expand its reach with Open Days planned for its Truro branch on 20th February and its Plymouth branch on 21st February 2024. Each event promises to be an exciting opportunity for customers to connect with The Window Store’s experienced teams and explore the latest trends in windows, doors and conservatories.

With a focus on convenience and excellence, The Window Store remains a trusted supplier for installers, builders, and DIY enthusiasts, offering local deliveries and value-added services to meet diverse needs.

Having expanded its Poole depot and with a vision to further extend its network, The Window Store looks forward to continuing its growth trajectory while maintaining its reputation as a trusted supply partner in the industry. Tel: 07831 187626 www.windowstoreplastics.co.uk

QR CODE, LESS WORKLOAD

Scotland based uPVC windows and doors manufacturer Window Supply Company (WSC) announces the launch of QR coded windows and doors, custom developed technology to save trade customers precious time and extra work.

Window Supply Company, a uPVC window and door manufacturing firm based in West Lothian, launches QR coded windows and doors underlining the company’s continuing commitment to innovation. This follows WSC named as the fastest growing manufacturing and engineering firm in Scotland’s 2023 Fast Growth 50 Index, and 5th fastest growing business overall.

As part of the manufacturing process, a unique QR code label is fitted to every window and door frame produced in the company’s 105,000 square foot manufacturing facility. By simply scanning the QR code with a mobile phone, installers gain instant access to all profile, glass, and hardware specifications. Saving trade customers time and costs by eliminating call outs for replacement parts. Consumers can also download helpful care and maintenance guides to keep new windows and doors looking great.

The QR code software was developed in collaboration with TOUCH by Business Micros, an industry first to benefit trade customers in Scotland. Business Micros Graeme Bailey says: ‘A great example of a product addition that makes a real positive difference. More customers need to adopt this approach’

WSC Sales Director Scotland Fiona Rafferty says: ‘We know the challenges our trade customers face, particularly with time. We work hard to address these challenges and develop solutions to make their lives a little bit easier. The QR Code is perfect, eliminating call outs for replacement parts. All information required is instantly available through the QR code.

Derek Smith of Smiths Windows & Doors says: ‘Window Supply Company is already a fantastic manufacturer to work with. The products are manufactured to great quality and there really wasn’t much room for improvement. The release of the QR code system on all windows and doors is such a simple but very effective improvement, and a huge selling point for us. We can direct our clients to the QR code for maintenance instructions and there is also some useful information on condensation which has reduced calls regarding these issues.’

QR code labels are in fitted in every Window Supply Company trade counter showroom from Inverness to Manchester.

New from Freefoam Building Products, Fortex® Natura cladding is manufactured using cutting-edge digital printing technology, so it’s virtually indistinguishable from natural wood.

“It has the look and feel of quality planed timber,” says Colin St John, Freefoam’s Commercial Director. “But unlike natural wood, it doesn’t fade, and is guaranteed to look as good in 10 years as it does the day it’s installed. The development of this unique cladding product has taken a significant investment of time and equipment, but the results are beyond our expectations.”

Colin adds: “The feedback from our stockist and Registered Installer customers so far has been incredibly positive, describing it as ‘just beautiful’ – and a market-disrupting product.”

There are six wood finishes available in the Fortex® Natura range: Aged Padauk, Barnwood Oak, Grey Cedar, Greyed Oak, Malted Oak, and Siberian Larch. Each features a nonrepeating pattern from expertly edited photographs of real timber. This is printed onto Freefoam’s foam PVC cladding boards using a special ink for external use, and a laquer topcoat for extreme durability.

A complete set of aluminium finishing trims is available in colours that perfectly complement the six cladding options, all RAL number referenced for accurate matching to windows, doors, and roofline.

The premium V-groove cladding can be installed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Low maintenance, it’s also easy to store, fit and handle, and is 100% recyclable. Fortex® Natura is supported with a brochure, display boards and hand samples. Call Freefoam on 0800 002 9903 to find out more.

Fortex ® Natura: the future of cladding

Fortex® Natura cladding is manufactured with cutting-edge digital printing technology, so it’s virtually indistinguishable from wood:

• Non-repeating timber patterns that look like natural woods

• Low maintenance, long-lasting & fully recyclable

• Install horizontally, vertically, or diagonally

Paired with aluminium trims with RAL references to colour-match windows & doors, Fortex® Natura opens up opportunities for installers renovating period or modern homes.

Call 0800 002 9903 to find a stockist and grow your business with premium cladding.

REHAU IS THE CURE FOR EPSOM HOSPITAL

When Epsom Hospital was in need of energy efficiency upgrades, the NHS Trust looked to specify REHAU’s curtain walling and TOTAL70C windows.

However, with the install set to take place in an active emergency department environment during the peak of a global pandemic, seamless collaboration across the NHS, REHAU, Hanevo, JM Aluminium, and LH&E Cost Consultancy would be necessary to ensure there was no disruption to the emergency department and operating theatres.

Epsom Hospital is a healthcare facility like any other, providing services spanning accident and emergency, diagnoses and more to the people of its namesake borough in Surrey. As a critical piece of infrastructure, its continued operation is vital to the health and wellbeing of the local community, with this being proven truer than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, like any long-serving site, upgrades to the building’s fabric would eventually be necessary in order for it to remain operational.

“Getting projects across the line in a live hospital environment is a challenge at the best of times, let alone during a global pandemic”, begins Dan Kocev, Project Manager at Epsom and St. Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust. “However, vital energy efficiency upgrades were necessary to bring the site into the 21st century and ensure that it is able to continue providing the best possible environment for care.”

Natanael Florut, Project Commissioning Manager at Epsom and St. Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, added: “We had some old timber screens and windows that simply weren’t up to scratch in terms of energy efficiency. I’d previously worked with REHAU products from my time in Romania and know their quality, as REHAU has an outstanding reputation at European level. While choosing something like REHAU's curtain walling was quite straightforward, I knew that the matter of the installation would be something else entirely, especially as our database did not have too many technical

records from when the hospital was initially built. Here, Kevin O'Neill's expertise during the design process proved to be absolutely crucial.”

With this, REHAU was soon approached by the NHS Trust and designated as the appointed supplier for the job. Owing to the complex nature of the project, critical infrastructure specialist Hanevo was brought on board to facilitate the design and build. JM Aluminium Ltd was then awarded the contract for the installation based on a list of recommended commercial installers and fabricators provided by REHAU, while LH&E Cost Consultancy provided cost consultancy and contract administration services.

Noel Hanley, Executive Chairman at Hanevo, said: “Working in critical infrastructure means that we’re no stranger to complex projects, but we knew that this installation would be difficult even by our own standards. However, through close collaboration with REHAU and the other project partners we were able to come up with a design that we were confident would work.

“Jennifer Marshall at LH&E was amazing in helping the entire project team, by financially reviewing the different design options to ensure the design selected met the client’s budgetary expectations. Annie Thomas then successfully managed the project post-contract as contract administrator and kept on top of all commercial aspects in her role as quantity surveyor.

“Kevin O’Neill at REHAU helped out with the drawings and window specification, and ensured that the whole project was compliant with building regulations. The section we were replacing backed onto critical operating theatres and quiet rooms that would remain in use during the installation, so the plan was to complete the removal screenby-screen. This would also help keep the site protected from the elements as we worked through the winter.”

With the stage set for the installation, it fell upon JM Aluminium to put the plan into action. “This was one of the most ambitious projects we’ve ever taken on, but the comprehensive planning and collaboration across the team gave us the confidence that we could get the job done”, added David Morant, Director at JM Aluminium Ltd.

“The new curtain walling was to be installed over a live ambulance bay and main pedestrian thoroughfare, meaning some pretty comprehensive health and safety assessments were necessary. From here, it was clear that we’d need a specialist system to get the profiles up safely.

“We were able to work closely with London Network Scaffolding to design a bespoke hydraulic and mechanical system, adapting the top of the scaffolding and fitting an electric hoist to raise the panels up through the middle. This proved to be an ingenious solution, allowing everything to go to plan and exactly according to timescale.”

Alongside the complex curtain walling installation, the project also saw the installation of 20 TOTAL70 windows in a foil wood grain finish. All in all, the project would take sixteen weeks, beginning in spring 2022 and concluding in the winter.

Kevin O’Neill, Commercial Manager at REHAU concluded: “Collaboration can often be a buzzword across the industry, but I don’t think I’ve worked on a project that epitomises it more than this. The outcome simply wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and adaptability of all of our stakeholders, from design through to installation. Minimising disruption was our main priority over the course of the project, and the NHS has told us that it was enamoured with the lack of complaints they received, so we hope to lend our expertise to similar projects in future.”

For more information on REHAU’s products and services, see: https://shorturl.at/aduDH.

SLINOVA® The slimline sliding door

Stylish, minimalist and sustainable.

SLINOVA offers slim sightlines and the flexibility of a dual and triple track door system, as well as a large number of sliding door combinations. With a minimalist discreet design, SLINOVA provides outstanding performance and design, for today’s modern contemporary homes.

rehau.uk/slinova enquiries@rehau.com

Tel: 01989 762600

METAL TECHNOLOGY’S GLAZING SYSTEMS USED FOR THE STRIKING COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT, 1000 AZTEC WEST

A £17 million remodelling and refurbishment of a 1980’s two storey office building in Bristol. The project was designed by Scott Brownrigg Architects and delivered by Beard for property group CEG and is the South West’s first Net Zero Carbon in operation out-of-town development. With a BREEAM Excellent rating, the all-electric building is powered by renewable energy and boasts energy-efficient heating, cooling and lighting systems.

The design required extensions to the existing floorplates, the addition of a new floor and a striking three-storey atrium to the centre of the stunning new, all-glass structure which has expanded the building from 38,000 to 80,000 sq ft. Located close to Aztec Lake, the building incorporates a state-of-the-art gym and a cafe, as well as places to eat, meet, drink and work.

The South East / West and the North East / West façades feature two of Metal Technology’s curtain walling products

- System 17 SP (Silicone Pointed) and System 17 Capped. The concave façade, featuring the SP curtain walling, leads to the feature atrium area. The façade utilizes a range of  extended feature caps to the transoms, creating a striking architectural vista. Metal Technology's System 5-20D Hi+ thermally enhanced doors were also installed.

For more information and technical detail on Metal Technology’s architectural glazing systems, visit metaltechnology.com.

THE KOMMERLING BRAND – TODAY FOR TOMORROW

Joining a trade press visit to profine UK’s Huthwaite manufacturing facility at Huthwaite, Glass News’ MD, Christina Lazenby and Editor, Chris Champion, were given a guided tour along with presentations on the range of Kömmerling products.

For anyone who remembers the latter days of Synseal and Aperture’s inhabiting of the Huthwaite premises, you would be hard pushed to recognise the transformation that has happened over the past few years. While the Kömmerling products have continued to be manufactured and distributed to its customers, pretty much the whole site has been refurbished. Sticking in the mind was splashing through water covered floors in the extrusion halls and tired offices, desperately in need of love and care. Not anymore! The acquisition of Aperture raised some eyebrows but, in retrospect, it was a pretty shrewd move.

profine had been looking for a manufacturing base in the UK with Lichfield only acting as a warehousing and distribution facility for the Kömmerling products. As it happens, Aperture’s demise was the perfect opportunity but, of course, significant investment and effort would be needed to bring everything up to modern requirements. While this was being planned and being put into place it was important to continue supplying the loyal Kömmerling customers and, to their credit, this was achieved. Now Huthwaite is a refurbished and thriving facility and with technology

coming to the fore, the head count from those Synseal days is greatly reduced. The rows and rows of people in the customer services area has disappeared and the whole place has an efficient but relaxed atmosphere….and with chill out areas, table football, a gym, and the like!

What was the showroom area has been beautifully repurposed as the UK Design Centre and, cleverly, that vast stand that was at the FIT Show has been utilised in this space and a presentation/cinema room provided. It is probably not a surprise that Kömmerling products are much in evidence throughout the offices that have been created. No, not windows. It’s easy to think of the profine Group as being a profile manufacturer for windows and doors but, of course, there is much more to them. In addition to innovative products for retrofitting and upgrading windows and doors, part of the range are also preconfigured kits in the areas of privacy,

balcony and small garden buildings. On top of this is their wide range of PVCu sheets for the building sector and this is much in evidence in the re-styling of the offices at Huthwaite. Having shown an interest in this sheeting product, Robert Thiroff, Managing Director of profine UK, gave us a look around the offices to see the sheeting product in use. What would normally be a fairly mammoth building job was made easy by utilising KomaCel, KomaTex, KomaDur, KomaAlu, KomaSteel or KomaStyle. All these sheets have distinct purposes. KomaStyle was probably the product most in evidence and they can be used in a variety of ways, for example as wall cladding in the bathroom and as a shower wall panel, in sanitary and spa facilities and swimming pools, in hospitals and care facilities, as wall and ceiling cladding in interior finishing, in retail and trade fair construction, as an alcove panel (e.g. for kitchens) or in restaurant and

hotel construction. Yes, a wide range of applications! The sheets are large enough that few seams are evident and they took some spotting! What was amazing was the speed of transformation with Robert pointing out that many walls had been clad in the decorative sheets in, literally, minutes, simply fixed with silicone sealant. Quick, easy and very effective, and simply cut to shape with an electric oscillating multi-tool. It's worth looking at the range of sheets, some of which can take photographic, images, others for external use – in fact the uses go on and on from shuttering purposes to hold back soil or concrete to flood defences. Maybe this range can offer a whole new opportunity over and above selling and fitting doors and windows?

But what of the more usual fenestration products and what does Kömmerling have to offer? Basically, there’s window and residential door systems, hybrid systems and sliding systems. The window profiles range consists of 70mm, 76mm and 88mm systems and taking you through renovation, new build and right up to passive house standard. These profiles also double as outerframes for residential doors. These 5 chamber systems also boast a whole range

Part of the warehousing and despatch area

In the extrusion hall

Part of the Profine UK site at Huthwaite

MD, Robert Thiroff talks about profine and the Kommerling brand

Just one of the foiling lines

of opportunities from standard sash, eternally beaded, slim, flush, Georgian bar and even sash horns. It’s worth exploring the product range on Kömmerling’s website!

Kömmerling also offer two choices of sliding patio systems and KomaPan, a tongued and grooved external PVCu product that can be adapted for fencing and decking. Then, there’s Greenline (formerly Legend) and WarmCore, the hybrid profile melding aluminium facings with a PVCu core that provides both strength and impressive insulation. It is designed to accommodate triple glazing from the outset and is a product that can be used for windows, patios, and bifolding doors. When it first appeared WarmCore got a lot of attention and now, as part of Kömmerling’s product range, it will be promoted worldwide and Andrew Charlesworth who was Technical Director at Kommerling has been promoted to Director Global Category Management for the brand. 2024 is an important year for Kömmerling: impressive premises all newly refurbished, vast investment in Greiner extrusion lines, foiling lines and injection moulding presses for forming a whole range of ancillaries. It is also the year for the launch of Kömmerling At Home. This is a programme aimed at manufacturers, installers, and other business associates. With Kömmerling At Home, partners will gain access to more than just consumer leads, as it is comprised of a unique digital hub that delivers support tools and useful assets for marketing, technical and business needs, up-to-date industry-related news, and access to a greater understanding of Kömmerling’s extensive product range.

Arguably, the Kömmerling At Home Training Academy is likely to be one of the most important elements of the partner programme. This will provide certified online training for the partners’ employee learners, free live monthly online coaching webinars and access to an ‘Ask an Expert’ enquiry forum, among other functionality.

WarmCore

Kevin Warner, sales and marketing director of profine UK and Kömmerling commented: ‘Kömmerling At Home has been part of our strategic vision for the last 12 months, with the view to gaining strong insights into our complete supply chain. It is important that Kömmerling products stand out for our customers and meet their needs and the high expectations from consumers of what to expect from a global brand.’

He added: ‘We feel the programme will provide key benefits for our partners to help them grow and succeed. It is

designed to educate, impart knowledge and strengthen their ability to work with Kömmerling in order to enhance their long-term relationship with us.’

Now, with a modern and fully equipped manufacturing base in the UK, the Kömmerling brand is set to move forward, apace. As they say, Kömmerling is a brand for the future. Kömmerling is a global player and one of the world’s best known and strongest construction and window brands. As one of the leading industry providers, they deliver products to over 100 countries. The company has its own production facilities and branches at 29 locations in 23 countries. More than 3,000 people work for them, developing and manufacturing premium window systems and many other innovative products

Dr Peter Mrosik, owner and CEO of profine Group is passionate about driving his company forward and states that the Kömmerling brand stands for ‘Today For Tomorrow’. He says:

‘Living up to our responsibility means protecting the future. Our goal is to create a sustainable loop for high-quality products made of synthetic materials. We’re developing the right solutions today for tomorrow’s world and for future generations.

As determined and ambitious doers, we have the strength and the will to deliver positive change in everything we do. But we want to be more than a pioneer. We want to be a role model for others. A role model for anyone who – like us – feels equally committed and capable of rising to this major challenge. Taking action today and making the right decisions for tomorrow are at the heart of everything we do. We’re making this commitment clear to the outside world with a completely new brand identity featuring a new design, a new logo and a new claim.

Today for Tomorrow is what our brand Kömmerling stands for.’

The company’s profiles are turned into around 15 million window units each year. With outstanding thermal insulation properties, these windows save millions of litres of heating oil and stop hundreds of thousands of tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere. It makes you think!

Looks sinister but it is maintaining a consistent atmosphere for foiling

Full testing facilities to ensure quality

Lines extruding profile

The mixing plant and silos

Working in the tooling room

Sheerline has announced that SheerVent® - the aluminium innovators, revolutionary roof vent, is now exclusively available for S2 conservatory roofs, alongside the company’s award winning S1 lantern. Helping set S2 apart from other glazed roofs, with a stylish ventilation option that integrates properly with the rest of the roof aesthetic.

SheerVent® is offered as the perfect solution to the longstanding challenge of adding reliable ventilation to glazed roofs without creating weaknesses for water ingress. It does this through an integrated muntin bar, and fitting directly into the ridge baffle, thus eliminating the possibility of leaks.

In addition, it offers thermal efficiency as it is fully thermally broken using high-performance 24mm glazing, ideal for keeping conservatories warmer in winter and cooler in summer –something Sheerline’s products are known for.

Bringing roof vents into the 21st century at last, with powered actuators and a full range of

automated sensors. This clever system utilises discreet light, wind, and rain sensors for comfort and additional convenience and peace of mind.

SheerVent® sits lower down than traditional roof vents and avoids the clumsy look of a frame that protrudes beyond the rafter cappings. With a more considered,

discreet design SheerVent® is sure to be a hit with homeowners looking for the very best-looking roof possible.

As the ultimate intelligent ventilation system for roof lanterns and conservatory style roofs, SheerVent® is available in sizes up to 1.1 wide x 1.2m, and is purposed designed to fit the S2

roof, making it the obvious choice for homeowners, fabricators, and installers alike.

Jon Crohill, Project Design Manager for Sheerline, said: “After investing so much time in to S2 and evolving it through the development stage into the product it is today, adding proper purge ventilation was the next

profine UK Ltd is set to make a major impression in the window and door market in 2024, with the launch of Kömmerling At Home, a partner programme aimed at manufacturers, installers, and other business associates.

With Kömmerling At Home, partners will gain access to more than just consumer leads, as it is comprised of a unique digital hub that delivers support tools and useful assets for marketing, technical and business needs, up-to-date industry-related news, and access to a greater understanding of Kömmerling’s extensive product range.

Arguably, the Kömmerling At Home Training Academy is likely to be one of the most important elements of the partner programme. This will provide certified online training for the partners’ employee learners, free live monthly online coaching webinars and access to an ‘Ask an Expert’ enquiry forum, among other functionality.

logical step. Customer response to SheerVent® for our lanterns was overwhelmingly positive, so it made sense to bring this proven system to S2. What we’ve achieved is precisely what we set out to: a functional solution, that doesn’t compromise on style – something that we pride ourselves on at Sheerline.”

Tony Basile, Sheerline Sales Director, added: “There are countless ways in which the S2 stands out within the glazed roof market, but adding SheerVent® will undeniably set it apart from the other solutions currently available. Our customers no longer have to make do with ugly vents that don’t match, or worse, allow the ingress of water. Conservatory season is coming up and now we’re able to offer the winning combination of the S2 and intelligent ventilation, we’re looking ahead to a busy summer.”

Customers interested in finding out more about offering SheerVent® alongside the S2 are encouraged to speak to the team on 01332 978000, or email: info@sheerline.com. Follow @ SheerlineSystem for the latest news and updates.

Kevin Warner, sales and marketing director of profine UK and Kömmerling commented: ‘Kömmerling At Home has been part of our strategic vision for the last 12 months, with the view to gaining strong insights into our complete supply chain. It is important that Kömmerling products stand out for our customers and meet their needs and the high expectations from consumers of what to expect from a global brand.’

He added: ‘We feel the programme will provide key benefits for our partners to help them grow and succeed. It is designed to educate, impart knowledge and strengthen their ability to work with Kömmerling in order to enhance their long-term relationship with us.’

For further information e-mail hello@kommerlingathome.co.uk, visit www.kommerling.co.uk or telephone 01623 579600 for an information pack.

TWO SWA MEMBERS JOIN FORCES AT COUNTY HALL, LONDON

Steel Window Association members, Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) and Steel Window Fittings (SWF) brought their individual expertise together while working on the County Hall project.

Building on its 30-year long association with the former GLC headquarters on the south bank of the Thames, ASWS has provided its unique skillset to a company carrying out an equally unusual style of redevelopment within the property’s long neglected top floor level. ASWS carried out a comprehensive, yet carefully considered repair and replacement contract at County Hall.

Level 5 of County Hall had actually been empty since 1994, with little maintenance carried out and a number of the dormer window structures having been boarded up or infilled with brickwork for the past two decades. Following its completion of a detailed condition survey on behalf of the project consultants, ASWS was duly tasked with repairing and easing a total of 134 faceted bay windows, many of which had suffered heavy corrosion.

Director of ASWS, Kris Bennell, recounted, “The original windows featured Medium Universal suite steel frames, so for the 11 which had to be reinstated we produced close replicas using W20 sections; though across the job as a whole we were asked to provide a ‘light touch’ restoration. This

is very much the ethos of the client which is committed to providing sustainable workspaces; as well as offering help with issues such as funding and recruitment.”

“Rather than gutting out the 5th floor, the old parquet floor was cleaned and preserved while many wall areas were left bare. For the fenestration, new handles were fixed to the original back-plates, while we designed new blocks which were fitted to the heads, for the spring catches to engage with. Any

broken panes were replaced and all of the hinges reset to ensure ease of operation.”

Kris Bennell concluded, “This is one of the very first contracts of its type in the country, where interventions have been kept to an absolute minimum – based on sustainability and environmental impact rather than cost –and we have been very proud to be involved.”

James Barrett, from Steel Window Fittings, said, “It was fantastic to see our hardware in-situ on such a prestigious building. The

B205N09F is a unique window handle with a sleek, curving lever that complements the Edwardian baroque architecture.”

Steel Window Fittings’ duplex system was selected to stay true to the building’s heritage appearance whilst providing functionality to the large, multilight windows. Adding a duplex system produces a tight seal between the frame and sash, reducing weathering and promoting longevity.

Along with the handle fittings, the B59KN OG - a classic slide stay with a fitted round knob - was also installed onto the bottom section of the window to allow for fixing of the window position for safety within the building.

All hardware was supplied in a matching oil rubbed bronze finish to blend with the traditional window frames throughout level 5 in County Hall.

The SWA offers UK wide coverage with member companies able to carry out the full range of contracts from the repair and restoration of heritage windows through to the installation of major fenestration packages in contemporary commercial, residential and other types of developments. For further information on the Steel Window Association or if you’re interested in becoming a member, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk.

ENDURANCE® DOORS CREATES ACADEMY OF EXCELLENCE KÖMMERLING’S NEW SUITE OF BROCHURES

Endurance® Doors, the manufacturer of solid, secure and stylish composite doors, has implemented a new training initiative which provides further added value for its installer partners whilst ensuring a better customer experience for homeowners.

Known as the Endurance Academy, the new initiative entails a free, one day course that’s held at the brand’s dedicated consumer-focused showroom in Brigg, North Lincolnshire.

With an emphasis on hands-on learning, it covers a variety of topics including how to conduct more effective pre-installation surveys, best practice door installation and improved door handover to the homeowner.

During the course, attendees are also given a tour of the nearby Endurance® Doors’ manufacturing plant.

The course is delivered by Ian Longstaffe who is the business’ dedicated training manager. He has over 27 years of experience in the fenestration industry which includes an extensive period as a new build and domestic fenestration installation manager. Upon completion of the Endurance Academy, those attending receive a GQA level qualification and certificate.

Ian Longstaffe says: “The Endurance Academy delivers benefits both for those buying and

fitting our products. For the homeowner, a new door is a major investment that also contributes significantly to the kerb appeal of their property. Given these facts, they want the reassurance of the highest levels of quality at every stage of the process - from the point of production to the point of installation.

“Having their door fitted by professionals who have attended the Endurance Academy instantly provides the peace of mind that the work is carried out by skilled and competent individuals.

