CEO Leaves GGF In Strong Position 5
Bohle Cuts The Cost Of Balustrading 41
Promac Reports Brisk Business At Fensterbau 67 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 1
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TRADE NEWS
Jade Windows
Trebles Its Manufacturing
Capacity
Longstanding Spectus fabricator Jade Windows has just moved into new premises in Batley, West Yorkshire. The new unit is 14,000sqft , over three times larger than its previous premises. Ryan Fozard of Jade Windows commented: “The move to bigger premises together with our investment in new machinery reflects our substantial business growth in the past few years, particularly in our commercial and new build sectors.” The new premises will enable Jade to provide customers with quicker lead times on white frames and also on coloured frames because the company will be able to hold a wide range of Spectus foiled colours in stock. Ryan attributes Jade Windows’ success to three things: outstanding craftmanship, high level of customer service and the integrity shown in every aspect of the business. www.spectus.co.uk 4 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Synseal Group Appoints Matthew Mycock
As Permanent CEO Synseal Group has announced the appointment of Matthew Mycock as their new CEO in a permanent capacity, effective immediately. Matthew has a wealth of Board experience, including as Managing Director for Plumbing Trade Supplies, a business unit at Travis Perkins, Managing Director at Autoglass (Belron UK Ltd), and Managing Director at Frontline Group, the UK’s largest magazine distributor. Matthew’s early career was spent in fast moving consumer goods, including spells at Levi Strauss, Diageo and Mars Confectionery. Synseal Group Chairman, Adrian Fawcett, said: “Matthew is well placed to lead the Group through its next exciting chapter of cultural and business change, supporting new routes to market, and re-energising growth in sales across
all product categories with new business partners.”
Matthew will replace Deborah Kemp who has been Interim CEO at Synseal Group since September. Adrian added: “I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Matthew to the Group and thank Deborah for her leadership and support over her short but significant tenure.” Commenting on his appointment, Matthew said: “I am delighted to be joining Synseal Group at such an exciting time for the business. I am really looking forward to building on the progress already achieved by Deborah and the team with the aim of delivering the very best products and service to our customers.” www.synseal.com
West Yorkshire
Firms Fined For Nuisance Calls To TPS Subscribers Two firms in West Yorkshire have been fined by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for calling people registered with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS Bradford-based Energy Saving Centre Ltd, which offers services such as replacement windows and doors and guttering, made seven million calls over a seven month period without screening them against the TPS register. The ICO has fined the firm £250,000 because at least 34,000 of these calls were made to TPS subscribers. In a separate case, Alex Goldthorpe, trading as Approved Green Energy Solutions, was fined £150,000 for making over 300,000 calls to
TRADE NEWS reason – to stop unwanted marketing calls and protect their privacy. It is the first thing any responsible business should check when making live marketing calls. “We are committed to taking strong action against firms calling people registered with the TPS, as these fines show.” The ICO carried out investigations into the two firms after complaints made by members of the public.
TPS subscribers between April and July 2017.
Both firms bought the information used to make the phone calls from other companies and failed to check it against the TPS register to ensure the phone calls they were making complied with the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).
It is against the law to call someone registered with the TPS unless that person has given their consent to receive calls from that company.
Energy Saving Centre has also been issued with an enforcement notice ordering it to stop illegal marketing.
Andy Curry, ICO Enforcement Group Manager, said: “People register with the TPS for a clear
Anyone who wants to report a nuisance call or text can do so on the ICO website.
CEO Leaves GGF In Strong Position Phil Pluck, Group Chief Executive of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has announced his departure effective from 12th April.
ment to realise the potential of the GGF Group for the benefit of its customers, members and the industry. I am immensely sad to be leaving such a great organisation and its people but for Phil has overseen a substantial personal reasons this is the right change programme at the GGF time to be departing. The GGF bringing together the commercial Group is a fantastic organisation companies of GGF and its mem- and I wish it the very best for the bership side. Having brought in future.” a new senior management team as part of a complete re-strucJohn Agnew, GGF President ture programme, Phil issued the commented: following statement: “Under the leadership of Phil “GGF Group is now in the best Pluck the entire GGF Group has shape it has been for years and undergone a period of transis ideally positioned to grow its formational change with a clear influence and value to its memstrategic plan now in place. bers and customers. A new The GGF Board are indebted to management team is in place Phil for the key role that he has and has the skills and commitplayed in driving forward the
changes needed for the business. His clear strategic vision coupled with the focus on behavioural and cultural management practices have been key skill sets that the GGF Group has benefited from.” www.ggf.org.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 5
TRADE NEWS
Infrastructure Thwarts Construction As Slump Continued In February
After a volatile 2017 and a poor start in January, February has not fared much better for the construction industry, with the value of new contracts awarded at £4.9 billion, which is 24 per cent lower than at the same time last year. The latest edition of the Economic & Construction Market Review from industry analysts Barbour ABI highlights levels of construction contract values awarded across Great Britain. Residential housing dominated the construction sector across February with a total contract value of £2.1 billion, its highest figure for six months. Conversely, infrastructure contract value decreased by 48 per cent compared with last month – even with the largest overall project in February being the £350 million Hinkley Point C – Marine Works Package (see figure 1.1). 6 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Outside of the Hinkley Point project, the three biggest projects in February were all London based, the £196 million 1 Triton Square office project, a £110 million residential development named the ‘Perfume Factory’ and The Minories Estate redevelopment worth £100 million. Across the rest of the industry, the education sector followed infrastructure as the only two sectors that saw a decrease in monthly figures. Infrastructure’s decline from £1.7 billion to £875 million was too great of a loss for the rest of the industry to play catch up, even as all other sectors saw an increase in construction contract values. Regionally, it was London that led all regions with a contract award value at 25% of the UK total, largely thanks to the aforementioned three big ticket
projects, which also included the three largest hotel, leisure and sport developments in February which totalled over £200 million. This was followed by the South West with 17% of the contract award value and the North West with a 13% share. Commenting on the figures, Michael Dall, Lead Economist at Barbour ABI, said: “Whilst the slide in Infrastructure is disappointing, it is encouraging to see the increases in value for the majority of the construction sectors, particularly commercial & retail, which was in the midst of a three month slump. With uncertainty surrounding the industry and economy in general, improvements in various sectors should instil confidence, despite the overall figure being subdued.” www.barbour-abi.com
PatioMaster West Midlands Opens For Business
In-line sliding patio door specialist PatioMaster has announced that PatioMaster West Midlands has opened for business and will be fabricating market-leading doors for customers. The new dealership is based in Telford and is no stranger to the Epwin Group because it has been an Epwin customer for over 20 years.
Mark Westbrook, Director of PatioMaster West Midlands, said: “The decision to join the PatioMaster network and manufacture PatioMaster doors was straightforward. We had been buying in the PatioMaster door for some years and we were fully aware that the product is the best in class thanks to its functionality and ease of operation.”
TRADE NEWS Commenting on the latest addition to the PatioMaster network Carmen Velilla, PatioMaster’s Brand Manager said, “We are delighted to welcome PatioMaster West Midlands on board. We know from experience that Mark and his team’s commitment to quality is superb and we are looking forward to working with them as we continue to develop our market leading brand.” PatioMaster’s inline sliding doors are said to be perfect for design-conscious homeowners because of their elegant aesthetics, superb quality and wide range of configurations. Impressive security features such as a six point locking system and a wide range of accessories add to the appeal. Doors fabricated by PatioMaster West Midlands will be fitted with a 3 star cylinder as standard which means they will meet the requirements of Document Q. The company is offering a wide range of colours and finishes while white patios are available on a five day turnaround. www.patiomaster.co.uk
#ColourEnabled Lifts Deceuninck Sales 12% Year-On-Year and fast-growing sector of the market.
“Because Deceuninck is #ColourEnabled – and most Flush Sash windows are colour – Deceuninck fabricators and installers are uniquely able to increase their colour sales. Six of our top fabricators’ sales are over 50% colour.
Deceuninck’s sales are 12% up on this time last year. The first quarter of 2018 is ahead of budget and further strong growth is expected, says the systems company. The strong sales performance is put down to Deceuninck’s lead on colour, as well as the sharply increasing popularity of its award-winning Heritage Flush Sash. Rob McGlennon, Managing Director Deceuninck UK & Ireland says: “Our sales are strong because our fabricators’ sales are strong, and colour is a profitable
“We’ve invested heavily in becoming colour-enabled, and now have a world-class foiling team and plant, and a 140,000 square foot warehouse that stocks 26 colourways in big volumes. So Deceuninck fabricators get what they ordered on time and in full, avoiding the delays and disappointments that hold other fabricators back. Colour is 52% of our sales, and we expect it to hit 60% by the end of the year.” The sustained popularity of Deceuninck’s Heritage Window Collection, including Chamfered 2500 and Sculptured 2800, also contributed to the growth. Call 01249 816 969, follow@DeceuninckUK or visit www.deceuninck.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 7
TRADE NEWS
Beware
of GDPR Consultants, Warns Insight Data
Bohle AG
Dr. Thorsten Böllinghaus, CEO of Bohle AG
May 25th sees a new EU Regulation come into force, the General Data Protection Regulation, and it’s already causing confusion and panic within the business community. An army of consultants, advisors and groups have jumped on the band wagon, organising seminars and events that are often ill-informed, sometimes misleading and all-to-often designed to generate significant fees. Andrew Scott, Managing Director of Insight Data, comments; “Despite the barrage of information, courses and so-called experts that have emerged, there is no official certification or accreditation for GDPR. Anyone with limited knowledge can put on a seminar and offer advice, but our experience is that many of these simply get it wrong’. In practice, the principles of the GDPR are straightforward and the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) provides easy to understand and comprehensive guidance for businesses, via www.ico.org.uk 8 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Agrees Exclusive Global Supply Partnership With Glass Sliding
Door Hardware Specialist Bohle AG has continued the rapid expansion of its hardware offer with a new and exclusive worldwide partnership and distribution agreement with sliding door specialist and glass hardware manufacturer, Mc-Slide. The Italian company, founded in 2010, designs and manufactures an extensive range of hardware for interior and exterior sliding and folding doors and bathroom and shower fittings for glass. As part of the supply partnership, Bohle assumes exclusive distribution rights globally, outside its Italian home market, for Mc-Slide’s product ranges. The agreement follows on in rapid succession from Bohle’s acquisition of high-profile US shower and bath accessories manufacturer, Portals Hardware in January this year and sits as part of a strategic investment programme in its glass
hardware offer by Bohle. “This represents a very significant development in our hardware offer”, explained Dr. Thorsten Böllinghaus, CEO of Bohle AG. “It gives us new technical expertise and reach and alongside our acquisition of Portals Hardware earlier this year, reinforces Bohle’s reputation as a leading global hardware supplier for glass.” “There is a high degree of synergy between the businesses, with McSlide bringing new expertise and product innovation to the sliding door technologies we can now offer our customers”, he continued. Ciro Matino, company founder and general manager of Mc-Slide said: “We are delighted to be a partner of Bohle and therefore to offer our innovative products to a broad customer base around the world.”
NEW LOW PRICE Working Days NOW 10Lead Time FROM ONLY ORDER TO DELIVERY FROM A FAST
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Stock colours : White, Black, Grey, Grey on White Email: bifolds@madefortrade.co Call: 01642 610799 * Per leaf price is unglazed and may vary depending on size and Fax: 01642 671026 specification of the door. Lead time is based on a standard colour. www.madefortrade.co * Postcode restrictions apply
TRADE NEWS 100% with no non-conformances exceeded even my high expectations.”
100% Score For Mila Mila has received what is arguably the ultimate endorsement of its quality management systems with a 100% score in its most recent ISO9001 BSI audit. The score means Mila can transition immediately from the 2008 version of the ISO9001 standard to the revised 2015 version, positioning the hardware specialist alongside many of the UK’s lead-
ing businesses. Mila’s Quality Manager Alan Peel was understandably delighted with the outcome. He said: “To be recommended for transition, a business has to achieve a score of 80% on the six-monthly audit with no more than 5 minor non-conformances. Our processes are such that I was confident that we would achieve that, but
He added: “Quality management is always a team effort of course and a score of 100% can only be achieved when quality is truly ingrained within a business’ culture. Here at Mila, every department from sales to supply chain plays their part and the audit recognised that with no areas identified requiring improvement.” A BSI audit assesses how a business is managing its operations, products and services in line with the requirements of ISO9001. It includes communications, planning, assessing risk and responding to customer feedback and is a clear indicator of how seriously a business takes its commitment to quality. Mila is now eagerly awaiting its new ISO9001:2015 certificate which will be proudly displayed at its Daventry HQ. www.mila.co.uk
DOORCO Commits To Customers
With 99% In Stock As part of its newly launched Customer Charter, DOORCO is proud to commit to promising 99% of its product range is in stock at any one time in order fulfil the stringent lead time and delivery promises.
“We believe that by setting out clear service level commitments, it shows our customers how much we value their business,” explains Jayne Sullivan, DOORCO’s Operations Director. “We live in a society where people don’t want to wait. Suppliers are expected to meet customer demands instantly – and you can’t do that unless you have the products ready and waiting. We have one of the largest stock 10 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
ers to understand what’s most important to them and we know that having stock available when they need it, is a priority.” “One of the key drivers for us at DOORCO is achieving great customer service and satisfaction. It’s something we’ve strived for from day one and something which will continue to be at the heart of everything we do. Holding 99% of our product range in stock makes our customers’ lives easier, so it’s what we’ll do to ensure we are their composite door partner of choice.”
holdings of composite door slabs in the UK, which means we can react quickly and effectively to meet customer demands. We’ve worked closely with our custom-
The DOORCO Customer Charter is a promise to deliver to products and service to a high standard. www.door-co.com
TRADE NEWS
N&C Finds Complete Composite Solution
With Virtuoso Doors product.”
N&C Glass uses Virtuoso Doors’ online door designer software – Gateway – to design, build, quote and order doors. The user-friendly software can also be used by N&C Glass customers to design their new door online in just a few minutes by choosing their door style, colour, glass and hardware. N&C Glass has installed two Virtuoso Doors in its showroom – a composite door and the new Virtu-AL contemporary entrance door. With its sleek, modern aluminium look, the Virtu-AL door has already become a natural draw in the showroom.
Nick Flack, MD of N&C Glass, with Lesley Harrison, area sales manager of Virtuoso Doors
Cambridgeshire-based N&C Glass has moved to Virtuoso Doors’ range of composite doors after seeing the firm’s collection of premium quality, high performance composite doors, which is precision manufactured and hand-finished by the Virtuoso team of master craftsmen. N&C Glass began selling the extensive range of doors, which now includes Virtu-AL – the UK’s first aluminium textured, non-woodgrain finish composite door, and immediately took advantage of the support package behind it. Nick Flack, managing director of
N&C Glass, explains: “Composite doors are a growing market for us so it was really important for us to establish a long-term partnership with a supplier that’s passionate about doors. I was very impressed by the quality of the Virtuoso door, the accuracy of manufacture and the fine detailing which gives it all the hallmarks of a premium product that homeowners want. “We were also looking for a supplier that could give us the complete service to help us grow the composite door arm of our business and make a real success of selling this highly desirable
The company has also taken advantage of Virtuoso Doors’ marketing package which includes a new collection of brochures. The brochures have been designed to aid homeowner decision-making and capture the unique combination of craftsmanship and precision engineering that Virtuoso puts into creating every one of its doors. “The brochures are an excellent sales tool and they are very logically laid out for homeowners to browse through,” adds Nick “They show our customers the possibilities that can be achieved with a composite door and they’ve literally flown off the shelves since we took delivery of them!” Tony Craggs, managing director of Virtuoso Doors, said: “We’re delighted to welcome N&C Glass on board and we’re very pleased that they’ve increased their composite door business since moving to Virtuoso.” www.virtuoso-doors.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 11
TRADE NEWS
Look No Further
Colour
Than Profile 22 As Your Commercial Product Partner
Sales
design, a WER up to A++ and a range of 28 colours including dual options. It’s the perfect solution for medium and high rise buildings or when specifiers request a larger-sized window.
Double
Elsewhere in the portfolio, you will find casement windows, fully reversible windows, vertical sliding windows, bi-fold doors, sliding patio doors and high-performance composite doors, so there really is something for every commercial environment.
