engineered to install faster priced to sell
Make a more memorable entrance Expertly engineered, Korniche bi-folding doors exude the same quality in their function as they do in design, with an exclusive roller system that delivers an effortlessly smooth guide every time.
It is also impossible to turn the handle at all while the key is still in the lock. This means that there is no risk of accidentally opening or damaging the doors as a result of the key remaining in place.
A unique, pivoting axle in the rollers allows the wheels to follow any undulations in the stainless-steel tracks underneath. Combined with sealed bearings in the stainless-steel wheels and lateral rollers, the doors will glide effortlessly and smoothly for years to come.
Featuring polyamide thermal breaks, our bi-folding doors are designed to keep heat in and the cold out.
The doors also feature additional security in the form of a shoot-bolt handle that cannot be forced open from the outside. This is down to an innovative anti back-drive feature that is designed into it.
Faster
Stronger
Warmer
Slimmer
Korniche’s smart technology includes a specially designed and patented clip-in bead that allows the glass to be installed or replaced in minutes. See how fast you bead with the Korniche bi-folding door at this years show. STAND N11
Innovation unlocked A bi-folding door evolution With a host of brand-new Innovations MFT brings a premium bi-folding door into the market at a price point to make it the buyers “natural selection” Made for Trade are getting ready to launch the second product in the award winning Korniche systems range, the much-anticipated Korniche bi-folding door. This brand-new product makes many of the 2019 Korniche concept doors features a production reality, and with them come some significant new innovations to benefit installers, resellers, and end users alike. One of the key features of the new door showcased with great success at the 2019 FIT, is the true all aluminium clip bead with pre-fitted gasket, a feature which really upholds the Korniche FASTER USP. This allows the doors to be literally glazed in seconds and significantly decreases the time spent on site, maximizing that all important margin for the installer. The new product is also SAFER. This is down to PAS24 as standard on every door set and MFT’s ‘safety for no extra cost’ delivery innovation. Full details and new brochure on the new features which make the Korniche bi-folding door FASTER, WARMER, SLIMMER, STRONGER and now SAFER than the competition are on the madefortrade website.
Get a quote today for the exciting NEW Korniche aluminium bi-folding door by registering your interest at sales@madefortrade.co or calling MFT on 01642 610 799
madefortrade.co
Glazed in minutes The patented Korniche clip bead system allows for the fastest installation on the market
10
Quickslide Rolls Out £2.7M Investment Plan
52
The FIT Show 22 Preview
110
GGF Tackles Skills Shortage Head On
SUPA STAINLESS STEEL ™
High security . Contemporary design . Durable finish
See the full Supa Stainless Steel range at mila.co.uk/supa
mila.co.uk
W CONTENTS
W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS
TRADE NEWS 8 VIEWPOINT 38 PEOPLE 48 FIT SHOW 52 PRODUCT NEWS 78 MACHINERY 88 ON SITE 92 MARKETING & INTERNET
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EVENTS 106 TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
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CHARITY 114
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www.windownews.co.uk Cover picture: Aluminium’s Thermal Credentials By Phil Slinger – CAB Chief Executive, read more on page 46 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 7
TRADE NEWS
Lively debate at AluK’s Part L podcast
(l-r) Richard Manser (5 Star Windows) with Greg Kane (Conservatory Outlet)
Conservatory Outlet
Signs ‘Landmark’ £20M
Deal With 5 Star Windows Conservatory Outlet has signed one of the largest deals in its history today after it extended its long-term partnership with a leading West Midlands home improvement specialist. The Wakefield-based manufacturer put pen to paper on a new five-year contract with 5 Star Windows that is worth an estimated £20m between now and 2027. This will see it continue to produce and supply its range of high-quality windows, doors, home extensions and conservatory products to the firm’s showrooms in Kidderminster and Worcester. 8 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
The deal, signed on the tenth anniversary of the two businesses working together, provides 5 Star Windows with security of supply as it looks to maximise what is proving to be the busiest year in its history with sales due to hit £12m in 2022. It also ensures exclusive access to Conservatory Outlet’s industry-leading products, including its UPVC Extreme, Envisage Flush and Eclipse range of aluminium windows. “This is a landmark deal for our business and one that underlines how important the power of the network is to companies like 5 Star Windows,” explained Greg Kane, CEO of Conservatory
Outlet. “We have been working together for over ten years now and, despite lots of challenges, we have both grown significantly, mainly because we share the same values around innovating our sector in terms of design, products and service.” He continued: “What this means for the customer is that they receive the best possible service when making home improvements and this partnership is great news for people in the Black Country, Kidderminster and Worcestershire.” Richard Manser, managing director at 5 Star Windows, added his support: “Both businesses share the same ethos, so it made perfect sense to extend our involvement in the 27-strong Conservatory Outlet network of retailers for a further five years. “We need a supplier that delivers products right first time and has the same appetite for growth that we do, especially seeing we have set ourselves the target of
TRADE NEWS hitting £15m sales by 2024. “The manufacturing support is excellent, but there is a lot more to the relationship than that. We regularly get to take part in training events, share best practice with other members and have access to the best marketing department in the industry.” Conservatory Outlet played a significant role in helping 5 Star Windows emerge from the pandemic in strong fashion after its digital marketing agency DigitalKOG used its ‘leadology’ skills to drive unprecedented levels of customer engagement during Covid-19. Rather than draw back promotional efforts, the two businesses instead decided to ramp up activity to support the nation’s renewed appetite for home improvements, creating new marketing campaigns that delivered a 50% increase in new enquiries. The approach also saw 5 Star Windows agree a sponsorship deal with local football team Kidderminster Harriers that saw it receive massive national and global exposure as part of the team’s historic FA Cup run. Greg concluded: “Both organisations like to do things differently and that was typified by the 5 Star annual sales conference I attended recently. Richard had arranged for Christopher Key, associate director of Les Misérables and owner of Performing Perfectly, to inspire their sales designers through the art of theatre. “It’s just another example of why the partnership works, and we’re looking forward to playing a key role in 5 Star’s growth and planned expansion over that time.” www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk www.5starwindows.co.uk
Price Cap Rise The Perfect Storm For Installer Leads our member network.”
Massive price hikes from major energy suppliers and the spotlight on energy efficiency will see consumers focus on home improvements. That’s the view of Andy Royle, co-founder and managing director of Leads 2 Trade, provider of double-qualified sales leads to installers operating in the home improvement sector. “Household gas and electricity bills have risen steeply after the annual energy price cap increased to £1,971 in April, but the rise in wholesale prices amid the war in Ukraine may mean the price cap ratchets up even more by the end of the year,” said Andy. “It’s a scary thought and consumers will be fully aware of the need to cut their energy spending and reduce their household energy bills. It’s no surprise they are turning towards home improvements to help insulate their homes and keep the heat in – and that will only mean even more window, door and conservatory roof replacement leads from our comparison websites and online assets for
With upgrading older windows with modern, A-rated energy efficient double, triple, or secondary glazing saving as much as 25-30% on heating bills, and replacing a glass or polycarbonate conservatory roof with a tiled roof increasing thermal efficiency and helping to reduce energy costs, they are easy ways for consumers to eliminate energy wastage – and according to Andy they are more knowledgeable than ever. “Consumers have become more aware of the role they have to play in supporting the planet when it comes to home improvements, with energy prices skyrocketing their focus is on energy efficiency even more. Installers need to be ready to take advantage of the sharp increase we are expecting in enquiries as a result.” All home improvement sales leads are double qualified from Leads 2 Trade’s own websites, which specialise in connecting homeowners looking for home improvements, by its in-house call centre. “Leads for windows, doors and replacement conservatory roofs are set to rise as homeowners look to save money on skyrocketing energy bills,” added Andy. “And with our ‘no pitch no fee’ service, which saves time and provides a better conversion rate and cost per sale, installers will not want to miss out.” https://bit.ly/3MerSfs WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 9
TRADE NEWS
Hodgson Sealants Group
Acquires Britchem Hodgson Sealants Group Ltd, the parent company of Hodgson Sealants Ltd based in Beverley, East Yorkshire, has acquired the entire share capital of independent private label sealant manufacturer Britchem Ltd from the previous owners Roy Barton and Trevor Jones.
Britchem Ltd, located in Heckmondwike in West Yorkshire, was founded in 2002. The company is an independent private label manufacturer of sealants for both UK and export customers. Hodgson Sealants was founded in 1968 and, together with its sister company HS Butyl Ltd based in Hampshire, is a leading independent sealant and butyl tape manufacturer in the UK employing some 200+ people. The technologies manufactured at both companies are complementary and this acquisition allows the newly extended Group to offer customers a range of UK manufactured sealant and tape technologies, as well as increased capacity to meet the demands of the group’s growing sales. Britchem will continue to be run as an independent company within the Hodgson Sealants Group. Roy Barton and Trevor Jones Hodgson Sealants Group Hodgson’s were supported in this acquisition by Richard Firth of Leeds-based Park Place Corporate Finance, Matthew Smith and Samuel Peake of Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP, with funding provided by Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking. hodgsonsealants.com 10 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Adrian Barraclough
Quickslide Rolls Out £2.7M Investment Plan PVC-U sash window manufacturer Quickslide has announced a £2.7m investment plan to be carried out over the next 18 months, including development of its vertical sliders factory through increasing levels of automation, as well as the launch of a revamped website to help Trade Partners better tap into customer demand for VS and heritage windows. In phase one of the staggered plan, Quickslide is making a major investment in a new one-of-akind cutting centre for its vertical sliders, as part of a bigger re-layout of the VS factory. This equipment is heavily automated and thereby able to achieve sustained and standardised repeatability of quality, which in turn will increase overall efficiency and production capacity, whilst giving Quickslide greater flexibility to develop future product offerings – some of which are kept tightly under wraps for now. As well as ensuring a reliable and high-quality service to customers, improving the automation of production will mean staff can be redeployed where they are bet-
ter needed, helping improve the smooth flow of operations at a challenging time for recruitment in the industry. Online, a new website – launching soon – will help drive organic growth. While the site’s front-end appearance and navigation has been kept familiar to ensure ease of use, behind-the-scenes investment in clever new lead generation tools will help tap into customer demand. Quickslide Trade Partners will gain access to their own dashboard where leads can be effectively managed, essentially functioning as a complimentary CRM system. Further investment in SEO will drive more customers to the site. Quickslide chairman Adrian Barraclough said: “Our focus at Quickslide has always been to grow with our partners, not on behalf of them. It’s for this reason that we make ongoing investments in the firstrate products and services that our Trade Partners consistently need, in order to help them satisfy exacting homeowners and foster growth within their own businesses.” www.quickslide.co.uk
£600,000
Investment Puts Cube Glass On Track For Further Growth
TRADE NEWS It is the latest development for the fast-growing company, which celebrates 10 years of trading this June and has established a strong presence in sectors such as education, health, industrial, social care, commercial property and residential homes, partnering with recognised specialist suppliers such as Senior Architectural Systems, Metal Technology and Schüco. Gary Thorn, Cube Glass founder and managing director, said: “We had originally planned to extend to meet increasing demand, but the opportunity to buy the new premises arose at just the right time. “It has all been funded from company resources, without any outside investment, and the fit-out – including the showroom, meeting rooms, air-conditioned offices – make the new premises like a brand-new factory. I have to thank Senior Architectural Systems, Metal Technology and Schüco, who contributed elements such as windows and doors. “We have also invested £170,000 on a new CNC [computer numerical control] machine which will greatly streamline and accelerate the manufacturing process, allowing us to improve productivity, accuracy and further satisfy client needs.”
Gary Thorn, founder & managing director, Cube Glass.
Scottish glass and aluminium specialist Cube Glass has invested in excess of £600,000 in new premises which doubles its previous capacity and will take the fast-growing business to the next level. The precision manufacturer has fitted out and moved into an 8,400 sq ft custom-designed factory
close to its previous 4,200 sq ft premises in Cumbernauld’s Tannoch Place, which it has now let. The expansion, which comes on the back of a series of lucrative contract wins, means the innovative company will also be positioned to open a new state-ofthe-art showroom to highlight its products.
Turnover to October last year was £3.4 million, up from £3 million the previous year and Mr Thorn is predicting £3.5 million for this year while accounting for investment costs. The firm employs 14 full time staff and two apprentices, and is actively recruiting to sustain growth. Mr Thorn added: “It has been an exciting period, but the ultimate aim is to make the company more productive and more profitable. I have a great team here, guys who have been with me through thick and thin, to the extent that it feels very much like a family business.” www.cube-glass.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 11
TRADE NEWS “The whole team has worked tirelessly over the last six months to get production back to what we saw prior to Covid-19 with a stable supply chain and full control of the factory,” commented Michael Giscombe, managing director of Conservatory Outlet. “This has basically translated into lead times being brought back into what customers would normally expect, despite volumes increasing by 20% since March 2019.”
Mick Giscombe
£250,000 Digital Transformation Investment Pays
Off For Conservatory Outlet Investing in a major digital transformation programme has helped one of the UK’s leading fabricators of windows, doors, home extensions and conservatory products to bounce back from global supply chain disruption and rising energy prices. Wakefield-based Conservatory Outlet, which supplies a 27-strong network of home improvement retailers across England and Scotland, is now back at 98.5% on time in full (OTIF) for the last four weeks and is aiming to build on this even further over the next six months. The company has had to manage increased lead times for material and unprecedented demand from customers, who 12 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
have been benefitting from the massive surge in spending on homes and domestic office spaces. At the heart of the approach has been a £250,000 investment in creating a live tracking system in the factory, meaning that everyone in the business has real-time information on where a product is in the manufacturing process, starting from initial order right through to dispatch. Led by group head of IT Craig Schmidt, the digital transformation has also given it critical information on improved order planning, material utilisation and predictive maintenance on machines, reducing downtime in the process.