“Following on from that, our installer partners can use the fact that they’ve completed the Endurance Academy as an extra selling point for marketing purposes.

“It can also save them the cost of potential call backs and remedial work by optimising their ‘right first time’ capabilities.”

As the final stages of a global re-brand for Kömmerling conclude, the UK business has launched a range of brochures covering all major systems, which will sit alongside the colour programme which was published in 2023.

There are detailed 24-page brochures for the C70, O70, flush sash and Kömmerling 76 platforms which cover topics of product performance, energy efficiency, colours and sustainability. Furthermore, the 16-page PremiLine patio door literature and lift and slide PremiDoor 76 system literature are available, which highlights the ‘technically better’ features of these solutions.

There are also new brochures for the vertical sliding sash windows and an integrated new range of WarmCore brochures covering windows, patio door and bi-folding door. Other marketing materials including POS materials and wall posters, as Kömmerling looks to invest further in its brand. This year will also see an investment in an installer campaign and other marketing collateral, along with several product launches.

Last year, Kömmerling released an eightpage colour brochure explaining its new proGrain and proSmooth foiled finishes, which include both stock and special order options under the Kömmerling branding. Manufacturers, installers, and ultimately consumers who are looking at the latest

trends in woodgrain and colour should take inspiration from this piece of literature.

Kevin Warner, sales and marketing director for Kömmerling commented: ‘This newly launched literature portfolio adopts the vision behind Kömmerling and its ‘Today for Tomorrow’ philosophy. It promotes the merits of a sustainable loop of recycling, using other synthetic materials rather than just PVCu on its own. The brochures produced by Kommerling are printed sustainably and are beneficial for all those looking at purchasing from the Kömmerling range.’

For further information please visit www. profine-uk.com, e-mail enquiries@profineuk.com or phone 01623 579200. There’s also a dedicated site for KÖMMERLING at www.kommerling.co.uk. You can also follow them on social media platforms @ profineuk and @kommerling_uk.

2023: A RECORD YEAR FOR ERG SCOTLAND

Installer ERG Scotland has posted record annual sales figures of £5.8m for 2023, marking the end of another fantastic year of trading for the Invergordon-based business.

Covering the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, ERG has grown 30% year-on-year and broken the £5.5m barrier for the first time in the company’s 50-year history.

Headed by the husband-andwife duo of Ian and Greer Joy, ERG is now firmly established as one of the region’s largest home improvement companies.

“We couldn’t be prouder of our team,” begins Ian Joy, ERG’s Managing Director.

“We set an ambitious target to raise our business further. I’m delighted to say that everyone associated with the company has done a fantastic job in ensuring that we all have a record-breaking year.

“The success that we’ve achieved, despite the tricky trading conditions and economic uncertainties, is testament to the hard work, tenacity and dedication of our staff members

who work incredibly hard to deliver an exceptional service to the families and communities of the Highlands.”

Key to ERG’s monumental growth this year has been the adoption of new marketing strategies and continuing to work closely with their manufacturing partner, Conservatory Outlet.

The Scottish retailer has committed to growing their presence on social media and has undertaken several localised campaigns to boost brand awareness across the Highlands and Islands. To help achieve this, ERG’s sales and marketing teams have made the most of Conservatory Outlet’s free training courses, with individuals

attending the West Yorkshire manufacturer’s social media roundtables and enrolling on the company’s sales and product training academy.

“We’ve leaned on Conservatory Outlet for support,” continues Ian. “ERG Scotland enjoyed a strong end to 2022 and their team has allowed us to build on that through 2023 and give us the advice and tools to succeed.

“Our accomplishments this year are a testament to the hard work, tenacity, and dedication of our team. Together with the excellent operational advice, and marketing expertise from the teams at Conservatory Outlet and DigitalKOG, we’ve had a fantastic 2023.

“The support that we receive for being part of the Conservatory Outlet Network has meant that we’ve been able to quickly pivot our plans to react to everchanging market conditions and stay ahead of the competition. Next stop £6m!”

Congratulating ERG on their record year, Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, Greg Kane, added: “ERG’s performance this year is nothing short of incredible. Ian, Greer, and the team have never lost sight of putting the customers first by delivering a fantastic product backed by incredible service.

“It’s a delight to work with them and we look forward to many more years of supporting their growth.”

Caption: Based in Invergordon and members of the Conservatory Outlet Network, ERG Scotland is the Highlands’ leading installer of windows, doors and new living spaces.

A LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIP

We talk to Julien Piper, Director of Omega Windows, Doors and Conservatories about the benefits of partnering with Sternfenster.

Margate-based Omega, has sold the full Sternfenster range windows and doors to homeowners across Kent since 1994, and has operated from the same retail showroom since 1996. Today it benefits from an additional trade counter located close to its main premises.

“We’ve worked with Sternfenster for many years now, and we’re proud to be a Sternfenster Approved Installer”, says Julien Piper, Director of Omega Windows, Doors and Conservatories.

PRODUCT OFFERING

“We buy a little bit of aluminium, but to be honest, the demand for us is really in PVC-U”, Julien says. “We buy our PVC-U from Sternfenster in all of the different colour ranges and styles that they offer!”

Omega’s biggest sellers are the 2800 Deceuninck system and the Smarts Aluminium bi-folding doors, fabricated at Sternfenster’s Lincolnshire facility.

“The breadth of products that Sternfenster provide allows us to take full advantage of an increasing homeowner demand for higher value products, and that includes flush casements, aluminium and colour – the 2800 and the Bifolds in particular sell like hot cakes,” he says.

“But for us, the other key thing is their service, which is second to none.”

50 YEARS OF INNOVATION

Omega are one of around 75% of Sternfenster’s customer base that take advantage of the trade fabricator’s pioneering EasyAdmin and SF+ systems.

EasyAdmin gives customers access to a virtual showroom, along with the tools required to quote and submit orders

Julien Piper

“We develop a partnership with our customers whereby we listen to what they need and we do our best to facilitate it – whether this be through investment in the latest cutting-edge technology, expansion of our range of colours and styles, or technological innovation like EasyAdmin. This way, we’re giving them both great products and great service.”

directly into Sternfenster’s manufacturing process, while Sternfenster Plus offers installers improved levels of communication and clarity on order lead times.

Using Sternfenster Plus, customers can check on the status of quotes, contracts and deliveries and also features a regularly updated news feed.

It is also home to an extensive library of downloadable training and marketing material, accreditations and

technical data, plus a live production capacity feed. This provides real time data on the capacity of individual products, across Sternfenster’s aluminium and PVC lines, and gives installers a unique overview of the fabricator’s production schedule from the moment an order is placed. “We use EasyAdmin absolutely every day without fail”, Julien explains. “It allows us to price quickly and efficiently –it’s so useful, we literally couldn’t do without it.

“Equally, Sternfenster Plus is invaluable to us because it gives us instant access to all of our information like job numbers, and when things are being delivered.

“It’s particularly useful on delivery days because we can see exactly what we’ve got coming in, so we can prepare ourselves and make sure we have enough staff in to unload the lorries”.

OPPORTUNITY FOR PARTNERSHIP

In Sternfenster’s 50th year of continuous trading, Managing Director Mike Parczuk believes that it is their willingness to partner with their customers, rather than just supply them, which is why the business has stood the test of time.

“Our guiding principle has always been that installers shouldn’t have compromise on style or service”, Mike says.

“We develop a partnership with our customers whereby we listen to what they need and we do our best to facilitate it – whether this be through investment in the latest cutting-edge technology, expansion of our range of colours and styles, or technological innovation like EasyAdmin. This way, we’re giving them both great products and great service.”

As for Julien, his relationship with Sternfenster shows no sign of slowing: “I want to wish Mike and the rest of the team a happy 50th anniversary! Here’s to many more years of partnership!”.

For more information visit www.sternfenster.com email sales@sternfenster.co.uk or call 01522 512525. Alternatively, join the conversation on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/sternfenster.

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COASTAL BRYN CLODDFA HOME GETS ENERGY EFFICIENT LINIAR UPGRADE

Husband and wife Stephen and Alison Wagstaff recently upgraded their five-bedroom home in North Walesreplacing the old PVCu windows and doors, which were absorbing moisture and affecting energy efficiency, with new Liniar products.

Having been advised that Liniar has one of the most energy efficient window and door systems on the market, they turned to Chester-based installer Windows Direct, who came highly recommended, and received expert guidance from Director Gary Welsh.

Alison tells us, “The existing windows were old when we bought the house, eight years ago! It’s a coastal property built into a former hillside quarry, and whilst we enjoy stunning views our location also leaves the property exposed to the elements.

“Moisture build-up was becoming a problem within some windows, and they all looked like they’d seen better days.

Stephen and I had a few requirements when choosing our new windows and doors – stylish appearance, protection against damp, increasing the overall house’s energy efficiency and to increase the amount of natural light into several smaller rooms downstairs. However, we weren’t sure how best to achieve everything we wanted and needed some advice.”

She continues, “Gary was very knowledgeable and did a great job of advising us. He provided clear explanations of ventilation options and window configurations that he felt would deliver the best solution.”

An installer of Liniar products, Windows Direct has established a reputation for impeccable customer service and workmanship.

Gary tells us, “Liniar offers an impressive, high-quality product range which is easy to work with and looks great too. Our customers are always impressed with the end results.

“I explained to Stephen and Alison we needed to include more air vents to comply with recent regulatory changes, and this

would also provide crucial ventilation to eliminate any future moisture build up.”

He adds, “They opted for white casement windows and sliding patio doors made using Liniar’s 70mm EnergyPlus system, a cost-effective, versatile and thermally efficient PVCu profile. As well as providing insulation, the multi-chambered design also makes the profile structurally robust. This meant we could swap the existing two-pane windows in the bathroom, cloakroom, and two smaller bedrooms downstairs for a single pane configuration with no transom. As a result, the rooms would receive more natural light and the views they offer would be uninterrupted.

“Liniar profiles are also manufactured with a unique bubble gasket that provides

a continuous seal, enhancing protection against wind and water ingress. I knew from experience, this would more than stand up to the weather conditions the property is exposed to.”

With a plan in place, the installation could begin. Stephen comments, “It was a very smooth process with minimal disruption. Garry and his team fitted work seamlessly around our schedule, and we were very impressed with how clean and tidy they kept everything throughout.

“Work was completed within the projected timeline and both Alison and I are delighted with how our home now looks with its new windows and sliding patio doors.”

The Wagstaffs are already enjoying the benefits renovating has brought to their home, with Alison explaining, “We’ve been surprised by how much brighter the downstairs rooms are now, thanks to the single pane windows.

“It’s made such a difference and really shows Garry’s expertise in making sure we got the best solution for our property - and precisely the outcome he’d promised.”

Stephen concludes, “Though it’s now autumn, we’re still experiencing mild temperatures so haven’t had to run our heating much yet. However, we have had a lot of rain and can certainly see the condensation issue has been resolved.

“We don’t have any concerns heading into the winter, as we’re confident that our decision to install Liniar windows and doors was the right one and that they have been fitted properly, with care and attention to detail. The early indications are great!”

To see the full Liniar range visit: https://www.liniar.co.uk/

FDM OPENS UK’S FIRST PRACTICAL

FIRE DOOR TRAINING CENTRE

Glass News’ MD, Christina Lazenby and Editor, Chris Champion, joined the fenestration trade press and those from allied construction industries to witness the opening of Fire Door Maintenance’s training centre in Greater Manchester’s Bury.

This is the UK’s first practical training centre for the fire door industry and is housed in a 3,000 sq ft purpose built facility and its purpose is to raise safety standards across the industry. It is cleverly designed with a mix of hands-on training plus classrooms for theory-based learning - even a library for the quiet perusal of a whole range of documents from regulations and safety standards to ‘how to’ manuals. There are corridors of rooms faced with a variety of firedoors through which you can go and learn more about that specific product. This is not just a display of firedoors but a practical exercise for the student because they are not necessarily correctly installed or carrying the correct hardware, All credit should be given to the manufacturers who have been prepared to display their products in not necessarily the state in which they would like to see them! Good for the likes of Harlow Timber Group, West Port, Latham's Steel Doors, Unity Doors, Permadoor, Strongdor, The Sovereign Group, NSG Group, DoorCo, Rutland, Mann McGowan, Lorient, PDS, and Contactless Check Solutions, IG, GGF, Pilkingtons, Nordan, PWIDF and Specialist Door Solutions.

Accredited by GQA Qualifications, an awarding body for specialist and occupational roles, the Academy will offer a variety of courses. The first to launch will be a fire door inspector course, followed by a course centred on fire door maintenance, and another focusing on fire door installation. After completion, participants will receive a GQA skills card.

As well as ensuring compliance with the latest fire safety regulation, the accredited training will respond to the Hackitt report’s recommendations following the Grenfell Tower fire. The inquiry into the tragedy revealed fire doors didn’t perform as expected. Out of the 120 doors in the building, 106 had been replaced and comprised different hardware from the tested door.

A variety of fire safety awareness courses will also be on offer for anyone wishing to learn more about the latest legislation and how to raise safety standards such as merchants, architects, facilities managers, locksmiths and representatives from housing associations, local authorities and the fire rescue service.

To bring home to people the importance of compliance to fire safety standards there are a variety displays showing

how non-compliant hardware fails under the stresses of a fire and Nicola John, Managing Director of FDM Ltd., said: “The Training Academy is the first to offer practical fire door training in the largest centre of its kind. The Hackitt report underlined the importance of the ‘golden thread’ and this is at the centre of our specialist training. Each course will underline how vital it is to source primary test evidence and the risk of changing or substituting components in a fire door.

“Providing access to fire doors and components from a range of manufacturers is a key element of the training. All fire doors are made slightly differently which means they need to be inspected differently too. Training participants will learn the nuances of each product and how to identify and fix any issues.”

Nicola has two decades of experience in the door manufacturing and construction industry and her experience, has meant that this first, and very important facility, has been able to be established.

More than 90 guests, including local councillors and representatives from the fire safety, door manufacturing, and hardware industries, attended the official opening of FDM’s Training Academy.

The Mayor of Bury, Cllr Walmsley, cut the ribbon to officially open FDM’s Training Academy. Cllr Walmsley was joined by Bury Council Leader, Cllr Eamonn O’Brien; Nicola John, MD of FDM; and David Jennings, CEO of UAP.

Developed in 2018, CCS is a fire door management system comprising a cloud-based fire door app and desktop dashboard. The technology provides a simple but thorough method to record a fire door’s entire history to ensure compliance with new and existing fire door regulations. A fire data pin, as pictured, holds all the digital data needed for traceability and can be scanned for inspection using any compatible smartphone.

The importance of the FDM Training Academy, to Bury and the surrounding area was highlighted by Councillor Sandra Walmsley, Mayor of Bury, formally opening the centre by cutting the traditional ribbon. She was accompanied by Bury Council leader, Councillor Eamonn O’Brien.

GQA’s strategic relationship manager, Dan Brown, emphasised the importance of the Academy by saying:

“The launch of FDM’s Training Academy is exceptionally timely, coinciding with a significant phase of introspection within the construction industry. This introspection, fuelled by the demands of the Building Safety Act 2022, aims to enhance overall quality, compliance, and competence following a series of tragic events resulting in devastating loss of life.

“GQA Qualifications is proud to support FDM as it embarks on its mission to deliver rigorous training and qualifications

to the industry. These offerings, awarded by GQA, are designed with meticulous assessment and learning content to address the life-safety risks associated with fire safety doors in buildings.

“The Training Academy serves as a model of accomplishment, showcasing what is possible with the appropriate determination, concentration, and commitment to enhance training in a specific yet vital sector.”

As part of FDM’s offer, the Academy will also be used to provide bespoke training for the company’s own operatives. This workforce is available to housing associations and local authorities seeking to outsource fire door inspections, maintenance and installations.

Before any work begins, details of the manufacturers of the fire doors within a building are sourced. This information is provided to FDM’s operatives at the Training Academy ensuring they know exactly what to look out for during the inspection, including any potential risks.

A total of 400 operatives are available across the UK for this ‘boots on the ground’ service. With extensive experience of the door manufacturing industry, the operatives can also work alongside software providers, complementing their service and providing additional information such as the test evidence, for reporting purposes.

The driver for the establishment of the FDM Training Academy has much to do with the tragedy that was Grenfell.

As a result of the enquiry there have been changes to fire safety regulation, including the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 regulations. Enforced in January 2023, this legislation requires the responsible person for multioccupied residential buildings over 11m to:

• Carry out quarterly checks on all fire doors in the common parts.

• Carry out annual checks on all flat entrance doors that lead onto a building’s common parts.

In response, FDM identified an opportunity to help organisations and the wider fire door industry achieve compliance while raising inspection and maintenance standards. To help raise standards, the Academy’s focus is on the importance of sourcing primary test evidence and how to interpret that evidence when inspecting or manufacturing a fire door.

What is the importance of primary test evidence? As previously mentioned, and it is worth emphasising, in the Grenfell enquiry, it was revealed that 106 of the 120 doors in the tower had been replaced and differed from the product tested by the manufacturer before sale including the hardware.

Speaking at the enquiry, Dr Lane said the ‘hardware’ (such as locks and letter boxes) was different from the tested door.

“If you want to use the phrase ‘getting the door through the test’ it [the hardware] is a sensitive business. Any piece of metal, locks, letter boxes may act as heat spread route, flame spread route, hot smoke route and cause the door to fail,” she said.

Sourcing primary test evidence as part of door inspections and maintenance will ensure the correct components have been installed and have not been substituted or changed.

Glass News is happy to acknowledge the importance of the establishment of FDM’s facility and what it represents in promoting fire safety in our industry.

A montage of four of FDM’s suppliers of doors and components in the new Training Academy have been provided by a variety of suppliers, including intumescent fire smoke seals from Mann McGowan (pictured top left); door closers from Rutland (pictured bottom left); and a fire door management system from Contactless Check Solutions (CCS) (pictured bottom right). Complementing these products is a display by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) offering advice and information on fire-rated glazing (pictured top right).

Nicola John points out the various fire doors and rooms in one of the corridors.

Dan Brown, Strategic Relationship Manager at GQA talked about the importance of training.

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is displaying information and collateral on fire-rated glazing, including how these products are tested, their importance in construction and the benefits of specialist training.

GQA Qualifications Ltd, the accredited body for the FDM Academy

The Training Academy features different types of doors for practical training and assessment. Manufactured by a range of suppliers, the doors are constructed along 2 corridors reflecting a multi-occupied building.

THE WINDOW STORE’S ANNUAL CONFERENCE CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR THE BUSINESS

The Window Store held its Annual Managers’ Conference in Southampton on 17th January. Karl Lodwick, General Manager at the company, said: “Our Annual Managers’ Conference is an opportunity to reflect on our successes, look ahead to the future and thank the team for all their hard work. It was an upbeat day with lots of energy in the room.”

2023 was a busy year for the business. It marked the rollout of a fresh new corporate branding across all branches. This included revamping the interiors and exteriors of all depots, new business signage, and a modern new fleet of vehicles. A comprehensive suite of new sales and marketing collateral was also launched. To complete the rebranding exercise, a new website is due for completion in the next few weeks.  The company expanded too, with a new branch opening in Christchurch, Dorset, in May, and a larger Poole branch opening in November. To continue the growth strategy, further new branches are in the pipeline for 2024 and an additional regional manager will also be appointed to support the growing network.

The Christchurch and Worthing branches held The Window Store’s first Open Days, with both proving valuable in securing new business. Open Days at all branches are planned for 2024, giving more customers the opportunity to connect with The Window Store’s experienced teams and explore the latest trends in windows, doors and conservatories.

To continue the strength of the company’s investment in its people, all managers received specialised management training.

Looking forward to 2024, this training initiative will extend to include all assistant managers and there will be product training programmes with key suppliers too.

Karl commented: “As all this activity shows, we’re committed to investing in our business and its people to continue to better serve our customers.”

The day sessions concluded with awards presented to the best-performing branches and team members.

In all, 24 delegates attended the day. Alongside Karl, this included all 16 branch managers, two regional managers, two auditors, Commercial Director Martin McCabe, Managing Director of Epwin Trade, Steve Jones, and Kay McGrady, Trade Marketing Manager.

The Window Store has been a one-stopshop for quality windows, doors and roofing systems for over 40 years. Its combination of personalised, no-nonsense service, industry-leading products and affordable prices is continuing to prove a winning offer, as the company’s 2023 successes and 2024 plans show.

Tel: 07831 187626

www.windowstoreplastics.co.uk

UNIFOLD DOORS FROM UNIQUE SECURE PART L COMPLIANT BFRC RATINGS

Unique Window Systems, the rapidly growing fabricator of PVCu and aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling, has gained third party verification of the energy efficiency of one of its most popular ranges.

Following testing accredited by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC), Unique’s Unifold brand of aluminium bifold doors has been certified as offering a door energy rating of C in accordance with Approved Document L.

Sunil Patel, joint managing director at Unique Window Systems, explains: “Our success in securing BFRC certification for the Unifold range directly reflects our commitment to continuous improvement.”

“As a business, we continually look at how we can enhance and extend our range to ensure we offer our customers product solutions that embrace changes in market conditions,

consumer demands and relevant legislation. This includes the need for ever increasing levels of thermal performance.”

The certification awarded to the Unifold range by the BFRC is significant. It demonstrates that the doors meet the energy efficiency requirements of the updated Part L of the Building Regulations for both new build properties (U-value of 1.6) and for replacement fenestration products installed on existing dwellings (Energy rating Class C).

The new BFRC ratings add to an already impressive list of benefits offered by the Unifold range. This includes exceptional versatility. Door panels can be stacked inside or outside of a room as well as to the left, right or split to stack on both sides. Door sets can also be manufactured to replace entire walls. In addition, Unifold doors, which benefit from a

sleek, modern look, are available in a variety of colours and finishes. They are also supplied with high security hinges and locks as standard, which have been tested to PAS24, in accordance with Approved Document Q.

Summing up, Sunil

Patel adds: “Our ability to effectively enhance the Unifold range so that it could secure its recent BFRC ratings is a testament to our product development and technical expertise at Unique.

“We’ll be making further additions and refinements across our product portfolio imminently as we work to ensure our installer partners are perfectly placed to meet pending challenges and opportunities.

“This includes the imminent roll out of the Future Homes and Buildings Standard in 2025.”

BRAND IT YOUR WAY – LATEST PREMIER ARCHES UPDATE PUTS YOU IN CONTROL OF ARCHED FRAME QUOTES

Leading

arched and angled frame manufacturer Premier Arches has updated its online pricing and ordering platform to allow customers to add their own logo and selling price to quotations for a more personal and professional customer experience.

Through the unique platform, fabricators, installers and trade counters are able to price and order complex arched and angled frames in a wide range of profile systems in a matter of seconds.

They are also able to save their quotes and view their orders through a unique portal on the Premier Arches’ website, taking full control of their ordering process.

The latest update now allows them to personalise their quotes by adding in their own logo, selling price, colour scheme and quote footers, helping them deliver a more

professional final document to their retail or trade customers.

Managing Director Sean Greenall comments: “Quoting for arched and angled frames can often be complex, but our online pricing and ordering platform helps customers simplify this process by showing all the technical

information needed, including an image of the frame – now on their very own branded quote.

“This is a fantastic tool for fabricators, installers and trade counters – not only are they able to get instant quotes for angles and arches, but they can now also provide their customers with instant quotes for the same products, branded as themselves, and with their unique selling prices.

“At Premier Arches, we’re dedicated to making our customers’ lives easier, and this latest update to our online platform is a perfect example. From instant quotes and personalised branding to complete order management, we’re streamlining the process every step of the way. It’s all about empowering our customers to succeed, and that’s something we’re truly passionate about.”

Established in 2015, Premier Arches manufactures and supplies arched, angled, gable, circular and entirely bespoke windows and doors in a range of stocked systems, offering a full service to fabricators, trade counters, installers and local builders.

For more information, visit www.premierarches.co.uk.

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Continued from page 1...

RED HERRING

Don’t forget that the government had previously set 2016 as the date when new buildings should be ‘net zero’ – a ‘zero carbon home’ was defined as achieving a Level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. In 2015, a year before it was due to come into force, the government scrapped this commitment.

In some ways I think the whole Future Homes Standard – and the expectation that we would have to move to triple glazing to meet U-values of 0.8W/m2K – has been something of a red herring.

There are many products on the market that are not made to the current building regulations, let alone fanciful improvements

"If we want to make a real impact on windows’ performance, and the long-term energy efficiency of buildings, we should start with getting the basics right."

that we should have guessed would never to come to fruition.

There are glass units being sold today that don’t have the correct warm edge spacer bar, don’t have the correct depth of seal or sealant type, contain non-conforming desiccant and incompatible edge tapes that can degrade the unit’s integrity. This means U-values and energy ratings will not match specifications, as well as leading to premature failure of IG units that could have easily been avoided.

If we want to make a real impact on windows’ performance, and the long-term energy efficiency of buildings, we should start with getting the basics right. It will be difficult to confidently produce triple glazed units if our double glazed units are not up to standard due to use of cheap imported unproven components.

Talk to any one of our technical sales team, and they will give you an audit of you production methods and the compatibility of the components used.

For more information, please visit www.thermosealgroup.com, or call 0121 331 3955.

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PORTAL HS provides the best outlook for a light and barrier-free life.