At Kestrel
Colour sales have doubled at Kestrel Windows since moving to Deceuninck. The Chorley-based trade fabricator reports across-the-board growth, and a 100% increase in colour in less than two years thanks to Deceuninck’s range of 26 colourways available from stock. Director Mark Whittle explains: “Colour was a main driver behind our move to Deceuninck in 2016. We saw it as a growth area and a way of differentiating ourselves from rivals. The move has paid off and now over 50% of our total sales are in colour. We know we can get whatever colour we need from stock at Deceuninck, so when the order comes in from a customer, we’re ready to turn it around.” Kestrel, which fabricates Deceuninck’s Heritage Window Collection and Slider24 patio door is also seeing strong growth in Deceuninck’s award-winning Flush Sash. Until recently the company dual-sourced but said it was the natural progression to become a Deceuninck-only fabricator. www.kestrelwindows.co.uk www.deceuninck.com 12 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
If you’re looking for a systems partner in the commercial sector, look no further than Profile 22. Its range of products offers unique solutions and the quality and depth of its commercial support reflects its 40 years’ experience. Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager for Profile 22, said: “Our window and door systems have been used in all commercial sectors, including local authorities, housing associations, education authorities, contractors and builders.” The Profile 22 product portfolio offers a fully integrated range of PVC-U windows and doors suitable for commercial developments of all sizes. Highlights include the Flush TiltTurn window. It’s a window that compares favourably to aluminium systems thanks to the flush
All products offer a wealth of benefits that make them very attractive to specifiers. For example, all are manufactured in the UK and conform to current legislative requirements. They offer impressive green credentials too: all products have excellent thermal efficiency credentials, there are recycled options and Profile 22 has been awarded the BRE Green Guide A+ rating. Plus alongside the systems, Profile 22 can supply specially designed dedicated hardware from the highly respected Safeware brand to supplement the high-tech multi-locking systems that come as standard. It means you can offer a complete solution that is very attractive to specifiers. As well as the impressive product portfolio there is an equally impressive level of technical support. Profile 22 has a dedicated specification team that can assist with every stage of a project from the design phase to delivery. www.profile22.co.uk
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TRADE NEWS growth we anticipate over the next three years. The other major change we’ve made to the business is switching our roof system to Ultraframe.
Novaseal
Going From Strength-To-Strength
In August this year, Fareham-based fabricator Novaseal, celebrates 20 years in business. Recently moving into much larger premises with the capacity to expand even further, Managing Director Gary Grundy, has ambitious plans for the business centred around growth in the glazed extension market. Indeed, recently switching roof system to Ultraframe is just part of his plan to strengthen his position as the ‘go to’ fabricator for glazed extensions. Gary Grundy shares his vision and explains why Novaseal is working hard to support its customers to deliver the broadest range of home extensions. “In the last six months we have made a number of key changes to the business to ensure that we are on track to deliver our growth aspirations in 2018 and beyond. Moving to new premises was part of our plan to bring greater operational efficiencies to our business and that’s paying dividends already and certainly tees us up for the 14 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
“To put that change into context, we recognise that there is a sizable opportunity for us to support our customers in the home extension space. Quite often we provide a survey-service for our trade customers and over the last two years we’ve identified a significant shift in the aspirations of the home owner looking to extend their home. It’s not that long ago that the extent of our roof fabrication business was centred around the construction of a standard conservatory. Today’s home owner has come a long way from that and it’s not unusual for the home owner to present a ‘mood board’ for want of a better expression with the clear instruction – “I would like this”. More often than not, that extends to the integration of large spans of glass, internal pelmets, cornice, roof lanterns or part-solid, part-glass roofs – a far cry from the conservatory industry we knew ten, fifteen years ago. Hence, our switch to Ultraframe, delivering the most technically advanced and inspirational range of systems that match the needs of today’s home owner. “The other investment we’ve made is the integration of a showroom at the new site. Going back to the point I made earlier, the very essence of Novaseal is about providing our trade customers with a complete end-to-end service and that also extends to the showroom experience. Many of our customers don’t have the luxury of their own showroom but we recognise that it’s important for them to be able to show a prospective customer examples of the type of extension they’re considering. For many home owners considering extending their home, at the back of their mind they’ll still be considering the traditional builder-route, for us, we want to be able to give our trade customers even further ammunition to be able to secure a sale, and there’s nothing more compelling than showing a customer the innovation that sits inside an Ultraframe roof! “Our last quarter’s performance has smashed through anything we’ve seen in the last two years so we have every reason to be confident that these major changes at Novaseal are steering us towards our most successful year in business. What will further strengthen our position is giving our trade customers the knowledge, confidence and support to really maximise the home extension opportunity. We firmly believe that the switch to Ultraframe, with the support of a beautiful showroom, will give our customers the very best chance of securing profitable home extension jobs.”
TRADE NEWS
Modplan Switches
To Yale Flush Sash Shootbolt VEKA trade fabricator Modplan has announced it is upgrading its shootbolt locking system on its FlushSash window range to a dual cam shootbolt system. Heidi Sachs, Managing Director of Modplan, said, “Whilst the current system has proven to be a robust and reliable product, the introduction of the Yale Flush Sash dual cam Shootbolt locking system offers all the security credentials you would expect and a brand name that gives added value benefits for our customers.” The window lock has been designed to meeting PAS 24 requirement and is currently undergoing
Heidi adds, “To add further value for our customers, the Yale Flush Sash dual cam Shootbolt is included in Yale’s Lifetime Security Guarantee scheme.” The Yale Flush Sash dual cam shootbolt will be available on Modplan’s FlushSash products as standard. This change will mean the company’s choice of window lock on its FlushSash windows will match the Yale locking products on its casement windows and single and double doors.
Secured by Design accreditation. As well as chamfered security shootbolts, there is also a secondary cam that means the window can have a night vent feature too. It comes with a ten-year mechanical and a ten-year security guarantee.
Heidi concludes, “We are renowned for the quality of our product offering and by fitting the Yale Flush Sash dual cam Shootbolt on our FlushSash windows we will be enhancing that reputation even further.” www.modplan.co.uk
First Speakers Announced For Glazing Summit The first line-up of speakers have been announced for the Glazing Summit, the major industry conference organised by Purplex Marketing and Insight Data. A line-up of industry speakers and panellists include David Leng, CEO of Customade Group, Sean Parnaby of West Port Windows – part of VKR, Europe’s largest window manufacturer – Samantha Nuckey, MD of leading hardware supplier Window Ware, and Business Micro’s MD Graeme Bailey.
Several entrepreneurs who have built, acquired or sold high growth window companies will also be speaking, including Hayden Rushton, Managing Director of Britannia Windows and a serial investor, who has acquired a string of window companies including Launa, AGS and Crown.
Other panellists include Russell Yates, MD of AluK, Chris Alderson, MD of Edgetech, GQA Chairman Mike Morris, Jade Greenhow from Insight Data and Paul Atkinson, Director of Yale hardware.
The Glazing Summit takes place on 22nd May near Birmingham and almost 300 business owners and directors from across the UK and Ireland have already booked tickets. The day provides decision makers with the opportunity to network with peers, meet suppliers and the media, and includes refreshments and lunch.
Another panellist, Andy Jones – Group Sales & Marketing Director at Synseal – commented; “The industry is evolving fast and it’s important to keep your finger on the pulse. This is a must-attend event for senior management involved in the fenestration industry.”
For more information visit www.glazingsummit.co.uk call 01934 808292 or email hello@glazingsummit.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 15
TRADE NEWS
Thermoseal Group
Has Gone Completely Paperless!
routes are then tracked from our offices and timings are updated in line with driver location so our sales order processing teams can update customers with when their delivery is due for arrival and notify them of any delays. Satellite navigation also ensures drivers are re-routed to reduce hold-ups. “On arrival at site the driver has a tick-list of items to be delivered which are checked off with the customer on receipt of the order. As items are selected and signed for on our digital device, this then triggers same-day emails to customers with the delivery note and invoice. The email addresses these are delivered to can be separate e-mail address of customers’ choice. “This system also means we can keep in constant contact with our drivers. In the interests of our staff wellbeing and also to reduce vehicle down-time we have built additional features into the system, including prompts for vehicle checks where our drivers can log and photograph any issues so that we can arrange speedier vehicle maintenance. We can also make certain that our drivers take adequate breaks.
Gwain Paterson, Thermoseal Group’s Managing Director
Thermoseal Group has installed a new order tracking and delivery system which is the final stage in achieving a completely paperless sales order processing service to customers.
this new tracking system complements the Group’s earlier-installed bar coding system to ensure that delivery errors are minimised and its teams work together to provide prompt and reliable deliveries.
As well as doing its bit for the environment, this system provides a multitude of benefits to customers including real-time tracking and satellite location of deliveries, as well as same-day e-mailed delivery notes and invoices.
Gwain Paterson, Thermoseal Group’s Managing Director explains: “All of our drivers are now issued with a device pre-loaded with all deliveries for the day, organised in order of allocated routes. All customer contact details and telephone numbers are also pre-loaded so the driver can contact customers as required.
With 21 vehicles delivering over 2,000 insulated glass components from its 4 UK sites, including two of the industry’s highest performance warm edge spacers – Thermobar and Thermoflex – 16 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
“Once the items are dispatched, the customer receives an e-mail to say their order is on route. These
“As a bespoke addition to this system, we can also track our stillage’s to ensure that these are returned to our manufacturing site for re-filling and re-delivery. “We would like to extend a big thank you to all those involved in the initial trials of this system.” To find out about Thermoseal Group and its comprehensive range of insulated glass components and machinery for glazing manufacture, call +44(0)121 331 3950 or visit www.thermosealgroup.com. For information about the Group’s highest performance warm edge spacers see www.thermobarwarmedge.com and www.thermoflexwarmedge.com
nxt-gen is extremely easy to manufacture with considerably less waste. Plus, there is no storage of cassettes needed! Andy Gailey | Production Manager | Astraseal
same
engine,
new
model
0345 2000 816 | customerservices@distinctiondoors.co.uk distinctiondoors.co.uk/nxt-gen | door-designer.co.uk Tried, tested and trusted, the UK’s number 1 composite door supplier
TRADE NEWS
Prepped,
Painted And On Your
Doorstep
In order for the supply chain to work effectively, fabricators and installers need to know they can rely on their supply chain partners. This is something taken seriously by DOORCO, one of the UK’s leading composite door suppliers, which is why it’s featured in its total service promise Customer Charter launched recently. Jayne Sullivan, DOORCO’s Operations Director comments: “Lead times are at the heart of what we do, which is why we want our customers to have complete clarity to provide peace of mind. Our promise is that our doors can be prepped in three days or painted in five. As colour makes up 60% of our sales, with no restriction on the colour choice, it is a complex process, but thanks to our continued investment into our manufacturing processes, it’s something our customers can expect in as little as just five days. The DOORCO Customer Charter is a promise to deliver to products and service to a high standard. For more information visit: www.door-co.com 18 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Demand For Better
Security Ignites Customer
Growth For Brisant Brisant Secure has built a considerable following with leading entrance door manufacturers, along with many established players in the locksmith sector, helping to further fuel sustained strong growth. The Lock Lock and Ultion product innovations are being increasingly adopted by the trade and demanded as standard by security conscious consumers, claims the company.
Performance over the last year has seen customer numbers increase by 36% and 75% more deliveries. Brisant says not only is it attracting new customers, but all of them are selling more, thanks to a range of marketing support materials which in turn are helping to further fuel this period of sustained growth. Companies in the PVCu, aluminium, timber and composite door sectors are said to be increasingly adopting Ultion as standard, claiming to be the
ultimate cylinder upgrade with a £1,000 security guarantee. Lock Lock is carried by locksmiths nationwide as the ultimate deterrent, as a wealth of social media posts have shown and is now gaining significant traction in door sales, given the unique design, longevity and security features it offers. Nick Dutton CEO of Brisant Secure commented: ‘Selling super secure products has become more important than ever for the trade and our sales statistics show that our customers are buying more with unrivalled support and easy online ordering. High security is quickly becoming an industry standard now, that’s fully embraced by the demands from consumers to secure their homes in the best way possible and Brisant are actively helping this through our network of customers.’ www.brisant-secure.com
TRADE NEWS
Saint-Gobain Building Glass Re-Invigorates The Planitherm Network
benefits such as security, solar control, noise reduction and furniture fade control, which can all be achieved by using the right type of glass.” A recent survey by Saint-Gobain Group focusing on the importance of health and wellbeing in the home, revealed that homeowners and renters wanted a home that is safe and secure, affordable to run, with no winter heating worries and low noise levels. A newly re-invigorated and updated Planitherm Network by SaintGobain Building Glass has been launched alongside a suite of tools and support materials that will help fabricators and installers to install the right glass for the right situation.
A newly re-invigorated and updated Planitherm Network by SaintGobain Building Glass has been launched this month following extensive research, consultation and investment to keep this initiative relevant and useful to fabricators and installers. Kirsty Pamment, Market Manager at Saint-Gobain Building Glass said: “The Planitherm Network was first launched in 2011 and it has been hugely successful in helping fabricators and installers to win more work and increase their profits. However, the market has moved on and the Planitherm range has also developed. So, we’ve reviewed the initiative and revised the offering in line with
what installers and homeowners want. We’ve created a suite of tools and support materials that will help fabricators and installers to really understand the needs of the consumer and install the right glass for the right situation.” The new Planitherm Network reflects the important role that glass plays in delivering comfort in the home. Existing members and installers who join the Planitherm Network are being given the opportunity to win more business by upselling to homeowners based on the comfort benefits of different types of Planitherm glass. Kirsty says: “Glass technology has moved on tremendously in recent years and homeowners are ready to learn more about the benefits glass can bring to their home. The conversation is moving on from A-rated windows and energy efficient glass, with homeowners becoming more interested in other
The survey also revealed that in terms of improvements that needed to be made to their home, replacement windows came in the top six. Kirsty adds “Our research shows that new windows are still a high priority for homeowners but that the benefits they expect windows to bring is changing. Security and noise control are just as important as energy efficiency. This delivers real profit, marketing differentiation and customer service opportunities for installers to address these needs with the Planitherm Comfort range. “A key benefit of the Planitherm Network is the wealth of information on the website and access to sales and marketing tools to help installers to start having different conversations with their customers and choose the right glass to meet their changing needs.” Signing up to the Planitherm Network is easy – visit www.planitherm.com WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 19
TRADE NEWS
More Young Lives Could Be Saved If US Example Was Followed, Says Mighton Boss Mike Derham, Chairman of Angel Ventlock window restrictor manufacturer Mighton Products, has made a further call for the UK to follow the United States in intensifying legislation and educational efforts to prevent young children falling from windows. Mike highlighted National Window Safety Week, an initiative of the National Safety Council, which has linked with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission to raise awareness about the dangers of children falling from windows in a campaign that took place during the first week of April. This is to further reduce the estimated 3,300 children ages five and younger, who are treated each year in U.S. hospital emergency departments. Sadly an average 20 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
of eight deaths are also recorded annually. By comparison more than 4,000 such accidents a year happen in the UK. “In the United States there is far greater awareness of the dangers posed to young children of falling from windows than here in the UK,” said Mike. “Legislation is tougher but this is supplemented by public awareness initiatives including the National Safety Council, which even has a Window Safety Task Force that provides important information on how effective window safety practices and hardware can help significantly reduce the amount of window-fall related injuries.” Roto Frank of America, the US distributor of Mighton’s award winning window restrictor, has a represent-
ative on the Window Safety Task Force. “Despite the work of the Child Accident Prevention Trust and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) legislation in the UK is comparatively poor, with the result that injuries and deaths to children caused by falling from windows are significantly higher pro rata then in the US. “Legislation in the US imposes the ASTM [American Society for Testing and Materials] standard which helps prevent falls, educates parents and carers about window safety and defines standards for safety devices, especially those that prevent falls without interfering with emergency egress. ASTM standards are often used in the UK for other products so this is something that could so easily be remedied and without significant cost implications to anyone,” added Mike. www.mightonproducts.com
with your prospects are looking good.