He continued: “We had been looking at introducing more digitalisation to the shopfloor, but the pandemic accelerated how quickly we did this, and the live tracking manufacturing system has been a real gamechanger for the business, delivering efficiencies we didn’t deem possible six months ago. “Craig and his IT team have opened our eyes now and this will be the first of many steps along our digital transformation journey.” Whilst technology is playing an increasing role in production, Conservatory Outlet continues to be committed to developing its workforce and recruiting the talent of the future. Michael concluded: “There are so many fabricators out there worrying about the ‘next big thing’ that sometimes they forget the basics. It’s been a tough challenge over the past two years, but we can confidently say we have quality and reliability nailed on for our customers and we’re back to pre-pandemic levels of service, consistently. “A big thank you to our clients who have been patient during the initial disruption and worked with us to collectively get the right result for our sector.” www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk
bi-folding door ARTICULATED FULL BEARING
15%
ROLLERS
INTRODUCTORY *
DISCOUNT
A SMOOTH
GLIDE
DISCOUNT CODE
WNK02
EVERY TIME
Patented clip bead delivering the fastest glazing time. Trickle vents positioned in frame - no need for extenders! Full bearings and stainless steel hardware for the smoothest glide every time. All with a 10 year manufacturer’s warranty.
Delivering the best products, with the best service, at the best price Contact Made for Trade for a Kwikquote today
madefortrade.co | sales@madefortrade.co | 01642 610799 * Discount applies to all trade customers and applied to the first, single item purchase only of the Korniche Bifolding Door | *Korniche Bi-folding door price is based on 5-5-0 configuration 3750 x 2000 , stock colour, delivered. Unglazed. Price is correct at point of publishing. Delivery restrictions apply. Product specification and prices may be subject to change without prior notice.
STAND
N11
TRADE NEWS with more combined knowledge of the complete window system. The partnership is formed on the basis that the two companies have shared values and extensive technical expertise across their businesses, with over 200 combined years’ experience.
Rehau Locks
in With Yale
UPVC window manufacturer Rehau has announced a strategic partnership with hardware brand, Yale.
This new initiative means window fabricators and installers will be able to source high-quality Rehau profiles integrated with fully approved and tested Yale hardware and furniture. According to Rehau this is a market-first partnership bringing together two well-established and trusted brands of the fenestration industry. Both companies are proud to manufacture in the UK, which can facilitate shorter lead times amid high market demand. 14 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
The range will include locks, cylinders, shoot bolts, hinges, handles and letter plates – and exclusive to Rehau, Lockmaster 21 will give the ability to cover a wide range of door sizes.
Ultimately the profile manufacturer aims to create economies of scale for customers through one sourcing partnership. This is evident via Rehau and Yale’s inclusive PAS24 testing, which can save fabricators up to £1,000 by cascading the test results to themselves, as well as a combined comprehensive guarantee, meaning less replacement over the product’s lifetime. Customers will also be able to draw on a unified technical team
David Pridmore, key account manager at Yale said: “Our partnership with Rehau is a great opportunity for fabricators to single-source both their profile and hardware from a trusted source. Yale and Rehau are two of the leading names in fenestration and consumers know and trust our brands. The work in product development and testing we have completed with Rehau will allow fabricators to seamlessly transition to Yale hardware without the additional expense of testing. We are extremely excited to be able to offer fabricators world class products with world class service as a result of our new partnership with Rehau.” The first part of 2022 will see Rehau and Yale welcome fabricators on board the initiative, later followed by installer and consumer engagement. Russell Hand, head of technical and product management at Rehau Windows, comments: “This is an exciting announcement, and we are looking forward to working in partnership with Yale. In joining forces with them, we are aiming to add reassurance throughout the supply chain. “Specifically, we will be able to match our premium profiles with equally premium ancillary products. Ultimately Rehau will be offering a secure partnership, the fabricator will be supplying a secure package, and the installer will be providing a secure product to the consumer.” https://bit.ly/3MuBFOA
Visit us at this years FIT Show and enter the
bi-folding door SAVE HOURS ON SITE
GLAZED IN SECONDS
£1000 DRAW The Korniche pre-gasketted clip-in bead. FREE TO ENTER
register on stand and simply take part in the SPEEDBEAD demonstration
SPEEDBEAD INNOVATION
STAND
N11 For more information on the Korniche Bi-Folding Doors visit madefortrade.co
TRADE NEWS
Freefoam Announce Energy Supply From Renewable Sources
Freefoam Building Products has announced a significant milestone in their journey towards a low carbon, circular operation with the announcement that all electricity used at the UK manufacturing site in Northampton is now supplied from sustainable supplies. Freefoam are taking ambitious steps to save and manage energy. How all businesses operate creates greenhouse gas emissions, which are warming the earth and
changing the climate. Reducing emissions is critical. All businesses can source energy from a range of options including nuclear, wind and solar. With climate change high on the agenda companies are looking at ways to operate more sustainably, and energy consumption has a big part to play in this. As an energy intensive business, Freefoam has made a strategic choice to only purchase electricity from renewable resources. Geoff
Barnett, UK general manager, explained “As a manufacturing plant, energy is one of our biggest commodities, used to power our mixing and production operations, some of which operate 24/7. Knowing that we are sourcing all our energy requirements from solar power is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions. Freefoam are serious about sustainability and playing our part in managing precious resources. As general manager in the UK I am very proud to be announcing this initiative. This development is part of a much wider strategic plan to ensure that Freefoam becomes part of the circular economy, with numerous projects currently happening around the business. Geoff summarised “We’re on a journey and have already taken some significant steps with many more to follow. Our aim is to put reduce, re-use and recycle at the heart of everything we do.” www.freefoam.com
Abcell Helps Installers Meet New Doc L
Building Regulations With WarmCore June will see the latest changes to building regulations come into force and updates to Document L means the countdown is on for installers to find windows and doors that are compliant with tighter thermal efficiency standards.
Approved Document L: Conservation of Fuel and Power requires windows and doors for refurbished properties to have a U-value rating of 1.4 W/m²K. For new build, the U-values are even lower. Windows and doors with a glazed area of more than 60 percent must have a U-value rating of 1.2 W/m²K, whilst opaque or semi-glazed doors require an overall U-value of 1.0 W/ m²K. For new builds where additional measures have been taken to lower the overall energy efficiency of 16 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
the building, the limiting U-value for windows and doors is 1.6 W/m²K. However, WarmCore already achieves the new criteria comfortably with superior performance U-vales as low as 1.0 W/m²K, claims the company, providing a simple solution combined with beautiful, strong and secure products without any add-ons or updates to the specification. “The changes to Doc L is going to
create the need for many installers to think carefully about the products that they offer customers,” says Neville Gleed, Operations Director at Abcell. “But there’s no need to panic. It’s all in the name – WarmCore was designed to offer better energy efficiency than other aluminium glazing products. It already offers impressive thermal efficiency with U-values as low as 1.0 W/m²K on bi-folds and 0.8 W/ m²K on windows. “All our WarmCore products are manufactured with our two Graf Synergy SL4FF seamless corner welders, enabling us to guarantee consistency and high-quality, providing an incredibly strong end-product that is robust in installation, making it easier to fit.” www.abcell.co.uk
roof lantern
10%
NEW TRADE CUSTOMER DISCOUNT QUOTE CODE:
WNK01
glazed in seconds
faster to fit
Supply & install the multi-award-winning aluminium Korniche Roof Lantern. Fitted in minutes, glazed in seconds. The strongest lantern in class, available up to 3x2.5m in four glass panels and a maximum size of 6x4m
Delivering the best products, with the best service, at the best price Contact Made for Trade for a Kwikquote today
madefortrade.co | sales@madefortrade.co | 01642 610799 *Discount applies to all trade customers and applied to the first, single item purchase only of the Korniche Roof Lantern
STAND
N11
TRADE NEWS
Comfortably Comply
With Revised Part L With Decalu88, Says
Deceuninck Aluminium The Decalu88 bi-folding door from Deceuninck Aluminium achieves U-values of 1.2W/m2K with double glazed units, comfortably meeting new requirements for newbuild as well as home improvement under Part L from June this year – without using triple glazed units, claims the company. From June 2022, replacement doors with a >60% glazed area will need to achieve an overall U-value of 1.4W/m2K, while newbuild equivalents will need to achieve an overall U-value of 1.2W/m2K. When the Future Homes and Buildings Standard comes into force in 2025, these figures are expected to drop even further. Many aluminium systems will have to rely on a triple glazed unit to meet the new revisions, which impact the overall design of the door, 18 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
says the company.
“Older systems were designed for a double-glazed unit, so there’s a maximum width of unit you can get into the frames,” Nigel Headford, director at Deceuninck Aluminium, said. “So, the question is not about the number of panes of glass, but how deep you can go, and with older systems you are typically limited to a 28mm-32mm unit.” If a triple glazed unit was used to improve the thermal performance, consideration would also need to be made for the extra weight placed on the hardware. “Most bi-folding doors on the market have a maximum weight of 100kg-150kg,” Nigel said. “So, if you are going to put in triple glazing then you are probably going to go over that maximum weight, which is going to limit the size of
the door.” The Decalu88 bi-folding door from Deceuninck Aluminium can comply with the 2022 Part L newbuild revisions with a double-glazed unit. It is also designed to comfortably incorporate thicker and heavier units to meet future thermal, acoustic and security standards. With each sash able to accommodate weights of 200kg and up to 3m in height, the Decalu88 bi-folding door also offers impressive design flexibility, while guaranteeing ultra-smooth running and performance. It has also been tested to PAS24 at 3m tall, claims the company. With slim sightlines and a minimalistic contemporary aesthetic, the Decalu88, in common with the wider Decalu offer, is available in dual colour, marine grade, textured and metallic finishes, as standard. “It also features a 7mm fully adjustable jamb on each side of the door, simplifying squaring and setting,” Nigel said. “And a knock-in glazing bead with pre-inserted and co-extruded flush gasket, means you can glaze each sash in less than four minutes and fit a door in as little as an hour.” www.deceuninck.co.uk
VISOGLIDE PLUS SLIDING DOORS
10%
FIRST ORDER INTRODUCTORY DISCOUNT QUOTE CODE WN-VG01
INDUSTRY LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE Comprehensive install guide & support
THERMALLY BROKEN ALUMINIUM
TRIPLE TRACK AVAILABLE NOW!
Slim profile, Lipped outer frame, Sobinco locks
LARGE SASH WIDTHS
Up to 6.4m wide in 2 panes. 2-4 panes available
STOCK COLOUR CHOICE
White, Anthracite Grey & Black, Dual Colour
FROM
2 WEEK LEAD TIMES Reliable safe site delivery
www.madefortrade.co | Tel: 01642 610799 * Discount applies to new trade customers and first, single item purchase only of the Smart Visoglide Plus Sliding Doors | Image for representation only * Per leaf price is unglazed and may vary depending on size and specification of the door. Lead time is based on a standard colour. Postcode restrictions apply
TRADE NEWS an increasing amount of time at home, were keen to tackle those delayed jobs or make improvements with their disposable income,” explained Rachel Braham-Hill, managing director of Hazlemere. “The decision was quickly made to try to maximise this opportunity and we spent a lot of time and money upgrading our showrooms in Wellington Road in High Wycombe and at Welwyn Garden City.” She went on to add: “There was also investment in new presentation software so we could showcase new designs and our involvement in the Conservatory Outlet network meant we had huge support with our digital marketing activity.
Hazlemere (L-R) Rachel Braham-Hill and Jenna Ledward
On Course For Record Year After £100,000 Showroom Investments An £100,000 investment in its two showrooms and the latest 3D design studio has seen a High Wycombe-based home improvement specialist secure a record year. Hazlemere, which offers a wide variety of conservatories, orangeries, tiled roof extensions, double glazed windows and doors, has enjoyed a 37% increase in orders with sales on the retail side of the business now reaching £7.5m. Part of the Conservatory Outlet network, the company has tapped into the change in pur20 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
chasing habits brought on by the pandemic by introducing the latest flush casement windows to its range, as well as an extensive selection of new doors. The firm is now setting its sights on further growth and is currently recruiting for eleven new jobs, including a production manager, sales administrator, living space sales consultant, conservatory surveyor and several window and door fitters. “Nobody really knew what was going to happen during Covid-19, but we quickly realised that people, who were spending
“All of this saw us accelerate retail sales from £5.5m in 2020 to £7.5m this financial year, with our commercial division also performing very well working with its local authority and education contacts.” Hazlemere has come a long way since it was formed in 1985 by father and son team George and Stuart Braham. The duo started from a small unit in Wooburn Green where they originally manufactured aluminium windows, adding UPVC to its range in 1992 and moving to its current HQ and showroom in High Wycombe. They took the decision to join the Conservatory Outlet Network in 2011 and this accelerated the company’s growth, with current MD Rachel joining at the same time after completing her degree in event management. Daughter of Stuart, she became managing director at just 28-years-old in 2018 and has navigated the business through the pandemic and to its current record year.
TRADE NEWS “There’s definitely a female touch at Hazlemere, with Jenna Ledward joining me on the senior management team as head of production, purchasing and goods In,” added Rachel. “Our sector traditionally has been very male dominated, but this is slowly changing, and we feel we are helping to show females that you can have a fantastic career in our industry. “I think it also helps to make Hazlemere a little bit different to our rivals. There’s an additional warmth and attention to detail that instantly puts the customer at ease and many of our clients come back to us time and time again.” Developing the next generation of talent is extremely important for the company, with the lat-
est round of apprentices now fully installed in production and installation.This complements ‘Launch Pad’, an internal training programme that has been designed to help develop the careers of existing team members, so they meet their own individual aspirations.” Rachel went on to add: “We’ve got some exceptional people in the business and, sadly, we’ve just had to say goodbye to one of the best, with Mark Austin stepping back from his day-today involvement as director to enjoy retirement. “He quite literally did everything at Hazlemere, working across all aspects of the business, including in the marketing team, retail sales and then into our commercial arm, generating significant revenue for us in the process.