➊ Flood the room with natural daylight. The fixed glazing merges seamlessly into the floor with the ECO PASS SKY threshold. ➋ When the sash is open, the minimal threshold height allows barrier-free access to the outside. ➌ The DRIVE axxent HSA integrated lift & slide drive can also be operated via an app for even greater convenience. When design makes life easier: that‘s room comfort. info-uk@siegenia.com

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Telephone - 01895 271061 | Email - tradesales@capitalwindows.co.uk Visit - www.capitalwindows.co.uk

CARL F GOUPCO LEADS THE WAY IN SUPPORTING CUSTOMERS THROUGHOUT TESTING

As the industry transitions to the newly introduced PAS 24:2022 standard, independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has reported an upturn in demand for its product testing support. This detailed testing customer support ensures a seamless process from product selection and sampling to manufacturing, testing, and post-test advice.

John King, Sales Director at Carl F Groupco, explains: “Our team provides hands-on support throughout the entire testing process. The pre-test fit-up process is exacting and extends beyond our products to cover additional elements such as screw selection and reinforcing requirements. Operatives are trained, and support is provided wherever needed, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring a successful test result.”

John continued: “On the day of the test we accompany the fabricator at the independent test centre, ready to address any last-minute queries. It’s a complete end-to-end testing support service that our customers value.”

The value of this service is a view shared by Affordable Window Systems, one of the UK's leading suppliers of aluminium and PVC-U windows and doors. Affordable Window Systems sought PAS 24 accreditation for its new

flush casement window featuring the Yale Flush Sash Shootbolt system and turned to Carl F Groupco for support.

Gary Adshead, Health, Safety and Quality Assurance at Affordable Window Systems, said: “The support provided by Carl F Groupco throughout the PAS 24 testing significantly streamlined the process for us. Their team collaborated closely with us and our various partners, facilitating the coordination with hardware manufacturers, profile and fixing suppliers to ensure the best test outcome. As shown in our flush casement project, we often run indicative testing with Carl F Groupco to address potential issues and ensure a successful first-time pass."

Gary further added, "Our partnership with Carl F Groupco dates back to 1992. One of the reasons we continue to work with them is down to their collaborative approach and consistent delivery, especially during critical moments. Their team actively engages with us and understands the needs and complexities of our business.”

The strength of Carl F Groupco’s service support rests on the knowledge and expertise of its staff. John said: “With almost two-thirds of our team having a decade or more of service, coupled with continuous internal training and in collaboration with our hardware supply partners, we remain

at the forefront of industry knowledge providing invaluable assistance to our customers.”

Committed to delivering top-tier support, Carl F Groupco remains dedicated to providing its customers with the highest standard of service. As evidenced by their testing support, this service guarantees that customers’ products not only meet but exceed industry regulations.

Tel: 01733 393 330 – www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

www.smartsecure.co.uk – www.carlfdirect.co.uk

DYNAMIC HARDWARE INTRODUCES THE PATENT-PENDING DYNAMIC 3D DOOR HINGE

Dynamic Hardware, the new hardware manufacturer with a wealth of expertise and experience, has just launched the patent-pending Dynamic 3D Door Hinge for PVC-U door profiles.

Dynamic Hardware’s CEO Tony Chadwick said: “The Dynamic 3D Door Hinge showcases the product design strength that is the hallmark of our range.”

The Dynamic 3D Door Hinge is part of Dynamic Hardware’s Premium Door Hardware Collection and features a patentpending ‘anti-lift’ security feature with a 2.5mm steel sash plate that gives enhanced product performance and security.

The outer packaging comes in various options designed to facilitate both high and low volume assembly whilst minimising wasted labour and materials, all while considering the environmental impact.

It is non-handed and is available in 19mm and 22mm height options with a variety of hinge packers, as well as a choice of colour options and painted finishes to make it suitable for all door colours and finishes.

The hinge is constructed from highstrength Aluminium, Zinc alloys, Steel and 304 Stainless Steel, so it offers superb durability and product strength. It is manufactured in Dynamic Hardware’s own state-of-the-art 50,000 sqm manufacturing centre in South-East Asia, ensuring control and quality.

The hinge achieves PAS24 accreditation as part of a complete door assembly. It

TOTAL HARDWARE HIGHLIGHTS THE VALUE OF ITS SUPPLY CHAIN RELATIONSHIPS

In an industry marked by recurring challenges, Chris Pell, General Manager of independent hardware supplier Total Hardware, emphasises the importance of strong supply chain relationships in its customer value proposition.

“Here at Total Hardware, maintaining an open and proactive dialogue throughout the supply change is paramount, ensuring we anticipate and address any potential issues swiftly whether it’s a time of calm or a time of crisis. It allows us to foresee any issues at the earliest opportunity and react accordingly. It’s an approach that adds huge value to our customers’ businesses because it puts us one step ahead.”

The recent string of global disruptions, from the impacts of Covid-19, geopolitical tensions and the current Red Sea problems, has highlighted the fragility of the global supply chain. This has underscored the need for a shift from ‘just in time’ to ‘just in case’ working practices. Chris notes, “’Just in case’ has long been our ethos at Total Hardware. Our steadfast commitment to maintaining substantial stock levels ensures our customers receive the dependable supply they rely on.”

This commitment to supply chain relationships is just one facet of Total Hardware’s drive to continually exceeds its customers’ expectations. Alongside its

own product ranges, the company offers a comprehensive selection of hardware products from leading worldwide hardware manufacturers at prices that enable its customers to maintain their competitive advantage. It also continuously invests in technology, equipment and training to continually enhance its customer service.

Chris concludes: “Our ongoing collaboration with supply partners and customers is a fundamental aspect of our business, irrespective of supply chain challenges. Together, we navigate obstacles and respond promptly to ensure seamless operations.”

is corrosion tested to BS EN1670 and comes with the reassurance of a ten year mechanical guarantee.

As well as the exceptional quality and innovation of the hinge, customers benefit from Dynamic Hardware’s industry experience. Tony explained: “We’ve been in hardware design and manufacture for over 40 years, and we’re committed to using our knowledge and insight to add value to our customers’ businesses at every level.”

To find out more about the Dynamic 3D Door Hinge and Dynamic Hardware, call 01922 907776 or visit https://dynamichardware.co.uk.

UAP UNVEILS UNIQUE STADIUM DOOR KNOCKER

UAP has added a unique door knocker to its range designed to maximise aesthetics and simplify installation. Featuring a patented hidden fixing mechanism, the Stadium Door Knocker eliminates the need for any screws. A waterproof adhesive covering makes the product exceptionally easy to install.

“The choice of high-grade metals combined with the colour options widens its appeal and flexibility. Stainless steel is ideal for properties in more coastal areas while zamak provides an affordable, stylish alternative.”

With a sleek and contemporary appearance, the knocker is available in both stainless steel and zamak with a choice of six different finishes. Convenience is also enhanced by the product’s design. A magnet secures the knocker in place ensuring it only knocks the door when in use and is not moved by the wind.

Adding to its durability is a waterproof seal which prevents rusting behind the door knocker.

Barry Halpin, National Sales Director at UAP said: “In the highly competitive world of home hardware, we wanted to create a standout product unlike anything else on the market. The Stadium Door Knocker’s design means it is not only very easy to fit and use, but visually unique.

“The choice of high-grade metals combined with the colour options widens its appeal and flexibility. Stainless steel is ideal for properties in more coastal areas while zamak provides an affordable, stylish alternative.”

To prevent any potential damage during transit, fabricators can install the hidden fix lollipop at the factory and secure the door knocker on site.

If needed, the knocker can be easily removed with a screwdriver without damaging the door.

The Stadium Door Knocker is available with or without a viewing hole and can be engraved with numbers, text and logos. Matching all types of door, the knocker can be finished in white, black, chrome, gold, polished mirror and satin stainless steel.

www.uapcorporate.com

ARE WE MAKING SMART HARDWARE TOO COMPLICATED?

For Mike Derham, the man behind Mighton Products and the company’s range of Avia Smart window and door hardware, the path to widespread acceptance of any complex technology must be in its simplicity to install, configure and operate.

As one of smart window and door hardware’s earliest protagonists, Mike Derham believes that despite the advantages of installing such products to fundamentally improve the security and ease of access to our homes, homeowners may be put off by a lack of clear and concise information and demands by some brands for a commitment to subscription.

Despite widespread use of smartphones that ensure familiarity for even the most technophobic amongst us, and sales of smart hardware continuing to rise, clearly there is some way to go before homeowners universally commit to securing and monitoring their windows and doors via their devices, rather than carrying a large bunch of keys in their pockets and handbags. Mike believes that smart window and door hardware is relatively late to the market considering how long smartphones such as those offered by Apple and Samsung, have not only become widely accepted, but are

now indispensable for many: “My company Mighton Products was founded 41 years ago on the supply of traditional hardware fixings for heritage windows, following my lifelong interest in historical buildings and their detail. And smart hardware –including door handles that unlock and lock by proximity signals and others that alert the homeowner that the window is open for example, are the first real step forward in how we secure our homes, for thousands of years. And yet many homeowners remain cautious of adopting devices that immediately improve both the security of the property in which they are installed as well as the convenience by which they may be accessed.”

The answer to this, he believes, is that there is a tendency to over-explain the technology whilst also, having sold the features and benefits of smart hardware, to then insist upon the homeowner paying to enjoy such benefits: “Ask any Apple iPhone user why they like the device they will inevitably say it’s because they are simple to operate whilst offering so many features. These immensely complex devices – modern smartphones are many times more powerful even than the renowned Cray supercomputers of the ‘Eighties that controlled United States’ nuclear weapons research, as much as 5,000 times faster in fact. And yet iPhones are so intuitive and simple to use, that this astonishing computer power is completely disguised,” enthused Mike.

Smart hardware has evolved quickly. Those early, clunky electronic locks have now evolved into highly sophisticated security systems that can tell whether windows or

doors are locked or unlocked, or allow users to secure their home or allow access, without even being physically present in the property.

With the advent of the technology to change the way that we secure our homes for the first time since the key and lock was invented by the Egyptions, the window and door hardware industry – including Mighton Products – has invested huge amounts of time and resource into developing solutions for smart security. Surely everyone will be excited at this huge advance. Not as much as they should be, suggests Mike: “It is a competitive marketplace, and there is now a variety of smart hardware available. At Mighton, I firmly believe that our Avia Secure family of products leads the way as, amongst other features, they are all fully compatible with Apple HomeKit and the Apple operating system, which is widely regarded as the

most sophisticated on the market. The fundamental simplicity and trust that is associated with Apple products, has worked very well for us; great tech, but simple to use.

“Our products are also very simple to install and importantly, to retrofit – which means window installers of course, so they may offer smart hardware to customers without commitment to large stocks or training to install and maintain: Avia hardware is easily fitted during or post installation of the glazing. It does not have to be installed in the frame during the manufacture of the windows,’ added Mike.

“What I believe is the biggest barrier to the broad acceptance of smart secure products generally,” continued Mike, “is the insistence by some brands to charge a subscription. It is a big step, I believe, for homeowners to have to pay to secure their homes, even a few pounds a month, when they did so previously using good old fashioned keys for free. We do not charge a subscription to use our app, our service. But if potential customers have been put off by one product when they see it has to be activated by paying a regular charge, then the assumption will be that is true of all such products. I truly believe this hinders the spread of smart security hardware.”

Mike also believes that retailers are more likely to promote smart security hardware to their customers if they don’t have to negotiate a subscription charge: “Salespeople do not like anything that makes the close of the sale more difficult; conversely, anything that helps the close, is welcome. That is what Avia Secure offers. That is what all smart products should offer.”

www.mightonproducts.com

Mike Derham

ERA LAUNCHES NEW FAB & FIX PVCU DOOR HINGE DESIGNED FOR A FAST-FIT

ERA, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of home security and fenestration products, announces the launch of its fast-fit Fab&Fix Classic PVCu door hinge, designed for all major PVCu door profiles.

Offering PAS 24:2022 compliance, the fully adjustable 3D hinge has been designed with ease of installation in mind, with an under 60-second fabrication time. The hinge is supplied fully assembled, for speed of fit with a fast fix jig available to support the fabrication process.

In addition, it offers an excellent range of on-site adjustment for installation teams, with each hinge supplied with the adjustment detail on the flag of the hinge, providing flexibility and easy access during the installation process. This latest addition to the Fab&Fix range has been tested on-site at ERA’s UKAS test house to over 300,000 cycles for durability and in accordance with BS EN 1670: 2007 NSST 480 hours.

With a discreet, slim aesthetic and a double knuckle feature, the Classic hinge looks great on any style of PVCu. The specifically designed hooked flag wraps around the body to protect the flag when under attack, protecting the body screw and hinge from access.

Available in a choice of traditional and contemporary finishes, and part of the perfectly matching range of suited door and window hardware from Fab&Fix. The Classic

hinge can also be colour matched to a range of RAL numbers, which means that manufacturers can provide their customers with a wide range of options to suit their individual preferences.

For added assurance, the Classic Fab&Fix PVCu hinge comes with a 10 year mechanical guarantee and can be used as part of the PAS 24 package of hardware within the ERA Total Security Guarantee. Secured By Design (SBD) accredited, the Classic Fab&Fix PVCu door hinge joins a wide range of ERA products recognised to deter and reduce crime under the Police Preferred Specification scheme, offering peace of mind to manufacturers and end-users.

Sarah Knight, Technical Product Manager at ERA, said: “We are thrilled to introduce the Fab&Fix Classic PVCu hinge to our range of hardware for PVCu doors and windows. We understand that every second counts, that’s why

our new Classic hinge offers you even faster fabrication. Fully assembled, fast to fit with sustainable line side bulk packaging, it’s a PAS 24 hinge you can fit and forget.”

For more information on the Classic Fab&Fix PVCu hinge, visit: https://www.eraeverywhere.com/door-security/classicpvcu-door-hinge/

For further information on ERA’s diverse portfolio of security products, visit www.eraeverywhere.com, contact the sales team on 01922 490 000, or email info@eraeverywhere.com.

INTRODUCING DYNAMIC HARDWARE: THE NEW NAME IN INNOVATIVE HARDWARE SOLUTIONS

CEO, Steve Hall - Director

SECOND SILVER SCORE FOR MILA’S SUPASECURE™

Mila fabricators now have even more choice when it comes to offering the ultimate in high security stainless steel door hardware.

The Mila SupaSecure™ TS007 two star escutcheon has achieved the same Silver grading in the Master Locksmith’s Sold Secure attack test as the Mila SupaSecure™ door handle did just weeks earlier.

It’s an impressive achievement, given that there was only one Silver graded escutcheon previously and no Silver graded handles.

achievable by door hardware was Bronze. Mila’s SupaSecure™ products have obviously changed all that and we’re very proud to have raised the bar in this sector.”

Dynamic Hardware, a recently established hardware manufacturer founded by industry veteran Tony Chadwick, brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the market. Specialising in state-of-the-art window and door hardware solutions, the company aims to assist fabricators and installers with its impressive product range.

Tony Chadwick, CEO at Dynamic Hardware, said: “From our hardware design innovation to the standards we set, nothing but the best will do. Combined with great industry prices that benefit fabricators’ bottom lines, Dynamic Hardware customers can be sure of success.”

Tony highlights three factors that set Dynamic Hardware apart from mass market offerings.

The first is its product design strength because all Dynamic Hardware’s products

“We define our values as secure, quality and professional – and we’re committed to bringing those values to every business relationship and every interaction.”

are designed in-house by industry experts with a track record in intelligent hardware innovation. Tony commented “When you choose a Dynamic Hardware product, you benefit from superior design for outstanding functionality, superior aesthetics for an exceptional look and feel. Subject to minimum confirmed order quantities, the team can also work with companies to develop bespoke hardware solutions that give your business a unique competitive edge.”

The second is its manufacturing strength that ensures control and quality. All Dynamic Hardware’s products are manufactured in its own state-of-the-art 50,000 sqm manufacturing centre in SouthEast Asia and it has its headquarters and warehouse in Walsall in the West Midlands.

Tony noted: “Because we don’t work with third-party suppliers, we have complete control of our supply chain. It means we have reliable supply and quality every time.”

The third is a depth of industry experience that brings insight and understanding. The senior leadership team at Dynamic Hardware has been involved in hardware design and manufacture for over 40 years, which gives a depth of expertise few can match. Tony said: “We define our values as secure, quality and professional – and we’re committed to bringing those values to every business relationship and every interaction.”

Tony concluded: “Dynamic Hardware combines hardware expertise and experience with a relentless focus on excellence to give you the products that make the difference.”

To find out how Dynamic Hardware could add value to your business, contact the team today or visit dynamichardware.co.uk.

Mila’s Technical Director Strafford Cooke says it means fabricators can now offer the same level of reassurance to customers on door security – whether they are pairing their 1 or 3 star cylinder with a handle or an escutcheon. He explains: “The Sold Secure attack test is more intense and more sustained than the PAS24 security test. It uses a more ‘heavy duty’ set of tools, which includes an electric drill, longer crow bars and even a scaffolding pole for greater leverage; and the tester has a full five minutes per tool rather than three to try to attack the escutcheon with full force to access the cylinder.

“It’s so arduous that the received wisdom used to be that the maximum rating

Part of the reason for the products’ success in the Sold Secure attack test is their inherent strength – both are investment cast in Mila’s Supa™ stainless steel, which is the same process typically used for aerospace components. And both also feature clever features such as chamfered backplate shoulders and a rotating anti-drill disc. Strafford added: “In both the handle and the escutcheon tests, the doors eventually showed some signs of damage, but the Mila SupaSecure™ products emerged almost completely unscathed. That’s testament to both the quality and design.”

Unsurprisingly, the Mila SupaSecure™ escutcheon and handle both come with 25 year guarantees on the mechanical operation and the surface finish.

https://www.mila.co.uk/supa-escutcheons/

NEW CUSTOMER PORTAL OPENS ITS DOORS

Hardware manufacturer, VBH, has launched its new VBH24 Customer Portal.

VBH advise that the Portal builds on the success of the previous VBH online shop, but offers users a number of very useful additional benefits.

As well as placing orders, VBH24 users can view and download supplementary information including drawings, literature, guarantee information and safety data sheets through the Portal.

VBH Marketing Manager Gary Gleeson says, “The percentage of orders arriving at VBH via our previous online shop was high at around 35%, but we wanted to offer users more reasons to buy online as it is easy for them to use, and gets their orders to our picking teams quicker. The new features have struck a chord with many people who were previously not that keen on ‘online shopping’, with many additional customers now being willing to give it a go.

“Once they see how convenient it is, and see some of the new features including Order Templates, Cost Centres, Item Sharing and Budgets, they quickly become VBH24 converts.”

VBH describes the VBH24 Customer Portal as more than an online shop, as it is a source of information for purchasing and specification teams, as well as having useful

tools for other departments, including Bought Ledger and Cost Control.

Gary concludes, “The range of customers using the Portal extends from sole traders spending £100 a month, right up to our very largest customers, who spend millions of pounds with VBH. Something that they have in common is that they find ordering is easier through VBH24, so I would urge anybody to try it. It really is a 24 hour doorway to our stocks.”

For more information on VBH24 or to sign up for access, fill in a Contact Form at www.vbhgb24.com or email VBH at sales@vbhgb.com.

From L - R: Jamie Phillips - Business Development Manager, Tony Chadwick -

WINKHAUS UK – THREE NEW ADDITIONS TO THE AV4 RANGE REDEFINING SECURITY, FUNCTIONALITY AND STYLE

Winkhaus UK is delighted to announce the expansion of the AutoLock AV4 range with three variants: AV4 M4, AV4 Entry Guard, and AV4 U-rail. These additions follow the successful launch of AV4 and AV4 Heritage at FITShow 2023 and continue to showcase the company’s commitment to innovative design, security and style.

AV4 M4 – FOURFOLD SECURITY

Elevating security standards, the AV4 M4 variant introduces a state-of-the-art 4-hook version, providing users with four automatic security locking points and 5 including deadbolt.

This precision-engineered mechanism enhances security and engagement, redefining secure access for residential and commercial properties.

AV4 ENTRY GUARD –INNOVATIVE DOOR CHAIN ALTERNATIVE

The AV4 Entry Guard variant offers a revolutionary alternative to traditional door chains. Designed to enhance the appearance of modern doors, it sits flush within the door frame, providing superior security with an elegant touch for contemporary door designs in both residential and commercial applications.

“The AV4 Entry Guard variant offers a revolutionary alternative to traditional door chains. Designed to enhance the appearance of modern doors, it sits flush within the door frame, providing superior security with an elegant touch for contemporary door designs in both residential and commercial applications.”

Winkhaus UK remains dedicated to redefining industry standards, delivering innovative security solutions that seamlessly blend with modern living. For detailed specifications, available colour finishes, and more information on the autoLock AV4 range and its new variants, please visit https://www.winkhaus.co.uk/en/autolock-av4.

AV4 U-RAIL – VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY FOR ALUMINIUM SYSTEMS

Available throughout the AV4 range this new faceplate variant seamlessly integrates U-rail and flat plate profiles to suit all major aluminium system requirements.

Winkhaus UK is also introducing six new colour options for the autoLock AV4 range, including Graphite Black, Anthracite, Antique Brass, and Bronze, providing customers with an exciting range of options to enhance their door solutions. These new colour finishes not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also showcase a commitment to style without compromising on security.

Mike Rushen, Sales Director at Winkhaus UK, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are delighted with the immediate success of AV4 and feedback we are seeing from our customers and the market. We feel AV4 is a gamechanging product for fabricators, installers, and end-users, with these new variants and range of finishes providing further widening its versatility."

THE AV4’S FEATURES INCLUDE

• Widest Installation Tolerances: AV4 boasts the widest installation tolerances to date in an autoLock, ensuring adaptability to various door configurations.

• Lowest Required Force to Operate: The AV4 series requires the lowest force to operate, ensuring ease of use without compromising on security.

• Non-Handed for Reduced Inventory: AV4 is designed as non-handed, reducing inventory and simplifying the procurement process.

• Optional Day/Night Latch: The AV4 series offers the flexibility of an optional day/night latch, providing additional flexibility for varying user needs.

• Tested to and Compliant with Industry Standards: AV4 is rigorously tested and compliant with the requirements of PAS24 and Secured by Design.

autoLock AV4

The next generation of automatic door locking solutions

autoLock AV4

Introducing the new AV4 range of autoLocking solutions and the benefits they provide for modern entrance doors including 2 hook, 4 hook, Heritage, Entry Guard and U-rail variants.

The next generation of automatic door locking solutions

Introducing the new AV4 range of autoLocking solutions and the benefits they provide for modern entrance doors including 2 hook, 4 hook, Heritage, Entry Guard and U-rail variants.

autoLock AV4

generation of automatic door locking solutions

Precision engineered and manufactured in Germany with reduced operational force for ease of use, increased operational tolerances to eliminate issues with doors that warp, non-handed to simplify your ordering and inventory management, with the optional flexibility of day/night mode for re-entry off a latch.

Precision engineered and manufactured in Germany with reduced operational force for ease of use, increased operational tolerances to eliminate issues with doors that warp, non-handed to simplify your ordering and inventory management, with the optional flexibility of day/night mode for re-entry off a latch.

Precisely what you would expect from a Winkhaus door locking system.

Precisely what you would expect from a Winkhaus door locking system.

the new AV4 range of autoLocking solutions and the benefits they modern entrance doors including 2 hook, 4 hook, Heritage, Entry Guard variants.

For further information please visit winkhaus.co.uk or contact marketing@winkhaus.co.uk

For further information please visit winkhaus.co.uk or contact marketing@winkhaus.co.uk

engineered and manufactured in Germany with reduced operational force use, increased operational tolerances to eliminate issues with warp, non-handed to simplify your ordering and inventory with the optional flexibility of day/night mode for latch.

you would expect from a Winkhaus door locking system.

information please visit winkhaus.co.uk marketing@winkhaus.co.uk

DHF ANNOUNCES THAT IT HAS ACHIEVED ‘CYBER ESSENTIALS’ CERTIFICATION

Tamworth-based trade association, the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF), has announced that it has achieved ‘Cyber Essentials’ certification, an effective, Government-backed scheme supported by the NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre) that helps protect an organisation, whatever its size, against a variety of the most common cyber-attacks.

Cyber Essentials provides a framework to improve an organisation’s internal processes, focusing on five key technical security controls: Firewalls, Secure Configuration, Use Access Control, Malware Protection and Patch Management. The accreditation, achieved on 19th January 2024, demonstrates that DHF has met the required level of compliance for its IT security and protection.

“Cyber-attacks come in all shapes and sizes, but the vast majority are very basic in nature, and undertaken by relatively unskilled individuals,” explains DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “Effectively, they are the digital equivalent of a thief trying your front door to see if it’s unlocked.

“Certified cyber security demonstrates our enduring commitment and reassures our members that we are working to secure our IT against cyber-attack – and fundamentally protecting their data. Certification will also provide DHF with the opportunity to work on larger-scale projects and form long-lasting positive relationships with public sector organisations. Cyber Essentials is, in fact, required for many Government and public-sector contracts, making it a key driver of new sales and business growth. The certification will attract new business with the promise that cyber security measures are in place.”