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TRADE NEWS
Bereco Joins Bluesky Certification Schemes
Independent certification and testing is extremely important to Bereco, supplier of high quality, high specification windows and doors, and after a recent switch, it’s Bluesky Certification who is delivering the complete package. “We do a lot of product testing to give customers complete peace of mind,” says Nicola Harrison, General Manager at Bereco. “Timber windows have been maligned over the years, so we tackle the
misconceptions about the quality and longevity for timber windows and doors with certification. That’s why we test all our products to a much higher level than other timber window and door manufacturers. We like the unequivocal proof that comes with the independent testing and certification. Our windows and doors provide low maintenance and an impressive 60-year life span. “With Bluesky Certification we
have joined the schemes for General Performance Windows and Doors, and Enhanced Security Windows and Doors to meet the requirement for Secured by Design. Also, we have certification for our advanced coating systems, to provide independent verification of the quality of our finish. “We like to have everything backed up. Whether it’s for commercial customers or trade, we are always looking for ways to make our high-performance windows and doors stand out. The next one to be added is Bluesky’s acoustic scheme. We are launching it alongside a white paper on acoustics which includes information on links to health and wellbeing. “We rely on our certification provider,” adds Nicola. “We need fast response times and one to one support from a company we trust. We already knew Simon Beer and how he works, so when Bereco was looking to get a more comprehensive service from its certification provider, it was an easy decision to switch to the team at Bluesky Certification.” www.blueskycert.com
Fabrication Experts Consort Gear For Growth
With Insight Data Partnership Consort, one of the UK’s largest and most respected PVCu fabricators has bolstered its sales and marketing strategies by partnering with industry data specialists Insight Data. The Nottinghamshire-firm, which has been supplying trade customers nationwide for well over four decades, will be taking advantage of Insight Data’s full UK fenestration and glazing database. As part of this, Consort has become the latest big-name brand to sign-up to Salestracker, Insight Data’s combined online prospect database, CRM system and integrated email marketing platform. “I don’t think I need to say how excited we are to join forces with the fantastic team at Consort,” comments 22 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Kirsty Winter, Insight Data’s Business Development Manager. “For almost 40 years, Consort has led the way in uPVC fabrication and has been a trusted supplier to customers across the country. We’re delighted to support them in their ambitions to expand further, through our unrivalled industry-specific prospect data and market intelligence.” By appointing Insight Data and adopting Salestracker, Consort now has 24/7 access to over 60,000 potential customers. The fenestration database is just one of five key databases offered by Insight Data and provides up-to-date information on fabricators and installers including suppliers, materials, volumes and even financial information such as credit ratings. hello@insightdata.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Origin Credits Revolutionary Ordering Technology For Business Growth
Ben Brocklesby, Sales and Marketing Director
British manufacturer and home brand, Origin, is experiencing exponential business growth thanks to its revolutionary online quoting and ordering system – Origin Sale Safe (OSS). Not only has it increased the number of orders, but it has also dramatically reduced the time partners spend on each order, allowing projects to be completed faster and more precisely than ever before. Introduced at the end of 2016, OSS was designed specifically to help Origin partners easily quote and order products from the ‘Origin Home Range’, increasing accuracy and efficiency in the process. Built and developed
in-house, OSS is the only system of its kind that allows users to build and save whole customer projects, rather than quoting on individual products, claims the company. This means each customer’s information is stored in one place, removing the need for multiple quotes for one customer and allowing installers to edit orders right up to delivery. By simplifying the ordering process, Origin’s partners are saving time on admin and turning orders around in record time, leading to improved productivity and sales. In order to highlight the impact that OSS has had on business growth, Origin analysed the final
six months of orders placed before the implementation of OSS, cross-referencing them against the first six months of sales on the new system. Sales of the Origin Bi-fold Door increased by 18% in the six months after OSS was introduced. This trend continues across the entire Origin Home Range, with sales of the Origin Window and the Origin Residential Door increasing by 88% and 122% respectively over the same period. Ben Brocklesby, Sales and Marketing Director at Origin, comments: “By introducing OSS to our offering, we simplified the ordering process for our partners, making it faster and more accurate for them. This means that they spend less time placing orders and more on generating new leads and taking on new business. It is therefore no wonder that we have seen such a dramatic increase in activity from partners ordering Origin products. Not only are they able to push harder on a new business front, but they are also recommending Origin products to more consumers than ever before, in part because of the hassle free ordering process. We expect to see this trend increase as more partners use OSS and as we welcome new partners into the Origin family.” With over 35 percent of Origin partners now using OSS for ordering purposes and with this number set to rise as the final customers make the transition across to the new system, it is clear to see the positive impact that OSS is already having on facilitating new business growth and the potential it has for future development. As partners move over to OSS, they receive a detailed training session and have a dedicated point of contact to make the changeover as smooth and fruitful as possible, allowing partners to hit the ground running. WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 23
TRADE NEWS
Hardware Specialists
Window Ware Achieves 97% OTIF
Hardware distributor Window Ware is celebrating a flying start to 2018 with a remarkable service achievement. Thanks to continued investment and the full commitment of their dedicated team, the Bedfordshire-firm has consistently achieved over 97% OTIF (orders received on time, and in full) every month this year.
“This is an absolutely fantastic achievement, providing our customers with the fast and reliable service they need to run their businesses effectively,” comments Window Ware Managing Director Sam Nuckey. “When you consider the size and scale of our operation, and our unique service proposition that is personalised to each customer, it’s truly impressive and a 24 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
real testament to the dedication of our team in every area of the business who work tirelessly to deliver the difference for our customers.” “At Window Ware, we don’t just specialise in one product, in fact, we have over 6,500 unique products with 97% of that available with next day delivery, and 7 different ways to place an order too! It’s this unique and flexible service proposition which makes it a logistical operation to not only ensure the right products get to the right customer, but on time too. We achieve this through constant investment whether it’s in new technology, our process management, people development or our distribution centre, which currently holds over £2.5 million
worth of stock.” Cushioning customers from manufacturing delays or extended lead times, Window Ware’s extensive inventory includes window and door hardware, tools and consumables from the industry’s biggest and most respected brands including Yale, MACO and Trojan. Window Ware’s latest addition to its lineup is the exclusive Regal Hardware range of heritage-style window furniture. “Of course, there is still room for improvement and our success doesn’t mean we will rest on our laurels,” adds Sam. “We are constantly looking at ways to improve our operation to build on this achievement and reach that 100%. We want to ensure we can continue to be that extension of our customer’s supply chains, providing the tools they need to meet deadlines, reach that next level and ultimately win new business.” For more information call visit www.windowware.co.uk
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BREXIT
Construction Employers Call On
EU Migrant Workers To Stay
tion industry values its EU workers. More than 90% of firms describe the quality of their EU workers as good or very good. What’s more, three-quarters of firms that employ EU workers think it would have a negative impact on the health of their business if these individuals returned to their country of origin, now or post-Brexit. The UK construction sector is more reliant than most on migrant workers from Europe – at present, 9% of our construction workers are from the EU. In London, this rises for nearly one third. Given the severity of the skills shortages we already face, retaining these workers is business-critical.” With just under one year until Brexit, construction employers in the UK are praising the quality of their EU workers and encouraging them to stay, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). The key findings from the FMB’s research on how the bosses of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms view their EU workers includes: • 94% of firms describe the quality of EU workers they employ as ‘good’ or ‘very good’. • 85% of construction SME employers that employ EU workers say that these workers are important in allowing their business to maintain and expand its workforce.
origin, now or post-Brexit.
• 76% of these firms say it would have a negative impact on the health of their business if any of the EU workers they employ returned to their country of
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “With exactly a year to go until ‘Brexit Day’, our research demonstrates the extent to which the UK construc-
26 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Berry concluded: “Our research sends a strong and positive message to from the construction industry to its EU workers. We’re now calling on the Government to step up and help us convince our EU workers that they are needed and warmly welcome. Ministers recently announcement that those who have lived in the UK for five years, or those who arrive from the EU during the transition period, will be able to apply for settled status. This is a huge step in the right direction, and what we were calling for, yet we question how well the Government has communicated the news. We’re already seeing EU workers return home for financial reasons, or simply because they don’t feel welcome, so time is of the essence. The Government and the industry must do all that they can to put positive messages across to our vital and highly-valued EU workers.” www.fmb.org.uk
BREXIT
Trade And Skills Top Of Small Business Wish List As Brexit
Countdown Hits One Year With under a year left on the Brexit clock, small businesses are urging the Government to inject much needed momentum into agreeing the future economic partnership with the EU.
must now turn swiftly towards hammering out new trade arrangements and pressing ahead with designing our future immigration system, post the implementation period.
According to FSB research, the EU single market is a priority trading bloc with 63% of small firms wanting to see a trade deal prioritised with the EU post Brexit. However at an individual country level the US is the country that the highest percentage of exporting small businesses would want to see a trade deal done with post Brexit (49%) –with 29% wanting to see a trade deal with Australia and
“The freedom to ratify new trade agreements during this time will ensure that small businesses benefit from existing trade agreements while enabling them to make progress on trade deals with new partners across the world. It is vital that the right balance is struck between ensuring as frictionless trade as possible with the EU while exploiting new, exciting trading opportunities with growth mar-
28% with China. Mike Cherry, National Chairman at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: “The landmark agreement on the terms of a transition period should provide the much needed certainty for the UK’s small business community. Attention
WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 27
BREXIT future immigration system is easy, cost-effective and does not add additional red tape for small employers. FSB is calling for an employer driven immigration system to ensure that businesses can meet their skills and labour needs and allow easy transfer of EU workers between UK employers. This system must not replicate the complexity of the current non EEA, UK points based immigration system which 95% of small businesses have no experience of using.
kets across the world.” It is important that small businesses are given every chance to seize the opportunities presented by any new trade arrangements. To achieve this, FSB is calling on Government to include a dedicated small business chapter recognising the bespoke support small firms will need to realise their exporting and wider trade ambitions. Coupled with this, the Department for International Trade’s Global Growth Programme must be rolled out to small and micro businesses, as well as midsized businesses to allow these firms to access financial support to assist them with for example translation or intermediary costs. Mike Cherry said: “It is clear that small firms trade with countries based on ease, cost and value. It is vital that any future trade deal, irrespective of whether with the EU or nonEU markets, must deliver these key priorities. A small business chapter, as part of all new trade arrangements, will help allow small firms to fully realise the benefits of international trade. 28 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
“Small businesses up and down the UK are excited about the prospect of opening new avenues of trade across the globe. To maximise these opportunities, small firms must be given the tools to do so. Tailored trade support, like financial incentives to support costs attached to international trade including small business trade missions, whether in their own right or as part of supply chains, will empower many to reach out and connect with new markets.” It is not just about trade, skilled labour is just as important to the success of UK small businesses and it is essential that the Government delivers an easy, cost effective future immigration system, post the implementation period One fifth (21%) of small employers currently have EU staff and over half 59% of small businesses are concerned about accessing the skills they need post-Brexit. With such a strong need for skills and talent from the EU, it is critical that the design of any
The new system must also work for the self-employed and small business owners looking to come and set up in the UK, as well as those in the UK looking to carry out assignment and contracts in the EU. Mike Cherry said: “As the UK wrestles with its productivity challenge and the skills shortage grows, having access to the people that they need is critical for small business success. Without easy and cost effective access to EU workers, firms will be faced with medium term chronic, unresolvable skills gaps, particularly in the mid skilled area. This will impact growth and even the survival of many small businesses. “It doesn’t matter if you are hiring a packer, mechanic, fruit picker or engineer, small employers need to be able to hire the right people, for the right job, at the right time. “The Home Office must work hard to deliver an immigration system that that is affordable and easy to navigate. Small businesses should not be put off hiring the right talent or losing staff because the new processes take too long, add too much paperwork or has become too expensive.” www.fsb.org.uk
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TRADE NEWS
Made for Trade deliver for Chewton Bespoke Homes Four Korniche Aluminium Roof Lanterns installed on a large commercial Bournemouth Hotel refurbishment project Chewton Bespoke Homes install four impressive Korniche 3.6m x 2.1m Roof Lanterns to the Solent Suite, Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth. Darren Crain is the owner of the multi award winning design and build company Chewton Bespoke Homes based in Highcliffe, Dorset. With over 20 years of experience building luxury homes, renovations and commercial refurbishments, Darren’s knowledge of architectural design and construction means he looks for the highest quality products and consistency in all aspects of his projects. His latest project, the major refurbishment of the Marsham Court 30 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Hotel, lead Darren to enquire at Made for Trade when he was looking for an aluminium Roof Lantern which ideally suited the architectural qualities of the grand ball room and conference area. The Marsham is a well-established luxury hotel located on the beautiful Dorset coastline in Bournemouth. The hotels recent renovation has now been finished off to perfection with four large Korniche Roof Lanterns taking pride of place as a centre piece to the grandest room in the building. The Korniche USP’s are well highlighted by this case study, not only for the clean sight lines and slim profiles offering the perfect aesthetic for Darren’s project, but
also the huge advantage offered to an installation comprising four large lanterns where the Korniche simplicity and speed of fit ensures the project is delivered right on schedule. Darren had this to say about Korniche and the Made for Trade service: “I have used many different lanterns over the years, each have had good and bad points about them but I have never settled on a single brand as I always felt that the solution could be better. At the time of project order I was struggling to find a lantern which was contemporary in design, with minimal structure and didn’t have a 4-6 week lead time. My carpenter recommended Korniche, I had never heard of them, but I am always open to a good recommendation. I researched, spoke with technical about the product and decided to run with it, this turned out to be the best decision I had made in a long time.
TRADE NEWS
Made for Trades service was simply impeccable, from initial contact, simple quote and order system through to time slot delivery of the product. As a busy contractor the key element to any project is time, if products turn up when expected, complete and undamaged you are 90% there. The product arrived when expected, well packaged, labelled and scheduled for easy take off. Due to the nature of the project and the adverse weather at the time we opted by pre-assemble all four of the frames inside the building, the instructions accompanying the frames made this extremely easy, each spider taking no more than 20mins, the pre-tie and cam locking system is superb, everything locks in nice tight and square every time. Once the weather broke and we were able to re-open and prepare the existing upstand we simply passed each of the frames up through the holes and fixed them as instructed. The installation of the glass took minutes and the final trims and details went on the same. Seeing the final product for the first time in situ was a real buzz, the clean lines and finish are superb, the whole aesthetic of the units have been considered in production to a point where I cannot see room for improvement in this style of lantern light. From the inside the slim frame profile maximised the light gain and when
you put 4 units the size we did into one space it really brightens the place up. All in all I cannot recommend Korniche as a product highly enough, coupled with service and attention provided from the guys at Made for Trade this is a real winning combination” The client also appears to be very happy with the final result and Darren has had the following feedback from the Marsham Court Hotel; “The transformation of the Solent Suite is enhanced beyond my wildest dreams with the use of the Korniche roof lanterns, thank you to all your team for their involvement, our client feedback on the space has also been very positive.” - R Wallace, MD The Korniche Lanterns spaced around the centre of the large room provide an enormous amount of light and allow fantastic sky views into the space. Darren has also ingeniously used LED strip lighting around the Korniche Lantern spaces allowing coloured ambient lighting to fill the voids and illuminate the lanterns when required.
. Here’s to the next commercial project for the Korniche with Darren and his team
At -14º C this thermal image shows just how impressive the fully thermally broken structure of the Korniche is with U values from 1.2 they are sure to keep guests warm all year round.
For more information and a quotation contact the Korniche sales team today Call 01642 610799 www.korniche.co.uk
The Marsham project is a resounding success for all involved and the addition of the Korniche Lanterns has provided that all important wow factor to the grand ball room WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 31
DEAR GERALD
Dear
Gerald Why Do CPS Inspections NOT Improve Installation Quality? Dear Gerald CORGI Fenestration has always believed that current industry inspection regimes do not work and that you cannot inspect in quality – by which we mean that inspections alone do not improve the standard of work that is being carried out. Unless the inspections findings are fed back (via a failure note) into a company to allow corrective actions to be taken the faults that have been identified will just continue. In fact, it will probably become worse, as those causing the problems are not being held to account. However, most Competent Persons Schemes (CPSs) never challenge what corrective actions an installer has taken – and there is no requirement for that kind of follow up. Additionally, currently no CPSs publish failure rates let alone reasons for failures. Without that information our industry cannot collectively address the problems, correct them and move forward. In our experience the current method adopted for CPSs operating in the fenestration sector, namely a 1% selection for inspection rate, has failed to improve the quality of work carried out. Whilst there was an initial impact, the rate of non-conformity has now levelled off at an unacceptably high level. It is also hard to explain to government departments that are used to using percentage inspection rates in other sectors to identify problems, that by increasing the number of inspections we will just find more failures – because the cause of those failures is not being addressed. At the moment the vast majority of inspections are conducted on completed installations without anyone other than the inspector, and possibly the homeowner, present. A fault is found, and the company is requested to put right the works. Once completed, the site may be re-inspected and the company is then signed off as competent, although in some cases they may have an additional inspection added to their total 32 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
requirement. There is no investigation of the cause for the failure or any consideration of multiple sites that may be affected. This is why the CORGI Fenestration approach is different. We have adopted the practices of the building services sector (e.g. heating, plumbing, electrical). An installer is assessed for its competence and the way it operates. Included within that is an evaluation of how the company identifies its workforce as competent and how it then controls the quality of the work undertaken. If you then underpin this standard by employing a qualified workforce, you can start to understand why failure rates within the building services sector are considerably lower than those in fenestration. CORGI Fenestration registered installers will either have (or have a commitment to achieve) a qualified workforce. This, coupled with our new approach, will drive installation standards higher for the benefit of both consumers and our industry. Yours, Chris Mayne, CORGI Fenestration CEO & Jacqui Crawford, CORGI Fenestration COO
Residence 9 Dear Gerald When Residence 9, or R9 as it’s become affectionately known, came to market back in 2011, it was a revelation, genuinely ground-breaking and the first ever PVCu flush casement timber alternative window, based on 19th Century timber window sightlines.