He will be deeply missed, but we hope he enjoys more days on his allotment, the golf course and spending time with his four grandchildren.” Greg Kane, Chief Executive of Conservatory Outlet, concluded: “The team at Hazlemere has really utilised the collective strength of the network and our digital marketing expertise and this, alongside its own strengths, has helped it achieve significant growth. “I’m delighted to see that Rachel is continuing the tradition of her father and grandfather and creating one of the best home improvement specialists in Buckinghamshire.” www.hazlemere.co.uk www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk
Luminia Select Partner
Award Winning Windows & Doors to the Trade
Luminia Select Partner
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TRADE NEWS ernment (MHCLG) is expected to publish new standards for energy efficiency. As a result, fabricators across the board could suddenly find that many of their products fall short of new building regulations, effectively locking them out of the market. I think it’s important that all fabricators start looking at new processes and materials now, and consider the implications for fabrication and installation.
Net Zero Carbon: Is The Industry Ready? The Future Homes Standard will come into effect in just three years, and poses a huge challenge for the industry. Dekko Window Systems sales director, Kurt Greatrex, shares how we can be prepared… Sustainability is a topic now talked about daily amongst all levels of the fenestration industry. In 2019, the UK became the first major economy in the world to pass laws to end its contribution to global warming by 2050, a target requiring the country to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero in less than 30 years. But a much more pressing deadline is the Future Homes Standard, the first major stepping stone to becoming net zero carbon that requires all new homes in England to be futureproofed with high levels of energy efficiency by 2025 – just three years away. The strict set of standards will ensure that all new homes built in England from 2025 will produce 75 22 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
to 80% less carbon emissions than homes delivered under current regulations. By June this year, u-values for windows and glazed doors in new build homes will reduce from 1.4 to 1.2, while for opaque and semiglazed doors, this will be standardised to 1.0. The expectation is that by 2025, there will be a further reduction for windows to a u-value of 0.8. A 2025 commitment towards a net zero carbon 2050 will have huge implications on how we operate in fenestration – it’s one of the strictest carbon emission targets in the world, and if we’re going to achieve it, energy efficiency will have to take precedence like never before. Ticking time bomb Amendments to government regulations are always being made, and this autumn, the Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Gov-
I’m certain that come 2025, when the Future Homes Standard is in place, products will look different to what they do now, including bigger frames, higher performance hardware, and triple glazing. As a result, these products will most likely take longer to fabricate and install, and will therefore be more in demand and more expensive. Materials for these products will suddenly be in very high demand, and suppliers will be stretched like never before, which is why it’s imperative to establish strong relationships with trusted suppliers now. The right products At Dekko, we have many products in our armoury contributing towards achieving a net zero carbon goal – both our Infinity range of uPVC windows and doors as well as our Räum range of luxury aluminium products boast low u-values which contribute to sustainability. But we are also the UK’s largest fabricator of Residence Collection windows and doors, a range that surpasses most products when it comes to thermal efficiency. The luxury timber effect window system exudes classic charm and can be used to replace original timber windows in heritage properties, or installed in more modern
TRADE NEWS homes as a high-performance alternative to standard uPVC. Available in three styles – R9, R7, and R² – Residence Collection windows are manufactured with frames using either 7 or 9 chambers, as opposed to 5 or 6 like most uPVC windows on the market, offering excellent thermal efficiency and contributing to a more sustainable future while also reducing overall energy bills. Both R9 and R7 offer a u-value of 1.2 with double glazing and 0.8
with triple glazing, while R² offers a u-value of 1.2 with double glazing, and an impressive 0.79 when triple glazed. All three ranges guarantee an A++ energy rating, easily passing British Building Regulations as well as achieving one of the highest classifications on the British Standard Weather Test. Commitment to success The coming changes to regulations are severe, and will no doubt affect
Carl F Groupco
celebrates 60-year partnership with Fuhr Carl F Groupco is celebrating 60 years as a long-standing supply partner of Fuhr, the renowned manufacturer of high-quality multipoint locking systems. John Crittenden, managing director of Carl F Groupco, said: “Carl F Groupco’s objective has always been to partner with major hardware brands to deliver the quality and reliability that our customers demand. This milestone anniversary demonstrates the strength of our partnership and the quality of the products Fuhr provides. The synergy between the two businesses has allowed us to cement our reputation for high-quality hardware supply and we look forward to further developing this long-standing relationship in the future.”
tomers and we are proud to have worked with Carl F Groupco for six decades. We have developed a mutual understanding of each other’s businesses to ensure we have remained a committed, long-term partner for the ultimate benefit of their customers.”
Carl F Groupco carries the biggest Fuhr range of products in the UK and is the company’s Reflecting the value both comlargest customer worldwide. panies place on long-term Popular Fuhr products include supply partnerships, Andreas the bestselling Multisafe range Fuhr, managing director of Fuhr, of multipoint door locks incommented: “As a family-owned cluding the 856 lever operated business, we value the partnertype three-door lock which is ships we have with all our cusPAS24:2016 and Secured by De-
almost every business at all levels of the fenestration industry. But that’s not to say it’s not possible. We’re not there yet, and it will take time, but despite the huge challenge that faces us all, I believe that with careful pre-planning, maintaining strong partnerships with both suppliers and customers, and investing in the right products now, we can certainly achieve a net zero carbon UK by 2050. www.dekkowindows.com
sign accredited. Fuhr’s electromechanical door lock solutions are at the heart of Carl F Groupco’s SmartSecure range. And the popular ‘slam shut’ locks, stable door, emergency and panic exit locks and tilt and turn hardware completes an impressive offer. John said: “We continually evaluate our hardware ranges to make sure they deliver what our customers need. Fuhr is renowned for its quality, something that aligns with our core values and a reason the company has continued to be a strong supply partner for many years.” The company provides an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware components. It prides itself on the long-standing relationships it has with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers but perhaps few will know just how long-standing those relationships are. As the 60-year anniversary of the partnership with Fuhr shows, Carl F Groupco is a strong, stable and reliable partner committed to building long-term relationships. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 23
TRADE NEWS
Edgetech Service
Still Exceptional Despite Unprecedented Challenges, Say Customers Despite unprecedented challenges, Edgetech have continued to offer outstanding service. These were the findings of the company’s latest regular customer survey. Once a quarter, Edgetech selects forty customers at random and asks them how likely they are to recommend the firm on a scale of one to ten. They then subtract the number of customers who rate them six out of ten or less from the number who give them nine out of ten or more to determine their ‘Net Promoter Score’ – a widely proven metric used in customer experience programs which measures the loyalty of customers to a company. 24 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
The average company scores 10 using the Net Promoter Score system. A score of over 50 is considered exceptional – and this quarter, Edgetech achieved a Net Promoter Score of 63. What’s more, even with the enormous supply chain disruption of the last year, the customers questioned reported that 88% of Edgetech orders were received on time, and that 100% of orders were received in full. Edgetech head of marketing & CX Charlotte Hawkes comments: “Manufacturers of all kinds have been placed under huge pressure by the ongoing disruption of the pandemic, even two years on from when it began.
“At Edgetech, we’ve not escaped that, and have been hit by a raft of inflationary pressure, material shortages, longer lead times and much more. “Against that extremely challenging backdrop, this positive customer feedback is a massive achievement for the Edgetech team. “It’s hugely gratifying that we’ve been able to continue supporting our customers throughout this tumultuous period – and I’m especially pleased to see comments praising new initiatives like our online ordering system, which took a lot of hard work and dedication to get up and running. “While we’re delighted by this feedback, we’re not complacent – IGU manufacturers are still facing big challenges as they continue to recover from the events of the last two years, and at Edgetech, we’ll continue striving to offer them the very highest standard of service.” www.edgetechig.co.uk
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TRADE NEWS
Vanquish Third Party Accreditation Strengthens Partnership With Winkhaus UK our customers, and it really is a game changer for hardware protection. “It means we can provide our customers with even more peace of mind and ensure our hardware protection products will perform as intended.”
The Window Hub Celebrate
New Showroom The Window Hub has opened its brand new showroom on Staple Hill High Street, Bristol. Founded in 2014 by Daniel Robb and Chris Watts, The Window Hub is well-known for its high level of customer care and excellent service. With many people now working from their own homes and wanting to be as energy-efficient as possible, the Window Hub has seen an increase in enquiries. The new showroom was the obvious next move for the company. Daniel is excited to be able to showcase their products to more people. “This new showroom and office space allows us to have the whole business under one roof, making it easy for the team to run the business smoothly and efficiently. Plus, making it easy for our customers to see all the products and make a selection for their home.” “We are looking forward to meeting our customers and being part of the local community” thewindowhub.co.uk 26 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Vanquish Hardware Intumescent Protection has strengthened its partnership with Winkhaus UK thanks to its new third party accreditation scheme. The UK manufacturer of precision Intumescent kits for rebated hardware in timber and composite fire door assemblies has secured IFC (International Fire Consultants ltd) certification for FlexiFire, its graphite-based hardware protection intumescent. It marks a first for the hardware protection industry with FlexiFire said to be the first and only intumescents to attain third party certification. The graphite-based FlexiFire expands upon exposure to heat, preventing heat transfer on rebated hardware, and IFC third party certification covers initial testing, includes audits to assess the consistency of production, and certified products are printed to ensure traceability throughout production. Vanquish’s business development manager Mike Sutcliffe commented: “Our IFC third party certification has already had an incredible reception from
One such customer is Winkhaus UK, and the hardware specialist is delighted with the news. The company’s FlexiFire intumescent product range consists of specifically engineered intumescent shapes with clearance slots and dimensions approved by Winkhaus that allow the locking hardware to function efficiently. Chris Flaherty, Winkhaus UK’s technical director, said: “I’d like to congratulate Vanquish Hardware Protection for this industry first. At Winkhaus, we understand the importance of third party audits throughout the golden thread for fire doorsets and this further strengthens our proposition as we are using the first and only third party audited and approved intumescent hardware protection products, as seen in our test data and fire doorset specifications.” Mike added: “Like us, Winkhaus UK has a continued commitment to the fire door market, having been the first to attain the new Q Mark 3rd party audit certification for Smoke recently for its FireFrame composite fire doorsets solutions, and we are looking forward to strengthening our valued partnership with them moving forward.” www.vanquish-hp.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Latest Technical Insights For Specifying
Fire Resistant Glazing In
Latest Promat CPD Systemglas manufacturer Promat UK, says up-to-date technical guidance on how to specify dependable fire resistant glazing for all kinds of commercial, public and domestic applications is available from in its latest RIBA-approved CPD seminar. “The Burning Question” is a 60-minute seminar which enables architects, contractors and other building professionals to benefit from Promat’s 40+ years’ experience in the design, manufacture, testing and installation of passive fire protection products. Amongst the topics covered are the fire regulations, standards and basics of fire glass classifications, through
to appropriate uses of fire glass, the different types of glass and framing commonly used, and how to specify with confidence. The CPD seminar is available to book now and can be delivered in person in a ‘lunch and learn’ format or via online platforms such as Zoom or Teams. Promat UK says the presentation is ideal for any specifier working on a project where passive fire protection needs to be integrated into glazing elements, such as partitions, screens, windows and doors, as well as atria, glass floors and curtain walling.
Cath McLean, segment manager – glass at Promat UK, and author of the CPD, said: “Designing and installing effective passive fire protection measures using glass requires a thorough understanding of how the different materials combine and interact. And, unfortunately, there is no margin for error, which is why we’ve created this training resource to help specifiers navigate the various regulations and standards and understand how to get it right for critical applications that protect people’s lives.” Promat UK believes it is the only company of its kind providing specifiers with a 360-degree ‘wheel of assurance’ for fire resistant glazing through its complete system, Systemglas. The company says this eliminates risk through Promat’s input at the design stage, its in-house manufacture to 2015 ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards and provision of system testing, plus installation checking to ensure Systemglas is fitted correctly to deliver on its fire protection rating. www.promat.com WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 27
TRADE NEWS home working and a desire for more space. Looking ahead, we are seeking to strengthen support for our customers. I think it is significant that we are now seeing wholesale price rises for materials starting to level off, and we’re genuinely hopeful of not having to pass on any further price increases during the rest of this year.”