DHF chose member benefit Citation as the certification body to achieve Cyber Essentials. Adrian Brine, Citations’ Partnership Manager said: “Citation is proud to have been a Member Benefit

CRL OFFICE PARTITIONS:

ENHANCING THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT WITH VERSATILE GLASS HARDWARE SOLUTIONS

Creating a private area while maintaining an open-plan flow in the contemporary office environment, CRL Office Partitions enable architects and designs to achieve a bespoke configuration using CRL Hardware.

Open-plan offices are advantageous for teamworking and productivity, with glass partitions an effective way of zoning larger spaces to create meeting rooms and quiet areas without obstructing the flow of natural light and movement.

Enabling such areas to be tailor-made to suit the space available individual requirements, CRL Hardware can be combined in various ways to create a bespoke office partition using corner profiles, flat bars and a U Profile Glazing Channel.

Ideal for creating a framed look, the CRL Aluminium Corner Profile 90°, 2.4m, is available in Bright Anodised, Satin Anodised, Matte Black, Satin Brass

and Bright Gold Anodised, along with the CRL Aluminium Flat Bar which at 19mm wide, 1.5mm thick can be used to create a popular lattice effect on all-glass partition walls.

The CRL Aluminium U Profile Glazing Channel has a deep pocket for securing fixed glass panels for straightforward and safe installation and is available in an impressive 17 finishes.

For office partitions with doors, the CRL Hydraulic Patch Fitting is designed

to be flush mounted for a seamless look. Designed for use with 10 to 12 mm monolithic toughened glass, the hinge allows for a maximum door weight of 100kg and width of 1,000mm. With an adjustable closing speed, installation is quick and simple, with no hole in the floor required, making it ideally suited for retrofit projects.

For further information call 01706 863600, email crl@crlaurence.co.uk, or visit www.crlaurence.co.uk.

to DHF members for many years. We are delighted to have helped DHF itself attain Cyber Essentials Certification, which is yet another example of DHF’s commitment to excellence”.

For further information regarding DHF’s member benefit Citation, visit:

https://bit.ly/DHFMemberBenefits

VBH JOINS SECURED BY DESIGN

VBH, the hardware specialist behind the greenteQ hardware and furniture brand, has announced that it has joined Secured by Design (SBD).

SBD is owned by Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI), part of the UK Police Service. Its aim is ‘design out crime’ through a number of prevention and reduction initiatives across the UK. In the glazing sector, this includes a scheme to ensure the adoption of independently tested security hardware products on windows and doors for new build projects. These products, which must be proven capable of deterring or preventing crime, are known as being of a ‘Police Preferred Specification’.

At the time of VBH’s membership commencing, 32 products from the greenteQ range and from selected VBH supplier

partners have achieved Police Preferred Specification and appear on VBH’s list of approved hardware. VBH advise that this number will grow steadily as more products are developed and are independently tested to the relevant security standards.

VBH’s UK based New Product Development team, led by Technical Director Rob Norman, designs greenteQ products to meet the requirements and tastes of UK fabricators, installers and consumers. The range is extensive, covering hardware, furniture and ancillaries for PVCu, aluminium, composite and timber residential entrance doors, patio doors and windows.

All products are fully guaranteed for a minimum of 10 years, with some guarantee periods extending to 20 or 25 years. In addition, the company offers Q-secure, its own consumer security guarantee that is brought to market through a network of approved manufacturers and installers.

Of the new relationship with SBD, Rob says, “VBH has long worked in partnership with industry leaders to help raise the bar on product quality and performance, to the benefit of everybody in the supply chain. This dovetails perfectly with the excellent work that SBD does, both within our industry and on a wider basis.

“SBD will only accredit quality products that have successfully been through rigorous test criteria, ensuring genuinely secure hardware products, an ethos that is at the heart of all greenteQ product development.

“Having SBD approval of our products lends further weight to our own Q-secure consumer hardware guarantee.”

Hazel Goss of Secured by Design, said, “It has been a pleasure to have VBH join us as a member of Secured by Design. VBH (GB) is part of the VBH Group, Europe’s leading supplier of window and door hardware and ancillaries. I’m looking forward to working alongside them for many years to come.”

For more information on VBH’s range of SBD approved products, contact the company on 01634 263263, email at info@vbhgb.com, or send them a Tweet @vbhgb. If you would like to know more about Secured by Design in general, visit www.securedbydesign.com/contact-us.

Glass and Mirror Technology. Project features CRL380HMBLSET Patch fitting, EUFB19MBL Flat Bar, SDCD38MBL U Profile Glazing Channel, SDCD3812MBL U Channel

REALLY SMART SMART HARDWARE

For every home, without the faff

The most secure, Apple HomeKit Approved, range of smart door and window hardware and accessories. Easily fitted with a screwdriver, no subscription or commitment, linked simply through a free app. Take advantage of the growing demand for smart home security, simply and effectively.

WINDOW WARE AND EXPRESS TRADE FRAMES CELEBRATE SUCCESSFUL 25-YEAR SUPPLY PARTNERSHIP

Leading UK fenestration hardware provider, Window Ware, is celebrating with longstanding customer, Express Trade Frames, as their successful supply partnership reaches an incredible quartercentury milestone.

The Bedfordshire-based hardware specialist has been a supplier of choice for Express Trade Frames (ETF) since they opened their doors in Fleetwood in 1999. In fact, Window Ware was the recipient of the first cheque that ETF ever wrote! And now, the two fenestration firms have just signed a new 2-year trading agreement to further set the seal on their enduring supply partnership.

Throughout ETF’s long history, Window Ware has always been a trusted source

for a wide range of high-security Yale and Trojan hardware which helps to ensure their wide offering of uPVC glazing products meets PAS 24 requirements. That expert hardware provision and advice came to the fore last year when the company put their products through testing for the latest PAS 24: 2022 accreditation, a test which included Window Ware’s Delta door hinge.

Like many fabricators diversifying and responding to changing market demand, Express Trade Frames has evolved over the last 3-4 years beyond their PVC roots to become a multisystem manufacturer, expanding their product range to include composite doors, Exlabesa bi-fold doors and Sheerline windows. Window Ware was on hand to support them with the right preproduction advice, the right hardware and plenty of practical experience to help get their aluminium venture off the ground.

ETF Managing Director, Scott Law, explains: “The help and support Window Ware gives us is second to none and we can always count on them to deliver cracking service, competitive prices, and have the leading brands we like in stock and ready to ship!”

“We go the extra mile to give our customers the very best advice, the right kind of support and a rocksolid supply to help them achieve their goals, because their success is our primary objective.”

Scott admits: “2023 was a particularly busy and challenging year for us. As part of our business expansion plans, we moved into a new, larger factory, bringing our PVCu and aluminium fabrication together under one roof. Knowing Window Ware had our back with quality components, trusted technical support and dependable deliveries gave us one less thing to worry about during the relocation!”

Richard Bryant, Window Ware’s Commercial Director adds: “We are incredibly proud to be celebrating this important milestone with one of our longest-standing customers, Express Trade Frames, and delighted to be able to play a part in their continuing success story.”

“After 25 years of working together, I think it’s fair to say we’ve developed a fantastic working relationship with Scott and the team, and it’s strong partnerships like this which are proving so vital for long-term success in today’s competitive market. We go the extra mile to give our customers the very best advice, the right kind of support and a rock-solid supply to help them achieve their goals, because their success is our primary objective. We’re honoured Express Trade Frames continue to give us the opportunity to serve them.”

Window Ware has been successfully serving the window and door industry with leading brand hardware, tools, and consumables since 1987.

For more information, call 01234 242 724, email sales@windowware.co.uk, or visit www.windowware.co.uk.

George Esler, Window Ware Area Sales Manager NW and ETF Managing Director, Scott Law

INTRODUCING DYNAMIC HARDWARE

In a series of industry spotlights, Glass News caught up with industry veteran Tony Chadwick, CEO of Dynamic Hardware, to take a closer at the new name in hardware design and discuss the plans for the future.

You have recently launched Dynamic Hardware - but tell us what was happening behind the scenes to get to this point?

As you can imagine we have been working hard behind the scenes for some time to bring Dynamic Hardware to fruition. This involved extensive research and development efforts focused on designing new products that meet the evolving needs of the industry. Additionally, significant resources were invested in establishing our manufacturing facility in South East Asia to ensure efficient production and quality control. Only after extensive product testing across our range of products were we ready to launch to market.

We understand your team members include Stephen Hall and Jamie Phillips, colleagues with hardware credentials from previous employment. How did the three of your come together at Dynamic Hardware?

Since leaving Trojan Hardware, we have always kept in touch and maintained a strong and professional relationship.

Following my decision to form another business, Steve and I worked closely together behind the scenes, leveraging our collective experience and expertise. Additionally, Jamie, who was seeking a new opportunity at the right time, joined us at the point where we were ready to launch.

Whilst your UK base is in Walsall, we see you have a 50,000 sqm manufacturing

centre in South East Asia which is not a small set up - that’s nearly 550,000 sq ft in old money! Can you tell us how this particular place was chosen and do we assume that Dynamic Hardware own this facility or does ‘privately owned’ refer to someone else?

“Only after extensive product testing across our range of products were we ready to launch to market.”

We do indeed own the 50,000 sqm manufacturing centre in South East Asia. This facility was strategically chosen because our team is committed to delivering the best in hardware manufacture. As a company that designs and manufactures our own products, we wanted to have total control over our quality and output. By owning our manufacturing facility, we are not reliant on third parties, allowing us to maintain stringent quality standards and ensure the consistency and reliability of our products.

How are you positioning your products in the marketplace? You refer to ‘nothing but the best will do’ and ‘great industry prices that benefit fabricators’ bottom lines’. It is certainly what everyone wants – high end products at attractive prices – but can that be achieved, in practice?

In a word yes! It’s all about quality and value. Our motto, ‘nothing but the best will do’, underscores our commitment to delivering top-tier products that exceed industry standards. However, we also understand the importance of affordability and the impact it has on fabricators’ bottom lines.

Through optimisation of our manufacturing processes, efficient supply chain management and strategic pricing

strategies, we can offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality.

You have the advantage of having your own manufacturing facility and in normal times that must be a good thing for your customers as you control the supply chain. However, with the Suez Canal pretty much out of action and the prospect of doubling the supply lines via the Cape of Good Hope, is that advantage dissipated and, if that’s the case, what is your policy on carrying stock at Walsall? How will this effect lead times?

We recognise the importance of our vertically integrated manufacturing facility, which typically affords us greater control over our supply chain and enables us to provide consistent and reliable products to our customers. However, recent disruptions have highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains, necessitating adaptive measures.

Our policy on carrying stock at our Walsall facility has become increasingly crucial. We understand the importance of maintaining adequate inventory levels to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure continuity of supply to our customers. As such, we have implemented proactive measures to optimise our stock management practices, including strategic forecasting, inventory diversification and contingency planning. While disruptions in global shipping routes may impact lead times to some extent, we are committed to minimising any potential delays through our inventory management and agile supply chain strategies. Additionally, our Walsall facility serves as a strategic hub for distribution and logistics, allowing us to efficiently manage stock levels and ensure we continue to meet customer demand.

You have the knowledge and expertise to design your own ranges of hardware and the products shown on your website bear this out. You also mention that you can work with customers to design hardware

Tony Chadwick, CEO of Dynamic Hardware

personalised to them. Is this something that your experience tells you is a requirement for large fabricators?

We understand that large fabricators or more often system houses may have unique requirements and specifications for their hardware components. Therefore, our experience has shown us that offering personalised design services is indeed a valuable asset in meeting the needs of these customers. Of course this is always subject to minimum confirmed order quantities so bespoke design is not for everyone!.

How do you see the hardware market developing? Is it all about ‘smart’ solutions, high-end aesthetically pleasing hardware, or mass market price sensitive ranges?

It’s a mixture of both. Smart hardware solutions have increased over the past few years with integrated sensors and remote access features allowing end users to monitor and control their hardware remotely via smartphones. At the same time, there is still a growing emphasis on design and aesthetics in architectural and interior design projects and we expect a continued demand for high-end hardware solutions that offer superior performance and visual appeal. This includes hardware featuring sleek designs, premium finishes and product longevity.

Having said that, price remains a significant factor with products that offer a balance between affordability and quality. This includes value-driven products that meet basic functional requirements without compromising on durability or performance, which is what we offer. What is your design inspiration as it is not easy to bring a new look to market for doors and windows when the functionality required is pretty much a given?

Our design inspiration stems from a deep understanding of the evolving needs and preferences of our customers, combined with a commitment to innovation and excellence. While the functionality of

hardware for doors and windows is indeed a critical factor, we believe that there is ample opportunity to bring a fresh and innovative perspective to the market through thoughtful design.

Our design process begins by closely listening to the feedback and insights of

our customers, industry professionals and market trends. By understanding their pain points, preferences and emerging needs, we gain valuable insights that inform our design decisions.

Furthermore, we are constantly exploring new materials, finishes and manufacturing

techniques to push the boundaries of design and create hardware solutions that stand out.

You undoubtedly have the experience and knowledge to be able to talk with large fabricators and get your products in front of the right people but how would you persuade me to move from my current supplier? Is it the product features or the benefits to the buyer that will persuade me?

We understand that persuading you to switch from your current supplier requires demonstrating the value and benefits our products offer. Whilst our product features are indeed important, we focus on highlighting the tangible benefits that matter most to you as the buyer. Whether it's improved functionality, enhanced durability, cost savings, or superior customer support, we are committed to delivering hardware solutions that meet specific needs and exceed expectations.

You already offer a wide range of products for windows and doors but what else is to come? For instance, are you looking at multi-point locks?

Yes, we are continuously expanding our product range to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the wider industry. Whilst we already offer a wide range of products for windows and doors, we are also actively developing new solutions to enhance our offer. It’s a case of watch this space!

If you had the benefit of second sight, what would Dynamic Hardware look like in, say, 5 years and 10 years time?

If the past few years have taught us anything, you can never plan with total certainty. Having said that, our 5 years strategy is for Dynamic Hardware to be recognised as a market leader in hardware supply and design. As for 10 years’ time, we want to continue to push the boundaries of design and functionality, revolutionising the way hardware is perceived and utilised in the built environment.

For more information visits www.dynamichardware.co.uk.

PYROGUARD ADVANCE – THE ‘NEXT GENERATION’ OF FIRE SAFETY GLASS

Pyroguard, the world’s leading independent provider of fire safety glass, is delighted to announce the launch of Pyroguard Advance - the latest addition to its portfolio of cuttable solutions.

Pyroguard Advance is a brand-new, high-performance product, featuring an innovative gel interlayer technology expertly developed following the completion of a dedicated research, development and test programme.

Providing EW classification with a fire resistance of 30 or 60 minutes, Pyroguard Advance can also deliver exceptional fire protection at larger certified pane sizes, with a high tolerance to variations in glazing media – all helping customers to meet the demands of increasingly challenging fire safety applications.

Certified for use across a wide range of steel and timber profiles, Pyroguard Advance is available in 7 mm, 8 mm and 11 mm thicknesses, with the 7 mm option able to be cut simply and quickly by hand. It conforms to EN 14449 requirements for

laminated fire safety glass and is impact tested to BS EN 12600.

Speaking about the launch, Steve Goodburn, Business Development Director at Pyroguard, said: “We’re delighted and very proud to introduce Pyroguard

Advance to the market as our unique, ‘next generation’ cuttable product.

“For our system manufacturer and fire door customers, Pyroguard Advance provides a complete range of cuttable products from one single source. It is extremely easy to

Iron Guard 3*

process and is fully compatible with the majority of timber glazing solutions and all leading fire door systems, including composite doors.”

Pyroguard Advance is also fully tested with the wide range of intumescent seals and glazing system components from Mann McGowan, the recent addition to Technical Fire Safety Group (TFSG). Glass and seals packages are also available to purchase from Fire Glass UK, another member of TFSG, with a comprehensive suite of supporting test evidence.

Part of Technical Fire Safety Group and the svt Group of companies, Pyroguard is the world’s leading independent provider of high-performance fire safety glass. Dedicated to continuous product development and testing, Pyroguard offers a variety of solutions and expert technical advice to help architects, specifiers and installers create beautiful and safe living and working spaces.

From cuttable and toughened fire safety glass to solutions that can provide protection against smoke and manual attack, Pyroguard delivers one of the largest and most fully tested ranges to markets across Europe and further afield, including the Middle East, India and North America. For more information, please visit: www.pyroguard.eu.

FAST FORWARD TO THE FUTURE

If you want to make a stunning impression on clients, customers and visitors to your commercial office space, sometimes only glass will do. And when that glass is needed fast, that’s when only TuffX will do.

TuffX supplied 89 panels – a total of 145m2 – of 21.5mm EVA toughened and laminated safety glass for a substantial high-end glass stairway in a business premises in the South East of England. The glass was chosen for both its quality aesthetic as well as to provide enhanced safety, with the Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) interlayer ensuring robust bonding for greater impact resistance and structural strength.

Complementing the building’s glass atrium roof and light glossed marble effect flooring underfoot, the glass stairways create a dramatic, futuristic vision, with light bouncing around the space even on the most overcast days. Clear sightlines throughout the building from top to bottom emphasise the sense of grandeur and elevation.

To complete the project in time, the finished glass panels – which included drilled holes for secure side fixing and CNC polish finish on the edges and dubbed corners – were needed fast. And TuffX were happy to help make it happen.

“We’re delighted to say this is another tight project that we delivered on time and in full to a satisfied customer,” said Paul Higgins, TuffX’s Commercial Director.

“This is a fantastic example of where only quality glass will do, and the stunning finished result is great to see. Furthermore, our 10-year guarantee against discolouration and delamination means our customers can be assured their glass will look as good as it does on day one for years to come.”

http://www.tuffxglass.co.uk/

COMBINING SAFETY AND AESTHETICS AT NEW DUTCH ACADEMY

When it comes to constructing schools, colleges and universities, it’s important to balance aesthetic design with building safety. It’s about creating spaces that are not only safe and functional but also welcoming and inspiring for both staff and students.

The new Academy Tien in The Netherlands strikes this balance perfectly, with Pyroguard’s fire safe solutions playing a pivotal role throughout.

Designed by Wiersema Architecten and de Architecten CIE, the Academy Tien is a beautiful new school building near the centre of Utrecht. Catering for students between 10 and 18 years old, the academy has been constructed with a contemporary open plan layout, to maximise the building’s natural light transmission.

Contracted to deliver the fire-resistant steel interior partitions and frames on the project, was JM Van Delft & zn, a specialist in glazing system solutions. Ruud van Dal, Sales and Operations Manager at JM Van Delft & zn, said: “Throughout this project, it was important that both aesthetics and safety were considered and well balanced. There was a clear requirement for keeping the school’s interior spaces light and open, while simultaneously providing a safe environment for students, staff and visitors to work and learn in. As a result, fire safety

TUFFX INFINITY ROOFLIGHTS RECEIVE TOP PRODUCT ACCOLADE

TuffX’s Infinity range of rooflights continues its success story into 2024 with the thermal walk-on rooflight receiving Top Product recognition from Professional Builder magazine for 2023.

Ideal for transforming basement conversions or roof terraces to let natural light into a property while maintaining a building’s thermal efficiency, Infinity walkon rooflights are made from toughened laminated glass and suitable for both internal or external installation. They are available in bespoke sizes and with the option of clear, privacy or anti-slip finishes.

glass was chosen as the perfect material for installation within the building’s internal partitions, doors and central atrium.

“Pyroguard Protect EW60 was installed within the doors, sidelights and designated escape routes. While Pyroguard Protect EI60, offering the highest level of protection, was installed between classrooms and the central atrium, creating a series of fire safe compartments.”

This process of compartmentation can form a key part of any building’s passive fire protection strategy, working to split the building up into a series of fire safe zones. As well as helping to limit the spread of a fire, this can also provide both a safe route of escape for occupants and a means of entry for the emergency services.

Ruud continued: “Pyroguard Protect’s high visual appearance helped to maintain the light and open interior that the architect desired, while its multi-functional capabilities proved key in delivering improved acoustic control and impact resistance - something which was a clear priority when designing the new academy.”

Pyroguard Protect is a toughened fire safety glass, certified for use in steel, timber and aluminium profiles. Providing 30 to 180 minutes of protection against smoke and flames, 1B1 impact resistance, and UV stability, Pyroguard Protect ensures that both design and safety requirements can be achieved.

The Academy Tien opened its doors to students in January 2024.

For more information about Pyroguard, please visit: www.pyroguard.eu.

Also included in the range are Infinity framed rooflights, a thermal aluminium fully glazed system available in double or triple glazing, and in clear, solar or privacy glass finishes.

“When we initially launched Infinity framed rooflights we quickly became aware of further market opportunities to extend the range. With further research and development, we were soon also able to offer the Infinity walk-on units which, like the rest of the Infinity range, meet all required specifications whilst maintaining a contemporary aesthetic,” said Paul Higgins, TuffX’s Commercial Director.

“Getting this Top Product recognition is praise indeed. We’ll happily tell everyone how great our products are of course, but being commended by the trades that actually use our products on site and choose them again and again – and who are best placed to judge us against our peers – is a real testament to our success.”

www.tuffxglass.co.uk

Introducing our Rapid Fit Door Hinge

With an elegant, modern design the hinge has been intelligently designed with unique features to make it our most ‘fitter-friendly’ product.

• Unique ‘slide-on or lift-off’ design ensures simple fitting and adjustment with no reveal limitations.

• Can be adjusted on all planes, further enhancing its quick fitting properties, dramatically reducing installation time.

• Tested to BS EN:2007 Grade 5, PAS24:2016 security requirements and Secured by Design certification.

Irish Oak Antique Black Anthracite Grey

Green

CAPITALISING ON NEW BUILD OPPORTUNITIES WITH STELLAR

Specialist fabricator Capital Windows is leveraging the advantages of Stellar Aluminium from Epwin Window Systems to advance its presence in the new build sector. Peter Adams, General Manager at Capital Windows, explains: “All Stellar windows and doors are compliant with Part L of the Building Regulations, enabling us to provide customers with a complete new build solution utilising a single aluminium system. This simplifies the process and ensures consistent quality and aesthetic appeal throughout the entire construction project.”

Stellar’s windows and doors can achieve a U-value of 1.2 W/(m²K) with triple glazing, the regulatory standard for the new build space. This includes the Stellar Flush Tilt & Turn Window, Flush Casement Window, Fully Flush Casement Window and the Bay Window, as well as the Flush Residential Door, Flush French Doors, Lift & Slide

Door, Slimline Bifold Door and the new Stellar Inline Sliding Door.

Unlike other aluminium systems, the absence of workarounds to achieve compliance reduces profile usage by 30%, streamlining fabrication processes and enhancing profit margins through improved material utilisation.

Peter commented: “We offer a complete portfolio of Stellar Aluminium window and door products, leveraging its seamless compliance capabilities to gain a competitive edge in the market.”

Peter also highlights the visual appeal of Stellar as a key factor in securing new build projects. He said: “Stellar’s sleek and modern design resonates well with housebuilders. Installers also appreciate its user-friendly features such as its pre-gasketed clip-in beads which speed up installation. It’s become our go-to aluminium system.”

As testament to Stellar’s credentials, Capital Windows has secured many lucrative contracts, including several high-end new build projects. Notably, the company supplied multiple Stellar windows and doors for a prestigious £2.5 million bespoke new build property. Peter said: “The high-end specification on this project was exacting, but Stellar more than delivered.”

Commenting on the success of Stellar in the new build space, Phil Parry, Technical Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Stellar, along with all our systems, offers inherent compliance with Part L regulations, presenting a value-added proposition for fabricators like Capital Windows operating in the new build sector. We are delighted to see the remarkable success of the Capital team.”

Capital Windows are based in Uxbridge, Greater London and works across the new

build, domestic, trade and commercial sectors throughout the South East of England. For over 40 years the company has positioned itself as a specialist designer, supplier and installer of the latest generation of technically advanced window and door products. Leveraging its experience and commitment to new build excellence, Capital Windows continue to meet the evolving needs of the sector with Stellar Aluminium.

Tel: 0845 300 9356

www.stellaraluminium.co.uk

FENTRADE REPORTS COMMERCIAL SALES GROWTH AMID ESTATE REFURBISHMENT PROJECT

Aluminium trade fabricator Fentrade has reported a 21% year-on-year increase in commercial sales following a successful start to 2024. Chris Reeks, Managing Director at Fentrade, said: “This growth is a sign of the underlying strength of the commercial sector and the quality and reliability of our commercial product offer.”

The sales upturn coincides with a current commercial project led by Fentrade’s landlord at its operating site in Maesglas, near Newport, Gwent. Chris said: “The landlord of our industrial estate has initiated an extensive refurbishment program covering all business units on the site. The project’s primary aim is to enhance the thermal efficiency of the windows and doors and improve the various buildings’ aesthetics. They approached Fentrade to help deliver the

project.”

Chris continued: “Having run through the detailed specifications and timeline, we have manufactured and supplied 22 AluK 58BW casement windows and five GT55 doors for this stage of the project.”

The selection of AluK 58BW casement windows was driven by their thermal performance capabilities, achieving a

U-value of 1.4W/m²K with 28mm doubleglazed units. All 27 windows and doors were manufactured in anthracite grey, aligning with the contemporary aesthetics sought by the landlord for the ongoing estate-wide renovation.