DEAR GERALD
Today hundreds of companies throughout the UK and Ireland sell this system to discerning homeowners, supported by a network of nearly 40 diligent manufacturing partners. The original profile and system design was based on glass bonding from a product engineering perspective, a process widely used and accepted in Europe. Glass bonding within R9 is used to add structural integrity and to make the sashes always perfectly square for consistently equal sightlines. With a 100mm frame depth, considerable material within the profiles and glass bonding, the system not only looks exceptional but offers unrivalled strength and uniformity in all axis. We work carefully with our manufacturing partners and have developed a detailed technical and fabrication manual, which at present recommends that all windows be glass bonded. That being said, it is always the manufacturer who guarantees the complete manufacture of the product to the installer.
6375-2&3:2009 operation and strength, both of which passed, and we have PAS24:2016 Annex C enhanced security booked in. Until we have all tests fully concluded and a new technical and fabrication manual issued, we are still recommending that all R9 windows be glass bonded as per our current published guidelines. Above all we want all of our manufacturing partners to produce windows the way they’re meant to be, with today’s and tomorrow’s window and door manufacturing technologies.
Yours sincerely Sarah Hitchings Sales and Marketing Director The Residence Collection
However, over the last 12 months there has been a big move in the industry towards a welded timber look, including the patented Timberweld, and similarly most of the machinery companies have been quick to develop their alternative methodologies. Most offer the appearance of mechanical jointing inside and out, some offer the external timber look with a mitre weld internally, with all benefitting from weld strength to the core. At present we are undergoing a rigorous testing programme with all of the leading machinery companies to test the various weld methods with The Residence Collection sashes in light and dark foils and across a number of different window and door styles and sizes. It’s a comprehensive process that will be concluded in full within the next 12 weeks, with the first tests completed and showing great promise. We have tested one window style, which was manufactured using the patented Timberweld technology, for BS 6375-1:2015 weather tightness and BS
If you want to get involved in the discussion, or would like to air your views on a particular industry subject, then Email me at gerald@windownews.co.uk We cannot guarantee that we will publish everything, but we will do our utmost to make sure that everyone’s voice is heard. Your views and thoughts are imprortant to us.
WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 33
PEOPLE
New Consultancy Role
For Gareth Mobley
As part of the succession and integration plan, Gareth Mobley is leaving his role as CEO of DW3 Products Group in April, and immediately moves into a consultancy capacity for the Masonite Group in the UK.
of the fastest growing and most successful businesses in the trade fenestration sector. The opportunity to build DW3 Products Group with like-minded people by adding powerful brands in recent years, was special.
Over the last four years Gareth has carefully orchestrated the development and recruitment of a senior management team capable of taking the businesses of The Residence Collection, Solidor, Nicedor and Window Widgets through to sale, integration and to be a part of the long-term strategy within Masonite.
He continued: ‘I’d like to thank everyone associated with the businesses, suppliers, customers and most importantly the hundreds of colleagues for their support, encouragement and dedication over the years. I feel very good about the opportunities for the leadership and all the staff of DW3 now, as part of Masonite’s UK business.’
He commented: ‘It’s been an incredible journey, building one
www.dw3group.co.uk
TruFrame Announce New Sales Director
TruFrame have appointed Kevin Taylor as their new Sales Director. Kevin brings with him 26 years’ industry experience, with the last 10 years in a similar role for Masco UK Window Group. This new appointment will help spearhead the sales function at TruFrame and support the business’ bold growth plans, following their £3.2 million investment programme carried out over the last 24-months. David Firmager, Managing Director, welcomed Kevin to TruFrame and commented: ‘We’re delighted to appoint Kevin as our new Sales Director, as he brings with him an outstanding reputation for account management, business development and leadership. With the increased production capacity following our recent capital expenditure, we’re actively looking 34 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
for new business opportunities that can benefit from our unique hand finished frames, outstanding levels of customer service and revolutionary QuoteBuilder lead generation platform.’ Kevin Taylor, Sales Director, added: ‘I’m a believer in building business partnerships that allow both
supplier and customer to be mutually successful for the long term, so seeing TruFrame’s commitment to constantly developing their product range and marketing support really excites me. The “total package” offering that we are able to provide is, in my opinion, unrivalled in the marketplace and will allow us to generate exceptional profits for our business partners. I’m really looking forward to meeting our valued customers in the coming weeks and months.’ Amongst Kevin’s achievements, he has owned a trade and retail business in the sector and also had the opportunity to become a snooker professional at aged 16, before beginning an engineering apprenticeship. www.truframe.co.uk
PEOPLE “Our employees are important to us and they are integral to the continuing growth and success of Vista. We will continue our open communication with our employees as we introduce new engagement initiatives at Vista.”
Key Appointments
At Vista Panels Haydon Statham, National Sales Manager
With the continued success of the XtremeDoor brand, award-winning panel and composite door manufacturer Vista has completed a hat-trick of new appointments. Strengthening Vista’s sales team, Haydon Statham joins the Merseyside-firm as its new National Sales Manager. He brings with him a wealth of experience from previous roles within major systems companies and door manufacturers. “I am really excited by the opportunity to work with a leading manufacturer like Vista, their focus on quality and service was a huge pull for me,” comments Haydon. “I was also really
struck by the enthusiasm of all their staff, and the positive energy that’s found in the factory. It’s an exciting time at Vista!” Also joining the team is seasoned HR specialist Anne Williams. Joining from Jaguar Land Rover, Anne’s remit as HR Manager is to aid the senior management in supporting and growing Vista’s talented team of well-over 100 people. Anne will focus on the industry-wide skills shortage by looking at new areas of recruitment and sourcing the right candidates. “We need long-term staff that we can invest in and train up to be the next generation of talented personnel,” Anne explains.
Last, but not least, Vista welcomes Liam Barnes to the team as their new Quality Manager. Also joining from the automotive industry, Liam brings a decade of experience to the role, along with a degree in quality management systems. Liam will be exploring any and every opportunity to improve Vista’s operation, as well as managing Vista’s ISO 9001:2008 quality management, ISO 14001:2004 environmental management and OHSAS 18001:2007 health and safety management accreditations. “We’re delighted to welcome three high-calibre additions to the Vista team, strengthening our operation and allowing us to continue our rapid growth,” adds Keith Sadler, Managing Director of Vista. “All three appointments are incredibly talented and bring a wealth of experience to the business, with Haydon bringing a new insight to the industry and both Anne and Liam providing a fresh approach to the challenges of a leading door manufacturer.” “At Vista we are always looking at opportunities to grow and improve our business to continue providing customers across the country with a valuable, high-quality product. In addition to investing in new additions to our dedicated team, we invest in new machinery, new facilities and extensive research and development to continually improve XtremeDoor, our best-in-class composite door.” www.vistapanels.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 35
PEOPLE
Obituary – Stefan Seidel It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing away of Stefan Seidel, managing director of profine UK Ltd, on Monday 26th March, 2018. Stefan was the operations manager of profine UK, until his promotion in 2014 to managing director and a true company man. A highly regarded industry professional, he brought with him considerable knowledge, expertise and a hands on approach to the KÖMMERLING brand in the UK and Ireland.
Jason’s Running A
Marathon
He will be sorely missed by many friends, associates and the industry as a whole. He was also a devoted and loving Father.
Promotion At Distinction Doors culture of rewarding excellence. Jane’s promotion reflects over three years of excellent work within our internal sales department and her passion and enthusiasm will be welcomed by our customers, both existing and new, in her new external sales position.”
In Memory
Of Stefan
Jason Scrivens, KÖMMERLING’s new area manager for the South, will be running this year’s London Marathon on 22nd April for the British Heart Foundation and in memory of Stefan Seidel, managing director of profine UK who very sadly passed away on Monday 26th March, 2018. No stranger to a 26.2 mile event, Jason has already ran the London Marathon twice and also several times at the Bournemouth and Brighton marathons achieving a personal best of 3 hours 50 minutes. You can contribute to Jason’s fundraising efforts in memory of Stefan Seidel on his Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/jason-scrivens27 36 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Distinction Doors has announced the recent promotion of Jane Wilson to Business Development Executive. Jane joined Distinction Doors three and a half years ago and her promotion reflects what she has achieved in this time. Speaking on Jane’s promotion, Chantel Roach, Distinction’s Sales and Marketing Director said: “Jane is a well-known and appreciated member of our internal sales team and has real drive and focus on supporting our customers. As a business, we value our people and have a
In her appointment, Jane will be responsible for developing sales opportunities for Distinction’s range of composite doors with both existing and potential customers. Commenting on her new position Jane said, “Distinction Doors is a fantastic company to work for and I am delighted to accept the position of Business Development Executive. This move is part of my own personal development plan and I welcome the opportunity to now work with customers on a face to face level. These are exciting times for us as a business and it’s great to be a part of a dynamic and rewarding company.” www.distinctiondoors.co.uk
PEOPLE background in managing manufacturing across multiple locations, he will oversee each of the group’s manufacturing sites to fully optimise their manufacturing capacity and support continued group-wide growth.
Simon Jarman and Mark Scaife
Two Heavyweight Appointments At
Customade Group
Following a period of substantial investment and strong revenue growth, Customade Group has announced the appointment of two well-known industry figures into senior roles.
The appointments of Mark Scaife and Simon Jarman will continue Customade Group’s journey to become one of the best fabricators in the UK and help the business to achieve its ambitious growth plans.
Mark Scaife has joined Customade Group as group chief operating officer. Mark is a stalwart of the industry, having worked for 10 years at Safestyle UK plc as group operations director and most recently as group technical director. Mark has many years’ manufacturing experience with several established blue-chip companies, which also included three and a half years at Masonite/Premdor where he successfully introduced lean manufacturing. With a solid
Simon Jarman, who joined Customade Group in 2016, has become managing director of Fineline Aluminium – a leading manufacturer of high end aluminium products. Simon has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry and has a strong track record in consumer-focused businesses, having spent seven years as chief executive officer at Everest. Based at Fineline Aluminium’s headquarters in Weston Super Mare, Simon will support the rapid growth of the business as homeowner demand for aluminium continues to rise at record pace. Mark and Simon’s appointments follow a recent group-wide investment of more than £2.5 million to strengthen Customade Group’s range and capabilities and enable the business to deliver unmatched levels of service to help customers achieve long-term growth. www.customade.co.uk
GJB Window Systems Strengthens National Sales Team With New Appointment With over 15 years industry experience, including most recently as Technical Sales Manager for Sternfester, Neil Antrobus joins GJB Window Systems as Business Development Manager. GJB was purchased by Roy Frost last summer and is part of GJB Holdings with an annual turnover of 22 million. “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the sales team at GJB at a really exciting time for the business,” Neil explains. “I’m very much looking forward to hitting the road, us-
ing my skills to build partnerships with installers across the country and highlight the benefits GJB and the wider group can offer to their businesses.” “We’re delighted to welcome Neil to the GJB team,” adds Roy Frost, Managing Director of GJB Window Systems. “His skill-set and knowledge will prove incredibly valuable as we start the next phase of our growth strategy. GJB is one of the UK’s largest Eurocell fabricators, and with the acquisition of Listers Central in the GJB Holdings
Group, we have the logistical and manufacturing capabilities to support businesses not just in the South-East but across the UK, with brand-new product lines and an even greater service.” www.gjb.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 37
PRODUCT NEWS possible developing business models and routes to market for the transition into the smart home market and make selling smart products as simple as possible.
Yale Strengthens Smart Door Lock Selling Opportunities Yale has developed its smart door locking range and marketing support to help fabricators and installers get to grips with the new technology and provide a superior product offering for end-users. In October of last year, Yale released its TV advert for the Conexis L1 to raise awareness and promote the lifestyle benefits of Smart Door Locks to homeowners, helping drive consumer pull through for the innovative solution. As well as promoting the benefits of smart security to UK homeowners, Yale has created a wealth of resources to help support its customers adopting the new technology. This includes not only print brochures, but 38 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
also instore POS and a complete series of ‘How to’ videos. The videos demonstrate the installation process for products as well as showing short clips that detail how to set up and connect the different locks. All of which helps make the process much more streamlined and simple for users. What’s more, in 2017 the Smart Living suite opened its doors, providing a space for Yale’s customers to familiarise themselves with the smart products first hand, as well as ask any questions. Paul Atkinson, Sales and Commercial Director for Yale Door and Window Solutions, comments: we want to give our customers as much support as
“As Smart Locking is relatively new, there is currently no benchmark for smart door locks. Yale is helping change this by working alongside the British Standards Institute to create a Smart Door Locking standard. This will help regulate the industry and provide fabricators and installers with a recognised benchmark of quality. Yale’s Conexis® L1 is currently being used as one of the test pilot products to support development of the IoT Kitemark.” As the popularity of smart door locks increases, Yale has also extended its range to offer a variety of new finishes. The Conexis L1, which launched last year, as well as the popular Keyless Smart Door Lock have both been updated to include brand new colour options. In addition to the chrome option, the locks are now available in satin nickel and polished brass finishes. The new colours give homeowners more choice to select a finish that suits their style of door. The satin nickel and polished brass finishes have been designed to suit both traditional properties and modern homes alike. They offer up-to-date security that not only protects the home but look aesthetically pleasing on any compatible door. This improves the selling process as homeowners now have much more choice. For further information regarding Yale’s range of Smart Door Locks and the rest of the Smart Living range, please visit www. yale.co.uk/smart-living. For updates and information about Yale DWS, please visit www.yaledws.co.uk or follow @ YaleDWS on Twitter.
PRODUCT NEWS
Caldwell Unveil New Sinidex Security Window Lock Amid Ongoing Growth A Sinidex security window lock is the latest innovation to be unveiled by hardware experts Caldwell.
Caldwell Sales Director Tim Ferkin. This new product allows fabricators to offer a fully accredited PAS24 product without the expense of other twin cams and shoot bolt systems currently on the market.
The cutting-edge Sinidex Security Lock incorporates floating mushroom technology by the firm’s well-regarded subsidiary Cotswold, allowing it to offer robust security performance and excellent tolerance, even with sash drops of up to 6.5mm. The high-specification product also includes bi-directional locking cams, and as well as being tested to PAS24 standards, comes with a Secured by Design accreditation and a ten-year guarantee.
ON RESIS SI
SE
7
“The Sinidex security lock has been designed to offer industry-leading tolerance levels and excellent security,” comments
www.caldwell.co.uk
HIGH QUALITY TBT GEARING High Security as Standard
0
B
NCE TA
CORRO
The Sinidex security lock will eventually form part of a full casement window set from Caldwell, along
with hinges and handles.
“We’re also extremely excited to be launching our complete casement window kit later in the year. Alongside the Sinidex security lock, we will be launching the all-new Ultra Stay. This will all be backed up with a 10 year “Cotswold commitment”. This all-new Sinidex casement package will provide fabricators with a high-level performance window, which is both PAS24 and Secured By Design accredited.”
N 16
Independently tested at IFT Rosenheim in Germany, Europe’s largest test house
From award winning European manufacturer
O N LY AVA I L A B L E F R O M
WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 39
PRODUCT NEWS
Trojan Helps Installers Put An End
To Pitting Hardware Callbacks Ask many installers about the biggest frustrations in their business and the answer you’ll get back is about callbacks to replace pitted or failing hardware. But talk to any installer who uses Trojan’s Stainless Steel hardware and they’ll tell you that callbacks are a thing of the past. Steve Hall, General Manager of Trojan, said: “The standard industry test for hardware corrosion is 240 hours or 480 hours salt spray testing. Our Stainless Steel hardware can achieve over 1,000 hours with no problem. In fact, we’re so confident in the range’s ability to withstand corrosion that every item is covered with a 25 year anti-corrosion guarantee as standard.” Zinc or aluminium-based plated or painted products will corrode
sooner or later as a result of salt or acid erosion attack especially if the surface coating is damaged. It’s a problem that has big cost implications for installers, not to mention reputational issues. Every callback
takes time away from new installations that generate revenue for a business. Plus if hardware starts to fail, it doesn’t matter how happy a customer was when the installation was first completed or how well the complaint about the failure is handled, the customer’s opinion of the installer is likely to be negatively affected. Trojan’s 25 year surface finish guarantee protects installers against both these issues. The Stainless Steel door furniture range provides a complete problem free hardware solution and consists of TS007 accredited 2 star security handles, TS008 compliant letterplates, an enhanced range of stainless steel door accessories including door knockers, door numerals, a contemporary furniture range including long door pull handles, centre door knobs and oval or circular door escutcheons. All are available in a full range of finishes including Polished, Brushed, Gold (PVD), Satin, White and Black. www.trojangroup.com
Butchered, Attacked And PAS 24 Secure. That’s
Lock Lock!
a full set of available tools and once the handle is finally removed, Lock Lock’s unique patented spindle stops the would-be burglar thanks to a number of clever design details. In relation to this PAS 24 test, Lock Lock is also the only security door handle that carries the Sold Secure certification from the Master Locksmiths Association, claims the company.