A typical installation at an Orangery which features the Residence Collection
Tradelink marks 30 years in the doors and windows
Industry With Bold Growth Plans Established back when the Queen was celebrating her Ruby Jubilee and Barcelona hosted the 25th Olympic Games, Tradelink Window Solutions can reflect on three decades of success supplying trade installers with PVC-U, aluminium and composite frames, as well as conservatory roofs and a growing selection of technologies. From 1992, the business’s early expansion was in Cambridgeshire with sites in Chatteris and then March, where its head office is now located alongside six factories. Acquisitions since then have included MPM Windows in Mildenhall and later, Lee Aluminium during 2010. Four years on saw Tradelink open the first of its Window Centers. In fact, as the fourth largest fabricator of Rehau systems, with five hubs creating an established presence across the South-east and East of the country, the company is looking to offer more customers convenient access to 28 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Stuart Judge, MD at Tradelink Direct
its unrivalled level of service and product quality. Reflecting on the landmark, new MD Stuart Judge, who was appointed last year, commented: “Tradelink has traded very strongly throughout the pandemic, reflecting the activity in the housing market generally which has largely been due to
The company also has bold plans for further expansion as Stuart explained: “I have just appointed a new Divisional Head for our aluminium and ‘Living Space’ business, here at our head office in March; to work with installers who specialise in the conservatory and orangery market. Then we are planning to more than double our number of Window Centers, from the five at the moment, over the next two years. This is going to be achieved through a combination of organic growth and acquiring new sites across the country.” Crucially, the Window Centers offer support for smaller trade installers on a regional basis ensuring that they and their customers have access to technical expertise and showroom facilities. This proactive approach to engagement with the trade is going to be backed up with the introduction of new products planned for Quarter 3 this year. These will include enhanced versions of the R2 and R7 products, along with new composite systems to meet and exceed the latest requirements of the Building Regulations due to be introduced next year. Stuart Judge summed up: “Tradelink has always had a reputation for high quality and reliable service and these are strengths we believe we can build on for the future. Improved technology and the unique finishes we can offer are of real benefit to customers.” https://tradelinkdirect.com/
A Secure Partnership REHAU and Yale have joined forces so you can source high quality TOTAL70 window and door profiles with fully approved and PAS 24 tested Yale hardware, direct from a single supplier with profiles and hardware stocked in REHAU’s Logistics Centre. This unique partnership makes it easier for you to combine product expertise and technical support giving peace of mind from two industry leaders. rehau.com/uk-en/rehau-yale-partnership enquiries@rehau.com Tel: 01989 762600
TRADE NEWS
Quick Switchover
Key To Peerless Partnership
It was a case of needing to hit the ground running for window fitters and manufacturers Ashmore Glass and Mirrors when they received a special order on the same day they switched to fabricating Rehau products. With only five weeks to complete a bespoke project in the middle of an onboarding process, both companies clearly had their work cut out. 30 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Formed in 1996 by two friends with expertise in the fenestration sector, Ashmore Glass and Mirrors (Ashmore) had quickly grown into a prominent supplier of double glazing and replacement doors and windows across the West Midlands. However, following lead-time issues with their previous supplier, the Wolverhampton-based business felt a change was needed if they were to contin-
ue their upwards trajectory. With faster provision of materials a key priority, the team at Ashmore approached Rehau to become their new product supplier. Due to the fabricators’ understandable concerns about potential disruption to their ongoing operations during any transition period, Rehau’s technicians knew time was of the essence when switching Ashmore’s factory over to producing the company’s products. “We knew switching the factory over to new products could take time, as everything would need to be reconfigured from our previous supplier’s arrangements,” says Craig Edwards, co-founder and managing director at Ashmore. “Actions like adjusting the machinery to accommodate new products can potentially lead to any number of problems and important details being missed. So, I don’t think it is an understatement to say we were nervous, as we were keen to avoid any unnecessary downtime. “However, the Rehau technical team were brilliant, turning the fac-
TRADE NEWS we were keen to show they could take the leap with these bespoke, higher-end projects while having peace-of-mind that their supplier would come through for them.” Despite the upheaval around transforming the factory and progressing fabrication on a tighter time frame, Rehau was able to come through for Ashmore, who fitted the range of customised Total70 windows to project deadline. This, in turn, meant the homeowner could enjoy a bespoke window solution with a very strong profile and excellent severe weather ratings, and without the thermal inserts required in competitor products.
tory round in only two days rather than the week we’d previously anticipated, and any potential issues were quickly resolved. They also provided an excellent level of service throughout – we even visited their headquarters in Ross-on-Wye to learn more about the products, and I’ve got to say, we were blown away. Both Michael and I have been in this business a long time, but the support of Rehau’s technical and marketing teams was fantastic, and has really helped our company grow further.” This level of support would be put to the test again instantly after Ashmore signed on with Rehau, with the manufacturer immediately requesting a special order of customised windows for a large house in Wolverhampton. This order, with a design specification consisting of the Rehau Total70 system in
a bespoke colour arrangement – including frames with outer and inner-faces of black ash and cream respectively – would need to be turned around very quickly. “While turnaround for our standard product range is roughly three days, special production orders usually take between six-to-eight weeks,” says Luke Boban, area sales manager for Rehau Windows. “However, the customer required this order within five weeks, so we had to move quickly from the most basic of beginnings, to having a customised product available and ready to fit. “We were conscious of Ashmore’s experience with their former supplier, as they had previously been hamstrung by lead-time issues, as well as problems with delivery and general service. Because of this,
Furthermore, throughout this entire period, Rehau continued to support their customer, who were fabricating 150 regular products a week alongside the special order. The ease of the switch under such pressing circumstances clearly impressed the Ashmore team, who continue to go from strength-tostrength in their new partnership with Rehau. Indeed, both companies worked in tandem to help celebrate Ashmore’s new showroom with an open weekend earlier this year, and Rehau continue to offer an extremely high level of service. “Working with Rehau has been brilliant, as we know they can count on their full support,” says Craig. “We’re constantly in communication, and their marketing incentives and schemes have proved instrumental in helping to change our business model. “We can now target higher-end projects with greater margins that require high-quality solutions, and that would not have been possible without Rehau. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that we have received more support in the last few months than we did in the previous twenty, and we’re looking forward to our continued future with them.” For more information about Rehau’s Total70 range, click here WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 31
TRADE NEWS
Committed To An Exemplary Health
And Safety Record
Rich Fraser
Hardware provider Window Ware already has an exemplary record for health & safety and a rigorous approach to minimising H&S risk in the business. Now, through continued investment in H&S training and qualifications, it’s taken its efforts to the next level and has announced that Rich Fraser, its business development manager for aluminium and commercial, has just gained the National Examination Board in Occupational
READY
TO OPEN UP
Stellar Lift & Slide Aluminium Door System
32 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Safety & Health (NEBOSH) General Certificate. NEBOSH qualifications are widely regarded as the gold standard for health and safety professionals, as well as some of the more challenging awards. Candidates must put in considerable time and effort to cover all the knowledge needed to pass, with a recommended study time of around 125 hours plus extra time spent on revision. Even though Rich Fraser man-
Offering the widest choice of slimline sliding and bifolding door systems in a choice of PVC-U and aluminium to open up more opportunities for you and your customers. Part L 2022 Ready! Ready to talk?
Stellar Bifold Aluminium Door System
TRADE NEWS aged to complete the course in just 12 months, he admits it’s been tough going: “Trying to fit my studies around a full-time job wasn’t easy. I’d be at my desk by 6.30am most days to squeeze in a couple of hours of study before work and hit the books again at the weekend. It helped that everyone at Window Ware has been very supportive.”
explains, “As a company, we proactively invest in our staff to ensure they have all the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their roles and keep the whole business operating at the highest level.”
Rich’s experience with health and safety in previous roles made him an ideal candidate to sit on the H&S committee when he joined Window Ware over three and a half years ago. As his involvement grew and evolved, Rich felt he needed formal H&S training to support him in his role, so he put himself forward for the NEBOSH course. And Window Ware didn’t hesitate to support him.
Sam goes on to say, “We take health and safety very seriously. Our commitment to creating a positive H&S culture spans the entire organisation, from the senior managers to the team leaders and colleagues. It’s up to all of us to look out for each other at work and having a NEBOSH certified expert in house is really going to help us maintain and encourage a safety-first, best practice approach in everything we do. Rich is a great asset to the business, and we are extremely proud of his achievement.”
Sam Nuckey, Window Ware MD
www.windowware.co.uk
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TRADE NEWS Advertorial
ISO9001 QualityAssured Glazing Products
Why Compromise On Your Project? Made For Trade’s renowned engineering-led ethos to fenestration manufacturing takes key next step by attaining valuable ISO9001 quality certification. Keeping control of the details in a thriving manufacturing business is a key objective as a company undergoes expansion, and that control was a significant driving factor behind Made For Trade’s latest achievement: gaining the internationally-recognised standard of ISO9001:2015 with regards to quality control. The enviable accreditation is the latest in a multitude of steps that help to separate and elevate MFT from the competition via the transfer of processes, design and even staff from the high-tech automotive, motorsport and aerospace industries to manufacturing and glazing. 34 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Whilst the term ‘quality’ is often seen to represent the aesthetic look, fit/finish or longevity of a product, in engineering terms it means a significant amount more; it is the discipline concerned with the principles and practice of quality assurance and control for both the product and service. The NQA Certification sets MFT apart as a result, thanks to the precise repeatability of every single aspect of how a Made For Trade product is designed, sold and manufactured. Refining the business to gain the enviable accreditation has been the result of years of work, and particularly so in the last 24 months under the auspices of quality manager Jason Couse, who joined Made For Trade from a parallel role in engineering at the start of 2020. The steps and implemented procedures needed to satisfy the
(l-r) Quality manager Jason Couse and operations director Chris Wann
accreditation process across every single area of the business. This started right back with the experienced MFT sales team and the adoption of consistent processes for dealing with new enquiries, right through to the very last steps as the market-leading fenestration products leave the factory - even the optimised and refined method in which packaging materials are applied. Chris Wann, operations director at Made For Trade said: “Understanding the importance of control in a larger business was paramount as MFT continues to expand. We recognised that a robust system which can provide validated data from all areas is necessary for our own feedback – and to make the informed decisions required for success. This is where the need for a documented and audited quality system came in. “We brought in Jason Couse as our quality manager, who was tasked with supporting other members of the senior management team to document all
TRADE NEWS
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business processes. It has been a challenging two years to get to this point but we are delighted that with Jason’s hard work and guidance the team has successfully achieved an ISO9001 certificate for Made For Trade. What is of key significance however is that we now have a rigorous quality system in place alongside that is tailored specifically to the business.” What does this mean for the trade partner, installer or end consumer? The certification ensures that Made For Trade can now truly quantify their promise of offering the best service in the industry, thanks to an internationally-recognised standard proving that each and every prod-
90 uct follows the same key steps from sales through manufacturing each and every time. The mark is a formal recognition of MFT’s engineering-led ethos and elevates the company above the competition, whilst creating an in-house culture focused on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. Speaking of the new achievement, quality manager Jason Couse said: “Having joined Made For Trade at the start of 2020, the rapidly expanding business already had a very good base to build on; the directors’ engineering background already helping create processes that were ready to be refined and formalised.
“My part was to build on what was already in place to provide a practical and workable Quality Management System (QMS) for improving, monitoring and continually improving all areas of the company, but also with one eye on meeting the requirements of the internationally-recognised ISO9001:2015. The first step was raising awareness of the standard across all members of the staff team and what it means for the organisation, before working with each department in turn to help create processes, develop training needs and identify risk and opportunities.” The Quality Management System (QMS) includes all members of the business in one way or another and is driven from the top. Made For Trade’s directors have been a driving force for implementing the changes, whilst operations manager, Mike Robinson, played a significant part in developing the standards within the quoting and order processing teams, and Frank Donaghy and Rich Bezance doing the same in the manufacturing environments. Furthermore, MFT’s Mark Thompson and Tracy Garrod received internal auditor training as part of the process to expand their skills and achieve recognised auditor standards of CQI and IRCA, with a focus on raising the internal audit practices and continually improving business standards. Gaining the desired accreditation is of course only the start of the journey; ISO9001 is based on continually improving and optimising all stages of how the company operates, allowing Made For Trade to remain at the forefront of manufacturing and efficiency in the fenestration industry. www.madefortrade.co
WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 35
TRADE NEWS
February Sales Up 22.9%, Driven More By Price Inflation
Than Volume Growth
The latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report reveals that builders’ merchants’ value sales in February 2022 were 22.9% up on the same month in 2021, continuing January’s solid start to the year. However, this was driven more by price inflation (+13.4%) than volume growth (+8.3%). All categories sold more. Landscaping (+33.7%) did best. Five categories did better than Merchants overall, including Timber and Joinery Products (+25.6%) and Kitchens & Bathrooms (+25.2%). Plumbing, Heating and Electrical (+15.0%), Decorating (+14.2%), and Tools (+8.8%) grew more slowly. Workwear & Safetywear (+1.0%) was weakest.
Compared to February 2019, a pre-pandemic year, total merchant value sales were 22.6% higher. All categories sold more, with overall growth driven by the strength of two categories: Landscaping (+51.1%) and Timber & Joinery Products (+38.3%). 36 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Kitchen & Bathrooms (+17.4%), Heavy Building Materials (+16.5%) and Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+10.4%) were among the categories which grew more slowly.
Month-on-month total merchant sales were 7.5% up in February 2022 compared to January 2022, with no difference in trading days. All bar three categories sold more including Landscaping (+28.6%), Kitchens & Bathrooms (+10.6%) and Heavy Building Materials (+7.7%). Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA Research who produce this report, said: “February delivered a solid performance for merchants. True, most of the +22.9% headline value growth was driven by price inflation of +13.4%, but in any normal year +8.3% volume growth would be regarded as spectacular. It still is, but we have yet to see the full effects of the uncertainty ushered in by the invasion of Ukraine, a secondary
kick to price inflation and shortages that follow from the disruption to supply chains, and the impending energy price increases. It’s impossible to forecast how these factors play out in different markets, but my money is still on this strong demand continuing.” John Newcomb CEO of the BMF (Builders Merchants Federation) adds: “Continued growth is a positive thing to take away for Britain’s builders’ merchants, but with a note of caution around the relative impacts of inflation over volume growth. Current demand is strong and may well continue. However, the rate at which increased energy and raw material costs are driving up prices and the challenges this poses throughout the supply chain down to the end customer remains a concern.” February’s BMBI report, published in April, is available to download at www.bmbi.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Modplan Increases
Fleet To Support Business Growth
Trade fabricator Modplan has added seven new trucks to its transport fleet to support its continued business growth. The brand-new Mercedes 7.5 tonne trucks, form part of a 15-strong fleet of vehicles to support customer schedules across the UK.
tunity to replace some of the older vehicles in our fleet too. With the price of fuel continuing to rise to eye-watering levels, it makes good business sense to invest in newer, more economical vehicles which are better for the environment and better on fuel costs.”