One of the project’s key challenges is the need to align with the installation contractor’s exacting timescales to minimise disruption to the daily operation of the various businesses on the estate.

Chris said: “Even though the project is right on our doorstep, hands-on project management and tight communication is critical at every stage. We supplied all products in full and on time, to meet the phased installation schedule and worked closely with the installation teams to avoid any disruption to the businesses.”

Award-winning Fentrade Ltd works with trade and retail customers throughout

PATIOMASTER SOUTH EAST ADDS STELLAR ALUMINIUM TO ITS PORTFOLIO

PatioMaster South East has just signed a three year supply agreement to manufacture the Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door and Bifold Door from Epwin Window Systems.

Simon Spiers, Director of PatioMaster South East, said: “We’ve manufactured the PatioMaster PVC-U door system for 22 years. As the market for high-end products continues to grow, by adding Stellar to our range, we can give our customers the very best in door products across both PVC-U and aluminium.”

Paul Hinds, National Sales Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted that PatioMaster South East, with

its longstanding track record of success with PatioMaster, is expanding its reach and diversifying into aluminium. By choosing Stellar Aluminium it benefits from all the award-winning features the system has to offer – and the ease of working with one systems company across both its PVC-U and aluminium ranges.”

PatioMaster South East began manufacturing the Stellar Aluminium Slimline Bifold Door and Inline Sliding Door in February. Simon said: “The design of the PatioMaster door makes it the best PVC-U inline sliding door in the industry. The same applies to Stellar in the aluminium space. We are impressed by

Stellar’s flush aesthetics and slim sightlines and we know our customers will be too. The fact that the products are as quick and easy to install as their PVC-U counterparts is also a huge selling point.”

All PatioMaster South East’s products are manufactured to order from its manufacturing centre in New Romney in Kent. To accommodate the new aluminium division, it has expanded its premises by 50%.

PatioMaster South East is the go-to patio door partner for installers, builders and DIY enthusiasts throughout London and the South East. It offers rapid order turnaround times, outstanding technical and product

Wales and the West and along the M4, M5 and M6 corridors. It partners with renowned industry brands such as AluK, Kestrel Aluminium and VBH Greenteq and manufactures a full range of aluminium windows, doors, bifolds, inline sliders, GFT commercial screens, shopfronts and curtain walling products. The company is a member of the Council for Aluminium in Building and prides itself on maintaining the highest standards in every area of its business.

Chris concluded: “Our continued involvement in the Maesglas refurbishment project and our surge in commercial sales reflects the trust and confidence our customers place in our ability to meet their commercial project requirements with precision and efficiency.”

Tel: 01633 547787

www.fentradealuminium.co.uk

support and, of course, exceptional patio doors. With the addition of Stellar Aluminium to its offer, it’s bringing even more value to its customers.

Tel: 0845 340 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

From L – R: Gavin Prowse - PatioMaster SE, Simon Spiers - PatioMaster SE, Ben SpiersPatioMaster SE

The QUIK CLIP™ from AluK is our latest clip-in bead innovation. Engineered to speed up glazing installation by over three times, this revolutionary design requires no tools or forceful action – simply clip and go.

See the results for yourself by searching ‘AluK Quik Clip’ on YouTube or by scanning the QR code below.

SENIOR INVESTS IN ITS IN-HOUSE POWDER COATING FACILITY

It’s out with the old and in with the new at Senior Architectural System’s HQ as the leading aluminium fenestration systems manufacturer unveils several upgrades which will make its state of the art powder coating facility even more sustainable.  By utilising the latest gas burner technology and high performance insulation materials, Senior will be able to significantly reduce the gas consumption required for its powder coating process. Senior has also installed the latest automated profile handing conveyor system which will work with the advanced powder coating technology from Gema that is already in place to further boost productivity.

These latest investments follow on from the significant IT process updates that have been recently made to Senior’s vertical powder coating line. These have given Senior full control and greater flexibility of the pre-treatment and curing capabilities of its vertical powder coating line and has also helped contribute to lower gas usage.

Located within the company’s main UK manufacturing facility in Denaby, South Yorkshire, Senior’s powder coating facility is already one of the most environmentally friendly of its kind, reducing waste and significant amounts of excess product being sent to landfill each year. The in-house facility, which also supports the products manufactured at its nearby Thermal

Improvement Centre in Rotherham, allows Senior to better meet the demands of its customers by eliminating the need to outsource and reducing the risk of delays to project timelines. Embodied carbon through transportation is also reduced as Senior can consolidate deliveries across its extensive range of aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall systems.

The new upgrades will improve both the operational and environmental efficiency of Senior’s powder coating facility and will also help increase capacity. As well as offering an almost unlimited range of colours and coatings, including specialist solutions such as anti-bacterial and UV resistant finishes, Senior can now also provide a new ultra matt powder paint coating from Akzo Nobel. This new paint option is a costeffective alternative to anodised aluminium, giving a more consistent finish, superior colour retention and enhanced durability.

Senior’s aluminium fenestration systems, finished in this new ultra matt coating, are currently being installed at a new commercial office project in Manchester which is at present the largest live project in the UK to utilise this new powder coating innovation.

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

EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS LAUNCHES NEW STELLAR ALUMINIUM INLINE SLIDING DOOR

Epwin Window Systems has just launched the latest addition to its multi-awardwinning Stellar Aluminium range, the new Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door. Phil Parry, Technical Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “The Stellar Inline Sliding Door continues Stellar’s track record of products that set new standards across the industry and redefines product excellence at every level.”

Everywhere you look, the new Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door offers impressive benefits.

Its aesthetics are second to none. It has a stunningly slim aluminium profile and a slimline interlock of just 35mm. Each sash can be up to 1675mm wide, so there are fewer sashes and wider glazed expanses. And because the outerframe seamlessly aligns with the sash, the door delivers a flush appearance that perfectly suites with other products in the Stellar Aluminium range. It’s available in 2, 3, and 4-pane configurations with a maximum total width of 6500mm, so it’s the solution for the largest of spaces.

Thermal efficiency is similarly impressive. Intelligently designed polyamide thermal breaks deliver a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K with 28mm double glazing and as low as 0.9 W/m²K

LOOK TO THE FUTURE THIS ALUMINIUM DAY!

On Wednesday 13th March Aluminium Day will return and this year, host Senior Architectural Systems is showcasing the different ways companies are encouraging young people to consider a career working with aluminium, and the various job roles available.

Now in its fifth year, Aluminium Day is Senior’s dedicated annual social media event that celebrates the versatility of aluminium and encourages those from across the manufacturing, engineering and wider construction sectors to come together to share their news and views. This year’s event aims to support a wider conversation about where the skills gaps are and identify the new generation of ‘Aluminium Aces’ – the students, new recruits, trainees and apprentices who are all helping to shape the future of the aluminium industry.

Throughout Wednesday 13th March, people can use the #AluminiumDay

hashtag on LinkedIn and Facebook to post about any initiatives they have been involved in, from partnerships with local schools and colleges, to in-house training schemes. Contributors can also give a special shout out to the ‘Aluminium Aces’ within their own organisation, whether these are younger people just starting their career or more experienced colleagues who are playing an active role in raising awareness of the opportunities of working with this innovative building material.

Senior will be also be sharing more details about its partnership with local secondary school Sir Thomas Wharton Academy as part of the Better Learners Better Workers Programme. Senior is working closely with the school and its students to provide information about the company, its work, the wider fenestration and construction industries, and most importantly, what career opportunities are available for the next generation.

with triple glazing. At the same time, effective seals and bespoke design features provide classleading performance to BS 6375 standard.  The Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door is available in a standard range of stocked colours or in any other made to order RAL finish. Textured, non-textured and dual colour options are available too, reflecting the latest colour palettes for project personalisation. All doors are QUALICOAT-approved and come with a 25-year colour guarantee.

Two- and 3-pane doors feature Yale’s 6-hook locking system as standard. For 4-pane doors, there’s a specially developed Yale 10-hook locking system. As a result, the Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door is a PAS 24:2022 accredited system and meets Approved Document Q requirements as standard. With the correct glazing specification, it can also meet Secured by Design standards if required.

Because it’s a Stellar product, the Inline Sliding Door also benefits from Stellar’s renowned ease of installation. It uses pregasketed knock-in beads, which make sashes quick and easy to glaze, whilst providing a neat, high-end finish on the gasket line.

Phil concluded: “The new Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Doors is the perfect solution for any fabricator or installer seeking to offer a standout aluminium sliding door. And because it’s part of the Stellar Aluminium system, it’s part of a comprehensive flush window and door suite, providing elevated aesthetics for today’s modern interiors.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

Commenting, Mark Wadsworth, managing director of Senior Architectural Systems said: “When we launched Aluminium Day five years ago, our aim was to raise the profile of this versatile and sustainable building material and to celebrate the skills of the people that work with it. On this anniversary year, we wanted to really shine the spotlight on how companies are trying to plug the skills gap and the many reasons why young people should consider a career within the manufacturing, engineering and construction sectors. We know from our own experiences that these conversations need to start at grass-roots level and that education is a key part of the process so we are looking forward to sharing our own stories and hearing how other companies are getting involved.”

Aluminium Day 2024 will take place on Wednesday 13th March. The date itself, the 13th day of the third month, gives a nod to the fact that aluminium is the third most

abundant metal in the world and its atomic number is 13.

Look out for the dedicated Aluminium Day content across Senior’s LinkedIn, Facebook,Instagram and X, and join the conversation using the #AluminiumDay hashtag.

For more information, please visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk.

PURe innovation

PURe® innovation

Senior’s innovation recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise

Our thermally-efficient, patented PURe® system is fully Part L compliant and available in choice of window styles and door options for both residential and commercial projects.

Senior’s innovation recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise

Winner of a King’s Award for Enterprise (Innovation) 2023.

Our thermally-efficient, patented PURe® system is fully Part L compliant and available in choice of window styles and door options for both residential and commercial projects.

Winner of a King’s Award for Enterprise (Innovation) 2023.

SHEERLINE’S RANGE HELPS D & I WINDOWS ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS GROWTH

D & I Windows has been announced as one of the latest companies to add Sheerline’s premium aluminium range to its’ product offering. The Barnsley-based fabricator and manufacturer pivoted from UPVC to aluminium because of rising costs and increased competition post-pandemic.

Since deciding to fabricate Sheerline’s versatile wholehouse aluminium systems, D & I has gone from strength to strength, even launching a new company called Radius Aluminium, which is dedicated to supporting trade customers.

The launch of the new trade business comes after a busy period, which has seen the company grow and enabled business owners and directors, David Saxon and Ian Haddock, to achieve their goal of creating a sustainable long-term business.

Having both previously been made redundant, they decided to utilise their expertise to offer customers the best products and services, while also supporting the local economy. One of the key reasons David and Ian chose Sheerline is because the system is unlike anything else available.

It is efficient to manufacture, which has helped them streamline their operations. In addition, it’s fitter-friendly and offers customers a stylish, thermally efficient alternative to traditional UPVC options. Another factor is the branding and marketing support Sheerline offers as standard.

One of the biggest benefits to fabricating the innovative aluminium range in-house is the control D & I has over its supply chain. This has added to the company’s long-term sustainability and reliability as it no longer waits as long for deliveries and has enabled it to reduce customer lead times.

D & I is currently fabricating Sheerline’s Beaded Classic and Prestige Windows, Prestige Bi-folds, the award-winning Prestige Lift & Slide Patio and the S1 Lantern – all of which are Part L compliant as standard. But the company has big plans, including adding the recently launched thermally efficient Classic Hertiage Door.

With heritage style doors being on trend and in high demand, adding Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door will enhance and complete the company’s product offering, as it will have a fully suited range of matching products available.

D & I Windows Director, David Saxon, said: “We’ve got big plans. We see this as a long-term partnership, and this is just the beginning. We’ve achieved sustainability, so now it’s time for our business to grow.”

“We’re taking our aluminium offer nationwide – something we know is achievable given the support Sheerline provides. Hence why we have opportunities with our dedicated trade business, Radius Aluminium. We welcome enquiries from anyone looking for a new stylish, thermally efficient, reliable, aluminium window and door system to install,” he added.

Sheerline Sales Director, Tony Basile commented: “What David and Ian have achieved is huge. Not only for themselves but for the local area too – they’re providing jobs and building a sustainable business for future generations. We’re delighted that Sheerline has played a role in this and look forward to supporting D & I’s ambitious plans.”

Radius Aluminium currently has opportunities for trade partners and invites them to make an appointment to view the showroom, which is open seven days a week. It has every product on display (except the patio doors) as well as different styling options, colours, and handles.

Find out more about fabricating Sheerline’s products by calling the team directly on 01332 978000, email: info@ sheerline.com or visit the website to view the full range of products: http://www.sheerline.com.

For more information on D & I Windows, email David on: djs@dandiwindows.co.uk.

STELLAR ALUMINIUM ACHIEVES PAS24:2022

Epwin Window Systems has confirmed that all products in its Stellar Aluminium system have achieved PAS24:2022. This includes the Flush Tilt & Turn Window, Flush Casement Window, Fully Flush Casement Window and the Bay Window, as well as the Flush Residential Door, Flush French Doors, Lift & Slide Door, Slimline Bifold Door and the new Inline Sliding Door.

The announcement comes soon after Epwin Window Systems confirmed that all its multiple PVC-U window and door systems have all achieved PAS24:2022 certification, demonstrating the company’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of industry standards.

Phil Parry, Technical Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to confirm that our Stellar

“We’re committed to adopting and meeting the latest industry standards to deliver secure and reliable solutions for our customers. It ensures we can deliver industry-leading solutions that help our customers secure a market advantage across every sector.”

Aluminium window and door system has achieved PAS24:2022 certification across all products. It means our entire product portfolio across both PVC-U and aluminium complies with the latest requirements.”

PAS24:2022, which officially came into effect in September 2022 and replaces the previous PAS24:2016, helps specifiers meet the requirements of Building Regulations and the police’s Secured by Design scheme. It applies to all new windows and doorsets as manufactured and prior to installation.

The accreditation promotes security and denotes enhanced security performance intended to resist the type of attack normally associated with casual or opportunistic burglars.

Epwin Window Systems has a robust track record in delivering outstanding systems that meet or exceed regulatory requirements. As well as the PAS 24:2022 accreditations, the company has the industry’s largest choice of Part L-compliant window and door systems. This includes Stellar Aluminium, making it one of the only complete aluminium window and door systems that is new buildcompliant by design.

Phil concluded: “We’re committed to adopting and meeting the latest industry standards to deliver secure and reliable solutions for our customers. It ensures we can deliver industry-leading solutions that help our customers secure a market advantage across every sector.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968 – ww.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

the new Regal Bifold Plus dooR

from Regal Aluminium

Experience superior performance, energy efficiency, and security with the new Regal Bifold Plus door from Regal Aluminium.

Superior slimline aesthetics

Pre-gasketed, knock-in beads for quick fitting

Excellent thermal and acoustic performance

Glazing capacity up to 48mm

Slim central section of 100mm, maximising the glazed area

Can accommodate up to 14 sashes

Customisable options

PAS 24 approved

Choice of powder coating finishes

Seven-day turnaround from order confirmation

To discover how the new Regal Bifold Plus Door from Regal Aluminium can add value to your portfolio call 01773 483090

sales@regaluk.co.uk

www.regalaluminium.uk

BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING INDEX

Q4 VALUE SALES DOWN -5.7% YEAR-ON-YEAR. VOLUMES FALL -12.0%

The latest total value sales from Britain’s Builders’ Merchants from BMBI show that in Q4 2023, sales were -5.7% down compared to Q4 2022, with volumes falling -12.0% and prices rising +7.1%.

With one more trading day in Q4 2023, likefor-like sales (which take the number of trading days into account) were -7.3% down.

Half of the twelve categories sold more in Q4 including Workwear & Safetywear (+8.6%) and Decorating (+7.1%). However, the three largest categories all sold less: Landscaping (-6.7%), Heavy Building Materials (-7.3%) and Timber & Joinery Products (-10.3%).

QUARTER-ON-QUARTER

Total value sales for Q4 were down -15.7% compared to Q3. Volume sales fell-19.8% while prices climbed +5.1%. With four less trading days in the most recent period, likefor-like sales were -10.1% lower. Workwear & Safetywear (+17.0%) and Plumbing Heating & Electrical (+4.4%) were the only two categories to sell more.

DECEMBER SALES YEAR-ON-YEAR

Total Builders Merchants value sales for the month were -8.4% lower than December 2022. Volume sales were -12.6% down, and prices were up +4.8%. Just four of the twelve categories sold more year-on-year, including Workwear & Safetywear (+4.8%), Decorating (+4.1%) and Ironmongery (+0.4%). The four largest categories sold less: Landscaping (-6.2%), Plumbing Heating & Electrical (-6.4%), Timber & Joinery Products (-10.4%) and Heavy Building Materials (-11.0%).

LAST 12 MONTHS

January to December 2023 value sales were down -5.1% on the same 12-month period in 2022. With two extra trading days in 2023, likefor-like sales were -5.9% down. Overall, volume sales dropped -13.7% while prices increased +10.0%.

BMBI’s Expert for windows and Doors, Rob McGlennon, Managing Director of Deceuninck UK said: “Regardless of your political leaning, the Government is likely to change in the next 12 months, bringing fresh eyes and enthusiasm. A new Government must be seen to address the big problems, including housing.

“Heavyweight forecasters in a Financial Times analysis say England needs 500,000 new homes a year to keep up with the country’s rising population, far more than either main party has pledged to deliver, and far more than

Rob McGlennon

the industry’s capacity to build. The industry is looking to Government for a reduction in weather-vane politics to give them the confidence to invest in additional capacity. Over 20 years, governments have failed to build the target of 300,000 new homes a year, and the backlog is growing.

For the full report, Expert comments and Round Table Debates, visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

“Prospects for RMI also look strong, driven largely by the need to upgrade the energy performance of Britain’s housing stock.

“Despite news that the UK economy entered recession at the end of 2023, consumer confidence is increasing. Falling inflation and food prices have lifted spirits, and the smell of change is in the air. GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index climbed three points to -19 in January 2024, the best it’s been in two years. Consumers’ personal financial index, their willingness to spend, also improved to zero after 24 months of negative scores. There are good times coming for the window and door industry.”

GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel GfK’s Merchant Panel includes national, multi-regional and regional merchants such as Buildbase, Jewson, Travis Perkins, EH Smith, Gibbs & Dandy, MKM and Bradfords. GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data represents 92% of the value of the builders’ merchant market. GfK insights can trace product group performance and track relevant features. GfK can also produce robust likefor-like market comparability, tailored to the requirements of an individual business.

The Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) appears every month, in print and online. A full quarterly report is published every three months. The BMBI is a brand of the Builders Merchant Federation. Launched and produced by MRA Research, it uses sales-out data from GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel. BMBI includes a panel of leading industry Experts, who speak exclusively for their markets.

BY YOUR SIDE FOR THE LONG HAUL

- BY IAN LATIMER, MANAGING DIRECTOR, EMMEGI (UK)

In our experience, most customers who invest in fabrication machinery genuinely want to build a partnership with their supplier.

There’s a clear acknowledgement that you get more from your machinery company if you allow us to really understand how your business operates and how you want it to develop, and trust us to be by your side for the long haul.

Obviously, that works best if your machinery company, like Emmegi (UK), already has a strong track record, an experienced and knowledgeable team and, crucially, the resources required to guarantee that they will be around for as long as you are. We’ve seen the perfect example of that recently with the supply of a new Phantomatic M3 machining centre and Classic Magic electronic saw to ATB Systems in Stourbridge, more than 25 years after they bought their first Emmegi Comet Isola machining centre and original Classic Magic saw.

Over the past two and a half decades, ATB’s factory has become an impressive ‘Emmegi

manufacturing zone’, with more than a dozen different machines supplied by us brand new, and several purchased preowned via sales auctions. Unsurprisingly, the investment in production machinery has almost directly tracked the growth and increased output of the business.

If you ask ATB’s fabrication manager James Sabey why the company continues to put its faith in Emmegi, he’s clear that’s it’s about more than just quality and price – although the fact that the original Classic Magic saw is still in daily operation shows that Emmegi machine quality is something that ATB can very much take for granted. James told us: “Over the years, Emmegi’s Sales Manager Martin Linnell has spent the time to really understand ATB’s operation, and we trust his advice on which machines will best help us achieve our objectives. The Emmegi range is huge as well, so we know that, as we move forward, they’re always able to supply a machine which is an exact match for our needs.

“Since the arrival of the Comet Isola and the first Classic Magic, ATB has grown and also diversified and our range now includes bespoke lightweight windows and doors for portacabins and temporary buildings, automatic door barriers and aluminium louvres, alongside more traditional windows, doors and curtain

walling. Emmegi has supported us in that diversification and helped us get the right mix of machines, without any hard sell.” The customer/machinery supplier relationship obviously goes beyond just the purchase of new machines though. We’ve supported ATB with responsive service and regular machine maintenance over 25 years and, like all our customers, that ongoing support is key to our partnership with them. James Sabey also said: “ATB Systems is a quality focused business, so we rely on Emmegi to keep the machines operating in top condition. They have the

resources required to do that and we’ve been impressed at the service we’ve received – especially given that a couple of our machines are now more than 20 years old.”

Since 2013, Emmegi (UK) has supplied ATB with two 12 axis electronic corner crimpers, three 300S bead saws and one 400S single head saw, three Phantomatic M3 3-axis CNC machining centres, a Classic Magic double mitre saw and a Lilliput 320 end milling machine.

More details on the products at: www.emmegi.com/en/home and on ATB at https://www.atbsystems.co.uk.

TODAY FOR TOMORROW: KÖMMERLING AT FENSTERBAU 2024

profine Group and its Kömmerling brand is once again setting standards as the largest exhibitor at Fensterbau Frontale, which will take place in Nuremberg from 19th to 22nd March 2024, and will present itself on an area of 1,500 square metres in hall 7. The focus of the trade fair appearance will be on the forward-looking topic of sustainability.

With the 125th anniversary of the Kömmerling flagship brand, profine Group has clearly communicated the re-alignment of its corporate strategy to the outside world. The company is now even more focussed on climate protection, energy efficiency, social responsibility and the preservation of resources for future generations. True to Kömmerling's new claim, ‘Today for Tomorrow’, profine Group is also presenting its commitment to sustainable development at the trade fair.

‘Our trade fair stand offers more than just product presentations - it's an experience. And this year we have gone the extra mile. Let us surprise you,’ promises Dr. Peter Mrosik, owner and CEO of profine Group. With Kömmerling ReFrame, profine Group is presenting the first window profile series made entirely from recycled PVC-U materials. This future-orientated product line not only impresses with its environmentally friendly material cycle, but also with its innovative design and the

WINKHAUS TO UNVEIL NEW INNOVATIONS AT FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2024

One of the most important exhibitions for the building components industry opens its doors in Nuremberg from 19 to 22 March. Fensterbau Frontale 2024 will be the showcase for groundbreaking innovations, and Winkhaus, the specialist in window, door, and access technology, will be there.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Innovations in Window Technology

In addition to the announced premiere, Winkhaus will be presenting numerous window technology innovations which enhance security, increase fabricator productivity and functional reliability for the user. Innovations include additions to the activPilot and aluPilot hardware solutions.

high resistance of the proCoverTec surface technology, an additional layer on the ReFrame profiles.

The window profiles made of bio-attributed PVC are another highlight of the profine Group at the trade fair. In this sustainable development, renewable raw materials, such as pine oil-based ethylene, completely replace fossil materials. This pioneering development enables an impressive CO2-reduction of around 90% compared to conventional PVC and sets new environmental standards in the industry.

Kömmerling WarmCore stands for an innovative combination of PVCu and aluminium. This hybrid system forms the basis for a variety of windows, hinged and sliding doors and folding/sliding elements. With a PVCu core for optimum thermal insulation and aluminium profiles for statics, design and colour variety, WarmCore sets new standards in the industry. The sustainability aspect is more than convincing: the PVCu core consists of up to 100% recycled material and the aluminium profiles of up to 90%, making WarmCore an environmentally conscious choice for modern living.

The trade fair programme also includes innovative materials such as MultiCore reinforcements that replace steel.

Dr. Peter Mrosik invites guests from all over the world to see profine's sustainable strategy for themselves: ‘At profine Group, we systematically anchor the principle of sustainability in our core business processes: from products, production and logistics to branding and our comprehensive services. All of this can be experienced at our trade fair stand. We are therefore particularly looking forward to meeting our partners from Germany and abroad as well as many interested parties from the window industry directly on site and to many exciting personal discussions.’

Under the slogan "Way too much to keep under wraps", the company will be presenting trade visitors in Hall 4, Stand 4-243 with a wide range of new product developments, digital services, and services with added value for customers, as well as an eagerly awaited world premiere.

JOIN WINKHAUS AT FENSTERBAU FRONTALE

Winkhaus has many exciting innovations to share with customers at Fensterbau Frontale 2024, and members of the Winkhaus UK team will be attending to support UK customers and visitors. If you’re visiting or planning to visit Fensterbau Frontale and would like to arrange a meeting, please contact us at marketing@winkhaus.co.uk.