When Kestrel Aluminium Systems took Lock Lock to an official, independent test house for the PAS 24 assessment of a door, the handle withstood some of the most rigorous abuse ever seen on a test video for a product of this type and can be seen at www.bit. ly/2GqN2IW.
Lock Lock is not only being increasingly adopted by the locksmith sector, but also by aluminium systems houses such as Kestrel, their respective fabricators and also by the entrance door sector as a whole. It’s based on a registered edgeless design that’s not only beautiful in appearance but is purposeful in application, as the 40 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
handle body cannot be grabbed by tools for forceful removal. The video shows a sustained attack for over a minute in a test house environment with
Nick Dutton CEO of Brisant Secure commented: ‘This is clearly one of the most compelling videos yet of just how good Lock Lock is at deterring the willing burglar. This is a real-life simulation, in an independent test house and instigated by one of our valued customers. www.lock-lock.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
Bohle Cuts The Cost Of
Balustrading Bohle has expanded its balustrading offer with the addition of the EasyMount 6020, which introduces significant hardware savings to cut the cost of balustrade installation.
A heavy-duty addition to the EasyMount range, the 6020 withstands a linear load of up to 1.5kN but can be installed more easily and at lower cost than traditional systems. Rather than requiring countersunk fixings, it uses counterbored. This means that standard head anchor bolts can be used to mount the system rather than far more expensive countersunk headed fixings. Distances between mounting points are also increased, reduc-
ing both installation times and the number of fixings required.
Dave Broxton, Managing Director, Bohle, said: “The savings are substantial. The cost of countersunk head fixings can run to almost as much as the profile system itself, so there is a clear cost-benefit to switching to a counterbore system which allows bolts with a standard head to be used. “The other advantage is that it’s suitable for use in residential but also light commercial applications, for example office installations, without needing to use rigid toughened laminates such as Sentry glass. Four or five times more expensive than standard PVB interlayers, that’s another very significant saving.”
Also available in a side-mounted option, the EasyMount 6021, both systems can accommodate glass thicknesses of between 12mm and 21.52mm. Fixing points to achieve a 0.74kN residential linear loading are every 20cm on the 6020 and 40cm for the side mounted 6021. Each system also comes with a full range of ancillaries including pre-mitred 90° corners, end caps and spacers to allow drainage on top mounted options, plus the Vario glass adjustment tool, for fine adjustment of glass panes of up to 34mm in relation to the vertical. “Glass balustrading remains a growth area and our range is growing with it to deliver increased opportunities for profit to our customers”, said Broxton. “The EasyMount 6020 and 6021 represent a logical evolution of that offer, delivering significant savings but the flexibility for installation in not only residential but also commercial applications, using a single system”, he concluded. www.bohle-group.com/en-gb WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 41
PRODUCT NEWS
Uncompromising Fire Protection For Contemporary Steel Framed
Glazing With SYSTEMGLAS® Ferro
SYSTEMGLAS® Ferro joins the two recently launched SYSTEMGLAS® options – Celare and Advenerat – which utilise the highly respected and established fire resistant PROMATECT® H. These provide architects with the ability to create ‘invisible’, painted or aluminium clad framing for internal glazing. Complementing Ferro, Celare and Advenerat, and to complete the range, a timber option is set to join the range later in 2018. All the options in the SYSTEMGLAS® range are guaranteed through Promat UK’s 360 degree wheel of assurance. This means that Promat’s passive fire protection experts work closely with customers at every stage of the supply chain. It starts by providing guidance on the right approach at the design and specification stage, and manufacturing consistency is assured as the system produced in-house. This ensures all cutting and processing is completed to the correct standard. Finally, Promat inspects SYSTEMGLAS® on completion to check that it has been installed in accordance with its recommendations and provides a certificate of conformity for installation.
The steel framing system that was introduced in the UK to provide EI fire protection in butt jointed glazing is now available as a complete, safety-assured glazing system with the launch of the SYSTEMGLAS® Ferro range from Promat UK. SYSTEMGLAS® Ferro is a complete glazing system suited to contemporary interiors with the fire glass, steel framing, beading and setting blocks supplied directly by Promat UK for maximum traceability. It is installed exclusively by a network of approved installers to ensure total peace of mind for 42 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
specifiers and clients throughout the design and supply chain, backed with the confidence of Promat UK’s 360 degree wheel of assurance. As a butt jointed system successfully tested to facilitate large uninterrupted spans of glazing in a vertical or horizontal formation, SYSTEMGLAS® Ferro allows buildings to benefit from maximum natural lighting within rooms, without compromising on integrity and insulation (EI) fire protection of between 30 minutes up to 120 minutes (CERTIFIRE CF5452).
Ian Cowley, Regional Director (UK and Scandinavia) at Promat UK says: “SYSTEMGLAS® Ferro is an important evolution of our pioneering steel framing system which gives total confidence to architects, contractors and clients that their installed glazing will deliver on its passive fire protection promise in the event of a fire. “Steel is a hugely popular framing material choice for glazing systems so we are delighted to now offer specifiers a ‘belt and braces’ system with Ferro to achieve their aesthetic goals without risk. The full range of options available for SYSTEMGLAS® Ferro and all the products in the SYSTEMGLAS® range can be found in our newly updated Promat Specifiers Guide, available at www.promat-glass. co.uk or by calling us.”
PRODUCT NEWS look forward to working with them during an exciting period for their glass business.” Kalsi Plastics joins a select group of firms located across the UK and Ireland authorised to process Pilkington fire-resistant glass. The licencing follows a comprehensive audit to ensure the firm’s products meet the high standards required to conform with the CE marking requirements for fire resistant IGU’s.
Birmingham Fabricator
Breaks Into Fire-Resistant Glass Market – Kalsi Plastics Secures Licence
To Process Pilkington Pyrodur® Kalsi Plastics, a Birmingham-based building products manufacturer, is entering the fire protection market after becoming licensed to process Pilkington fire-resistant glass. The firm will manufacture windows with fire-resistant capabilities to supply into homes and commercial properties – a move that is set to increase sales in the firm’s glass division by 20 per cent. In the event of a fire, fire-resistant glazing acts as a protective barrier to help a building’s occupants evacuate safely. It restricts the spread of flames, smoke and hot gases, as well as blocking the transmission of radiant heat. The business will be offering a cut-size and insulating glass unit (IGU) service for Pilkington
Pyrodur® a fire-resistant glass designed to provide 30 minutes integrity fire protection and limit heat transfer.
Sohan Kalsi, managing director at Kalsi Plastics, said: “Over the last few years, we’ve invested millions into growing and improving our manufacturing facilities, especially within our glass fabrication services. “Turnover in our glass division grew by 40 per cent last year alone, and we’re confident that this expansion into fire safety glass will help us to grow this side of the business even further. “This partnership adds a new dimension to our partnership with Pillkington, which we’ve cultivated over the past five years. The standard of their products and the technical support they offer are second to none.”
Steve Bond, customer and technical support manager – fire protection at Pilkington United Kingdom Ltd, said: “As glass becomes more prolific within the built environment, demand for fire-resistant glass has also grown, with building designers recognising not only its aesthetic appeal but the vital role it can play in overall property and occupant safety.
The Kalsi Group employs nearly 400 staff at 23 sites across the UK. It manufactures around 3,000 different products, from double glazing IGUs to drainage products and roofline cladding.
“Our innovation within the sector has made Pilkington the go-to company for firms looking to manufacture windows for use in commercial and residential settings.
For integrity only applications, the Pilkington Pyrodur® range offers up to 60 minutes when used in a suitable, tested glazing system. Pilkington Pyrostop® provides proven integrity and full thermal insulation for up to 180 minutes.
“Kalsi Plastics is the latest business we’ve partnered with across our range of five fire products. We
Pilkington offers a range of fire-resistant products designed to suit a range of applications and fire requirements.
pilkington.com/en-GB/uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 43
PRODUCT NEWS through Capstone’s patented three stage glazing cassette system, which supports easy replacement of glass but maximizes security. Steve Mines, Sales Director, Sliders UK said: “Security is always a major driver in entrance door retail and this is among most secure doors on the market. “The major positive for the trade is that the way timber is used in the door not only makes it more resistant to attack – so that it’s Part Q approved – but encased in foam and GRP, there’s no chance of water ingress or warping. It also delivers great thermal performance.”
Sliders UK Launches New ‘Intelligent Timber’ Composite Door Sliders UK has launched its new PAS24 and Part Q approved ‘intelligent timber’ Ultimate Composite Door Among the UK’s most secure doors, its manufactured using the new Capstone leaf which features 15mm thick LVL timber inserts. Intelligently encased inside a foam core and durable GRP skin, these provide additional core strength without impacting on thermal efficiency. 44 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
This combination means that it not only achieves U-values of as low as 1.0Wm2.K, but has also been independently tested to PAS24:2016 – including cutthrough testing. Security is further enhanced
This technically advanced combination of timber inserts and thermally insulating foam also significantly reduces bowing, which means that the Ultimate Composite Door is supplied by Sliders UK with just a 3mm bowing tolerance. “Bowing can cause a stack of problems and call-outs impacting on weather sealing and locking. With a 3mm tolerance, compared to the 5mm and 7mm tolerances of competitor systems, we’re underwriting through-life performance.”, continued Steve. “The technical advantages delivered by the new Capstone leaf – most significantly PAS24 approval – are major benefits. “It’s highly competitive but the performance that it delivers, choice of colour and finishing options, means it can be sold against any door in the upper end. It’s really flexible and delivers a lot of very strong USPs.” For more information contact sales@sliders-uk.com or visit the website at www.sliders-uk.com
PRODUCT NEWS
Profile 22’s Frontier Composite Doors:
The Perfect Composite Doors For Optima
Frontier doors are available in three variations so there’s an option to suit every set up. The leaf only option provides solid timber core leaves for fabricators to manufacture into door sets. The pre-prepped option sees doors prepped to a fabricator’s specification with door furniture available via fellow Epwin company Safeware. For fabricators looking to reduce the number of suppliers they work with, glazing options can also be supplied and fitted.
Profile 22’s Optima and Frontier offer the perfect composite door solution. Gerald Allen, Profile 22 Marketing Manager, said: “With Frontier and Optima you get two best in class products that deliver a perfectly suited solution.” The Frontier range of composite doors was launched last year. Manufactured in the UK, the range delivers everything you would expect from a Profile 22 product, including a ten year guarantee. Available in 44mm and 48mm versions and suitable for standard or low threshold projects, the solid core timber door leaves are available in 27 designs and ten colours, each with a matching outer frame.
resistance keeps doors in great condition. Security is assured with a dedicated keep and Yale lock options too.
The doors feature a beautiful wood grain finish that replicates timber and gives a more realistic effect. COOLSKIN heat reflective technology minimises solar absorption and superior scratch and abrasion
All-in-all, Frontier doors offer the perfect complement to Optima, the window system designed for the 21st century and beyond. So if you want to deliver a perfectly finished project, look no further than Optima and Frontier from Profile 22. www.profile22.co.uk
FD60 Now Available From Fire Door Fabricator Timber fabricator West Port is expanding its already market-leading fire-rated offering with the addition of an FD60 door.
“Unfortunately, not all fabricators share that attitude. For too long, fenestration has performed shockingly badly when it comes to fire-rated products.
Recent years have seen the Cumbrian firm build a reputation as the country’s go-to supplier for quality timber fire doors.
“Our FD60 door, like every other fire product we offer, has been rigorously tested as a complete door set. But it’s still very common for some manufacturers to test individual components separately, rather than testing the completely assembled door set. That can lead to products with fire ratings that only last a fraction of the time they’re supposed to. This is utterly unacceptable.
Its FD30 product managed to withstand temperatures in excess of 800 degrees Celsius for 42 minutes 7 seconds, or 40% longer than required to achieve an FD30 rating, when subjected to rigorous testing by both Cambridge Fire Research and BRE. Now, the fabricator has gone one better, designing a product capable of holding back an inferno for an hour.
Managing Director Sean Parnaby comments: “At West Port, we’ve always prided ourselves on treating fire safety with the utmost seriousness. We never forget that, more than anything else, a fire door is about saving lives.
“Buy from West Port, and you’re guaranteed a fire-rated product that lasts (at very least) as long as it’s supposed to. If you’re interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to give us a call.” www.west-port.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 45
PRODUCT NEWS
‘All In One’ Shading Solution From Sunbell mains supply with each blind linked together using a simple ‘sprung’ electrical connector positioned in the frame. The system is designed for commercial, public and residential applications offering a flexible solution for internal partitions, screens, bi-folding doors and windows.
Sunbell, an Italian designer and manufacturer of interstitial blinds for glazing has launched an innovative new solution for residential and commercial windows and doors. Powered by a 24v low-voltage motor the system features a slim
control switch positioned on the glass that allows for individual movement or alternatively for group activation up to 12 blinds, using a hand held remote device. The ‘All in one’ system is hardwired to a central power source and connected to a 13amp
The blinds are supplied in kit form, custom made on a threeweek lead time, complete with a choice of spacer bars, styles, materials and colours including a new Charcoal Grey (similar to RAL 7016) for final assembly and sealing into a glazed unit. Sunbell blinds offer a unique combination of Italian design, superb quality and engineering excellence providing a modern and stylish energy efficient response to solar-shading. info@sunbell.co.uk
Glazerite Chooses HiTECH Blinds
G-Award Winners The Glazerite UK Group Ltd has become the latest high-profile brand to begin offering blinds from HiTECH Blinds Ltd.
was brought in to help grow the business, the Peterborough company has quickly become a force to be reckoned with.
The long-standing national firm has built its business offering quality doors and windows using VEKA, Halo, and a host of other leading systems including Solidor, Warmcore and Residence Collection. Now, after being named G17 Fabricator of the Year back in November 2017, The Glazerite UK Group Ltd has expanded that product portfolio even further by offering Hitech Blinds.
Greening and two experienced Directors from commercial aluminium fabricator AGF Ltd, Mike Yerrell and Michelle Scotney.
HiTECH Blinds Ltd was the brainchild of industry veteran Nigel
With the help of integrated blind and IGU expert Ian Woolley, who
46 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Glazerite Group Marketing Manager Michelle Wright comments: “We pride ourselves on offering one of the most comprehensive product ranges in the industry. We also like to offer our installers additional products and enhanced benefits that can help them close a sale or upsell. The partnership with HiTECH Blinds was formed initially because they have a blind system that met our demanding standards. We’ve got a reputation to keep, which is why we only work with the best brands in the industry. We’ll never offer our customers anything we’re not 100% happy with. www.hitechblinds.co.uk
Manufacturers of window and door hardware dedicated to the timber, PVCu and aluminium markets for over 40 years. • Cylinders • Handles • Fasteners • Espags • Shootbolts • Hinges • Locks • Restrictors
Get a handle on our range!
www.titon.co.uk
Fit fo r li fe .. .
PRODUCT NEWS
“The Complete Package From Spectus” Leading systems supplier Spectus says it offers everything today’s fabricators and installers need: products that work in all sectors, the broadest range of ancillaries to make life easy and outstanding marketing support. Carmen Velilla, Brand Manager of Spectus says: “When you choose a systems company, you need to choose one that offers a complete package and gives your business everything it needs to achieve its goals. In Spectus that’s exactly what you get.” Spectus systems mean you can make any style of window or door and compete in every sector, whether it’s trade, retail, new build or commercial. There’s the Elite 63 and Elite 70 for casements and tilt & turns, the Spectus VS for verti48 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
cal sliders and the FRW reversible system. Patio doors, formers and curtain walling complete the range. The product range is complemented with a range of over 80 ancillaries covering colour, specification, style, decorative finishing touches and double and triple glazing options. They’re all designed to give the customer as much personalisation and individualisation as they need with no compromises and allow installers to fit a perfect job. Effective marketing is critical to the success of every business and the Spectus offering is second to none, says the company. There are bespoke marketing packages, as well as lead generation and opportunities to tender. Spectus customers also get the sales ad-
vantage of Excellence as Standard. It’s a programme designed to drive quality at every level of the industry. Membership gives customers the tools they need to build their business including lead generation and marketing support. Carmen concludes: “We’ve been making PVC-U window and door systems since 1981. The market has changed out of all recognition since then but we’ve thrived because of the quality of our manufacturing, the strength of our design and our customer service. We’ve kept those three principles at the heart of our business throughout and they’re the reasons we can offer such a complete package to our customers today.” www.spectus.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
Dual Colour Demand For Residence 9
Residence 9 offers foiled dual colours as standard across the range, with options such as Eclectic Grey outside and life like English Oak on the inside helping to create the appearance of a composite window including through rebate foiling, yet with all the benefits of low maintenance PVCu. With colour now accounting for over 35-40% of profile sales for the big systems companies, it is only thanks to the unique business model of The Residence Collection that they can offer dual colour combinations from Residence 9 stock, with outstanding OTIF capabilities.