Commenting on the six-figure investment, Gareth Gough, logistics manager at Modplan, said: “We needed to increase our fleet to support the rise in demand for our products. We also took the oppor-
The delivery of the new vehicles is only the start of the journey for the award-winning trade fabricator, as Modplan has plans for further investment to update the remaining
John Mitchell Technical Manager Carl F Groupco
Experts in Hardware
fleet over the coming years. Heidi Sachs, managing director, said: We’ve seen exceptional demand in the past two years and despite the challenges faced across our sector, we have continued to invest throughout our business. The investment in our logistics division reflects our ongoing commitment to exceptional service across our wide-ranging product portfolio. The new Mercedes lorries are modern additions to our established fleet and will ensure we continue to deliver our commitment to our customers.” www.modplan.co.uk
Get in touch and speak to one of our experts today: t. Peterborough: 01733 393330 t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557
“ Carl F Groupco’s
hardware support throughout PAS 24 testing has been invaluable…” Amanda Hale Roundbrand
e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk
VIEWPOINT
A Polarising
Pandemic
– What It Means For Sliders And BiFolds By Russell Yates, Managing Director, AluFold Direct We’re finally emerging from what I’ve seen described as a ‘polarising pandemic’ – one in which high-income households increased their savings and reduced their debts, while low-income families increased debts and reduced savings. 38 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
According to the Resolution Foundation, 47% of those on the highest incomes saved at least 10% more during the pandemic than they would normally and 17% saved at least 25% more. They were twice as likely as those on the lowest incomes to have reduced debt and significantly more likely to have reduced household spending. The end
result is a £266bn savings mountain, largely concentrated in the bank accounts of the better off. We all know that there is a costof-living crisis looming in the UK, with food and energy costs rocketing, inflation expected to hit at least 7% by the Spring, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine already making things considerably worse. This is bound to put a dampener on consumer confidence and spending, and I think there will be a significant impact on demand for mainstream mid-market products, as household budgets start to be squeezed. However, just as there was throughout the pandemic, there will be winners and losers once again.
VIEWPOINT
The AluFold Direct production operation in Blackburn
Precision and attention to detail are key at AluFold Direct
We will very likely see overall demand fall from the record levels we’ve experienced since 2020, but that £266bn, coupled with rising house prices, is likely to cushion the higher end of the market from the worst of the effects – even when you take into account the fact that costs are already starting to increase. There’s no doubt that the aluminium sliders and bifolds that AluFold Direct supply are aspirational purchases, virtually guaranteed to add value to the home and very much in the eyeline of those who will still have money to spend. Our customers still have every
right to feel relatively confident going into 2022 – their real challenge will be to persuade aspirational buyers to spend on home improvements rather than on holidays or new cars. I think the key messages going out to the retail market need to be that the supply shortages which put some customers off tackling big projects last year are now largely behind us and that homeowners will not be paying over the odds for new sliders or bifolds in 2022 in the same way that they seem likely to pay over the odds for holidays or cars this year. In terms of supply, AluFold Direct is in a good position to support those customers in targeting retail buyers and to help them unlock new business for 2022. Our stock levels remain high, and we are currently back to our market-leading lead times – one week on unglazed frames and two weeks on glazed – delivered anywhere in the UK. The massive investments we made in our operation over the past two years are paying dividends for us and for installers who buy from us. We have
massively increased capacity and now have an industrial scale manufacturing facility in Blackburn, capable of delivering the same kind of speed and service in aluminium that installers have been used to in PVC-U. We have separate dedicated high-speed production lines for sliders, bifolds and windows, in contrast with most of our competitors who push all their products down the same line and are limited in terms of speed and volume as a result. Each of our lines has its own top of the range cutting and machining centres and fully automated four head crimpers, and that enables us to offer consistent and highly repeatable precision outputs at any scale. Our focus at AluFold Direct is on quality, efficiency, and value – installers who choose to partner with us can relax knowing they will get all the support they need to make the most of the opportunities which will still exist and to mitigate the obstacles which the market will undoubtedly face. www.alufolddirect.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 39
VIEWPOINT continent. There are also different decibels, different kilohertz.” This can play havoc within the specification market, he said, because confusion could lead to the wrong products being specified. This is only likely to get worse as interest in ventilation increases.
Ignorance Is Leading To Wrong Ventilators
Being Installed, Warns AW Louvers Ventilation products are being incorrectly specified because fabricators, installers and building owners don’t understand what is required of them, the managing director of AW Louvers, Wayne Irvine, has warned. This situation has been made worse because of the rush to meet the revised Part F of the Building Regulations which comes into force on June 15, and which will result in most windows going into newbuild or refurbished properties providing background ventilation by way of a trickle ventilator. Putting vents in windows increases the chance of introducing outside noise, which can also be harmful to the health of occupants. Unfortunately, the understanding surrounding acoustics – the terminology, the way it is measured, and the different noise 40 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
“It’s quite often the case that somebody will ask for a product to meet certain specification, but that turns out to be the wrong specification because they don’t understand Dnew, C, CTR, the octave bands that relevant to aeroplane traffic, relevant to train traffic, relevant to car traffic, or relevant to groups of people, in fact,” Wayne says. “So, we’ve done a lot of work on that in the past and we’ve developed our products and technical support accordingly.” The SSH 2500EA Acoustic Trickle Ventilator is a market leader product for trickle ventilators, claims the company. It has a slot height of just 11mm, and can provide a sound reduction of 46Dnew in one acoustic model in open position, and 48Dnew with two acoustic models in open position. To ensure that its products meet the technical requirements, AW Louvers has its products tested at SRL Technical Services which is an accredited acoustic performance lab in the UK.
Wayne Irvine
levels – often means that the wrong types of trickle vents are specified. “There’s a lot of confusion around acoustics,” Wayne says. “For example, there are different performance measurements that are referred to by different European testing houses. There is RW in the UK, and Dnew on the
AW Louvers’ range of ventilation products includes over-theframe ventilators, through-theframe ventilators and glazed-in ventilators. They are designed for a wide range of applications, balancing the ventilation requirements with superior noise mitigation. The company’s website – www.awlouvers.co.uk – provides technical datasheets to help you specify the correct product for the right application.
VIEWPOINT
Horizontal
Vs Vertical: Which Is Right For Your Installation? Julian Roberts, technical services director at UAP, a specialist in hardware and locking systems for the fenestration sector, discusses the vertical and horizontal models in the UAP Fullex Kinetica+ K4 range and provides tips on selecting the most appropriate model
all have an influence on whether a vertical or horizontal 3* cylinder is the most appropriate choice. Personal Preference
Personal preference is usually the key driver for the choice between a vertical and a horizontal cylinFor most end users, a vertical der, but it’s important to undercylinder is the expected and most stand the needs of the end user natural installation; whether they to ensure that the installation is are opening the front door to their aligned to the requirements. This property or their double doors includes a consideration of the onto the garden. But different installation environment, along designs of door, different property with the position of the cylinder layouts and personal preference in the door. Sometimes, where a 42 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Julian Roberts
vertical cylinder might be the obvious choice, a horizontal cylinder can provide a solution to a spatial issue, for example, or there may be aesthetic factors to consider. In many ways, whether a vertical or horizontal cylinder is chosen is immaterial, because both options are usually equally simple to install and use. Both can be keyed alike, to enable the end user to operate more than one lock with
VIEWPOINT enabled the in-house UAP design team to create a smaller keyway for the horizontal model, making it even harder to attack the cylinder. By working closely with locksmiths to understand the latest techniques, the UAP design team approaches product development with a problem solving focus that considers new ways to overcome attempts to break in. Meanwhile, an emphasis on the end-user means that the design considers ease of use and convenience too; in this case, leading to the provision of an indentation on the key to indicate the correct key position for the end user, making it easier for them to open the door first time, every time.
a single key if, for example, they have a pair of double doors, or they want to use the same key to access their home at both the front and the rear. Security Perceptions The design of horizontal cylinders means that they are often perceived to offer more robust levels of security, so this may be a consideration for properties where the residents feel vulnerable or locations where there is a greater risk of break ins. In reality, if they are Secured by Design accredited, BSI 3* Kitemarked, and Sold Secure Diamond Standard approved, both vertical and horizontal cylinders will provide a robust level of security that makes it extremely difficult for criminals to break. Nonetheless, perceptions can carry substantial value, both for residents and insurance companies. For developers constructing retirement villages and assisted living projects, offering assurances of the number of different key combinations
provided by the cylinder installed is another marketing message to add into the mix. The UAP Fullex range of Kinetica+ K4 3* cylinders highlights the key difference between vertical and horizontal models. Both models are BSI Kitemarked and Secured by Design accredited and Sold Secure Diamond Standard approved and they have many of the same security features, including UAP’s innovative anti-pick, anti-bump and anti-drill systems. Vertical Kinetica+ K4 cylinders provide more than 200,000 different key combinations thanks to six vertical pins within the cylinder. In the horizontal model, these are replaced with six dimple pins and five laser track side pins, creating the potential for 13 million differs, and making the lock even more difficult to pick. As an additional security measure, the UAP Fullex Kinetica+ K4 horizontal cylinder has been designed to allow only single-orientation key insertion. This has
Just like the vertical model, the Kinetica+ K4 horizontal cylinder is supplied with three UAP Fullex Bio keys, which have antibacterial and antiviral properties. The Bio keys have been tested to ISO 22196:2011 standards and shown to reduce Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia col. They have also been tested to ISO 21702:2019 standards and shown to reduce SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19). The Bio keys’ unrestricted keyway makes it easier to have duplicate keys cut using the UAP Fullex Kinetica key blank, making both the vertical and horizontal models suitable for both domestic use and small mastersuite installations for commercial projects or multi-occupancy environments. Functionality First Ultimately, all cylinders – vertical or horizontal – should be ease to install, smooth to operate and capable of providing robust security performance throughout their service life. For those unsure whether to opt for a vertical or horizontal cylinder, the specification choice begins by selecting a brand you can trust. https://uapcorporate.com/ WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 43
VIEWPOINT
Why Glass Waste Is
Dave Broxton
Costing Your Business Glass processors are under increased pressure to reduce overheads and optimise their use of glass as margins are being eroded at an alarming rated because of rising energy and raw material prices, according to Dave Broxton, MD of Bohle. A perfect storm of excessive demand, logistical problems associated with Covid, and rising energy prices has put a huge amount of pressure on the glass industry, with increased prices being pushed through the supply chain to the glass processor. As an indication of what is to come, the energy surcharge on 44 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
one lorry load of glass from one manufacturer went from £350 to £6,500 during March. “I think it’s inevitable that there will be significant price increases in the price of glass over the coming months,” Dave said. “And the problem with that for the glass processor, whether they’re a large sealed unit manufacturer or a small glass processor, is that they really can’t afford to waste glass anymore. “They need to optimise their production through software, but they also need to ensure that they have a limited amount of wastage, and they can do that by
improving the way in which they cut and process glass.” Bohle has launched its own Silberschnitt cutting fluids, which form a critical part of the Silberschnitt range of cutting wheels and other consumables. Silberschnitt V55 is the standard product for general glass cutting, including mirrored and low-e glass, and it has a standard evaporation time. Glass processors can choose to switch to Silberschnitt V59 for a longer evaporation time, or Silberschnitt V52 for a shorter evaporation time – usually required for cutting laminate and coated glass. For
VIEWPOINT Bohle MD Dave Broxton said.
demanding shape-cutting, or for thicker glass, Silberschnitt W60 is recommended. Choosing the right cutting fluid is essential for cutting glass efficiently: cutting fluid lubricates the cutting wheel, which provides a more precise, stable, high quality cut. The cutting fluid penetrates into the smallest micro-fissures and stabilises the built-up tensions for a longer period of time. By
lubricating the cutting wheel and glass with cutting fluid (with machines by continuous flushing), part of the glass dust is bound and flushed away. The cutting fluid binds small glass chips and stops them from moving onto the glass surface and scratching it. “We have nearly a century of expertise in glass cutting at Bohle, and Silberschnitt is a brand of cutting wheels, pillar posts, axles and wheel holders, that is well known throughout the world,”
“The other thing that makes a huge difference in the quality of cutting glass is the cutting fluid. In the past we’ve sold cutting fluid manufactured by other specialist companies, but we’re now in a position after more than three years of development to launch our very own Silberschnitt cutting fluids, and these have been designed to work perfectly with the whole Silberschnitt system. “Our system works with every single cut and you will come out with a better quality product with a much higher degree of edge quality, and you’ll be able to reduce your waste, which adds value to the bottom line. It’s a no-brainer.” www.bohle.com
VIEWPOINT
Aluminium’s Thermal Credentials
By Phil Slinger – CAB Chief Executive There are some that think aluminium framed windows will not be able to meet the thermal demands of the upcoming changes to Document L of the building regulations. Whilst it’s fair to say that the proposed changes in 2025 do pose a challenge, not just for aluminium, membership feedback at our recent Spring Forum confirms that our systems company members are already prepared. So why make windows out of aluminium when the material clearly has no thermal insulation characteristics of its own? Aluminium is virtually 100% recyclable, not just once but many times over. Since its commercial availability in the 1880’s, 75% of all aluminium produced is still in active service today. The current scrap value of aluminium is almost that of new aluminium as the material is in such demand, indeed there is only enough scrap aluminium available to meet 50% of our current needs for the material. Aluminium alloy can be provided in a wide range of ‘grades’ which offer unique characteristics for a wide range of uses in transport and packaging as well as in construction.
Phil Slinger 46 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
VIEWPOINT aluminium framed systems for use in commercial and residential applications will continue to evolve to meet pending legislation. Whilst frame insulation is a critical factor in the compliance stakes, cold bridging around the frame to the opening reveal also plays a big part in enabling the installed window to achieve its claimed U value. In fact LETI, (the London Energy Transformation Initiative) state that much of the thermal benefit of fitting a new replacement window can be lost by not considering the likely cold bridging where the window meets the reveal.