With just five weeks to go before the event, Winkhaus is offering its customers the opportunity to grab free tickets for the trade show, please visit: https://events. winkhaus.com/messen/fensterbau-frontale.

Innovations in motorised Access Control Winkhaus is launching the new generation of motorised security door locking systems: blueMotion+, blueMatic EAV4 and blueMatic EAV4+. Convenience is the highlight of the new blueMatic EAV4+ and blueMotion+ door locking systems with the integration of Bluetooth® and WLAN technology enabling smartphone-controlled access through the Winkhaus doorControl app, transforming smartphones into universal door openers.

Innovations in mechanical access control

At this year’s Fensterbau, Winkhaus will also be presenting wide range of mechanical solutions with focus on the KeyOne X-pert, keyTec N-tra/Ntra+ and keyTec VSX/ VSX+ systems. Security experts will be particularly interested in the reversible key system keyTec Ntra+ as it offers elevated levels of security for medium to large locking systems. The features include AZE protection, a technical copy protection in the key that is interrogated in the cylinder core, six spring-loaded tumblers and a third and second interrogator row.

For more information about the products and services that Winkhaus offers in the UK, please visit our website: https://www.winkhaus.co.uk/en/

EXPERIENCE 360° ROOM COMFORT FROM SIEGENIA FIRST-HAND AT FENSTERBAU 2024

In Hall 4, Stand 215, hardware giant SIEGENIA will be showcasing pioneering solutions to demonstrate its commitment to creating healthy, comfortable and smart spaces that make people feel good.

With the tagline “360° Future”, the stand will include a must-see “smart house” demonstrating, amongst other products, new smart sensors, window handles and single-room ventilation units and how they can be operated centrally. Alongside this will be the more traditional product exhibits showcasing anything but traditional products. Below are just a handful of the innovations you can experience there.

DRIVE AXXENT LS MOTORISED

DRIVE – FAST, CONCEALED AND QUIET

SIEGENIA’s new concealed motorised lift-and-slide door drive for high-end residential and commercial buildings boasts a powerful combination of style and functionality. Aesthetics are guaranteed by the absence of any surface-mounted components or additional covers. The extremely compact motors are even suitable for use with narrow profile systems and are compatible with all frame materials. With its quiet action and reduced lifting time of

just 3 seconds, the solution offers ease of use, while fabricators benefit from short manufacturing times and easy installation. The DRIVE axxent LS will be available from this summer.

VERSATILE, DURABLE AND SPACE-SAVING: ECO SLIDE CO SLIDING HARDWARE

Space-saving installation, robust operation and with the production benefit of being based around existing turn-and-tilt components, this versatile sliding hardware offers end users an attractive combination of intuitive operation and stylish design. For windows or doors, it adapts perfectly to any room and its tight, continuous seal ensures a high level of energy efficiency, plus burglar resistance up to RC2. Compatible with a wide range of profile systems, it is exceptionally cost-efficient in production, requiring only a few additional parts.

BS 3700 AUTOMATIC MULTI-POINT LOCK WITH INTEGRATED SELFADJUSTMENT

Premièring at FENSTERBAU, this novel automatic lock with its self-adjustment feature enables considerable time and cost savings as readjustments on site will no longer be necessary at any point in the door's life cycle. If the locking elements come to a standstill before even reaching the end position, they are locked, holding the door sash reliably in position. And the automatic 20mm clearance between the hook bolt and main lock bolt ensures a high

level of security. There is also maximum flexibility to customise the lock, whether it's with the optional A-opener, a daytime release, safety lock or extension pieces for 3-metre-high doors.

FOR SASHES UP TO 180 KG: AXXENT 750 ALU CONCEALED DOOR HINGE

Concealed in the profile, the hinge for contemporary aluminium doors accommodates high sash weights up to 180 kg and provides burglar resistance up to RC2 as standard. Alongside the aesthetics, end users can appreciate the ease of operation due to the lowfriction hinge bearing. Fabrication is also extremely efficient thanks to the 3D adjustment mechanism integrated in the sash component. Automated installation is possible with no need to loosen the loadbearing screws and, unlike other solutions, no additional components are required to adjust the height. Automated production processes are further supported by the self-tapping screws, and the intuitive "click-

in" technology ensures safe and reliable operation. The new hinge is suitable for a wide range of aluminium profile systems and will be available in jet black (RAL 9005) and white aluminium (RAL 9006).

TITAN 90°, SAFETY AND COMFORT OPENING RESTRICTORS

The new TITAN 90° opening restrictor protects the sash and hinge side against improper use and damage, limiting the turn opening width to 90° and thereby protecting the sash from bumping against the reveal or furnishings. The new solution has been tested in accordance with DOEB guidelines, is suitable for use with face-fix and concealed hinge sides in all profile materials and will be rolled out gradually from late summer.

SIEGENIA will also be showing two special safety and comfort opening restrictors, which limit turn-only and turn-and-tilt sashes to a maximum opening of 89mm without the need for additional release mechanisms. The comfort restrictor can be decoupled quickly and easily with just one action. The safety version, compliant with EN 13126-5, is available for child safety requirements and comes fitted with an antislam device. Safety and comfort opening restrictor versions in the ALU range for link rod will also be on show and offer all the same features and benefits as the TITAN timber/PVC versions.

FENSTERBAU FRONTALE runs from 19th to 22nd March in Nuremberg, Germany. You can get a preview of the SIEGENIA campaign now, or even follow a livestream of the stand during the event at www.360zukunft.com/en.

DANNY WILLIAMS ‘COLD CALLING’

Each month our special correspondent Danny Williams* replies to a reader’s letter...

“After 40 years in the business [trade fabricator, commercial installer, small retail company], I am thinking of selling up. Like the gambling ads say, ‘When the fun stops, stop’ and to be honest I don’t enjoy it like I used to. We’ve a decent business, made some money along the way and whilst I don’t have any kids to hand it over to, I want to protect my loyal employees. You are about the same age as me Danny, seem to have similar business interests and have built your business from scratch. Any thoughts on how to go about this?”

Correspondent references withheld by request

After receiving your note via the editor of this illustrious journal, you and I had a chat and we agreed to withhold anything that might reveal your identity. But I need to address you as something so let’s call you ‘H’ for the purposes of this exchange…

It turns out that we have worked in parallel in our respective careers and I am surprised that our paths have not crossed. But it does mean that I have more than an inkling of what drives you and the structure and nature of your various businesses. So whilst you will call upon your professional advisors such as accountants and lawyers and so forth for the nitty gritty of your proposed sales of the business, I will attempt to cover some of the things that are outside their remit…

The first of these is that it is very difficult to be objective when selling a business. We have after all, put more and longer into building it all, than we have in bringing up our kids, and probably with more pain along the way too. The first rule therefore is not to beat up the professionals if (when!) they come up with a valuation that is off of the mark that you have set. They will look at the numbers and if they are worth their salt they will look at similar deals, the relevant industry multiples and your EBITDA.

“Anything more than a month’s worth of stock – profile, hardware and so forth - is a waste and is likely to include a lot of redundant obsolete material. Every fabricator’s yard and warehouse is full of it.”

In principle making your business attractive to sell may take some time, you must not be the glue that holds it together - that’s not a business it’s a badly paid job. A serious team is required to manage in your absence (you may not be required to remain if this is the case). The balance sheet isn’t everything so don’t overvalue your equipment and stock, don’t hide toxic debtors because they will soon manifest themselves to your detriment. Furthermore, there is no need to have loads of cash, because people don’t buy cash. And neither does it matter if you have rinsed every morsel you can over the years, its about the EBITDA and how quickly the purchase can fund itself.

Having said all of that, much of the opportunity a buyer might see in your business is a consolidation of departments, usually of course starting with accounts and back office. Marketing might also be improved through greater resources, but sales should be sacrosanct, at least if it is working. In other words, protect the front end of the business.

Your professional advisors will take care of the formal stuff so let’s leave that to one side

and I will look at it as if I was buying the business from you (If it was better placed geographically for me, I might well have looked at it seriously!).

So what else might affect your sale of the business?

Opportunity is the first thing that comes to mind of course. I have no doubt that you have seen the Customade-type deals that have been done in recent years where with the backing of private equity money a big manufacturing group was formed from several smaller, apparently complementary units. Some big numbers were flying around back then and a number of already rich people got even wealthier as a result. So, when it was all Phoenixed after getting out of control following a remarkably short period, I doubt if the original owners of the respective component parts shed much of a tear.

However, many jobs were lost and the welfare of your people is something that you told me is important to you: remember that try as you might, you can never guarantee the future wellbeing of your team when you have sold the firm on.

A huge inventory is a negative…stock at value is a largely meaningless term, at least in our business H. Anything more than a month’s worth of stock – profile, hardware and so forth - is a waste and is likely to include a lot of redundant obsolete material. Every fabricator’s yard and warehouse is full of it. In fact, anything more than a couple of weeks-worth might indicate poor procurement practice that’s out of synch with production.

There might be a temptation to cut corners on servicing or plant and vehicles - don’t! Cutting corners to improve the bottom line will be obvious to any experienced eye and poorly maintained kit is often evidence of a whole host of other issues, including poor product quality and efficiency.

You will of course be required to hang about for a year or so for a smooth handover…. And you will have to agree to some fairly serious guarantees too. Any efforts to artificially massage the figures during the run up to sale will be immediately obvious. This means that for a year at least, you will almost certainly have to work even harder than you had previously to deliver the agreed earn-out targets.

And the earn out period might provide the most serious challenges of all: All of a sudden you are toeing the line to others in the business that you built and have run for decades without anyone seriously questioning your decisions or judgment. In many deals this often sees breakdowns in the relationship between seller and buyer, and I have heard of some even walking away with less money to get out of the door early. And all of the little wrinkles that you might have enjoyed over the years will disappear too – you have to play with a straight bat all of a sudden.

Whatever your instincts and your professional advisors tell you H, giving up your life’s work, for a sack of cash, can be very traumatic.

Good luck!

* Danny Williams is managing director of Chelmsford based Pioneer Trading and has been involved with all aspects of the windows and doors industry for 35 years. His activities include manufacturing a full range of windows and doors in PVC-U and aluminium, an IGU facility, retailing and commercial contracting.

GLAZPART LOOKS FORWARD TO BUILDING PERFORMANCE AWARDS

IONIC’S INNOVATION RECOGNISED AT GGP INSTALLER AWARDS

UAP IN THE RUNNING FOR TWO TOP AWARDS

Following the announcement of Glazpart’s Link Vent 4000 shortlisting for three awards at the Building Performance Awards organised by The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), the Glazpart team is now looking forward to attending the prestigious awards event in London on 29th February.

Dean Bradley, Glazpart Sales Director enthused, “Just to be a finalist in three awards for best product innovation for building performance is quite exceptional in its own right.

The Link Vent 4000 is not only an essential product that is in much demand in our industry, but it is also now being recognised for its contribution to homeowners’ wellbeing and for the difference it makes to the quality of their lives when living in their homes.”

As the only glass or glazing product to be shortlisted in this year’s awards, Glazpart’s Link Vent 4000 has been nominated for three “Best Product Innovation” awards in the following categories:

Wellbeing, Air Quality and Thermal Comfort.

The Link Vent 4000 has proved to be an important addition to Glazpart’s trickle vent range since it was launched in 2022 in time for the Building Regulations’ changes to Approved

Document F (ventilation). Its design and easy control

mechanism, as well as its availability in a vast range of colours and finishes has made the Link Vent 4000 an extremely popular choice for fabricators, installers and homeowners - especially for windows and doors of smaller rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and utility rooms.

The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) is the professional body that advances and promotes the art, science and practice of building services engineering. CIBSE also supports the community of built environment professionals in their pursuit of excellence.

The CIBSE Building Performance Awards always attracts high quality entries and a diverse selection of projects, companies, people and products from across the building industry.

The annual event showcases the achievements of companies and individuals who develop strategies for refurbishment and energy-efficient operation of existing buildings, design new buildings that operate more effectively and develop the products and systems that support them. Those shortlisted included detailed evidence which demonstrated actual measured performance and not just design intent or performance specifications.

Winners from the shortlisted entries will be announced at the CIBSE Building Performance Awards on Thursday 29 February 2024, at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London. For more information on the Awards, please visit the awards website.

www.glazpart.com

UAP’s ultra-secure electronic lock is in the running to be named Best Technical Innovation at the GGP Installer Awards 2024.

Run by Glass and Glazing Products (GGP) magazine, the awards recognise the strengths of people, products, and businesses across the industry.

Launched under UAP’s Fullex-ai brand, the IONIC offers a range of innovative features which maximise security while improving the installer and end user experience.

A low wattage, wireless charging unit takes minutes to install, eliminating a major hurdle that has prevented electronic locks from becoming mainstream. Further easing installation, the IONIC’s setup mirrors the Fullex Autolock with identical routing specifications.

The IONIC enables access using a mobile phone, a fob, a push button on the inside, or a thumb turn. It can also be paired with an App which tracks those who have opened the door and allows time settings for different users.

Thanks to a technologically advanced design, security is enhanced in several ways. The lock can detect different forms of attack on the door and the fobs can’t be cloned. With no third-party server, all data is stored on the user’s phone and the lock’s brain in the door. For added protection, the IONIC App has dual security in case the phone is lost, and its software was developed within the EU making the lock fully GDPR compliant.

David Jennings, CEO of UAP said: “Being named a finalist in the GGP Installer Awards is testament to the IONIC’s unique features and the extensive research and innovation which has shaped its design. With multiple patents, the IONIC sets new standards for electronic locks bringing benefits to the entire supply chain.

“We’re looking forward to the final and celebrating the achievements of all those who contribute to the success of the glass and glazing industry.”

The winners of the GGP Installer Awards will be announced on 14 March 2024 at the Midland Hotel in Manchester.

www.uapcorporate.com

Two products designed and manufactured by UAP have made the final of the AI Specification Awards 2024.

Run by the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers in conjunction with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the awards celebrate excellence in architectural ironmongery specification and new product design and innovation.

UAP’s IONIC electronic lock has been shortlisted in the Product Design and Innovation (electronic) category while its Soterian Slim TS008 Letterplate has been named a finalist in the Product Design and Innovation (mechanical) category. Both were judged by a panel of experts made up of architects, interior designers, architectural ironmongers and manufacturers who selected just four products in each category.

Launched under UAP’s Fullex-ai brand, the IONIC offers a range of innovative features which maximise security while improving the installer and end user experience.

The lock enables access using a mobile phone, a fob, a push button on the inside, or a thumb turn. It can also be paired with an App which tracks those who have opened the door and allows time settings for different users.

Thanks to a technologically advanced design, the lock features a low wattage, wireless charging unit which takes minutes to install. To maximise security, the IONIC can detect different forms of attack on the door and the fobs can’t be cloned. With no third-party server, all data is stored on the user’s phone and the lock’s brain in the door.

The Soterian Slim TS008 letterplate is unique to the UK market and the most compact TS008-compliant letterplate ever made. Manufactured for 44mm – 70mm composite, timber and uPVC doors, the product is fast and easy to install, and provides a safer, more secure and convenient solution for the end user.

A unique, pivoting serrated stay mechanism limits the opening to just 39 degrees, preventing key-fishing and manipulation of the thumb turn. No other TS008 letterplate provider can offer this innovative, patent-protected security feature. David Jennings, CEO of UAP, said: “Achieving recognition in two categories at the AI Specification Awards is testament to the strength of our in-house design team and our commitment to innovation.

“With multiple patents, both the IONIC and the Soterian Slim TS008 set new standards in the hardware industry. Each has been designed with security, aesthetics and functionality in mind benefiting the whole supply chain including specifiers, manufacturers and end users.

“We’re looking forward to the prestigious final and being part of an event which celebrates the world’s best architectural ironmongery projects and products.”

A total of 32 outstanding architectural ironmongery projects and products have been shortlisted across eight categories. The winners, including an overall ‘winner of winners’, will be announced on 18 April 2024 at Southwark Cathedral, London.

www.uapcorporate.com

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU...

Where were you born and live currently?

I was born in Colchester, Essex and now live in Bierton, just outside Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

Your education and the subject or activity in which you excelled?

I went through to college education but then left as I wanted to get out there and earn money! Sport and geography were probably my best subjects.

Your favourite sports or interests?

Golf, skiing, and anything American!

Basketball, American football, baseball… I love all of it. I actually used to play basketball for England. Outside of sport I love cooking – and eating!

Your biggest regret in life?

I genuinely don’t have regrets. I live by the rule that if I don’t do something, there is a reason, and if I do something, there is a reason. Even with professional sports, if I had pursued that as a career, it would have been at the cost of something else.

The temptation you can’t resist...? Fried chicken.

Someone or something that inspires you?

Tiger Woods for his competitive spirit and the ability to rise above the naysayers; Michael Jordan for being a natural leader; and my grandpa for being unbelievably humble and kind. They’ve all significantly shaped who I am as a person and influenced my career.

YOUR CAREER...

When and how did you join this industry?

My journey was a bit unconventional. I started self-employed as a labourer, then

Asa McGillian, SILKA’s Managing Director, says of Luke’s addition to the team: “SILKAselect is spreading across the UK as installers lock in their exclusive showroom areas, and I’m very happy Luke is on board as a core contact for trade partners. We’ve already built a community of installers who are committed to getting the most out of the unique SILKAselect offering as possible, and Luke is an integral part in making that happen.”

THIS MONTH: Luke Richardson National Sales Manager (England and Wales), SILKA

Luke leads the exclusive SILKAselect Trade Partnership and is working closely to support the handpicked installers within the exclusive programme, launched by SILKA Aluminium Windows and Doors.

became a fitter, managed sites, moved on to a technical engineer role, then to tech testing, and from there, transitioned into sales.

I’m someone who could be thrown into a room and be comfortable talking to anyone. My communication skills just naturally led me to sales.

What is your job?

I am National Sales Manager for England and Wales at SILKA, a complete range of super-insulated aluminium windows and doors.

Your greatest achievement?

My daughter.

AND YOUR FUTURE...

What would you like to do if you weren’t in this industry?

If the sky was the limit, I’d go for marine biology. I love all sea animals and it’s a field that’s always fascinated me.

A particular ambition?

I want to be the best dad I can be.

The way you want to be remembered?

Honestly, just for being a bit of a joker; being loud and being a laugh.

If you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email chris@glassnews.co.uk

EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS’ EMPLOYEES LACE UP FOR LONDON MARATHON

Two Epwin Window Systems employees will be running this year’s London Marathon, which takes place on Sunday 21 April.

Commercial Director Ray McGrady and Customer Service Advisor Tony Lloyd will both be running the 26.2 mile course to raise funds for two inspirational charities.

Ray is running on behalf of the British Heart Foundation.

Ray says: “If it was not for the amazing work British Heart Foundation does in developing and supporting medical research, my dad would not be with us today. It’s inspiring to see the positive difference that can be made through supporting such crucial work and I will forever be grateful for the incredible work they do. I’m trying, in a small way, to give back by attempting the London Marathon.”

Tony will be running on behalf of SpecialEffect. Tony says: “As someone who has benefited from the help of SpecialEffect and is an ambassador for the charity, I couldn’t be prouder to take on this challenge for them. SpecialEffect assesses a person’s needs and adapts technology to harness whatever controlled movement they have, and creates bespoke gaming setups to enable them to play to the best of their abilities. Being included hugely benefits mental wellbeing and quality of life – bringing much needed independence, fun and escapism.”

Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Everyone at Epwin Window Systems wishes Ray and Tony the very best of luck. The London Marathon is an impressive feat, not just because of the 26.2 miles on the day but also the months of training that go into getting to the start line. We salute you both!”

Epwin Window Systems is a proudly British business based in Shropshire. It’s the UK’s largest systems house and offers the widest portfolio of fully integrated window and door systems with unrivalled expertise and support to add value to every business. Its success is driven by its people and their commitment to going above and beyond in everything they do. It’s an ethos that’s perfectly demonstrated by Ray and Tony.

To donate to Ray’s fundraising for the British Heart Foundation, visit https://2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/raymond-mcgrady

To donate to Tony’s fundraising for SpecialEffect, visit https://2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/tony-lloyd

QUICKSLIDE RAISES A WHOPPING £9K FOR GM FUNDRAISING

People focused manufacturer Quickslide, continues to raise money for charity with a substantial donation of £9,289 to GM Fundraising following the company’s latest efforts. The money was raised from a combination of Christmas parties with raffle stations and an onsite raffle for their staff.

Adrian Barraclough, Chairman of Quickslide comments:

“At the heart of Quickslide is people, whether that’s our fantastic team, customers, or suppliers. That is why supporting charitable causes and people less fortunate than us, has always felt like a natural extension of the business.

“We’re always proud to support Gary and the great charitable work he does, and we all had a great time raising money across two Christmas parties and our raffles. Our annual Christmas celebrations exemplify our commitment not only to fostering strong relationships but also to making a positive impact beyond business boundaries. Prizes for the raffles

CONSERVATORY OUTLET HOSTS LAUNCH EVENT FOR NEW LIVING SPACE SYSTEM

were completely varied from pot noodles to premium hospitality tickets to Arsenal, but everyone dug deep and proved themselves to be wholeheartedly generous once again.

“Special thanks must go to Regency Glass who donated an incredible £5,000, and to our amazing suppliers and customers who donated prizes.”

On receiving the cheque from Quickslide, Gary Morton said: “A huge thank you to Adrian and the team at Quickslide for this magnificent gesture. Adrian and Quickslide are long term supporters of GM Fundraising and never cease to amaze me with their efforts to support the kids at Hope House Children’s Hospices.”

Adrian concludes: “It’s always a pleasure to raise money for GM Fundraising or any other charitable cause and yet again I am astounded and very grateful for the generosity of the people we work with.”

#forthekids

www.quickslide.co.uk

“Adrian and Quickslide are long term supporters of GM Fundraising and never cease to amaze me with their efforts to support the kids at Hope House Children’s Hospices.”

Home improvement companies from across the United Kingdom attended a private launch event to learn about new conservatory transformation products that will change how existing structures can be converted into new year-round spaces. The new system offers homeowners unrivalled flexibility when it comes to design and is also five times more energyefficient than current construction methods. Crucially, for the installers, the system is far quicker and easier to work with, compared to using traditional bricks and mortar. Organised by Conservatory Outlet, the day included introductory seminars on several new living space products, their competitive advantages, and an overview of bespoke marketing campaigns. Attendees also got the chance to take part in product demonstrations and speak with key personnel from the company.

“It’s great to see our Premium Retail Network come together to learn more about our plans for the year ahead and see our new conservatory transformation products first-hand,” begins Greg Kane, Conservatory Outlet’s CEO.

“Our partners enjoyed a successful 2023, with many of the businesses we work alongside recording year-on-year growth. We’ve been working hard to develop new and exciting products and services that will benefit our customers and allow them to provide homeowners with the solutions they need.”

“We aim to provide our Premium Retail Network with the tools they need to thrive – which is why days like today are so important. We don’t just launch new products, we give everybody unique access to training and development events like this, so that everybody is equipped with the tools and knowledge needed.”

Andy Hill, Director of TWC Home Improvements, who attended the event, added: “It was another fantastic example of the level of support that Conservatory Outlet provides. “Lots of people want to upgrade or redevelop their existing conservatories. Now more than ever, homeowners are concerned about energy bills. They also want to maximise the amount of space they have and increase the value of their property.

“The systems and products that were introduced today will help people achieve all these things. We’re really excited to bring these to market this year.”

VISTA’S XTREMEDOOR CHOSEN FOR FLAGSHIP DECARBONISATION SCHEME FEATURED ON SKY NEWS

Thanks to superior U-Values and thermal efficiency, XtremeDoor composites from leading supplier Vista Panels have been selected for a flagship scheme by the Saffron Housing Trust, a unique project recently featured on Sky News’ the Climate Show with Tom Heap.

Saffron Housing’s first wave of a government-led Social Housing Decarbonisation scheme saw 126 homes retrofitted with energy-saving upgrades, including new windows, doors, solar panels, insulation and air source heat pumps in order to reduce their carbon footprint and help residents save on energy costs.

In some homes, where additional measures were needed in order to improve the effectiveness of the heat pumps, new energy-efficient doors were needed, and with a U-Value of just 0.87 W/m2k, Vista’s XtremeDoor composite doors were the perfect choice.

Both stylish and functional, XtremeDoor is one of the highest performing composite doors on the market – thanks to a highdensity, multi-layered foam core that helps to retain heat, they have been proven to be up to more than 19% more efficient than other composite doors on the market, while high-quality uPVC edge-banding offers extreme levels of weatherproofing.

Ian Smith, Vista’s Sales and Marketing Manager, comments:

“We are incredibly proud to see our XtremeDoor composites used in Saffron Housing Trust’s flagship scheme, and to have them featured on Sky News’ the Climate Show is a fantastic recognition of their exceptional quality and energy-saving capabilities.

“At Vista, we recognise the significance and urgency of reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards more sustainable living – by offering doors with superior U-Values, we’re proud to contribute towards the government’s decarbonisation goals.

“Being featured on Sky News further highlights the importance of our contribution to this cause, and motivates us to continue innovating and developing products that not only meet, but exceed energy-saving standards.

“We remain dedicated to supplying high-quality, stylish, and functional composite doors that not only enhance homes, but also help reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Together with partners like the Saffron Housing Trust, we can pave the way for a more sustainable world.”