While grained white internal finishes amount for the larger proportion of sales, it’s the alternative options for English Oak or even the unique Cotswold Biscuit inside and No. 10 outside, that are really capturing the imagination of consumers. English Oak inside and out makes
“Swish Offers Powerful Consumer Recognition” Brand recognition makes selling so much easier and, claims Swish, you have a brand that’s recognised by 7 out of 10 consumers. Gerald Allen of Swish said: “We know from customer feedback that Swish brand recognition is a powerful differentiator that adds real value. Of course, it helps that the brand recognition is backed up with a tried and tested product that’s more than proved itself in the market place.” Gerald says the Swish 24/7 system offers versatility with casement, tilt and turn, bow, bay, arched and cottage windows all possibilities. Each window is available in a range of 28 colours, tapping into the growing trend for colour. All options offer exceptional thermal efficiency, achieving the best A++ ratings. And all options
deliver the security homeowners are looking for: Swish windows have been approved by the Secured by Design scheme, the official UK Police flagship initiative
for the ultimate timber effect window with traditional joints and hardware, while other colour combinations offer the appearance of painted timber or composite windows and doors. Either way Residence 9 redefines the way in which we view PVCu window design, colour and form. There’s a certain type of discerning homeowner that wants a window with the pedigree of Residence 9 and similarly they want near bespoke finishes for their investment. Windows and doors are now starting to be viewed as furniture that’s part of the overall fabric of the home and this is a considerable change in mindset from the standardised white PVCu replacement windows that have dominated the market for several decades. www.residencecollection.co.uk that supports and promotes the principles of crime prevention through secure design and engineering. The system also delivers benefits to fabricators and installers including a wide range of ancillaries including baypoles, couplers, cills, add-ons and trims so projects can be fitted perfectly with no compromise. Alongside the product quality, Swish partners also benefit from Swish support. A cornerstone of this support is Excellence as Standard, the membership programme that over 75 Swish installers have already signed up to. The programme is designed to drive quality at every level of the industry and delivers benefits including qualified leads, EAS branded and bespoke marketing materials, discounted Level 2 and 3 NVQ training courses, plus access to video training, webinars and events via the Excellence Academy. www.swishwindows.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 49
PRODUCT NEWS
Take Control With Teal Products’ New Multi-Purpose Window Control System Specialist distributor Teal Products has once again strengthened its range of window controls, openers and actuators. Taking window automation to the next level, the Gloucestershire-firm has introduced a brand-new, highly-versatile window control system. Combining an intelligent weather station and intuitive control panel, the new EVC control system works with Teal’s full range of chain actuators to automatically open and close windows and rooflights. When triggered, the weather station’s rain, wind and temperature sensors will automatically operate the actuator. Designed for both residential and commercial applications, the system allows end users to manually override the sensors or set their own internal temperature limit using the digital display panel, or the
optional wireless remote control. “We’re thrilled to add the intelligent EVC control system to our industry-leading line-up, allowing even complete novices to break into the window control market, increase the value of their installations and reach new business,” comments Teal Products Director, Sam Yiend. “The new system works in partnership with the likes of our new Micro Evo chain actuator and has been designed to create an automation package that’s incredibly easy to setup and
install.” “Not only does the system use wireless technology to communicate between the weather station and digital display – minimising the need to work with electrics, the system comes with our 17+ years of industry knowledge and our full technical support – including our bespoke one-page instructions. We know many traditional installers have trepidations about this profitable part of the market, so we can even offer full product training if necessary to show tradespeople just how easy it truly is.” The new EVC control system completes a hat-trick of additions to Teal’s product line this year alone. Along with the Micro Evo chain actuator from Mingardi, the firm has also added WindowMaster’s new WMD 820 folding arm actuator. Launched in January, the WMD 820 is designed for sidehung windows and doors, providing a complete 90-degree opening in just 60 seconds. www.tealproducts.com
Morley Glass & Glazing Boosts Screenline® Spare Parts Service
Uni-Blind® manufacturer Morley Glass & Glazing’s extensive stock of accessories and spare parts for ScreenLine® integral blind systems is now available to buy online from the fast growing company’s website www.morleyglass. co.uk/accessories-spares/ Ian Short, managing director at Morley Glass & Glazing, which also has an accompanying ScreenLine® spares brochure, says: “We hope the new online shop will make it even easier for customers to do business with us, even if they haven’t bought the original blinds from us. “We stock the biggest range of 50 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
ScreenLine® accessories and spare parts in the UK. So when you need a part for our UniBlinds® or any ScreenLine® integral blind system, we’ll make sure you have it within 24 hours if we have it in stock. As the largest ScreenLine® fabricator in the country, we have daily deliveries from Pellini in Italy and can supply any other spare parts within one to five weeks – whether you originally purchased your ScreenLine® blind system from Morley Glass or not.” The range of ScreenLine® spares available from Morley Glass next day includes items such as cord kits, cord tensioners, external
magnetic sliders, transparent wands, battery modules, solar panels, battery chargers, transformers control units, replacement remote control devices and clips, knobs and end caps for all systems. www.morleyglass.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
Titon’s SF Xtra Sound Attenuating Vents Help To Keep The Noise Down The SF Xtra Sound Attenuator vents keep external noise levels down to more acceptable volumes, as well as provide sufficient air flow in accordance with the Building Regulations for ventilation, when used in the correct quantities. Commenting on the popularity of the SF Xtra Sound Attenuator range, Tyson Anderson, Sales & Marketing Director at Titon, said: “These products have outstanding acoustic capabilities, which help reduce unwanted noise in a wide variety of applications, either as part of a new build or retrofit project. In fact, our SF Xtra SA vents keep sound levels down to more acceptable, habitable levels, reducing noise pollution – which can just as harmful to occupants’ health as unwanted airborne particles.” Suitable for domestic and com-
mercial installations, in certain situations the SF Xtra Sound Attenuator can be retrofitted over Titon’s standard 13mm slot. A high performance gasket on the ventilator improves the sealing in adverse conditions, while the vent can also be mounted to deflect air upwards or downwards. Plus, a number of special paint finishes are also available. Tyson continued: “Our SF Xtra range is also capable of of providing higher rates of air flow at shorter ventilator lengths. As a result, not only can products be fitted across a wide choice of applications, there are some instances when fewer ventilators are required. This ensures the levels of total background ventilation stipulated in the Building Regulations are met, while the level of noise entering a property remains at a minimum.”
The SF Xtra Sound Attenuator ventilator is part of Titon’s SF Xtra range – and is already being widely specified throughout the UK by housebuilders and developers. Using the SF Xtra ventilator and canopy as its base products, the SF Xtra Sound Attenuator, as its name suggests, offers much-improved levels of sound attenuation, especially when compared to similar ‘acoustic’ products. This is supported by accurate data from an independent UK acoustic test house, with full details available from Titon upon request. It is also important to note that a ventilator-canopy combination does not provide the same level of ventilation as a standard non-attenuating vent when it has been fitted with sound deadening material; therefore, more sound attenuating vents are needed than standard ones, in order to achieve the same total background ventilation figure in a building. Again, Titon can provide advice on this often misunderstood subject and help prevent incorrect specification. For more information about Titon and its comprehensive range of window & door hardware, please visit: www.titon.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 51
MACHINERY
CSI Aluminium Chooses Tekna Heavy Duty Machining Centre
mounted on the gantry gives customers maximum flexibility and reduces tool change times to optimise the productivity and efficiency of the machine.
CSI Aluminium has chosen a Tekna TKE 944-7 four axis heavy duty machining centre for its Hull factory, supplied and installed by Emmegi (UK).
Steve Bird, Production Manager at CSI, is pleased with the company’s investment in new Tekna 944. He said: “The machine is doing all that Emmegi (UK) promised and is already helping us to deliver on a new £3.5m contract for our unitised curtain walling system in central Manchester.
CSI Aluminium is a specialist glazing and cladding fabricator which has developed its own bespoke unitised curtain walling system for installing on sites with limited access for installation. This system, which uses large 7m sections of Aluprof profile, has huge advantages for city centre sites because it can be installed from a tower crane. In order to maximise the commercial benefits of this system, CSI approached Emmegi (UK) for a machine which could achieve the technical and performance levels required with a dedicated machine set-up, but which crucially still represented 52 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
good value. The team at Emmegi proposed the Tekna TKE 944 machine as the perfect solution for CSI, because it has the large machining capacity required at the right price point and can link easily to the rest of the Emmegi machines in the factory. It is a 4 axis machining centre with a mobile gantry and 8kW high torque electro spindle suitable for heavy duty machining of the large sections of aluminium which CSI are using. The spindle moves along the A axis, allowing machining through a full 180° around each section. A clamp unit ensures the correct positioning of the sections every time, and counterblocks can be mounted quickly and accurately. A 12 piece tool magazine
“As well as the purchasing advice we got from Emmegi (UK), we’re also benefiting from really good after sales service from their technical and installations team and the payback for us looks very positive.” All of the machines under the Emmegi group banner can work seamlessly together and all are compatible with the LogiKal software which CSI use for their processing and machine links. www.emmegi.com
elumatec Enhance The Awe-Inspiring Louvre Abu Dhabi
One of the world’s most spectacular new buildings couldn’t have been completed without expertise from machinery manufacturers elumatec. The Louvre Abu Dhabi will bring some of history’s greatest artworks to the Middle East – but the jaw-dropping building, the work of Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, is gaining as much attention as the pieces showcased
within it. Its striking 180m dome is a honeycomb of aluminium and stainless steel that lets sunlight filter through in random patterns that change throughout the day. At night, it takes on the appearance of a canopy filled with 7,850 stars. The project was the work of Abu Dhabi-based elumatec customer White Aluminium, and given
MACHINERY its sheer scale and complexity, elumatec itself was on-hand throughout to offer advice and support. Mechanical engineers from the firm’s Muhlacker headquarters were dispatched to Abu Dhabi to set up two identical SBZ 151 Flexium+ CNCs – state-of-the-art 5-axis profile machining centres designed to quickly and efficiently process aluminium and thin-walled steel to the highest of standards. The machine’s onboard tool magazines ensure tool changing times are kept to a minimum, thereby optimising machining cycles, while elumatec’s cutting-edge eluCad software allows for quick and intuitive programming. On the Louvre, elumatec turned CSV files provided by the project’s developers into 21 master files, from which production data for almost 500,000 profile parts were transferred into eluCad. After initial tests in Muhlacker, the main manufacturing phase was set into motion at White Aluminium. www.elumatec.co.uk
Haffner Murat Sees Dramatic Rise In Sales
Of The SMR-5 Welder
Haffner Murat has just reported a dramatic rise in sales of its SMR-5 welder. Haffner Murat’s Managing Director Dave Thomas said: “We’re delighted this five head welder is proving so popular. It is the fastest and most accurate welder on the market today and has been designed to add value to every fabricator’s set up.” Just a quick look at the machine’s statistics demonstrate its power. In a single operation it can weld four squares. It’s also capable of welding two corner/transom/corner windows or one window and two sashes in a single operation. The timings are impressive too. It can
every time thanks to automatic head positioning and self centers for transoms. Despite the machine’s many advantages it has been designed to be easy to use. There’s touch screen control with memory positioning and all operations can be controlled automatically via the PLC.
weld five H welds in less than four minutes and change from corners to transoms in seconds. It all adds up to a machine that transforms speed and efficiency on the fabrication floor. At the same time as transforming speed it also transforms quality: it guarantees 90 degree welding
Like all Haffner Murat machines it comes with the reassurance of expert installation and full training so it can start to deliver return on investment from day one. Finance packages are available subject to status and part exchange is an option. www.haffnermurat.com WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 53
ON SITE
Former Tax Office Transformed
Into Luxury Flats With A Little
Help From REHAU An office building once used by HM Customs & Excise is being transformed from a dull and dated office block into aspirational luxury apartments, as part of an ambitious project being delivered by Tustin Developments. The stark lines of the 1960s building, located in the Lancashire seaside town of Lytham St Anne’s, are being replaced with balconies and winter gardens, all drawn together with modern rendered facades, large sections of glazing and aluminium-effect REHAU windows and doors. Tustin Developments is a property development and investment company based in Preston, established in 1985. With a flat market for office space, the company recently started exploring development opportunities in the conversion of office buildings to residential properties. Having 54 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
just completed an office to apartments project in Preston, the company jumped at the chance to buy Petros House when it came up for sale in Lytham St Anne’s. Andrew Roberts, Managing Director at Tustin Developments, said: “Petros House had stood empty for five years and already had planning permission to convert it into residential accommodation, so we were delighted when it came on the market as we could see its huge potential. The previous owners had drawn up plans for the conversion into apartments, which our architect worked with to create an adventurous new vision for the 1960s building. “From the outside, the building was very dull but structurally it was sound, so we decided to keep
ON SITE Most curtain walling systems are aluminium, but REHAU’s Polytec 50 uses a composite system, with aluminium external cover caps, steel for structural strength, which is three times stronger than aluminium in terms of its E-Modulus in N/ mm2, and PVCu for all internal surfaces/profiles, this, as with all fenestration solutions, helps with the thermal performance of the curtain wall. Polytec 50 has also been certified as suitable for Passivhaus projects and zero carbon buildings thanks to its excellent thermal insulation of up to U-value 0.8 W/m²K. Mike Fish, Senior Estimator at Per-Fit, said: “We did some cost-engineering with the specification for the curtain walling, windows and doors using a selection of REHAU products. The quote came in significantly cheaper than the aluminium alternatives, and all without any drop in performance.” Building before refurbishment
the floor slabs, support columns and stairwells intact and completely transform the front façade with large expanses of glass, private balconies and winter gardens. We used REHAU curtain walling, which is very on trend and gives the building a wow factor, but on a practical note it also ensures each apartment is flooded with light – a big draw for modern homebuyers.” The plans for the development – now named Tustin Heights – include 35 one and two-bedroom luxury apartments plus a resident’s gym on the ground floor. To achieve the glass front effect incorporated into the architect’s plans, Tustin Developments required curtain walling across large sections of the building. Andrew was asked to investigate both aluminium and PVC-U alternatives for the curtain walling, however he had some reservations about whether PVC-U products would be structurally equal to aluminium. He spoke to REHAU and its preferred fabricator and installer Per-Fit – which specialises in curtain walling – about the Polytec 50 curtain walling system and it soon became clear that strength would not be an issue. Andrew continues: “Our main concern with the PVC-U curtain walling was that it wouldn’t be strong enough for the large sections of glazing we needed for the scheme. But when we spoke to REHAU and Per-Fit to discuss the Polytec 50 system, we discovered this system, as well as being a thermally efficient sub-frame, was also reinforced with steel to make it structurally very sound.”