Structurally, aluminium in 6060 or 6063 grade offers a high strength to weight ratio, allowing for slim frame profiles to be utilised whilst ensuring a high visible glass to frame ratio. This is achieved without additional structural components being added to the material. Together with its recyclability credentials and its structural capabilities, a further consideration in its use in fenestration is the surface finish that it can carry. Anodised or powder coated, these finishes are some of the most sustainable finishes that can be applied to any architectural products, often lasting the lifetime of the building itself. No wonder other fenestration materials can be seen using an external skin of aluminium in order to take advantage of these capabilities. So, to thermal insulation, how is this achieved? Clearly a ‘thermal break’ is needed within the aluminium
profile to introduce a thermally efficient frame design, this is achieved basically in two ways, a ‘pour and set’ or a ‘roll-in profile’. The majority of thermal breaks used today are profiles of polyamide, a glass reinforced nylon, these offer excellent structural rigidity combined with thermal efficiency. There are also various polyurethane ‘pour and set’ systems in use as well, which offer excellent thermal characteristics. Possibly the highest frame U values that can be achieved are tested and recorded by the independent Passivhaus Institute. Aluminium systems are shown on their website achieving frame U value as low as 0.7 using polyamide thermal breaks, clearly demonstrating that aluminium profiles can achieve excellent thermal insulation characteristics. Whilst these systems seem extreme for this years’ changes to Document L, they do demonstrate what is achievable as we move towards ‘zero carbon’ homes. Simply put, current
It is clear to see that members of the association are working towards the uplift of thermal insulation values for all systems to meet or exceed the requirements of Document L being implemented this year. Installer members are also reviewing their installation methodologies to include improved thermal efficiencies around the reveal by introducing new materials and techniques. As an Association, CAB will continue to support and communicate new methodologies to ensure aluminium remains at the forefront of thermal efficiency in the fenestration market. Based at the picturesque Bonds’ Mill development in Stonehouse, CAB staff are always on hand during normal working hours to answer any membership, training or technical aluminium fenestration related questions. News and event information is regularly updated on the CAB website at www.c-a-b.org.uk If you are not a member of CAB and wish to learn more about membership, please contact Jessica Dean at the CAB offices by email jessica.dean@c-a-b.org.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 47
PEOPLE
Sarah Köring Is New Sales Director Europe At Swisspacer Sarah Köring took over as sales director for Europe at Swisspacer on 1 April 2022. The position was previously held by Rutger van Eijk, who has taken up a new challenge. Sarah Köring most recently worked both as sales director North America & Australia-Pacific at “heroal – Johann Henkenjohann GmbH & Co. KG” and as vice president of heroal USA Inc. While there, she helped build up the American branch of the supplier of aluminium profile systems for roller shutters, sun 48 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
screens, roller doors, windows, doors and façades. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in international business at FHDW Paderborn, Sarah Köring followed her master of business administration (strategic management) with a course of study in Switzerland. In her final paper, she investigated the possibilities offered by the use of artificial intelligence in B2B sales. She enriches Swisspacer with her international experience and
industry knowledge. She has gathered experience in various positions in the areas of sales, product marketing and business development. “I am looking forward to the new challenge at Swisspacer and to being able to use my experience to achieve the set selling targets and for leveraging new potential,” says Sarah Köring. More information at www.swisspacer.com
PEOPLE
Trevor Ranns Joins
Deceuninck “Deceuninck has got some great products, and I’ve been impressed with its overall service. I’ve already found new opportunities for some of our customers, including new business sectors, and new products. “Two key growth areas that our customers can really make the most of are Deceuninck’s strength in colour, and flush casements.
Deceuninck has appointed Trevor Ranns as business development manager, who has 30 years’ experience in the PVCU window industry across fabricators and systems companies. Trevor joins the systems company from Norfolk-based fabricator Ashford Commercial, where he spent 10 years developing relationships with commercial contractors and helping the fabricator to diversify operations to optimise opportunities. Significantly, Trevor helped the company to more than double turnover over a four-year period. At Deceuninck, Trevor will be tasked primarily with helping customers to maximise opportunities to improve margin and profit. “Winning new business is always good, but it mustn’t be at the expense of the relationship you have with your existing customer base,” Trevor said. “I’ve already seen many of our fabricators, and I’ve had a very warm welcome.
“Colour is still a significant growth area in the window industry, and Deceuninck’s 30+ colourways from stock is winning our customers business, and improving margin. Meanwhile, more than half of what Deceuninck sells is flush – including our Heritage Window Collection – which underlines the interest shown by homeowners.” Trevor started out as a Technical Service Engineer in the early 1990s. Part of his responsibilities was to help fabricators switch between PVCU systems, which helped him understand the challenges they had to go through. He later worked at another systems company where he helped develop and launch new products. “Trevor and I worked together 25 years ago, and I know that his window experience is priceless,” Deceuninck MD Rob McGlennon said. “Deceuninck is positioned to help fabricators win more work with more margin, and Trevor is the perfect business development manager to help them do that.” www.deceuninck.co.uk
Total Hardware Appoints New Product Designer
Independent hardware distributor Total Hardware has just announced it has appointed Brian Corbett as its new product designer. Chris Pell, general manager at Total Hardware, said: “Brian brings a wealth of experience with a strong track record of successful product development. We are delighted to welcome him to the team.” Brian said: “I’m very happy and excited to be joining Total Hardware. It’s one of the UK’s leading hardware distributors and I’m looking forward to being part of a dynamic, forward-thinking company where I can continue to evolve. I am well aware of their Quantum range of bespoke hardware and look forward to further developing this suite with some additional new products for our customers.” Brian has worked in the fenestration industry for 16 years and comes to Total Hardware from Archibald Kenricks. His role at Total Hardware will be to integrate and add to the company’s expansive product portfolio. Chris commented: “Consumer tastes and requirements are evolving all the time. Our role as hardware suppliers is to anticipate and reflect market trends – this is what Brian will be able to help us do.” www.totalhardwareltd.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 49
PEOPLE
A Fresh Approach To Sales And Marketing For Listers Sam Weber has joined Listers as regional sales and marketing director, bringing with him over 30 years of experience in the window industry, particularly in fabrication.
the market for making and selling windows is changing,” Sam said. “Which is why marketing is such a fundamental part of developing and maintaining a brand identity.
With a base in Brighton, Sam’s key responsibility will be to win new business across the south, from Kent across to Cornwall, while helping Listers’ existing customer base maximise opportunities across business sectors and product ranges.
“We’ve seen how changes in homeowners’ buying habits have helped develop the products we sell today, and it is important that we have that connection between manufacturing and the end-user. Listers has a fantastic range of market-leading products, and I want to make sure that the marketing messages accompanying them help our customers sell more effectively.”
Sam will also refine the multi-site fabricator’s marketing messages to help support installers’ own campaigns and increase leads from consumers, and he will work alongside Paul Tranter and Robert Waller. “I’m very excited to be joining Listers, especially at a time when
Sam will have Listers’ current suite of marketing materials to hand, including professional brochures across all product ranges, video assets, and digital solutions – such as easy marketing and easy con-
Quickslide Welcomes New Group Operations Director windows and doors fabricator, both tactically and strategically. “I’m delighted to have joined Quickslide and I look forward to helping the leadership team move from great to outstanding,” said Mark.
Mark Scaife
Quickslide has welcomed Mark Scaife as its new group operations director. In this role, Mark will take responsibility for the leadership and management of all business operations of the 50 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Explaining what his objectives will be in the new role, Mark said: “Quickslide is a market leader in sliding sash windows, and I want to develop a longerterm strategy for operations that meets the aspirations of the business to stay best in class, as well as develop KPIs and scorecards that will help drive our ambitions in customer service, quality, people and process ca-
nect – which help installers to win business and operate more effectively, while making their interactions with Listers simpler and more effective. Starting work for his father’s window business in 1990 when he was 18, Sam developed his skills across manufacturing, sales and marketing, within companies such as Quantal, Cambrian, Speedframe, Evolution and CWG. www.listertf.co.uk pability and reliability.” Mark has many years of experience in the industry, including ten years as group operations director and three years at COO level. He is also a qualified engineer and Lean Sigma Black Belt and system deployment champion, certified and experienced in optimising processes for speed and quality. Quickslide’s managing director Ben Weber said: “Mark’s expertise and experience is just what we need to continue with our committed focus on further improving the service and quality of our offering, and is in line with our goal to remain at the very forefront of the industry. We welcome Mark to the team as we look forward to exciting times ahead.” www.quickslide.co.uk
CREATING BRIGHT FUTURES
The Aluminium Systems House with it all in-house From dedicated design teams and rigorous testing facilities, to never-ending stock-holding and an invaluable training academy to name just a few. Discover why, when it comes to looking for the right aluminium systems house, we’re the only one with it all in-house. To find out more simply call our house on 01291 639 739, visit alukgb.com/ourhouse or get in touch to arrange a tour of our showroom and facilities at our HQ in Chepstow, South Wales.
ALUKGB.COM/OURHOUSE
FIT SHOW
The FIT Show 2022 10 MAY : 10.00-17.00 11 MAY : 10.00-20.00 12 MAY : 10.00-16.00
FIT Show is the UK’s number one exhibition, dedicated to showcasing the window, door, hardware and flat glass industry. Whether it’s the latest UPVC, timber or aluminium windows, doors or hardware that you are looking for, you’ll find it all at FIT Show. From the latest glass and glazing products and materials, through to flat glass processing equipment and Addison Saws Q60 AdminBase D31 Allied Profiles E19 Allports Group M51 Allumette Group E21 Aluminium Federation Q7 ALUTECH SYSTEMS F31 Alutrade D41 52 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
machinery, new software and technology - FIT Show 2022 has it all. If you’re an installer, give yourself the competitive edge by accessing the latest products, demonstrations and our CPD approved learning programme. For architects and specifiers, nowhere else will you find glass solutions on a larger scale. For full detials visit: https://www.fitshow.co.uk APECS M33 Architectural Vision Systems E31 Association for Specialist Fire Protection T6 Association of Composite Door Manufacturers C21 Aston Lynch Windows & Doors D51 AT Precision S55 Avocet ABS Q39
FIT SHOW
Band of Builders N65 Bel’M G19 Between Glass Blinds H7 Betz Trade M43 Blusafe Solutions UK F18 Bossy Windows Hardware Solution S51 Brisant-Secure G32 Britmet Lightweight Roofing H20 BSI P51 Building Our Skills R7 Business Pilot M10 Carlac D18 CENTRAL EXTRUSIONS C30 Central Platform Services S39 Certass D49 Certass TA D49 CHANGZHOU C.C.H.H.IMP and EXP.CO Q34 Chase Taylor Recruitment Q50 Checkatrade C29 Classic British Slate G7 Clearview M31 Comar Parkside Group B49
Combilift C11 CompDoor F51 Cooke Brothers T56 Corpay C4 Cortizo F11 Council for Aluminium in Building C49 Creative Resins E23 CRL UK A51 DAKO P41 Decorcera B31 Direct Trade (Yorkshire) M42 DL Chemicals H50 DOORCO Q11 Eko-Okna F52 Element Materials Technology B21 Emmegi UK Q41 EvA Fenestration Software B22 Everglade Windows M10 Exlabesa K11 Extrudaseal G6 FENSA C12 Fentrade Aluminum N34 Finnsworth N49 Force 8 (EOT) & Clarke Nicklin M50 Fort Security Doors C14 Gardengate F21 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 53
FIT SHOW Gerda Door by Pioneer R20 Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) C10 Glass Films T30 Glass Glazing Products Magazine S6 Glass News C5 Glass Times Publishing N60 Glazpart P61 Google Nest K41 Gowercroft Joinery E20 GQA R7 Haffner H21 Hird S21 Hodgson Sealants S59 Hörmann (UK) S11 HUBTEX F42 ICB (Fabrications) E32 IKON Aluminium Systems D20 Independent Network K21 Insight Data D61 International Timber R8 Internorm G41 ITALMAC N38 iX250 R6 J Banks & Co E6 John Penny Machinery S49 Joinerysoft E40 Kanda Finance E12 KDOOR/Rebar Group G28 Kencar P30 KÖMMERLING D21 Konig UK P7 KORICHE/Made for Trade N11 Kubu Smart Q31 Leads 2 Trade M52 Liva Cam Makine G51 Logical Timber S60 LP Window Controls C41 Masterframe S50 Maxi Mover T55, T11 Mecal Q60 Media Hut Branded Merchandise S62 Metrotile R61 Morley Glass & Glazing N31 ODL Europe D11 Perdesan D7 PiGs D49 Planet Roofing M21 Plasfoils/Haogenplast R38 Pratley and Partners P66 Pro Installer M31 Prodim S35 Profinder Media E51 Profine UK D21 Profitmaker Window & Door Software P21 PST H6 Pure Vista P29 Purplex Marketing D61 QANW D49 Rapid Prototyping Systems R65 Rationel Windows & Doors C18 54 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Regalead M6 Renolit G11 Renson UK P11 Robafoam K51 ROCKDOOR N41 Ronjack Products E7 Roseview Windows K49 Sapphire Louvres N6 Secured by Design C28 Selecta Systems K60 SERİM ALÜMİNYUM F7 Shandong Ambit Building Materials D55 SKS Monostar C34 Smart Ready H11 Sobinco G21 Solar Calibre Doors R11 STORM Building Products E9 Strongdor P47 Strutz Machinery Q59 Stuga Machinery Q59 Supalite M60 Taixing Sainty Industry Co M41 Technibond P60 Telluria UK R40 The Brass Man India M41 The CPD Certification Service N63 The Fabricator E51 The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers N71 The Installer E51 The Joinery Network M7 The Sempre Group S61 Timco P64 Total Fabricator Magazine Q32 Total Installer (Media Now) Q32 UAB Fenestrum C27 UK Doors Online F51 UL International (UK) C3 Ultraframe R59 Uplifter S41 Vacuum Glazing UK B8 VEKA K21 VEKA Recycling K21 VELFAC C20 Vello Nordic S7 Vertik-Al D20 Victorian Sliders (Ecoslide) R30 Vision Publications N61 Vorne Window and Door Systems M15 We Mind & Kelly Matters C32 Wendland Roof Solutions F50 West Port K59 Westtool E10 WinArtProje / Alu&Art Dergiler A9 WINBAG A8 Windoform D22 Windowparts F29 Windows Active C20 WPR E15 Yakaza Aluminium Door & Window P29 Zero Seal Systems Q20
BLIND-INGLY FABULOUS RANGE OF COLOURS
We believe that love is blind(s). Add a splash of style with our Venetian blind colour range:
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morleyglass.co.uk 0113 277 8722
sales@morleyglass.co.uk
We’re at the FIT SHOW. Come see us at stand N31 to find out more!
WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 55
FIT SHOW
Wendland Set To Make FIT Show Debut
Wendland is set to make its FIT Show debut on stand F50 when the event returns to the NEC from 10th – 12th May 2022. Since 1995, Wendland has been designing and manufacturing a wide range of roofing solutions for the conservatory and home extension market and is proud to be showing its latest offerings to the industry at FIT 2022, as brand manager, Chloe McGrath, explained: “Wendland has been known for its high quality and low prices for almost 30 years now, and we relaunched some of our
key products at the end of 2019. Due to the pandemic, this will be our first chance to show these to the industry up close on our first ever FIT Show stand. We believe that the show will be the ideal place to meet with those who choose and use our products and
Win A Ferrari Track
Day Experience
With Emmegi At FIT There’s a Ferrari track day experience to be won on the Emmegi (UK) stand at FIT, with the machinery specialist celebrating its proud Italian engineering heritage.
Visitors to the stand (Q41) who come to see the Emmegi CNCs, crimpers and saws can also enter a prize draw to win a supercar track day worth £400 and experience for themselves the thrill of driving a Ferrari around Silverstone, home of the British Grand Prix*. 56 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
remind them about our high-quality, low-price ethos. Our Lantern will be at the heart of our stand and visitors will even be able to have a go at building one to see just how easy it is.” The Wendland Lantern will be the focus of stand F50, with visitors able to see the rectangular and square designs which are both available in either PVCu or aluminium. The Lantern has a host of clip-on features and so there are no visible fixings, giving a neat internal and external look. The Wendland Lantern is thermally broken and packed with thermal features to avoid condensation build-up – from the thermal rider rail to the thermal clips, these features combine to ensure excellent performance, says the company. www.wendland.uk.com
Emmegi’s HQ is in Modena, less than 20 miles from Ferrari in Maranello, and close to both Lamborghini and Ducati. This is a region where Emmegi has been established for more than 50 years and where engineering flair and ingenuity have long been celebrated and admired. The Emmegi stand will feature some of the most popular machines sold in the UK, including a Comet X4 4-axis machining centre, a Precision TS2 twinhead saw and an Itaca Solution crimper. There will also be handling equipment on display, with a buy two get third free offer for ACCA XL orders placed during the show. *The prize will be awarded in the form of a £400 Trackdays gift voucher which the winner can use to book their chosen experience, date and location up to the £400 value. www.emmegi.com
FIT SHOW
See The New RT Handle
At FIT Show 2022
J Banks & Co. Ltd is launching its new RT Handle at FIT Show 2022.
Designed in-house and manufactured by an army of robotic machines at their base in Wolverhampton, the Release and Turn (RT) handle is compatible with aluminium, PVCu and timber window systems. Featuring a unique, patented, compact design with a stack height of just 16mm, the handle retracts to sit flush to the sash frame for a sleek, unobtrusive look. It also incorporates a slim lock and key release cylinder and fits all espag and shootbolt systems with 43mm hole centres.
Norman Berrill, business development manager at J Banks, explains: “We’ve already had an incredible response to our RT handles. Installers love the sleek, compact design which really comes into its own when homeowners want to fit blinds on their windows. The 16mm stack height means the end of window handles getting in the way of window blinds! The flush design also prevents snagging on clothes and makes cleaning the inside of windows an easier job.” The RT handle is available in White, Black, Anthracite, Polished Chrome and Silver finishes as standard and can also be ordered in any RAL colour
to perfect blend in with RAL coloured window frames for a minimalist finish. Every handle is supplied ready to fit, with diecast colour matched screw covers and M5 fixing screws. At FIT Show, the J Banks team will be on hand to talk about the product development and their long-standing commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices. Norman continues: “We’ve made significant investment in our manufacturing facility to lower carbon emissions and improve production efficiency. Using state of the art manufacturing robots also ensures high quality standards across all products and we have stock ready and waiting to be shipped.” You can find J Banks & Co. Ltd on Stand E6. WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 57
FIT SHOW
FIT Show Supporting UK PIGs
Events In 2022
FIT Show has announced that it will support all of the People In Glazing, aka PiGs, UK events, including a special edition when the trade show returns to the NEC from May 10-12, 2022. PiGs, a networking event for anyone who works in the supply chain of the glazing industry, will be hosted at FIT Show by Certass on the evening of Wednesday 11th May, organised by Balls2 Marketing. FIT Show 2022 visitors can join the PiGs party on the Certass stand (D49) from 5pm for what promises to be a highlight of FIT Show’s late night opening. Live entertainment will be on offer from Birmingham band, ‘Ellie & The Giants’. FIT Show will sponsor all four PiGs UK events, which includes March 17 in Manchester, May 11 at FIT Show, June 23 in Bristol and September 29 in Birmingham. Speaking about its decision to throw its support behind PIGs and its UK events, FIT Show event director, Nickie West said: “The PiGs event at FIT Show 2019 was a fantastic showcase of our industry coming together, networking and celebrating the fantastic work that its carries out day in, day out. It made perfect sense for us to support PiGs, not only at FIT Show, but across its UK events, which our industry continues to throw its weight behind.” sarah@balls2marketing.co.uk 58 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Feel The Force At FIT Force 8 will be exhibiting a range of new innovations at the FIT Show in May on stand M50. On display will be the company’s unique Stable Door – already well established and which can now be fabricated to open outwards or inwards. To Force 8’s knowledge this is not available anywhere else in the UK market. Also on show will be a new set of French composite doors featuring a new hardware system, which simplifies the process of locking the doors. Force 8 will also be demonstrating a ‘ground-breaking’ lock called Touch Key; as the name implies it works biometrically from your thumb print on the handle in the same way some smart phones work. You are the key, it can be programmed for right or left hand, and can store up to 50 profiles, so would also be ideal for office and commercial use. As a leader in profile bending, there will be a range of products using the company’s unique single length profile bend. This will include their arched French
doors, which feature steel reinforcement around the arched sections of the frame and an extremely secure locking mechanism. The arched frames will also feature part of the Force 8 range of arched and part arched composite doors, with perfect colour matched frames and doors. After the recent EOT (employee-owned trust) was set up at Force 8, the company has gone from strength to strength and Clarke Nicklin accountants, who were heavily involved in the Force 8 employee-owned trust, will be available on the stand to answer any questions about the process and the tax benefits that can be achieved through an EOT which has sparked interest throughout the industry. Without doubt there will be something on the Force 8 stand to interest anyone attending the FIT Show, from products to financial advice. You can visit them on stand M50. www.force8.uk
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FIT SHOW
UK Doors Online
Debuts At FIT Show 2022 FIT Show 2022 marks the debut appearance of UK Doors Online, the specialist aluminium fabricator based in West-Yorkshire. This will be the first FIT Show to take place since the company formed in July 2020 and comes just as the business is reporting record monthly sales and annual growth that has doubled yearon-year. From stand F51, UK Doors Online will showcase their portfolio of aluminium doors and windows. Highlights of the stand will include a set of bi-folds in beautiful Agate Grey, a colour that is set to soon replace anthracite grey in popularity, claims the company, and French doors in a special RAL of UK Doors blue. There will also be a new slimline window on the stand, which complements the full suite of products from UK Doors Online, 60 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
making them a one-stop shop for installers. And while the quality of products and options available will be the star of the show, it is the customer service and support from UK Doors Online that makes them stand out from the crowd, says the company.
Managing director, Andrew Glover, explains why. “When we founded the business 2 years ago, our aim was to offer something others weren’t in terms of customer experience. This covers everything from the products we offer, right through to our instant ordering and quotes, fast turnaround, reliable deliveries, quick lead times, good communication throughout and aftersales support. “We’ve achieved this by constantly looking for ways to im-
prove and innovate in all areas of the business. Our factory, which we’ve recently expanded, is well-equipped and wellstaffed with the right people for the job to ensure quality of product and service. We even have our own fabricator training programme so our customers can be assured our products are made to exacting standards. “Most of all, we’re passionate about what we do and how we do it and I think that really comes across to the people we deal with. That’s why we’re always more than happy to help our customers with their own businesses, by sharing our knowledge and experience.” Visit stand F51 at the FIT Show www.ukdoorsonline.co.uk
FIT SHOW
Doors Without Compromise the most common issues of composite doors from the outset. The result is a top-quality, high-performance product that has already gained the praise of installers, claims the company.
An new business will be premiering its products at the FIT Show 2022 on stand F51. Comp Door in Staffordshire began manufacturing from its impressive 46,000 sqft factory in March. The company was formed by industry experts with the aim of engineering out
Pierre Mifsud, technical director at Comp Door has spent 30 years in the composite door industry and the last 12 years of that at one of the UK’s leading composite door manufacturers. He explains, “We formed Comp Door so that we could apply our experience, know-how and understanding to bring a good product to market.” Using their combined skills, experience and expertise, the technical experts at Comp Door considered every detail of the manufacturing process and composition of the
door, carefully selecting the best quality machinery and components available. Pierre continues, “Our premium cross-laminated Albasia Falcata timber core means every Comp Door meets the new regulations that are coming into force on the 15th June this year. It is then fitted with an auto-fire lock. “This automatic multi-point locking system features four self-locking deadbolt latches to give maximum security and keeps the door latched at all times over the full height of the door. It requires no homeowner intervention as with a single latch and lift lever, thus eliminating the chance of the door not being secured properly.” Visit Comp Door on stand F51 at FIT Show www.compdoor.co.uk
“Big changes lie ahead for our sector,” explains Jon. “As well as new regulations that come into force on 15 June, we are faced with the impact of the Building Safety Regulator which will be run by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Jon Vanstone
The Future Of
Competence At FIT Show What does the future of competence in construction mean for the glazing industry? Find out at Jon Vanstone’s seminar at FIT Show 2022. Jon will discuss the future competence landscape within the construction industry and the impact it will have on the glazing sector. With the new Building Safety Bill and the introduction of the Building Safety Regulator, there is a drive for seismic shift throughout construction and how individuals and organisations are deemed to be competent.
“By understanding these changes and preparing ourselves for them as a sector, we can make compliance easier for everyone, so we can work together to design, build and maintain buildings in a safer way. But we need a clear understanding of why these measures are being implemented and what our industry needs to do now to avoid pain later on.” The ‘Future of Competence’ seminar will be held on Wednesday 10 May 2022 at 11.10am in the FIT Seminar Theatre and will cover: new legislation and regulations that will directly affect installers and the way they work, the future of the industry with the new Building Safety Regulator and the new demands for proving competence. Jon delivers clarity to industry on Building Regulations and Government Requirements with industry programmes. He is the founding chair for HSE’s Interim Industry Competence Committee, Chair of Certass, director of the National Home Improvement Council, member of DLUHC’s Building Regulations Advisory Committee and chair of its sub-committee, the Competent Persons Forum. WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 61
FIT SHOW
Haffner To Showcase ‘World’s First’ Fully Welded Seamless Window Fabrication At FIT Show Haffner will showcase what it says is the world’s first fully welded seamless window fabrication – including transoms and mullions – at the FIT Show, which runs 10-12 May 2022 at the NEC in Birmingham. Haffner’s chief executive officer Dave Thomas commented: “Graf Synergy machines are the next generation in window fabrication machinery. We’re delighted to be showcasing the technology at FIT.” Demonstrations of the Graf Synergy seamless technology will be held every two hours throughout the three-day show. Dave said: “Transoms, cruciforms and reverse butt welding is now achievable 62 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
with Graf technology, as well as the standard quad and cill welding operations. It’s game-changing machine technology for the industry and the difference it makes has to be seen to be believed, which is why we’re putting on live demonstrations throughout the show.” As the company’s exclusive UK supply partner, Haffner will be displaying the complete Graf Synergy range at the FIT Show. Dave commented: “Fabricators are increasingly looking to use the latest technologies to deliver outstanding quality that feature-rich products demand. The Graf Synergy range is the only range for this.”