ODL EUROPE LAUNCHES ITS NEW TRISYS® MODERN FRAME SYSTEM

ODL Europe has launched its new TriSYS® Modern cassette, a contemporary design variation of its market-leading TriSYS® three piece frame system.

Bryan Bultema, Managing Director at ODL Europe, said: “The new TriSYS® Modern cassette is a sleek framing system that combines the unique fitting properties of the original TriSYS® three piece frame system with streamlined contemporary styling that’s perfect for modern doors.”

The new TriSYS® Modern cassette has a sleek, lowprofile aesthetic with a subtle texture that blends

seamlessly with any door finish. It’s offered in a range of sizes and colours including White, Black and Grey.

The system utilises the proven TriSYS® three part framing system that saves time and improves manufacturing efficiencies. The outer frame and inner cassette screw together, allowing the same system to be used for a wide range of door thicknesses, while the inner frame snaps on for a uniformly clean look. No preparation, no adhesion promoter and no special primers are needed, plus the innovative clip system eliminates screw hole covers, providing a clean, modern finish. A pre-sealed variation is also available.

Bryan said: “The TriSYS® cassette system has been a cornerstone of our business for many years, and we have built on this proven foundation with the new TriSYS® Modern frame system. It offers the sleek modern aesthetics that are so popular without compromising on the performance, serviceability and assembly convenience.”

The TriSYS® Modern’s intelligent design makes it easy to glaze in both the

vertical and horizontal positions, while also making it easy to deglaze from the inside if required.

Security is assured because the cassette is PAS 24-compliant when fitted as part of a complete door assembly.

The new TriSYS® Modern cassette is part of ODL Europe’s impressive range of glazing cassette solutions. The range also includes the original TriSYS® cassette, Spotlights® contemporary glazing frames and the Craftsman Framing System, which is designed with architectural style in mind.

Bryan concluded: “Our range of glazing cassettes offers a solution for every type of door project. It also brings the reassurance of ODL Europe’s 75-year pedigree and commitment to quality.”  ODL Europe is renowned for adding value to building products. With its new TriSYS® Modern Frame System, it’s elevating the design of contemporary doors, helping its customers give their projects a stylish edge.

Tel: 0151 933 0299

https://europe.odl.com

Saffron Housing Trust’s Sustainability Project Lead Richard Egle said: “We are proud to have completed the installation of energy-saving measures on hundreds of Saffron homes, with the help of key partners such as Vista Panels.

“We have all worked hard in achieving this milestone, and we look forward to improving the energy efficiency of many more homes in the future, with upgrades such as thermallyefficient composite doors.”

Visit www.vistapanels.co.uk and www.saffronhousing.co.uk.

DHF LAUNCHES NEW GARAGE DOOR VIDEO

Tamworth-based trade association, the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has announced the release of its latest educational resource: an instructive video aimed at informing consumers about the importance of selecting a bona fide company such as a member of the DHF Garage Door Group for their garage door installation requirements. In a market saturated with choice, Patricia SowsberyStevens, DHF’s Commercial Director, stresses the critical factors to consider when investing in a new garage door.

“While price and availability may initially drive your decision-making process, safety should never be overlooked,” she explains. “A comprehensive garage door installation involves so much more than simply ‘fitting the product’; it’s about ensuring the safety and reliability of the entire system.”

DHF’s newly launched video is concise yet impactful at under two minutes long, and is tailored for industry and consumers alike. It explains the advantages of choosing a DHF member for a garage door installation

and examines the type of service a specialist garage door supply and installation company, such as a DHF Garage Door Group member, should provide to result in a safe and compliant product.

In particular, the video guides viewers through the purchasing process from the initial consideration stage all the way through to post-installation support, draws attention to DHF’s Warranty Plus promise that provides consumers with extra peace of mind, and demonstrates the benefits of using a DHF Garage Door Group member.

This initiative builds upon DHF’s legacy of promoting garage door safety. Since the debut of its first domestic garage door safety video launched in January 2022 focusing on the complexities of the ‘hold-to-run’ feature, DHF has remained steadfast in

its mission to educate both members and consumers on safety best practices.

“With DHF’s Garage Door Group being consumerfacing, we believe it is vital to raise awareness of the need to prioritise safety when installing such a product, as well as educating the consumer about the overall safety features of the domestic garage door,” says Patricia. “Through resources such as our technical helpline, additional training through webinars, site visits, industry group meetings and exclusive access to specialist literature, we equip our members with the knowledge and support needed to deliver superior service. We urge our members to share this video on their own social platforms to help inform consumers as to why they should choose a DHF member.”

To view the video, visit: https://bit.ly/49EJjkT

L-R - Saffron Housing Trust’s Sustainability Project Lead Richard Egle and The Climate Show’s Tom Heap

A RESURGENT ALUK IS GOOD NEWS FOR CUSTOMERS

When I rejoined AluK in September 2023, I made it clear that my priority was to make AluK a great place to work and a great company to do business with, and I’m staying true to both of those.

In terms of being a great place to work, there’s real excitement around here again as we start to roll out new product plans and new service initiatives; and it’s no coincidence that we’ve seen the likes of sales manager Paul Greenaway and specification guru Jordan Kingman rejoining AluK in the last few months to be part of our new chapter.

We’ve also got a dynamic new finance director on board in the form of James Schools, and we’ve scored a major coup with the recruitment of industry heavyweight Paul Booth as our new R&D Director.

With our new product development programme, our aim is to give customers all the tools they need to make the most of both current and future opportunities in aluminium. Flexibility and choice will be at the heart of that, so we’re focusing on

developing a clearly defined suite of easy to fabricate and easy to sell products that can be adapted to suit different markets.

In the short term, we’ve just announced the launch of Quik Clip™ – a new clip-in bead for our tested, tried and trusted BSF70 bifold, which takes just seconds to fit either by the fabricator in the factory or the installer out on site.

We’ll be rolling Quik Clip™ out across many of our other systems over the coming months, and the good news is that customers will be able to use the same bead for all of them.

The BSF70 bifold is getting a new handle and some competitively priced new hardware as well, so AluK customers will have an even sharper offering for the trade sector.

We’re also launching a stylish new 70mm slider shortly to sit alongside the BSF70 as a comparable alternative for all those buyers who prefer a slider to a bifold.

We’ve shown this new product to 15 AluK customers so far, and all 15 of them have said they want

to start fabricating it. That’s just about the best endorsement we could hope for, and it will be in going into lots of their showrooms over the coming weeks.

Again, it’s been designed with a view to helping our customers win new business. As well as a competitive price point, there’s a 70mm frame depth, which makes it ideal for refurbs, a 1.4 U-Value double glazed, which allows it to compete head on with PVC-U, and a fast to fabricate/fast to install design.

That doesn’t mean we won’t still be offering the BSC94, now that it has

certified DER ratings. The BSC94 will remain as our entry level system, with the new 70mm slider sitting firmly in the mid-market and a new, more premium lift and slide door to come in the next few months. All have clearly defined target markets, and our aim is to ensure that AluK customers don’t miss out on any opportunities.

In the medium to long term, I’m determined that a resurgent AluK will once again be setting the pace when it comes to innovation, particularly now we all have a clearer picture of what the market will look like post Future Home. I know that’s one of the reasons why

Paul Booth was so keen to come on board with us, along with the fact that we have such strong backing from the AluK group to invest in design and development. I was obviously pleased that there was a positive response from customers to the news that I was rejoining AluK. What really matters though is the great response I’m getting now to the new product and personnel announcements I’m making. Customers can

SLIDERS UK TURNS TO KOLORSEAL FOR COLOUR COATING SERVICES

Sliders UK a leading Aluminium and Composite Door manufacturer has returned to colour coating specialist, Kolorseal Ltd, for its bespoke window and door colouring needs.

Alex Murphy, Managing Director, SlidersUK had evaluated and instigated inhouse spraying at the company’s Preston based facility when demand for the range increased substantially.

In a bid to control all aspects of output and further build resilience into the operations, there was a belief that colour spraying internally would prove more cost effective and efficient. When that did not work out, the company contacted Deborah Hendry at Kolorseal Ltd.

THE GRASS IS NOT ALWAYS GREENER

According to Alex it quickly became apparent that stock holding for over 200 colours, as well as increased insurance costs, health and safety requirements alongside significant capital outlay, was simply not a viable option financially.

Kolorseal Ltd offered a simpler route to achieving greater profit margins and broader business scope with vast colour choice, its 5 day turnaround guarantee and delivery.

With a product portfolio that includes the popular and highly accredited Ultimate Door Collection the range offered by Sliders-UK boasts over 2500 colours with matching colour frames, it was essential therefore that a colour coating supplier could meet and match the necessary exacting standards.

Alex comments, “From quote to order to delivery the colour coating team at Kolorseal has the expertise and market understanding to provide quality products that can effectively support Sliders UK. Colour choice is virtually limitless, which helps to keep our business ahead of the competition and has allowed us to expand the company’s range. In place of the spraying and drying rooms we have now allocated the space to manufacturing new products including UPVC patio doors.”

GREATER COLOUR CHOICE WITH MORE BUSINESS SCOPE

The increased number of RAL chart and other colour options for plastics has had a huge influence on consumers and their colour choice for their windows and doors.

Deborah Hendry, Managing Director Kolorseal Ltd, comments: Instead of just standard reds, blues, greens, blacks or whites, homeowners have far more choice and they know it. Where Kolorseal excels is colour matching and we believe that detail counts. This is a pressure for those without access to colour coating options.

The effects of the turbulence caused by COVID and more recently the recession have forced many companies to evaluate their supply chains. Regarding colour

“When it comes to colour coating, Kolorseal provides customers in the sector with smarter ways to keep inventory, staffing and equipment maintenance costs under control.”

coating however, the need for higher overall stock levels, more storage space and greater staffing requirements, creates a high level of investment that is not always attractive to fabricators as it does not generate a fast ROI.”

NEVER LOOKED BACK

With prompt, reliable delivery part of Slider UK’s guarantee, using a supplier that could meet the demand of their customers was essential.

Alex continues, “Despite doing initial costings, far from being a profitable decision, in-house spraying quickly became a loss leader.

Once the decision was made to outsource all our spray work to Kolorseal, we’ve never looked back. High quality products, delivered on time, every time, backed up by the Kolorseal guarantee, has certainly saved us money. Also, Deborah and her team have improved the flexibility of our delivery planning and its implementation. We wouldn’t go anywhere else!”

Deborah concludes, “When it comes to colour coating, Kolorseal provides customers in the sector with smarter ways to keep inventory, staffing and equipment maintenance costs under control. Supplying to Sliders-UK is a wonderful testament to the team and we are very proud to be working with them.”

Sliders UK is a leading window and door manufacturer accredited to the highest compliance with British Standards ISO14001 and ISO9001.

www.sliders-uk.co.uk

Kolorseal Ltd is an award winning company that provides bespoke colour coating services to the fenestration and construction sectors, complying to all UK standards.

www.kolorseal.co.uk

1.2 SASH WINDOWS

Roseview Windows are the first and only manufacturer to offer uPVC sash windows with a 1.2 W/m2K u-value, without requiring specialist glass such as triple or vacuum glazing.

In partnership with REHAU and using patented technology, ThermoVFlex is a profile enhancement that costs much less than triple glazing and vacuum glass, is more versatile than either, and doesn’t change the appearance of the window in any way.

ThermoVFlex is available on Ultimate and Heritage Rose sash windows from the end of February.

Authentic style. Modern performance. Another industry first from Roseview.

01234 712657

trade@roseview.co.uk

www.roseview.co.uk

MODPLAN REPORTS CONTINUED DEMAND FOR COLOURED PRODUCTS

Leading trade fabricator Modplan, has reported continued growth for coloured products across its windows, doors and conservatory roof offering.

Heidi Sachs, Managing Director at Modplan, said: “Our continued growth in coloured products underscores our dedication to meeting the diverse needs of our customers. With a selection of 30 coloured foil combinations available from stock and the ability to personalise roofing colours in-house, we can provide a high-end tailored solution that gives our customers a market advantage.”

Modplan offers from stock a diverse selection of solid and woodgrain finishes on both its VEKA and Liniar window and door ranges. Additionally, the company offers an in-house painting service for its conservatory roof customers, ensuring they can achieve the desired colour aesthetic for their roofing projects.

Modplan’s dedicated paint plant opened in 2014 and sales of the manufacturer’s coloured roofing products have increased since then. Heidi, said: “Having our own dedicated paint plant means we have competitive turnaround times on our coloured roofing products and are not reliant on third parties. Feedback from our customers tells us that this has made colour a lot more accessible and aligns perfectly with our stocked foils for a coordinated approach.”

Heidi continued: “We’re passionate about adding value to installers’ businesses. Our flexible colour offer that taps into all market trends and helps them to stand out in a competitive market is just one of the ways we do this.”

Modplan operates from a state of the art 167,000 sqft multi-site facility in Newport, Gwent. It is one of the UK’s largest and most respected fabricators of cutting-edge PVC-U products direct to the trade and manufactures over 2500 frames per week.

The company has been in business for over 50 years because of its ability to understand its customers and continually exceed their expectations. Its colour offer is the perfect example of this ability, which is why it’s proving so popular.

Tel: 01495 246844 – www.modplan.co.uk

GLAZERITE INSTALLER GETS TOP MARKS FOR INSTALLATION

Glazerite installer, Howard Yarnold Windows and Doors has put the finishing touches on a major installation as part of a local college’s drive to reduce carbon emissions.

The Birmingham-based business worked with Nuneaton College in Warwickshire to carry out the installation of new windows, which also saw the college add solar panels, cavity wall insulation and more efficient radiators in three of its main buildings.

Established half a century ago, Howard Yarnold Windows & Doors has a large commercial and residential customer base across the West Midlands, Staffordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire.  While its aluminium products are fabricated in-house at Howard Yarnold’s city centre base, its uPVC work is outsourced to longstanding partner, the Glazerite UK Group.

The Nuneaton College project saw windows replaced across three separate study blocks on the site, with single glazed crittal steel windows replaced with more than 70 VEKA M70 windows in Anthracite Grey. The frames were fabricated by Glazerite at its Midlands Division in nearby Wellingborough.

Howard Yarnold Windows and Doors, which employs 35 people, is headed up by Anthony Niblett. He explains:  “The college wanted to look at ways to reduce their carbon footprint so installing double glazed uPVC windows was an ideal solution as they are much more energy efficient and will significantly improve heat retention. They are also much more aesthetic in comparison to the original windows, which had been in place since the 1970s.”

The work, which is in its final stages, saw the Howard Yarnold team overcoming some challenges onsite. Anthony explains: “The roof wasn’t sturdy enough to take the weight of scaffolding, so we installed some of the windows using a large, truck-mounted cherry picker. We were also only able to give Glazerite notice of the install dates shortly before the installation took place, but they rose to the challenge and delivered everything we needed on time.”

Anthony adds: “We have worked with Glazerite to pick up overspill uPVC work for a decade and trust them because they are reliable and flexible, and always produce high quality windows. We made the decision last year to cease in-house uPVC fabrication in favour of aluminium and Glazerite was the only choice to pick up the work and help us fulfil uPVC orders going forward.”

Calum Williams, Area Sales Manager, Glazerite concludes: “The college installation looks fantastic, and will go some way to helping them reduce their carbon footprint.

“As a fabricator, it’s our job to make installers’ jobs easier. We offer a comprehensive product portfolio and add value in other ways, whether that’s turning a job around at short notice, or stepping in when our customers make the decision to cease in-house fabrication as we have done with the team at Howard Yarnold.”

www.glazerite.co.uk

ROOFING

SPECTRA CONSERVATORY ROOFS DEMONSTRATES THE POWER OF THE LEKA SYSTEMS PROPOSITION

South West trade fabricator Spectra Conservatory Roofs has recently added the complete Leka Systems range to its portfolio, a strategic move that is already yielding impressive results for the Devon-based business.

Managing Director of Spectra Conservatory Roofs, Darren Goddard, says: “The Leka Warm Roof and the Leka Orangery Roof perfectly align with our wider conservatory roof offer giving our customers a competitive advantage. And the Leka Xi modular system gives us an opportunity to grow our value proposition and secure new opportunities.”

Since introducing Leka, the innovative range is proving a strong addition to Spectra’s portfolio. Darren reported: “We’re seeing a very strong sales closure rate for Leka products with an impressive 90% of quoted business successfully secured which shows the strength of its product offering.”

To introduce the Leka range, Spectra took 18 of its customers to Leka’s show site and training centre at the National Self Build and Renovation Centre (NSBRC) in Swindon at the end of January. Darren comments: “The day was very successful, and we secured sales of several additional roofs while we were there.”

As expected, the Leka Xi is opening up new opportunities for the business. Darren says: “As Spring approaches, we’ve seen a clear rise in demand, with more consumers looking to extend their properties or invest in a freestanding garden room.”   Darren says his company’s customers appreciate the benefits that Leka products bring. “The lightweight properties of the Leka Warm Roof and the Leka Orangery Roof make them excellent upselling options in the replacement market, while the quick-fitting properties of the Leka Xi are very appealing to consumers. The GRP construction, which doesn’t warp or rot, is also proving a popular selling point.”

Spectra Conservatory Roofs is a family-run business founded in 2002. Based in Newton Abbot in Devon, the company is an exclusive Leka fabricator for the South West, working across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Swindon and Bournemouth.

The company has built its reputation on its value-added service and meticulous attention to detail. Every roof it manufactures is constructed on site before it’s sent on to the customer, ensuring on-site installation runs smoothly every time.  As the uptick in sales and enquiries show, Leka’s product innovation and Spectra’s quality of service is proving to be a winning combination.

Tel: 0800 773 4040 – www.lekasystems.co.uk

E LIPSE

Trickle vents may be necessary, but visible vents can compromise the heritage aesthetic of sash windows.

Eclipse is a new way of including trickle vents on uPVC sash windows, replacing the external vent hood with a full width, two-part, foil-matched head section.

Because when it comes to traditional windows, there’s no place for compromise.

Eclipse will be available on Heritage and Ultimate Rose sash windows from the end of February, only from Roseview Windows.

#traditionredefined

01234 712657

trade@roseview.co.uk

www.roseview.co.uk

PURPLEX MD’S COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF AI AND THE ROLE IT PLAYS WITHIN MARKETING

Andrew Scott, founder and MD of full-service marketing agency Purplex, explores the phenomenon surrounding AI and the role it plays within marketing.

Less than 18 months ago, the term ‘AI’ was still largely confined to the pages of science fiction and the pixels of the big screen. We’d heard of it, of course, but most of us had little to no first-hand knowledge of it….until ChatGPT landed, and with it a demonstrably effortless way to generate millions of words of content from just a few simple prompts. Overnight, it seemed, AI was just a click away for everyone.

A year or so on, and it might seem that AI has been here forever. As a means of rapidly creating content, video and imagery for a market in which fast turnover of material is all, it looks unstoppable. Already, governments and tech companies are examining ways of regulating AI in the hope that it doesn’t become an out-ofcontrol monster. And while the jury is still out on that one, the rest of us are playing catch-up with a technology that is growing exponentially.

What does this mean for the marketing industry? Firstly, it means that marketeers absolutely need to keep up with what’s going on. While it’s not always easy to predict the direction AI is travelling, nor its destination, there is no doubt it is on an upwards trajectory and that its progress will be marked by momentous change. This is arguably scary but also compellingly

“While it’s not always easy to predict the direction AI is travelling, nor its destination, there is no doubt it is on an upwards trajectory and that its progress will be marked by momentous change. This is arguably scary but also compellingly exciting, and certainly AI is already making great waves within marketing.”

exciting, and certainly AI is already making great waves within marketing.

For instance, there is a great rush among companies of all stripes to investigate the power AI potentially holds over their marketing operations. ChatGPT and other AI-based content generators have been harnessed to create blogs, press releases and images that are then uploaded to web pages within seconds of their generation.

All well and good, but is that really the right approach to marketing in 2024? There is no doubt that rolling over to AI-generated content will shave a great deal from the marketing spend, but to what cost? That is the key question as firms grapple with the implications of AI on their day-to-day business.

First, the positives. AI can certainly save time and money, it can spur on human creativity by suggesting ideas, it can generate high quality imagery and video and as it grows in popularity its overall quality is on a parallel track. There is no need for any marketeer to shy away from AI – it’s a truly fascinating, flexible and groundbreaking tool.

And a tool is what it is. An extremely useful tool, but a tool nonetheless. While it might turn out content at a rate of knots, that content is regularly subject to inaccuracy, misinterpretation and unreliability. And when you consider that marketing is about growing and maintaining brand reputation, you’ll understand that truth, accuracy and honesty are cornerstones of this. AI cannot get everything right, nor can it do nuance particularly well.

Often it lacks the specific knowledge previously acquired by marketeers who’ve established good human relations with clients. And this is the point: AI is an excellent complementary tool in the marketeer’s armoury, but it can’t replace intelligent, bespoke copywriting and imagemaking by humans with in-depth and personal knowledge of their subject.

Also, AI can’t replicate the kind of professional relationships honed over time, and of the kind that generate top-quality content. The companies who will thrive in the AI-dominated landscape of the future are the ones who use technology alongside the human mind without seeking to replace

it. Reputable marketing companies like us are already seeing the effects that inaccurate AI-generated content is having on brands that have gone all-in with it, and in terms of brand reputation it’s not at all pretty.

Far better, then, to work with a creative marketing agency that understands the value in building long-term professional relationships with its clients AND incorporates the latest advances in AI without misusing it or allowing it to cut unnecessary corners. As an agency, we are fully embracing AI and have our own taskforce who are studying it very closely and assessing how it can be incorporated into both our activity and our client’s strategies without losing that vitally important human touch.

Ultimately at Purplex, we are fully behind the principle that AI is not here to replace, but to improve; for us AI will enhance our capability to develop and implement robust marketing strategies which improve reputation, increase brand awareness and generate a steady stream of leads.

For more information, contact us at grow@purplexmarketing.co.uk.

NEW APPOINTMENT FOR WARMCORE

Andrew Charlesworth, the previous technical director for Kömmerling in the UK, has been promoted to the new role of Director Global Category Management –WarmCore. This move will see a renewed focus on this revolutionary aluminium/ PVC hybrid system that includes casement, flush and tilt and turn windows, along with feature-rich patio and bi-folding doors.

WarmCore is a product platform with the future in mind and by that definition it’s been designed to accommodate triple glazing right from the outset.

Windows can achieve 1.3 (W/m2K) double glazed and down to 0.80 (W/ m2K) triple glazed as standard with 44mm units.

Residential, double, patio and bi-folding doors also provide impressive thermal insulating properties, 1.4 (W/m2K) double glazed and down to 1.0 (W/m2K) triple glazed, again as standard with 44mm units. As

interest from Australia, Italy, Spain and even Chile and the system platform will be showcased at Fensterbau in March 2024 through five different product displays.

Supporting this renewed focus is a new range of literature for WarmCore windows, patio and bi-folding doors with POS materials to follow imminently. A new website is being built for WarmCore and there will be a dedicated social media platform launched at Fensterbau too. From a UK perspective, there will also be an integrated advertising and direct marketing campaign commencing from March onwards.

Andrew Charlesworth commented: ‘This is a hugely exciting and important role for Kömmerling and profine. While I will have an international perspective for WarmCore, I do believe that 2024 will be pivotal for this product platform in the UK as we look to ignite considerable interest from existing Kömmerling customers and also those from the wider aluminium sector.’

For further information please visit www.profine-uk.com, e-mail enquiries@profine-uk.com or telephone 01623 579200 for an information pack. There’s also a dedicated site for KÖMMERLING at www.kommerling.co.uk. You can also follow them on social media platforms @profineuk and @kommerling_uk.

Sales Coordinator Carlia Corras has received a 20year long service award in recognition of her commitment and longstanding contribution to independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco.

Carlia, who joined Carl F Groupco in February 2004, has been an integral part of the sales office, consistently delivering exceptional customer service and support. Throughout her tenure, Carlia has acquired widespread recognition from customers across various business regions. She currently works alongside Paul Dunn, Regional Sales Manager supporting the growing fabrication network throughout the North East of England.

Commenting on Carlia’s milestone achievement, Owen Coop, CEO at Carl F Groupco, said: “Long service recognition is an opportunity for us to thank colleagues for their dedication, loyalty and hard work. Carlia’s extensive experience, knowledge and exceptional customer service skills are an asset to the business. Her dedication and contribution are a testament to the strong team ethos we have at Carl F Groupco, where long-serving employees like Carlia add significant value to our customers day in and day out.”

Carlia’s commitment to excellence is further reflected in Carl F Groupco’s workforce, where over half of the team members have been with the company for over ten years. This dedication underscores the company’s unwavering focus on fostering a supportive and collaborative culture, where employees thrive and excel.

Speaking on her milestone recognition, Carlia said: “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support I have received during my time at Carl F Groupco. The strong team focus, and supportive culture have made my journey immensely rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to support our customers.”

In receiving this 20-year long service recognition, Carlia embodies the dedication, loyalty, and hard work that define Carl F Groupco’s commitment to excellence.

Owen concludes: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Carlia and express our deepest gratitude for her invaluable contributions over the years. As we mark this significant achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing a culture of support and collaboration where employees such as Carlia can flourish and succeed. Here's to the next twenty years of continued success and excellence!”