On a design-led building like Tustin Heights, the aesthetics of the glazing products was very important so Per-Fit recommended a smooth anthracite foil for the PVC-U products. As well as giving a more contemporary finish, akin to aluminium, one major advantage of using white PVC-U windows with grey foil on the outer surface is that the inside façade is still white, making it bright and clean for residents. Mike continues: “The developer was pleased to take our product recommendations, and we started on site in October 2017. The specification used REHAU’s Polytec curtain walling for the front façade, TOTAL70 fully reversible casement windows for the apartments and AGILA multi-fold doors for the ground floor flats. As we are using REHAU products across the board, there is certainly a seamless continuity in design between the windows, the doors and curtain walling, which the developer is very pleased with.” Matt Janicki, Area Sales Manager from REHAU, said: “Per-Fit is an experienced REHAU fabricator and installer, having been using our products for more than 20 years. With a wide-ranging expertise from specialist curtain walling to domestic windows and doors, Per-Fit had a strong portfolio to offer Tustin Developments which would tick every box for their ambitious scheme and guarantee a high level of product quality and design across the range. We are very much looking forward to seeing the finished development.” The Tustin Heights project is due for completion in autumn 2018. www.rehau.com WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 55
ON SITE
Healing Daylight At
Benenden
Kalwall® translucent cladding is the architectural focus of the new £55million development of Benenden Hospital in Cranbrook, Kent. The scheme, designed by architects C A Vaughan Blundell with assistance from SR Architects Ltd, has created a wonderfully light and airy 56 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
entrance atrium designed to welcome and create an enhanced patient and visitor experience with maximised natural daylight. The extensive breakout and catering facilities support theatres, en-suite rooms, outpatient department and ophthalmic suite along with diagnostic imaging, rest and recovery areas. The main
contractor was Willmott Dixon Construction. The Kalwall skylights provide additional light in the large atrium throwing (would ‘projecting’ sound better) it deep into the interior. They were specified complete with highly insulating Nanogel which achieves an impress U value of 0.28W/
ON SITE m2K, helping the project attain a Breeam status of ‘Good’. This is particularly impressive given the amount of curtain walling and clerestory glazing involved in the scheme. The skylights have a unique ability to bathe interior spaces with diffused and glare-free daylight, which creates a stimulating and healthy environment. In addition, their heavily insulated composition eliminates glare and hotspots, thereby reducing the load on temperature control systems and the need for artificial lighting. Geoff Holden, Senior Technician at C A Vaughan Blundell comments, “The use of Kalwall represented the best value balance of energy saving and cost and provided us with the ideal way to achieve spatial daylighting within the requirements of Part L”. Kalwall is a popular choice for projects where performance, long life cycle and low maintenance are required, coupled with an aesthetic finish. The aluminium or thermally-broken grid core with interlocking I-beams gives Kalwall incredible strength. The lightweight system reduces the need for supporting structures while offering the highest protection in terms of wind-borne debris and resistance to impact, abrasion and point loads. The exterior face is colour stable and includes a UV resistant, self-cleaning surface. This means that normal rainfall helps to keep the surface free of dust and dirt while at the same time retaining its original colour during the weathering process. Furthermore, the inclusion of an erosion-prevention barrier protects the interior from weather exposure and the risk of fibre-bloom, cracking and crazing. www.structura-uk.com/kalwall
Mercury Glazing Showcases Its Credentials As A Specialist Fabricator Established in 2002, Mercury Glazing Supplies Ltd has a reputation for being one of the industry’s most reliable specialist fabricators of feature-rich PVC-u and aluminium products. The company’s expertise means it is often called upon to manufacture windows with complex design requirements. Chris Reeks, Mercury’s Sales and Marketing Director, explains: “Our customers can sometimes come up against the most demanding or sensitive applications and this is when working with a specialist fabricator really benefits. We understand the complexities involved and can deliver the products, however large or unusual, that our customers’ need.” A perfect example of a sensitive application was evident in recent high-end application in regency Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Chris continues, “As part of a prestigious refurbishment project in Cheltenham we manufactured three very large vertical sliders, of which one was a dummy and two were opening. The windows needed arched heads to fit in
with the existing architecture which we were able to offer. The design was further enhanced by the “floating” internal georgian bars to replicate the feature on the original timber sash windows. The result was stunning and showcases the capabilities of our products as we are able manufacture up to 1500mm x 3000mm, fully opening and still achieve a window loading of 1200 pascals.” Each window is based on the market-leading Spectus vertical slider, of which Mercury is one of the UK’s biggest fabricators. The windows are available with a WER rating of A+ as standard and can be Secured by Design accredited, two key reasons why PVC-u vertical sliders are a very attractive option when it comes to adding heritage style to new build properties or replacing original timber windows. Mercury was also the first fabricator to manufacture the new Spectus Mechanically Jointed vertical slider taking heritage authenticy to another level. www.mercuryglazing.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 57
ON SITE products.” Astraseal offers a complete range of fire-rated products including FD30 and FD60 fire doors. Not only do both solutions comply with FIRAS assessment, PAS24 and Approved Document Q, the FD60 fire door is manufactured using the highly-durable FireFrame from Winkhaus.
Astraseal Insight Helps Richmond Windows
Complete First Fire Door Installation With a reputation for helping customers break into new markets, experienced trade and commercial fabricator Astraseal has helped Surrey-based installers Richmond Windows complete their first fire door installation. Not only did Astraseal help specify the right product, the Wellingborough-based fabricator sent one of their own surveyors to assist in what turned out to be a complicated survey. Once the door was delivered, Astraseal’s engineers joined the Richmond team on site to show the fitters exactly how the fire door needs to be installed, and the correct materials to use. “The team at Richmond Windows encountered a problem facing many ambitious installers; they see increasing demand for fire-rated products but feel they 58 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
lack the experience to confidently enter the market,” comments Colin Stanley, Operations Director at Astraseal. “We are delighted that we could assist a long-standing customer as part of our Assisted Installation Service and use our decades of experience to help them service those fire-rated enquiries and ultimately win new business.” “The tragedy of Grenfell Tower has shown how imperative it is to have quality fire-rated products, but also that they are installed correctly. It’s therefore understandable that businesses have trepidations about completing those types of installations. That’s why we have not only developed a full range of dependable, fully-certified fire-rated products but offer this assisted installation service for our customers – a service available across our entire range of
Astraseal enhanced the range last year by becoming the first fabricator to manufacture a 60-minute fixed fire window. Manufactured in both single and double fixed pane configurations using FireFrame, the 60-minute fire window joined Astraseal’s RAUFERNO and Ecoframe uPVC 30-minute fire window system. “We are really grateful for the help and support of Astraseal in completing this complex fire-rated project,” adds Patrick Kilgallon, Managing Director of Richmond Windows. “Whilst we have extensive experience installing windows, doors and conservatories in all materials, we are still relatively new to fire-rated products. Thanks to Astraseal’s guidance, the fire door installation ran smoothly and has given us a great platform to explore more fire door installations in the future. The full support of our supplier is a great asset to have, and it’s been a key driver behind our successful relationship with Astraseal.” With one of the biggest portfolios in the industry, Astraseal has built a strong reputation for high-quality aluminium and uPVC products including windows, doors and conservatories. For over 30-years, operating from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, Astraseal’s ethos has been to offer exceptional products with customer service that goes above and beyond. www.astraseal.co.uk
ON SITE
Adeva Goes Large In Wimbledon With
Glazerite And VEKA
It’s a tough decision for any SME – risk stepping up to your biggest contract ever or to play safe and lose out on a big chunk of business. But it was less of a dilemma for Kent-based Adeva Home Improvements because, as Director Geoff Dwyer explained, the backing of the Glazerite UK Group as well as VEKA was crucial in tackling the job. “We might otherwise have had serious doubts about taking it on,” he said after completing the installation of nearly 3,000 windows and doors as part of a £2.2million refurbishment of Wandsworth’s Wimbledon Park Estate. “But Glazerite was with us all the way. We’ve been working with
them for about six years, and VEKA much longer. We knew the product and the customer service. Glazerite were very supportive; they were up to speed on manufacture and delivery and, just as important, if any problem arose, they would be there to rectify it straight away.” The job was not without challenges, he continued, firstly in removing the original Crittall steel frames, which were not only set into concrete but many had to be taken out in a single three metre by two metre piece. Also the new frames were an unusual combination of side-hung casement and tilt/turns which might have been a problem for some fabricators, though Glaze-
rite took them in its stride. Adeva installed the A-Rated, SBD specification windows and doors based on the VEKA M70 system, in white for main contractor Mulalley and Company Ltd of Woodford Green on behalf of the London Borough of Wandsworth. VEKA also carried out the wind load calculations for the design specification. Geoff Dwyer concluded: “This was a very substantial piece of work, and by far our biggest contract to date. But we may well have had to think twice about going for it if it had not been for the support we got from Glazerite.” www.glazeritewindows.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 59
ON SITE
Senior
Provides The Perfect Match For Manchester’s New Pitch-Side Hotel Enjoying a prime location overlooking the Lancashire Cricket pitch at Emirates Old Trafford, the stunning views enjoyed by the residents of the new Hilton Garden Inn hotel have been framed by high-quality aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling supplied by Senior Architectural Systems and fabricated and installed by specialist T A Anders & Co Ltd. Through early engagement and collaboration with main contractor Galliford Try, Senior’s specification team were able to advise on the most cost-effective solution to delivering a glazing package that 60 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
met with both the desired aesthetic and performance requirements of architects ICA and the client. Senior was also able to make recommendations to assist with the appointment of a specialist installer, with the contract going on to be awarded to T.A. Anders & Co Ltd. The company, which has extensive experience of working in this sector, also worked with Senior to deliver the glazing package for Fleetwood Town FC’s new training ground. Senior Architectural Systems Hilton Garden Inn Manchester 2To create the bright and welcoming
entrance to the new hotel, Senior’s slimline SF52 aluminium curtain walling was used alongside the manufacturer’s SPW600 aluminium casement windows and robust SPW501 aluminium commercial doors. The rooms at the rear of the hotel, which directly overlook the cricket ground, feature Senior’s patented, thermally-enhanced PURe® SLIDE aluminium sliding doors which open onto individual balconies that can be also be used as private corporate boxes during events at the cricket ground. Careful consideration was given to the acoustic performance of the glazing package, particularly on the front elevation of the hotel which is located close to a main road. To further enhance the comfort of the hotel’s guests, Senior’s innovative PURe® SLIDE doors offer exceptional low U-values and improved thermal efficiency. As Emirates Old Trafford remained operational to host sporting and entertainment events throughout the construction of the new hotel, teamwork was vital to the successful delivery of the project. Si-
ON SITE mon Scholefield, Senior Architectural System’s architectural advisor for the North West region, explains; “We are really proud of this project, not only because of the use of our glazing systems but more so for the fact that it is a great example of what close and early engagement with product manufactures can really achieve. By working with Galliford Try to devise a fenestration specification that was better suited to the project’s requirements, in terms of design vision, budget and timeframe, we were able to maximise the benefits of value-engineering. Supply chain collaboration also ensured that our products were installed by a specialist such as T A Anders & Co Ltd who has proven multi-sector expertise and particular skill in delivering complex glazing contracts for the leisure, commercial and stadia markets.” Commenting, David Leyland, Senior Bid Manager for the project at T.A. Anders & Co Ltd added: “We are very proud of securing, installing and completing this project and in creating a glazing package that meets the design and performance criteria set out by the clients Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Lancashire County Cricket Club. The success of the scheme is a result of the positive collaboration between our team, lead by our project manager Carl White, Senior Architectural Systems and the site team of Galliford Try, and we look forward to working together again on future projects.” For more information about Senior, visit www.seniorarchitectural. co.uk or follow Senior Architectural Systems on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. For more information about T.A Anders & Co Ltd, visit www.andersglass.co.uk or follow on LinkedIn and Twitter For more information about the Hilton Garden Inn at Emirates Old Trafford, visit www.emiratesoldtrafford.co.uk
Fenetek And Exlabesa
Deliver For Starbucks
Fenetek is one of the North’s leading fabricators of high quality aluminium fenestration products to the commercial and domestic glazing industries. It recently demonstrated why it has achieved this status with the installation of the glazed curtain walling shopfront for the new Starbucks in Stockton on Tees. The project requirements included curtain walling glazed with high performance solar control glazing and a custom designed “drivethru” serving hatch incorporated into the build. Fenetek has been working with Exlabesa for four years and trusted its products to deliver in this case. James Lagan, Director at Fenetek, commented: “The products are well designed, easy to fabricate and easy to install.” In this case, Fenetek used Exlabesa’s KLW Curtain Wall system and the KSF Non Thermal Shop Front, both of which maximise the glazed area and offer a powerful combination of design flexibility and cost efficiency.
The expertise of the Fenetek team meant that they were able to bespoke manufacture the required drive-through serving hatch. James said: “This project was a great opportunity to demonstrate our innovation abilities and we were
delighted with the results.”
When it came to installation the combination of the scale of the curtain walling and the specification of the glass meant the glass units were too heavy to be installed safely by hand so the team used a glazing robot instead. James commented: “We work on lots of projects were the glass units are too heavy to be safely installed by hand, in these cases we look to use the most suitable and efficient machines based on site layouts, which in this case was the glazing robot.” But despite these complexities it is perhaps the speed at which Fenetek completed the project that best demonstrates the value the business can offer contractors in the commercial marketplace. Fenetek took the project from initial site survey to completion in less than four weeks including the Christmas break, an impressive demonstration of the company’s expertise and fast-track approach. The project is the first drivethrough Starbucks on Teesside and is the perfect example of what can be achieved when a high quality fabricator uses high quality aluminium products to complete a project. www.exlabesa.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 61
MARKETING
New Configurator Added
To VBH24 Webshop
VBH has updated its webshop, VBH24, to make ordering easier for customers. It now includes a product configurator, designed to show customers the exact hardware required for each project on complex installations such as tilt and turns, bi-folds or greenteQ Invisifold slide & folds.
VBH24 means customers can place orders, track orders (whether placed online or via phone), check stock levels and pricing, search for part numbers, view and download invoices and much more. Ordering products can be made even easier and quicker by creating a ‘Favourites’ List, or by uploading CSV data files that contain the VBH part number. Those with an up-to-date credit account can place orders and they will be processed automat62 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
ically.
VBH customer Adam Webb, Director at Garrards Windows, is responsible for ordering the hardware for his business. He says: “We’ve been using the VBH24 online shop since it was first introduced 5 years ago. We order the bulk of our hardware through it and can easily check stock levels and confirm prices – best of all, everything’s in one place. We can even track the progress of our orders and being able to save our most regularly ordered items into ‘Favourites’ makes it really quick and easy. “The updated version of VBH24 with its new features makes it much slicker to use,” continues Adam. “Of course, we’ve still got the option of picking up the phone, so VBH are keeping that
personal touch too!” Gary Gleeson, Marketing Manager at VBH, adds: “Not only can our updated webshop be used to place bulk hardware orders, it’s also designed to make it simple to select and order the components needed for individual windows and doors, or to price on tender documentation, for example. Customers can even upload their own spreadsheets to place orders; all we need is a column denoting the product number and quantity. Once such a list has been saved to the shop the quantities can be tweaked and used again and again to load a basket. We’ll also create ‘Favourites Lists’ for customers, so their weekly or monthly ordering can be completed more efficiently.” Free standard delivery to mainland Britain is available on orders over £100 placed via VBH24. Visit www.vbhgb24.com to register start an order or call Gary on 01634 263263 to get online now.
MARKETING
Residence Collection
Gets A Dedicated Trade Website
Appy Days Ahead For
Kestrel Installers
Kestrel has turned to tech to make installers ‘appier than ever. The Residence Collection has just unveiled a dedicated new website for the trade at www. residencecollectiontrade.co.uk that’s been designed as a complete resource hub for the three in one system, which boasts shared profiles, beads and single length ordering.
wallcharts, door drops and a planning and conservation guide for R9. In addition, there is also a dedicated page on colour which includes dedicated colour guides by system, including wallcharts and visitors to the website can also request free sample swatches by system.
R2, R7 and R9 all benefit from a dedicated landing platform on the new site showcasing design philosophies, performance, a clever interactive glazing bead designer, along with a wide range of hardware and ancillaries, including the deep, period-inspired Radlington Cill. There is also a colour selector that presents all of the unique and inspiring colour and woodgrain options that are available across The Residence Collection.
Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of The Residence Collection commented: ‘The existing website for The Residence Collection is visually stunning with the information carefully orchestrated for the consumer and architect. Yet we had a need to create something equally as impressive, but with key messages, content and downloads for the trade.
There are a wide range of marketing materials available for download or that can be ordered as part of a pack including brochures, case studies,
She continued: ‘This new platform is the perfect environment in which the trade can experience our considerable products USP’s, unrivalled marketing support and ultimately strong financial returns.’ residencecollection.co.u
The leading fascia, cladding and soffit brand has launched its very own app, meaning installers have Kestrel backup in their pocket when they need it. The app is packed with technical guides and brochures for support 24/7. It also lets approved installers instantly create guarantees of up to 35 years for their customers. Kestrel sales and marketing director Owen Thorogood said: “The app gives our installers, marketing, technical and sales support wherever they are, when they need it. “They can show customers their listing on the approved installers section, for added peace of mind. It even has a section where installers can instantly upload pictures of their latest project to enter the Installer of the Year competition.” The Kestrel app is available for both Android and iOS devices and can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play. www.kbp.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 63
EXHIBITIONS
UK Pavilion
At Fensterbau “A Great Success” The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) had a busy and productive week at the biennial Fensterbau Frontale – the world’s largest window exhibition held on 21-24 March in Nuremberg, Germany. As hosts of the UK Pavilion – a 200 square metre space showcasing 12 prominent companies from the UK glazing industry – the GGF reflected positively on the four day show which had almost 1400 exhibitors, representing more than 40 countries and attracted 110,000 visitors from the international fenestration industry. Shaun McAllister, GGF Managing Director commented: “Firstly my thanks go to the 12 companies who co-exhibited on the UK Pavilion. Without them we would not have been able to promote the UK industry to this scale, at such a huge exhibition. I would also like to thank all the GGF team and our support staff who made the event run so successfully. All 64 WINDOW NEWS MARCH 2018
those who exhibited and visited the UK Pavilion, certainly seemed to enjoy the first class hospitality and networking.” The theme of the UK Pavilion was “Britain Means Business” and the co-exhibitors certainly lived up to the theme with video presentations, product displays and live product demonstrations.
GQA Qualifications HOPPE UK The Jackloc Company Made forTrade Reddiplex RegaLead RITEC International Roseview Windows Window Ware
FIT Events
James Lee, GGF Director of Marketing and Communications summarised, “In 2016, we launched the UK Pavilion with just five companies. This year we had 12 companies co-exhibiting and it is clear that there is a real interest from British companies in this exhibition. We will now gather feedback from our survey of all co-exhibitors and start planning 2020 at the end of this year. From the GGF perspective, we’re delighted the exhibition was a great success and that we promoted the GGF, our Members and the industry to an international audience.”