Tel: 01733 393 330

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

www.smartsecure.co.uk

www.carlfdirect.co.uk

CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION

NEW APPOINTMENTS CAREERS

THE BOARD OF CARL F GROUPCO LIMITED APPOINTS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER - OWEN COOP

Since 2019, with Owen as Finance Director of Carl F Groupco, his extensive experience, considered insights, management and leadership skills have been valued by all and proved a great asset to the Company and our employees.

Following University of Central Lancashire BA Hons Accounting, Lean Six Sigma trained; CIMA Accountancy qualification and MBA (London School of Business and Finance), Owen’s business management experience has grown in nearly 25 years working in Manufacture, Supply and Distribution.

Management accountant of major food supplier with responsibility for two processing plants. Supply Chain Analyst for a prominent health and beauty manufacturer, responsible for Product Costing, Inventory Control and reporting for two sites. Financial Controller and later European Analyst for leading global protective packaging manufacturer.

Finance Director, UK branch of global Security Packaging with responsibility for Finance, Procurement and HR teams, co-ordination of Sales and Management teams, Legal and Companies Act compliance, Risk analysis, Supplier negotiations, management of supply contracts and operations co-ordination and control across Europe and South Africa.

The Board are delighted to announce Owen’s appointment as Chief Executive Officer effective Thursday 1st February 2024.

Geoff Gahan, Chairman

GQA AND ABSOLUTE TRAINING SOLUTIONS GET TWENTYFOUR SKILLS BOOTCAMP LEARNERS OVER THE LINE

GQA Qualifications and its approved centre, Absolute Training Solutions are together helping to give self-employed people the opportunity to build up sector-specific knowledge, learn new skills and further enhance their job opportunities within the green energy sector.

The work is part of a series of so-called ‘Skills Bootcamps’, which are affiliated to the Government’s ‘Lifetime Skills Guarantee’, funded through the Department of Education’s National Skills Fund.

Twenty-four learners have so far successfully completed the green energy Skills Bootcamps through the partnership formed between the awarding and qualifications-writing body GQA Qualifications and Absolute Training Solutions. Skills Bootcamps take the form of flexible courses of up to sixteen weeks. They are fully funded for anyone aged nineteen or over who is employed either full-time or part-time, unemployed, self-employed, a serving prisoner due to be released within six months of completion of a Skills Bootcamp or on temporary release. A cost subsidy is also available for employers wishing to make use of Skills Bootcamps in order to re-skill staff or develop their responsibilities. Skills Bootcamps are offered in several sectors including Digital, Technical, Green Skills, Logistics, Construction and Rail. Absolute Training Solutions and GQA Qualifications have concentrated mainly on the area of Green Skills, providing training and Level 3 NVQ qualifications in Cladding Occupations and Curtain Wall Installations with the aim of helping to further the careers of self-employed installers. Interestingly, the course content not only focuses on job knowledge and NVQ evidence, but also covers a number of different topics including health and safety, personal development, equality, diversity and online courses to help develop positive attitudes and behaviours including mental health awareness.

Sean Monaghan of Absolute Training Solutions said: “We are proud to have been selected as a training provider for the Skills Bootcamps initiative, which is a great means of not only helping self-employed individuals gain further opportunities including supervisory roles or management positions, but a way of helping them gain

new skills to develop and progress within the green construction sector. Mental health and welfare are important areas within any sector, and the course has been designed to help self-employed learners develop their personal skills, ways to deal with stress and a growth mindset.

“We’d like to thank The Growth Company as the lead provider with whom we have been working during this initiative. The Growth Company is an award-winning social enterprise with a mission to enable growth, create jobs and improve lives. The DfE provided funding to The Growth Company, and as a specialist subcontractor we work in partnership with the latter to deliver this course to GQA candidates. The Growth Company has been very supportive throughout the whole process, especially in terms of provision of advice and guidance on safeguarding and quality improvement.”

SPEAKING ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCE, SKILLS BOOTCAMPS PARTICIPANT

Liam Carter (Fenestration Installation Level 3) said “I learnt many different skills including safety aspects, identifying problems and putting control measures in place. I also learnt more about energy efficiency glazing and the different categories of glass. My new skills will help me on the road to progression within the workplace and help me in the future take the lead on my own gang/work group as a supervisor. Also, it will raise my income to provide extra for my family. It was an absolutely fantastic experience from start to finish. Paul Wingeatt (Tutor) helped me massively during the NVQ level 3 and I would recommend the course to anyone looking to progress.”

Drew Hodgkins (Cladding Occupations Level 3) said “The Skills Bootcamp has helped me in many different ways, and I think it has helped me notice a lot more around the site. This includes health risks, how to observe other people’s behaviour and what can happen around the work environment. The skills will help me in the future to be able to work more independently as well as improving my teamworking skills. Overall, the experience has been a good one. I am glad to have learnt new skills and achieved my qualification. All the help provided by my Tutor (Paul Wingeatt) and the information provided by Absolute Training Solutions Ltd was fantastic. I would definitely use the service in the future to gain more NVQ qualifications.”

Lee Davenport (Fenestration Installation Level 3) observed, “The Skills Bootcamp was really interesting because it taught me about energy efficiency. I learnt about the different types of glass and the rating system put in place. In the future, I would like to be a manager and eventually start my own company. The Skills Bootcamp has put me on the right path to gaining the skills and knowledge to be successful in the future. My experience during this qualification was brilliant. My Tutor, Paul Wingeatt, was always available to me for guidance and to answer any questions. I would highly recommend anyone who wishes to gain qualifications in construction to speak to Absolute Training Solutions Ltd. The materials and resources made available was also appreciated especially on Health and Safety and mental health.”

Raimonds Herbergs (Cladding Occupations Level 3) commented “I learnt a lot of things I didn’t know before during my studies with the Skills Bootcamp. I have gained more confidence because the focus was not just on my skills, but on my knowledge, including how I work with people around me. For example, how to help people who are struggling or feel depressed at home or at work. In the future, I will pass on my knowledge and skills to colleagues and also build on the knowledge gained from the NVQ Level 3 and the Skills Bootcamp. Also, I appreciate the support from my Tutor and Absolute Training Solutions Ltd. When I didn’t understand the meaning of a phrase, my Tutor was able to explain the meaning or use other questions and examples to help me understand. Thanks to all the team.”

Speaking for GQA, Jim Gregory, EQA, said: “The fact that Absolute Training Solutions is providing mentorship and engagement through Skills Bootcamps is terrific. They are giving learners opportunities to build sector-specific skills and are increasing their chance of career progression. I am particularly impressed with the fact that the initiative does not focus solely on vocational knowledge, but is helping to develop learners’ positive attitudes and behaviours as this will be invaluable to them going forwards.”

More information on GQA is available at www.gqaqualifications.com.

EDGETECH’S PARENT COMPANY QUANEX SETS SIGHTS ON GROWTH WITH EXPERIENCED NEW GLOBAL MARKET DIRECTOR

Edgetech’s parent company, Quanex, have appointed a new Global Market Director to help drive far-reaching plans for growth.

Mike Moran brings over two decades of sector experience to the role, having previously served as Commercial Director at Sanglier, and spent 18 years in commercial leadership roles at Bostik. Reporting directly to Chris Alderson, Edgetech Managing Director, Mike will play a crucial part in expanding the company’s reach into new markets and regions.

Mike holds a Master's (MSc) degree in Polymer Science, from Manchester University, and has gained further qualifications from Wolverhampton University, Stafford College and Ghent University Management School.

Chris Alderson comments: “I’m delighted to be welcoming Mike to the business. I had the pleasure of working with him for many years at Bostik and have seen his dedication and commercial expertise first-hand.

“He’s a vital addition to the company’s senior team and will be a huge asset as we seek to achieve our ambitious strategic objectives in the years ahead.”

Mike comments: “I’m extremely excited to be joining Quanex. It’s a superb business I’ve known for many years, and I’ve always been hugely impressed by its dynamic and forward-thinking culture.

“It’s great to be back in the IG industry. As governments, businesses and households around the world strive for greater sustainability, I believe the sector has a bright future ahead of it.

“I’m looking forward to working with our global team to drive Edgetech and Quanex forward as part of something bigger.”

For more information, please call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk.

NEW APPOINTMENTS

ENDURANCE® DOORS CONTINUES DRIVE FOR OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE

Endurance® Doors has made a senior appointment to support its ongoing pursuit of manufacturing excellence.

Tom Stephens joins the leading manufacturer of solid, secure and stylish composite doors as its operations manager.

In this new role, which has been created by wider management restructuring, Tom will oversee all aspects of operations. He will also help to drive continuous improvement, identifying opportunities to increase efficiency whilst maintaining exceptional levels of performance in key areas such as quality, output, lead times and health and safety.

Tom brings with him a wealth of expertise and experience. He began his career in engineering,

CAREERS

working as an apprentice for Mercedes Benz where he was involved in developing and maintaining engines used by Formula 1 racing teams including Mercedes McLaren, Force India, and Williams.

During his time at Mercedes, Tom gained exposure to the brand’s manufacturing operations and was drawn to this business area, subsequently spending the next decade and a half in different manufacturing leadership and managerial roles.

This included eight years at Mira Showers where he was responsible for the company’s production plant and a team of 100 employees. More recently and immediately prior to joining Endurance® Doors, Tom was head of production

at Willerby – the UK’s largest manufacturer of static caravans, holiday homes and lodges.

Commenting on his appointment, Tom said: “I am delighted to have joined Endurance® Doors and at such an exciting point in its journey. It has enjoyed notable success to date and has clear and ambitious plans to add to that moving forward. My appointment forms part of those plans and I am excited about playing my role in building on the business’ success and strong reputation.”

Stephen Nadin, managing director at Endurance® Doors, added: “On behalf of the entire team, I would like to welcome Tom to Endurance® Doors. His appointment is one of a number we’ve made recently as we

FDM APPOINTS NEW SALES DIRECTOR

Fire Door Maintenance

(FDM) continues to expand with the appointment of Dan Cope as sales director.

Owned by UAP, FDM offers fire door inspection and maintenance services as well as fire door safety training accredited by GQA Qualifications, an awarding body for specialist sectors and occupational roles.*

With more than 25 years’ experience of the construction industry, Dan began his career with Travis Perkins before moving into sales in 2006. He has since gained specialist expertise across the merchant and door manufacturing industries, including spending six years at Permadoor, part of Epwin Group. He spent five years looking after the social landlord market before moving on to head of Trade Sales.

At FDM, Dan will be responsible for growing the company’s client base, including landlords across the public and private sectors, housebuilders and developers. His role also involves raising awareness of FDM’s Training Academy, the UK’s first practical training centre for the fire door industry.

Commenting on his new position Dan said, “Throughout my career, I’ve worked with a wide range of organisations which

are key to FDM’s growth, including local authorities and housing associations. With more than 400 operatives at our disposal, FDM is ideally placed to help these organisations deliver fire door inspections and maintenance more efficiently and to a higher standard.

“Our Training Academy also has a vital role to play in raising safety standards and this is something I’m really passionate about. One of my key goals is to encourage as many people as possible to take part in FDM’s accredited, hands-on training courses to build their knowledge and skills. This affordable, high-quality training will benefit all those responsible for selling, installing, inspecting, and maintaining fire doors ranging from contractors of all sizes, housebuilders, social and private landlords, commercial property owners and builders merchants.

Nicola John, managing director of FDM, added: “There are two strands to our business and Dan brings specialist knowledge and experience to both. His contacts in social housing will be particularly beneficial as this is a sector most impacted by changes to fire safety regulation and offers huge potential for us to expand FDM’s inspection and maintenance services.

“At the same time, Dan’s passion for upskilling across the fire door industry will

look to deepen and extend our managerial capabilities in line with business growth.

“These strategic hires will enable us to focus on further expansion whilst maintaining the high levels of product quality, innovation and customer service that have become synonymous with the Endurance® Doors’ brand.”

For more information on Endurance Doors, visit www.endurancedoors.co.uk.

fly the flag for our newly launched Training Academy. We’ve already developed three accredited courses with GQA for fire door inspections, maintenance and installation. With Dan’s input, we’re developing ideas for other fire door safety training which will benefit targets such as merchants and the emergency services.”

Dan will be based at Orbital 60 in Dumers Lane Bury, which is also home to FDM’s 3,000ft² Training Academy and UAP.

*GQA Qualifications is an awarding body for specialist sectors and occupational roles. Its current qualifications cover 17 sectors including the glass and fenestration industries, construction, print, automotive glazing, polymers, nuclear, chimney occupations, paper, meteorology and print.

Qualification development is carried out in accordance with regulatory and Sector Skill Council requirements, using industry experts throughout the development and consultation processes.

www.gqaqualifications.com

www.fdmltd.co.uk

Dan Cope

JORDAN KINGMAN RETURNS TO ALUK AS HEAD OF ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTS

luminium systems company AluK has reconfirmed its commitment to the commercial and specification market, with the appointment of Jordan Kingman to a new role as Head of Architectural Projects.

An experienced façade engineer, Jordan was Specification Manager at AluK from 2011 until 2020. During that time, he played a key role in helping the company build its reputation for adding value at the design and specification stage of projects, with a real willingness to work collaboratively with both architects and contractors.

He is delighted to be back: “I can’t wait to start reconnecting with specifiers on behalf of AluK again. We’ve recently implemented NBS Chorus so that we can work even closer with design teams in the future, and I’m really looking forward to helping our fabrication partners get involved in some exciting new projects.”

As well as heading up the commercial sales team, Jordan is also now responsible for AluK’s Design Studio in Shoreditch, where there are full size products on display and a regular programme of architect-focused events and CPDs.

He added: “The Design Studio is a really good example of our collaborative ethos –it’s a space which is open to all and a great location to bring project teams together.”

Jordan is the latest experienced figure to rejoin AluK, after Managing Director Russell Yates returned to the company in September 2023. He follows Paul Greenaway who also rejoined the team in November as an Area Sales Manager.

PST MAKES THE GGP INSTALLER AWARDS SHORTLIST

Production Software Technology (PST), a leading developer of computer-aided design (CAD) software solutions for the glazing and home improvement industry, has been shortlisted for the prestigious GGP Installer Awards in recognition of its innovative vsHome AR app.

The GGP Installer Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of the UK’s finest window, door, and conservatory installation companies across both residential and commercial sectors.

PST’s inclusion in the ‘Best Technical Innovation’ category shortlist recognises the transformative potential of vsHome AR, a revolutionary app that empowers installers to connect with customers in a whole new way.

The app seamlessly integrates with vsHome, PST’s advanced sales platform designed specifically for installers, creating a powerful combination that allows installers

to effortlessly share product designs directly onto their customer’s phone or tablet. Customers can then use augmented reality to virtually visualise their potential purchase within the context of their own home, fostering informed decision-making and boosting confidence.

Installers can also use the app to showcase a variety of design options, effortlessly adjust configurations, and present accurate quotations, all within the immersive augmented reality environment.

PST Managing Director Neil Travers comments: “We are absolutely thrilled to

be shortlisted for this prestigious award. vsHome AR represents our unwavering commitment to providing installers with cutting-edge tools that revolutionise the sales process and enhance customer engagement. Being recognised by the GGP Installer Awards is a testament to the dedication and ingenuity of our team.”

Winners of the GGP Installer Awards will be announced on 14 March 2024 at a ceremony held at the Midland Hotel in Manchester.

Visit www.pstonline.co.uk.

KLIC HOME IMPROVEMENTS MOST TRUSTED INSTALLER THANKS TO ADMINBASE

Premium window and door installer in East Anglia, KLIC Home Improvements, is pleased to be the most trusted double glazing installation company in the region with a 4.8 excellent rating on Trustpilot. The business puts a lot of its success down to the use of the installer management system, AdminBase.

“We have ambitious growth plans for the next 12-18 months,” says Stewart Grand, Director of KLIC Home Improvements, “and customer service is central to these plans. We had to make sure we had the necessary solid infrastructure and strong online presence in place to manage this additional demand before actively seeking new business and have found AdminBase to be a fantastic tool to help us to do just that. The system allows us to streamline processes within the business and improve

communication with customers, which has contributed to our online ratings. The system’s checklist with automated reminders helps to keep projects on track, and the customer portal gives us everything we need to keep customers up to date at every step of the way.

“The AdminBase customer portal helps customers to track their installation online, which gives them more confidence that we are working on their order, even when we’re not physically in the home or on the phone. We have also found that customers really appreciate being able to interact with us via e-mail or text message, because it’s so much more convenient for them. This works from our perspective too because unlike sending texts from individual mobile phone networks, we can send and receive this communication from the central system, so that anyone working on that order is kept in the picture.

Stewart concludes: “We have been working hard to boost our digital footprint and online profile to attract new business, but with customer service central to our success, it is imperative we look after our customers through any future growth. AdminBase has already given us a competitive advantage to make the most of new market opportunities and to become

"AdminBase has already given us a competitive advantage to make the most of new market opportunities and to become the most trusted double-glazing installer in our region.”

the most trusted double-glazing installer in our region, and we are confident that it will enable us to maintain our high level of service while we expand.”

Rhonda Ridge, Managing Director of AdminBase comments: “It is fantastic to see quality conscious companies like KLIC Home Improvements making the most of AdminBase and all its features to improve customer service and grow the business. The system was designed with installation businesses in mind and so works seamlessly in every department to streamline processes and make lives easier. I’m thrilled that Stewart and his team are finding it so useful and wish them all the best for their ambitious growth plans.”

For more information go to: https://www.abinitiosoftware.co.uk

Jordan Kingman, Head of Architectural Projects, AluK

BILL BUTTERS WINDOWS ‘NEVER MISS A TRICK’ WITH TOMMY TRINDER

Marking 40 years of outstanding service, Bill Butters Windows has a fantastic reputation among domestic and trade customers across the south of England. Now the company is taking customer experience to new heights with quoting software developed by Tommy Trinder.

Managing Director, Paul Kelly, has leveraged the Tommy Trinder platform to supercharge sales and quoting – "We're so pleased with Tommy Trinder. If you haven't got it, it’s your loss I’m afraid. You're missing a big trick if you're out there trying to sell windows and doors without it."

Paul emphasised the importance of presentation - “Lots of people can't visualise what a window is going to look like. With Tommy, it’s all there – the colour, the glass, the handle, viewed from inside, outside, everything. It’s just so simple. If you can’t sell with Tommy Trinder then you’re in the wrong job I think!”

Sales Advisor Stuart Miller has been impressed by the positive customer feedback – “It’s definitely helped us get more sales, but it’s also helped us convert those sales a lot quicker and easier. I take out my tablet, sit down at their dining table and start drawing out their window, superimpose it onto a picture of their house… they nearly fall off their chair! They’ve never seen anything like it.”

The ability to design alongside the customer and provide instant quotes is a big part of the software's appeal, according to Stuart, “By designing the windows with the customer in their own home you’re minimising all the questions – they know exactly what they’re getting and what it costs. It’s made my job 50% easier.”

Paul and Stuart have found that daily admin has become a doddle with Tommy. Paul noted, "If you value your time you’d be foolish not to use it." Stuart added, “Over an eight hour day it easily saves me two hours a day."

Tommy Trinder has also enabled the team to be more flexible, as Paul noted, "Your guys out on the road don't need to come into the office; they can do their quote from the coffee shop or when they’re sat in the van waiting till the next appointment... It's just a no-brainer."

Despite a tougher market, Paul and the team are continuing to thrive, delivering great value and an unrivalled customer experience. In Paul’s words, “Tommy Trinder helps you win sales, and that’s what it’s all about”.

Tommy Trinder is subscription based and billed monthly. To find out more and book a free demo installers should visit www.tommytrinder.com.

Paul Kelly, Managing Director, Bill Butters Windows

Stuart Miller, Sales Advisor

Do you have to wait for your roof supplier to produce CADs for you?

We convert your sketches into professional looking 3D images enabling your customer to envisage what their new conservatory, orangery or garden room is going to look like. If you supply us with a photo of the house and/or garden we can superimpose on that for you too.

WINDOWMAKER SOFTWARE: REVOLUTIONISING THE WINDOW AND DOOR INDUSTRY WITH CLOUD-BASED SOLUTIONS FOR ALL

In the competitive landscape of window and door software solutions, Windowmaker Software's product offerings have continuously stood out for their SQL-based calculation engine, offering unparalleled power and precision in window design and manufacture.

Catering to diverse materials, including uPVC, aluminium, wood, steel, and composites, in a single software solution, Windowmaker has consistently proven its commitment to efficiency and adaptability. Windowmaker Cloud solutions are available on a subscription basis from £55 per user per month, significantly lowering the barrier to entry for many businesses. All solutions are customizable with a team of over 40+ in-house developers, and robust, well-documented APIs ensure the solutions can be tailored to meet requirements of all levels of complexity.

Building upon its 40-year legacy of excellence, Windowmaker Software has recently unveiled the next stage of its solution – Windowmaker Web. This latest offering combines the power of Windowmaker's established calculation engine with a host of new and intuitive features.

KEY FEATURES OF WINDOWMAKER WEB

BRAND NEW INTUITIVE USER INTERFACE

At the heart of Windowmaker Web lies a brand new, intuitive user interface designed to streamline and simplify the user experience. Recognizing the importance of user-friendly interfaces in boosting productivity, Windowmaker Software has invested considerable effort in ensuring that Windowmaker Web is not just a tool

but an experience. The interface is crafted with precision, keeping in mind the day-today tasks of window dealers and resellers, offering a seamless and engaging platform for their operations.

MATERIAL HANDLING CAPABILITIES

One of the standout features of Windowmaker Web is its ability to handle multiple materials within a single software solution. Whether dealing with uPVC, aluminium, wood, steel, or composites, window dealers and installers can manage diverse materials seamlessly. This capability is a testament to Windowmaker's commitment to offering a comprehensive solution that caters to the dynamic needs of the industry.

CLOUD-BASED EFFICIENCY

Windowmaker Web enables users to access the software from any location, fostering collaboration and flexibility. This cloud-based approach not only enhances accessibility but also ensures real-time updates, reducing the risk of version discrepancies and improving overall workflow efficiency.

ADVANCED ANALYTICS AND REPORTING

In an era where data-driven decisionmaking is paramount, Windowmaker Web doesn't fall short. The software comes equipped with advanced analytics and

reporting tools, providing valuable insights into sales trends, customer preferences, and overall business performance. This empowers window dealers and resellers to make informed decisions that align with market demands and industry trends.

SEAMLESS INTEGRATION

Windowmaker Web seamlessly integrates with existing systems through its well-documented API, allowing for a smooth transition for businesses. This ensures that users can leverage the new features without disrupting their established workflows, fostering continuity and minimizing the learning curve for users.

Windowmaker Web represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of software solutions for the window and door industry. From its humble beginnings 40 years ago to the present day, Windowmaker Software has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation and user-centric solutions. With Windowmaker Web, the company not only adapts to the changing technological landscape but also sets a new standard for efficiency, collaboration, and user experience in the window and door software industry.

Whether you are a window and door dealer/installer looking to streamline your sales process or a manufacturer looking for a complete end-to-end solution, Windowmaker Software is the next step in your software journey. You can reach the team at info@windowmaker.com or by visiting www.windowmaker.com.

USEFUL NUMBERS

British Plastics Federation (BPF)

Tel: 0207 457 5000

British Standards Institution (BSI) – Standards & Publications

Tel: 0208 996 9001

BSI – Assessment & Certification

Tel: 0845 080 9000

BSI – Product Certification & Testing

Tel: 08450 765600

BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association)

Tel: 01449 780444

Building Research

Establishment (BRE)

Tel: 01923 664000

Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB)

Tel: 01453 828851

Dekura

Tel: 01952 201631

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF)

Tel: 01827 52337

Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS)

Tel: 0345 053 8975

Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA)

Tel: 0207 645 3700

Get Britain Building (GBB)

Tel: 0870 162 0936

Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF)

Tel: 0207 939 9101

GQA Qualifications (formerly Glass Qualifications Authority)

Tel: 0114 2720033

Health & Safety Executive (HSE)

– Glass & Related Industries

Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector

Tel: 01782 602300

David Appleton, HM Inspector

Tel: 0115 9712800

Proskills – Head Office

Tel: 01235 833844

Proskills – Glass & Related Industries

Neil Robinson

Tel: 07917 015 322

Recovinyl (via Axion Consulting)

Tel: 0161 355 7618

The Glazing Ombudsman (TGO)

Tel: 020 7397 7200

UK Green Building Council

Tel: 0207 580 0623

Veka Recycling

Tel: 01322 38721

Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP)

Tel: 01295 819 900

Wood Window Alliance (WWA)

Tel: 0844 209 261

Market leading System

10-35 Commercial Door and Framing goes from strength to strength

New structural mullions

Auto door pro les

New concealed closer options for wider and heavier doors

Metal Technology’s System 10-35 Hi / Hi+ Commercial Door and Framing has been recently enhanced to include: handle

New Mag and electric lock solutions to suit standard and PAS24 security applications

New rebated door option for anti- nger trap stiles as well as additional pull handle and threshold variants.

PAS 24 Security Tested

U values as low as 1.0W/m2K

Multi-Point Locking + Mag Locks

Panic Exit (Push Rail or Touch Bar)