Glazpart
www.ggf.org.uk
On the second day of the show, the UK Pavilion featured a unique British Reception – “An Afternoon G&T” which was sponsored by RegaLead who were co-exhibiting on the UK Pavilion, showcasing their cutting edge ColorSpray Aqua glass and PVC-U paint technology. The 12 co-exhibitors on the UK Pavilion included: Clearview
EXHIBITIONS
Kommerling A Fensterbau Festival Of Innovation For
Fensterbau Frontale 2018, yet again proved to be the perfect platform for KÖMMERLING to showcase a number of new and exciting product developments, including new entrance door systems and notably the first preview of the System 76 flush casement window. The combined exhibition of Holz-Handwerk and Fensterbau Frontale achieved record visitor numbers this year of over 110,000 from 123 countries, with a combined total of 1,329 stands. Yet again profine Group and its respective brands of KBE, KÖMMERLING and Trocal enjoyed the largest stand space, packed with products, hospitality areas and staff, reflecting the global geographic reach of the company, with several hundred visitors on the stand at any one time.
The traditional party night of Thursday was extended into the first day of the show and also to the Friday night, where exhibition revellers enjoyed entertainment well into the night with the bar, catering and a live band. A num-
ber of UK visitors came to the show and to the profine stand to look at new products, specifically the new System 76 flush casement and also to enjoy the hospitality afforded. The new System 76 was showed as a combination of flush casement and fully reversible in a Painswick finish, as the profiles are common across both types of window opening. Flush aluminium panelled entrance doors, with AluClip profiles were also evident on the stand as was a striking display showcasing four new metallic finishes for the pioneering proCoverTec surface finish of bronze, silver, titanium and iron. Brian McDonald, commercial manager for KOMMERLING commented: ‘Yet again we delivered with a true sense of grandeur on an international platform. It was great to see a number of UK visitors to the show and our stand, and importantly to see the investment in products specifically for our home market, as part of our long-term strategy for growth and innovation.’ www.kommerling.co.uk
Inagas Is Back At China Glass
As one of the fenestration industry’s leading supplier of gas filling and testing solutions to not only the UK market, but to manufacturers across the globe, it’s fitting that Inagas has a presence at the imminent International trade show, China Glass. In its 29th year, this year’s exhibition takes place on 19th - 22nd April and Inagas will be showcasing the very latest in gas filling technology. “We are a regular exhibitor at China Glass – with this being our seventh consecutive year – as it always proves to be an excellent platform for us from which to showcase our offering,” explains Chris Kemp, Director at Inagas. “Last year the show attracted al-
most 33,000 visitors from 71 different countries, so it really is a great place to be. This year we will have machinery on two different stands. From the Qinhuangdao Lihai Tech. Dev. Co. Ltd stand, E6-166, we will be exhibiting a Smartfill-1. We will also be with a new partner in China, Boza Automation on stand E5-176, where we will be demonstrating the Smartspeed-1.
“The Smartfill and Smartspeed are fantastic examples of how we have developed and extended our offering over the years to meet the needs of the current marketplace. Visitors to the show can take advantage of our experience in the field, experience that spans over quarter of a century, while being able to see first-hand the most recent advances in offline gas filling, which, based on previous years at the show, we know will be well received.” Inagas’ product will be demonstrated from stands E6-166 and E5-176 at China Glass, Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) from 19th - 22nd April 2018. www.inagas.com WINDOW NEWS MARCH 2018 65
EXHIBITIONS
Illbruck Takes Toolfair By Storm
Adhesive, sealant and tape specialists illbruck went down a storm during the Manchester and Exeter legs of Toolfair, the travelling trade show for builders and tradespeople. Hitting Event City in Trafford between the 16th and 18th of March, and Westpoint Exeter between the 19th and 20th of April, Toolfair drew thousands of builders, joiners, installers, plumbers, electricians and others from all around the country to see the very latest in tools and construction tech.
At the illbruck stand, visitors could glimpse a host of cutting-edge sealant solutions – perhaps most notably, the innovative multi-use construction adhesive, PU700. PU700 is a high-performance solution for bonding bricks and other construction materials. Capable of replacing traditional mortar, as well as serving as very high strength adhesive for wood and joinery, PU700 can offer huge time and cost savings. It would take 12 cartridges of traditional sealant to perform the same number of jobs
that can be completed with one can of PU700, says the company. What’s more, the product cures quickly, allowing joints to be handled within just ten minutes of application. It cures fully within 24 hours. “We were blown away by the response to PU700,” commented illbruck Product Manager David Naylor. “Builders and installers are often sceptical about unfamiliar products at first – more traditional methods may have served them well for years, sometimes decades, and they’re understandably reticent to consider any of the alternatives. “But at the same time, they also realise that the market is getting more and more competitive. Time is money, so when they see just how quick and easy PU700 is to apply, they seriously start to consider switching. “If you’d like to learn more about PU700, or any of the other cutting-edge adhesive, sealant or tape solutions which illbruck can offer, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!” illbruck will continue to exhibit at Toolfair this year at Harrogate (13th & 14th June), Coventry (20th & 21st September) and Sandown Park, Surrey (1st & 2nd November). www. illbruck.com
Another Successful Fensterbau For SWISSPACER SWISSPACER enjoyed a successful Fensterbau Frontale show in Nuremberg, Germany. The company’s Georgian bar, now available in four additional sizes, was the hot topic of discussion for visitors on the stand. SWISSPACER’s Georgian bar creates high performance sealed units, perfect for heritage-style windows. It comes in the stand66 WINDOW NEWS MARCH 2018
ard SWISSPACER colours with an integrated anti-rattle plug and matching end caps to create a seamless, high-end finish. Visitors were also able to try SWISSPACER’s updated CALUWIN energy savings calculator. The unique app now has specific technical data from leading European profile and sealed unit manufacturers, including Rehau, Profine and Guardian.
EXHIBITIONS
Promac Reports Brisk
Business At Fensterbau
This same technology has also been applied by the FOMGS group to sill manufacture. Launched at the FIT Show last May, the SLS Seamless Sill Welder delivers an exceptional finish, while reducing total cycle time to less than 2 minutes per weld. Joe continued: “The SLS was developed by FOM-GS in partnership with Promac solely for the UK and Irish markets and the benefits are immediately tangible. You get an incredible surface finish, increased weld strength and a reduction in cycle time from anywhere from 15-minutes to just two.” FOM-GS also chose Fensterbau to unveil the new FOM LMX 65 aluminium machining and cutting line. An evolution of its highly innovative LMT 65 aluminium entry level offer, the LMX 65 introduces the ability to mill both ends of the bar, making it ideal for higher volume commercial work including curtain walling.
With a number of supply partners showcasing the latest innovations in PVC-U, aluminium and glass technologies, Promac Group has said it saw high levels of interest and brisk business at this year’s Fensterbau Frontale. Also marking the expo’s 30th anniversary, the window, door and machinery showcase held in Nuremburg, reported record numbers of exhibitors and visitors, attracting a large UK contingent. Joe Hague, Managing Director, Promac Group, said this was reflected in high levels of interest the machinery specialist saw in the latest innovations in machinery platforms on show from its supply partners, FOM, Graf, Forel and Urban. “I’ve been coming to Fensterbau for more than 17 years now and I never stop being impressed by the scale and the incredible innovation
on show”, said Joe. He continued: “The turnout from the UK was big, which gave us a great opportunity to catch-up with friends from within the industry, closing off on business as well as picking up a significant number of new leads.” The latest incarnations of the SL4-FF seamless welder from Graf Synergy, including the SL4FF EVO and the SL4-H FF, which introduces a new capability to insert welded transom and mullions into a seamlessly welded frame or sash, provided a major pull for UK fabricators.
The new EM Automatic Vertical Edger from Forel marked another new product launch from the Promac supply chain. Optimized for processing float and laminated glass, it delivers high levels of flexibility. This includes edge arrissing, graded edge grinding and edge polishing with the ability to square glass to final dimensions, it can also be used across IGU, tempering and grinding lines. Joe concluded: “The innovation that is now being delivered in machinery is delivering a real change in not only how the industry is manufacturing product, for example in efficiency, quality and yield but also the new products that it’s bringing to market. We’re going through a significant period of change as an industry and that’s very positive for UK fabricators, glass processors and IGU manufacturers.” For more information log on at www.promac.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MARCH 2018 67
AWARDS
2018 British Woodworking Federation Awards Call For Entries Launched The call for entries for the 2018 British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards has now been launched, giving joinery sector businesses a fantastic opportunity to showcase their finest achievements from the last year.
The BWF Awards 2018 categories are: The Product Design in Wood category (sponsored by Teknos) recognises excellence in technical expertise, application and innovation in joinery product manufacture and design.
From hand-carved craftsmanship to high-tech innovations, the Awards give great projects, products and people the recognition they deserve, helping businesses benchmark their progress against the very best of the industry. The closing date for entries for this year’s Awards is 22nd June. Last year saw winning entries from Gelder Joinery Limited, Morland, AJB Group, Warwickshire College, Gowercroft Joinery and Cotswold Manufacturing Ltd. Gelder Joinery’s restoration of an Edwardian house won the prestigious Woodworking Project of the Year Award and was praised by judges for the project’s beautiful restoration, unparalleled detail and design excellence. BWF Chief Executive Iain McIlwee began this year’s call for entries: “With wood taking over as the architectural wonder material of this century, the awards are a chance for UK joinery businesses to prove that they can not only build it better with wood, but build it in a way that is more sustainable, more productive, healthier and safer than the rest. “Have you worked on an amazing wood project or launched an innovative new product? Does 68 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
Entry is free and open to all, including non-members of the BWF so long as they are from the UK joinery and woodworking sector. The deadline for entries is 5pm on Friday 22nd June 2018. Entries for this year’s awards can be submitted at www.bwf.org.uk/choose-wood/ awards.
The highly prestigious Woodworking Project of the Year (sponsored by Whitehill Tools) recognises the very best in design, application or ability in joinery manufacture, and innovation in joinery projects. This award is given every year in memory of John Hedgecock, former technical director at the BWF.
your joinery business have any rising stars or Health & Safety heroes within the workforce? Or do you simply think that you can do better than the other businesses out there and want to prove it? We urge all UK woodworking businesses to spare a minute and think about what, or who, they might want to put forward as an entry.” The winners will be announced at the BWF’s Annual Awards Dinner in November with the shortlist to be revealed in October at the W Exhibition, which is the national show for the joinery and furniture industries. All shortlisted entrants will receive a free place at the dinner and will have their achievements promoted through a high profile marketing and social media campaign.
Process Efficiency (sponsored by W Exhibition) – recognising lean processes which have improved business performance, including maximising value for money, quality and speed of delivery. Health & Safety Hero (sponsored by Didac) – acknowledging an individual or collective effort which has made a notable difference to the health and safety practices and culture of a business. The award will be presented in memory of Michael Lee, former membership director at the BWF. Apprentice or Trainee of the Year (sponsored by CITB) – celebrating apprentices or trainees who have really stood out from the crowd, whether through fantastic feats in their work or extraordinary commitment that adds value to a business.
AWARDS the business will achieve the ambitious goals it is setting to become more sustainable by 2020.
REHAU Qualifies As Finalist For Businessgreen Leaders Awards 2018
In recognition of its strategic approach towards sustainability, REHAU has been shortlisted as a finalist at the 2018 BusinessGreen Leaders Awards.
The awards recognise leading green businesses across the country and celebrate the immense progress the green business community has made in recent years. It celebrates businesses, NGOs, public sector bodies and individuals across 25 different categories and is rigorously judged by a panel of sustainability professionals and green economy leaders.
This year, REHAU entered its third annual Sustainability Report into the Sustainability Report of the Year category, which recognises a business’ ability to effectively distil and promote its sustainability performance. Finalists within this category have formulated reports with innovative and novel communications techniques, backed by transparent environmental reporting and ambitious green goals.
REHAU’s third annual Sustainability report, available for the first time in a digital-only format, introduces customers to its new ‘Fit for the Future’ strategy, which outlines how
Stephen Beresford, Head of Marketing Communications at REHAU said, ″We are very excited that our first-ever digital Sustainability Report has been recognised on a prestigious platform and eagerly await the results this June. As a business we have always championed sustainable manufacturing over many years and regard sustainability and recycling as a strategic business objective, and we are humbly proud that our efforts have been recognised.″ REHAU’s Sustainability Report is an interesting, easy-to-read overview of the company‘s vision and values, as well as its entrepreneurial activities, ground-breaking pilot projects and resource-friendly technologies under development. The digitalisation of the report this year further reflects REHAU’s belief that sustainability and digitalisation are inseparable challenges for companies operating in the modern business context. An esteemed panel of judges will review the finalists over the coming months and the winner will be announced at the BusinessGreen Leaders Awards to be held on Wednesday 27 June at The Brewery in London. www.rehau.uk/sustainability
Eurocell Shortlisted For Prestigious Recycling Award
Eurocell, distributor and recycler of window, door, conservatory and plastic building products; has been shortlisted in this year’s National Recycling Awards in the Manufacturer of the Year category. The awards, held in association with specialist magazine Materials Recycling World, celebrate best practice and innovation in the UK waste and resource management industry. Commenting on the news that the company had been shortlisted,
Chris Coxon, Head of Marketing, said: “We are delighted to make the shortlist in what is probably one of the most competitive and demanding categories in the awards. We felt our entry really highlighted the achievements we have made to date in making recycling central to everything we do. It also captured our determination to continue making progress across the board with significant investment in place to do that”. Winners of this year’s National
Recycling Awards will be announced at an event to be held at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Thursday 28th June. www.eurocell.co.uk WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018 69
CHARITY
Conservatory Outlet
Take On 10K
A team of employees from one of the leading UK Manufacturers, Conservatory Outlet, have completed the Wakefield 10K run, raising money for a local charity.
The team of five, Nikki Lewis, Andy crozier, John Garside, Jane Hodgson and John Osbourne, volunteered to run the 10 Kilometre distance, raising money for local charity, Wakefield Hospice whilst proudly showcasing their employer by competing Conservatory Outlet Branded T-shirts. The Wakefield 10k Road Race is organised annually for and by Wakefield Hospice, with the aim
to raise as much as possible for patients and their families living with an end of life diagnosis, 2018 marks the first year that the Conservatory Outlet employees had come together to enter a team.
Raising around £200 for the charity, the Conservatory Outlet Employee’s completed the race, 24th March 2018, with the some even finishing in under an hour. Conservatory Outlet Managing Director Michael Giscombe said ‘It is truly great to see our employees pull together as a team and raise money for a local charity. The suggestion was made by Nikki Lewis in our Marketing Department, and the idea was consequently supported by everyone.’ ‘We fully back staff who recognise that we can use the people power Conservatory Outlet to do great things, and therefore we have consequently donated the race entry funds to support those taking part in the race so that they could concentrate on raising as much money for the charity as possible. We’re really proud of what the group have achieved’.
Bennetts’ Fantastic Five On The Run For Donna Louise tural commented,
“We’re delighted to continue our support for the Donna Louise by entering our running team for this year’s Donna Louise 5k/10K. Katie Tams, Regional Fundraiser at The Donna Louise added, “The support of Bennett Architectural really makes a difference to the children, young adults and families, who rely on The Donna Louise, so on their behalf I’d like to say a big heartfelt thank you to their team for supporting our event.
team of five staff members from aluminium glazing specialists Bennett Architectural will be supporting the Donna Louise 5K/10K run at the Trentham Estate on Sunday 20th May.
“We have to raise £3.5 million each year to support more than 240 families from Staffordshire and Cheshire, with most of this coming from fundraising and donations.”
Design team members Paul Johnson, Mitch Pritchard, Gareth Patrick, Alex Davies and Accounts Assistant Janneke Gladwyn will be putting on their running shoes to supporting the local hospice who care for children and young adults by taking part in the 5K route.
The team aim to raise over £150 for the Donna Louise, which will edge Bennett Architectural closer to raising £10,000 over a number of years for the charity.
Lionel Grant, Managing Director at Bennett Architec70 WINDOW NEWS APRIL 2018
If you would like to donate to the Bennetts teams JustGiving page visit this link – justgiving.com/fundraising/bennetts-dl-run-18
Manufacturers of window and door hardware dedicated to the timber, PVCu and aluminium markets for over 40 years. • Cylinders • Handles • Fasteners • Espags • Shootbolts • Hinges • Locks • Restrictors
Get a handle on our range!
www.titon.co.uk
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Sliding Doors Mechanical joint option available for ease of transportation and onsite manoeuvrability.
Easily achieves a Door Energy Rating of A with standard argon filled, double glazed units.
Can accommodate up to 36mm triple glazed units. Maximum opening width of 5m and heights of up to 2.4m.
Dual and triple track system for 2, 3, 4 and 6 pane options, opening from either left, right and even from the centre. 12 point locking to achieve PAS 24 and SBD.
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It’s all in hand