Haffner will have the largest stand in the FIT Show’s history and will be showcasing what it says is the largest and most comprehensive machine portfolio in the industry. Alongside the Graf Synergy range, Haffner’s stand will also feature machinery from Haffner, which provides innovative and high-quality engineered products at competitive industry prices, and FOM Industries, which offers aluminium fabrication machines that combine the latest technology with skilled engineering and competitive prices. Dave concluded: “The entire industry is gearing up for the most eagerly anticipated FIT Show ever. We can’t wait to show the machinery industry’s latest innovations and the value state-of-the-art technology has to offer. We look forward to welcoming customers old and new to stand H21!” www.haffnerltd.com
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FIT SHOW
Business Pilot Helps Companies To Drive Up Standards At FIT Business Pilot, a comprehensive cloud-based CRM tool designed by installers for installers, will be exhibiting at the FIT Show on May 10-12 at Birmingham’s NEC on Stand M10. Managing director Elton Boocock – along with partners Ryan Breslin and Ryan Schofield – will be discussing recent developments, including the integration with the remote selling tool Tommy 64 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Trinder. “We want to sit down with our customers to discuss some of these new features,” Elton says, “and we’ve actually got Chris Brunsdon from Tommy Trinder on our stand to show installers how their favourite CRM tool can be seamlessly integrated with their favourite selling tool.” Another key integration that Busi-
ness Pilot will be demonstrating is the partnership with Fensa. “Business Pilot is all about professionalism, about driving up standards and profitability within your company, so it is a natural development for us to work with professional bodies to easily and efficiently record all relevant certificates as part of the platform,” Elton says. “Collaborations such as these – and there are many more in the pipeline – are what we want to discuss most with our customers and with prospects. Importantly, we want to discuss how these developments can improve the way they work.” While Business Pilot is an off-theshelf solution, it is designed to fit with installers’ needs, not the other
FIT SHOW
The Joinery Network
Makes It Easy To Add Timber Doors To Your Product Offering
way round. For example, new landing pages deliver dedicated, role-specific dashboards: users can select the dashboard/s most relevant to them, for example sales, surveys, service or operations. Each is designed to deliver the most relevant tools to users’ fingertips and allow those who perform multiple roles within a business to switch easily between them. “Business Pilot is tailored to the needs of businesses,” Elton says. “FIT Show is a great opportunity for us to talk to business owners about how their companies are run, and how we can develop the software so that they work smarter.” Visit Business Pilot on Stand M10 www.businesspilot.co.uk
The Joinery Network comes to Stand M7 at FIT Show from 10 to 12 May at the NEC with its new range of Lignum timber entrance doors. With 57 varieties, the door range has been created for both joiners and installers in mind. “At FIT Show we are focused on showing installers how easy it is to add timber doors and windows into the product mix they offer,” says Luke Piper, director at The Joinery Network. “There’s a lot more interest in timber than ever before. We have done all the hard work creating the range, and getting all the weather and security testing sorted to create the most beautiful collection of doors. “Both the trade and consumer brochures include all the door designs with paint colours and glass options, as well as info
on handles and hardware. The complete range is tested to PAS24:2016 and has Secured By Design accreditation. “Visitors can also see Lignum entrance doors on our decorative glass partner RegaLead’s stand, next to us at the show, and on the International Timber stand (R8). Both are Affiliates of The Joinery Network. “We have taken a cue from the popularity of composite doors to make it really easy for homeowners to choose what they want. There’s a huge choice of designs and colours, backed up with excellent consumer marketing.” Luke adds: “As well as talking to installation companies, we are also looking for manufacturing partners across the UK.” www.thejoinerynetwork.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 65
FIT SHOW
GGF & FENSA Provide Industry
Information Bank At FIT FIT Show visitors that want to find out more about recruiting new talent, upskilling, winning more new business, or how to navigate the new building regulations, can find all the answers on stands C10 and C12 with the GGF and FENSA respectively. The two organisations will also be sharing their expertise in a series of talks throughout the show. “Between our two industry bodies we have a wealth of knowledge on all of the issues affecting the sector today, including those that have become a top priority,” explains Anda Gregory, chief development officer at the GGF. “Which is why we want to use this year’s long awaited FIT 66 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Show as an opportunity to share this information with industry colleagues face to face. “Visitors to the GGF stand can expect to find out more about our Skilled Pathways Scheme and training offering. We can offer member companies everything they need to attract new talent and full training programmes to employees. It can feel like a big mountain to climb when you first start looking into offering apprenticeships, but we think we have created something different that will achieve real results and we’re incredibly excited to share this with visitors to the show, first-hand.” Lis Clarke, operations director at
Left: Anda Gregory. Right: Lis Clarke
FENSA and BFRC explains what visitors to stand C12 can expect to see: “Exhibiting alongside the GGF, we are keen to support the industry with the implementation of the new Building Regulations. There has been much discussion about how we are going to meet this new challenge and what installers need to be aware of, so we want to offer our support with more clarity and practical advice. “With over 15 million certificates now issued by FENSA, we’ll also be encouraging our installer members to use our 20th anniversary to their advantage when attracting new business.” Anda concludes: “Both GGF and FENSA are looking forward to connecting with industry peers in person to provide the trusted expertise that the industry so needs and look forward to welcoming visitors to our stands at the show.” www.ggf.org.uk www.fensa.org.uk
FIT SHOW
Leads 2 Trade to Launch
‘Ultimate’ Sales Tool For
Installers At FIT Show Leads 2 Trade says it is set to completely change the sales and lead landscape for installers – and will reveal all at this year’s FIT Show. The provider of double-qualified sales leads to installers in the home improvement sector will be on stand M52 at the event, which takes place at The NEC Birmingham from Tuesday, May 10-Thursday, May 12. According to the company, it has done it again – and produced an offer that no other lead generation
network provides. Andy Royle, co-founder and managing director of Leads 2 Trade, said: “Our premium leads with our no pitch no fee offer have been the best in the industry since 2020, but we want to make them even better and provide our Leads 2 Trade members with the ultimate USP to win work. “With some installers reporting a definite shift to receiving fewer enquiries from their self-generated efforts, we are exclusively offering them the ultimate sales closing
Explore the new world of door innovation Discover the world of DoorCo and our unrivalled innovations at FIT Show 2022 on stand Q11.
Email. info@door-co.com | Call. 01625 428955 | Visit. www.door-co.com Motorway House, Charter Way, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 2NY
NEC BIRMINGHAM, 10-12 MAY 2022 FITShow.co.uk | #FITShow22
tool – and it’s totally unique.” Leads 2 Trade’s confirmed sales appointment leads, with an 85% appointment confirmation rate and a no pitch no fee guarantee have proved hugely popular with members for window, door, conservatory and replacement conservatory roof leads. The company says its new offer, however, will trump everything that has gone before. “Our members typically achieve a 1:3 conversion to sale with a cost of sale as low as 8% and now they will be able to benefit even further from using our leads service. We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to our stand to find out more – they won’t be disappointed.” https://bit.ly/3xZ6JSF https://bit.ly/3MuTZH9
FIT SHOW
Uni-Blinds Integral Blinds Package
Blinds and wants to find out more. And with our prize draw, there’s another valuable reason to visit our stand, particularly for anyone who hasn’t installed Uni-Blinds and wants to experience just how easy they are to install.”
Window installers have the chance to win a package of five manually controlled Uni-Blinds integral blind units worth around £1,000 simply by entering their name into a free prize draw on the Morley Glass stand at the 2022 FIT Show.
Morley Glass manufactures all its Uni-Blinds at its Leeds factory using only ScreenLine integral blind systems from Italian company Pellini. The combination of Italian design flair, engineering quality and manufacturing excellence by the Morley Glass team ensures that Uni-Blinds continue to improve the standard for integrated blinds that are full encapsulated with a glass unit.
Worth £1,000 Up For Grabs In Exclusive FIT Show prize draw
The winner will receive a package of Uni-Blinds which will provide five manually-controlled integral blinds – depending on the window sizes up to two square metres in area. Alternatively, the winner could choose a package of motorised MB System or solar powered W Smart blinds to the equivalent value of the manual blinds. To enter, installers will need to drop their business card into the prize draw box on the Morley Glass stand N31 at the FIT Show, which takes place from 10-12 May at Birmingham’s NEC. A visit to the stand will also pro68 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
vide the opportunity to explore the recently expanded range of Uni-Blinds integral blinds, with all systems on display to see and try out in person. Some of these products will be taking centre stage at an industry event for the very first time, including the pleated blackout blind and symmetrical Venetian integrated blind with cordless slider, the SV+. They will be showcased alongside a new integral blind system designed for hospitals and healthcare facilities, ScreenView and a new tech upgrade for the solar powered W Smart integral blind which allows it to be controlled from a smartphone. Ian Short, MD of Morley Glass said: “We’re so excited to finally be able to exhibit our great new products at the FIT Show and welcome our customers, industry partners and anyone who is new to Uni-
Product quality is backed by the highest service standards, with a quick turnaround meaning UniBlinds are available for delivery nationwide at no additional cost in as little as 10-12 days, when ordered by 10am on Thursdays. Register now for your free tickets to the FIT Show at www.fitshow.co.uk Find out more at www.morleyglass.co.uk
FIT SHOW
Glazing Summit To Host
Cocktail Party At FIT Show
Allumette Group Returns To FIT Show 2022
The Glazing Summit is hosting an exclusive party to celebrate the launch of the 2022 event at this year’s FIT Show, which takes place at The NEC Birmingham from Tuesday, May 10-Thursday, May 12. The Glazing Summit Cocktail Party will take place on the Wednesday evening from 5pm until late at the Purplex and Insight Data stand D61. Purplex and Insight Data are organisers of the Glazing Summit, and during the three days both will be running a series of free marketing seminars. Visitors to the party will be able to enjoy a selection of special cocktails produced fresh by our own mixologist and an evening of great networking and conversation in a relaxed, informal setting with the opportunity to connect with industry VIPs, Glazing Summit speakers, sponsors and guests. Andrew Scott, founder of the Glazing Summit and CEO of Purplex and Insight Data, said: “Our drinks evening will be the perfect appetiser to Glazing Summit 2022 and visitors to the FIT Show are welcome to drop in and find out more about
the Glazing Summit and speak to our sponsors, many of whom have supported us from the very beginning and our first Summit in 2018. It should be a great evening.” The Glazing Summit, a one-day conference and an important date in the industry calendar, takes place on Tuesday, October 18, at Edgbaston Stadium and Conference Centre. After another sell-out last year, organisers are again expecting to attract more than 400 leaders and CEOs from across the industry. And the list of big-name sponsors is growing all the time. It includes headline sponsors Yale, MACO, Edgetech, Exlabesa, Unique Window Systems, who are sponsoring the Glazing Summit Dinner, Window Ware, Glazpart, Caribbean Blinds, Carl F Groupco, Shelforce, Business Pilot and Chase Taylor Recruitment. Plans for an official Glazing Summit 2022 launch event later in the year are already underway. www.glazingsummit.co.uk
Allumette Group has announced its return to the FIT Show in May. Stand E21 will feature products from group companies, Ikon Aluminium Systems, a manufacturer of architectural aluminium building products, and powder coating specialist, Vertik-Al. As the company celebrates its twentieth year, Ikon Aluminium Systems will be showcasing its louvre range. Under the theme ‘Ventilating the Nation’, visitors to stand E21 will learn how products such as the continuous, demountable and barrier louvres, alongside louvre doors, can facilitate air flow demands. Vertik-Al, meanwhile, will be proving that functional doesn’t have to mean dull and boring. Grey product will not feature on the stand! Each Ikon product will be powder coated by Vertik-Al to showcase the group’s coating capability and standard of finish. A wall of colour will display a sample from the 3500+ colours and textures available through Vertik-Al. Fabricators, installers and systems houses are encouraged to visit stand E21 where the Vertik-Al and Ikon teams will be available to answer questions and give advice on products and services, not least on how to maximise their market potential. www.allumetteltd.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 69
FIT SHOW knowledge in their own area of expertise.” The full Ultraframe seminar programme is: Tuesday & Wednesday: • 11am – Building & transforming conservatories under the new Building Regs (Andrew Thomson, design & development director) • 1pm – Building extensions under the new Building Regs (Andrew Thomson, design & development director) • 3pm – Social media & digital marketing (Dan Bradley, digital marketing manager) Thursday: • 11am – Innovative building methods for the new Building Regs (Alex Hewitt, marketing director) Andrew Thomson
Ultraframe FIT Seminar
Programme Announced Ultraframe has announced a comprehensive seminar programme to be delivered by an experienced company-wide team at this year’s FIT Show. Visitors to the Ultraframe stand R59 will be able to learn firsthand about everything from building & transforming conservatories under the new Building Regs through to social media & digital marketing, from the comfort of a purpose-built seminar theatre.
Explaining more about the company’s busy seminar schedule and what visitors can expect to learn, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “Like everyone in the industry we’re 70 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
very much looking forward to getting back face-to-face with the industry at this year’s FIT Show. Along with showcasing our new hup! extension system and other new products on the stand, our seminar programme is a key focus for us. We know that our industry never stands still and so people find it hard both to keep up with the latest news and also to take time out for training, and so we thought that allowing people to pick up vital knowledge on current ‘hot topics’ whilst at the FIT Show was the perfect solution. The seminars will be presented by members of staff from marketing and research & development, each sharing their
• 1pm – Social media & digital marketing (Dan Bradley, digital marketing manager) Continuing, Alex said: “We know that the imminent changes to Building Regulations have raised many questions for installers and so we have two seminars designed to educate people through building & transforming conservatories and building extensions under the new Regulations. Delivered by myself and Andrew Thomson, our design & development director, we’re confident that these sessions will answer any questions that people may have. Our third seminar topic is focused on social media and digital marketing. Delivered by our digital marketing manager, Dan Bradley, these sessions will deliver a succinct masterclass in creating engaging digital content and making the most of the many digital tools available to Ultraframe customers.” www.fitshow.co.uk
FIT SHOW
WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 71
FIT SHOW
Kömmerling’s Coming To Celebrate At FIT
Andy Clear
Augmented Reality Creations
Co-Founder Makes 30 Under 30
Campaign Finals Andy Clear, co-founder and COO of tech start-up Augmented Reality Creations (ARC) has been named a finalist in the FIT Show’s 30 under 30 campaign, in recognition of a new innovative software. The 30 under 30 campaign is designed to shine a spotlight on the rising stars of the industry, and recognises those who are making waves and pushing boundaries in fenestration. At 24, Andy, along with fellow university graduates Zack Tuff and Kristian Woolhouse, have launched ARC Design, a webbased 3D design and visualisation software which allows homeowners to design their own conservatory within an installer’s website, request a quote, and then use the incorporated augmented reality features to view their design while walking around their garden.
Visit the ARC exhibition at stand D61.www.arc-solutions.co.uk 72 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Kömmerling have a large stand at this year’s FIT Show located at D21 with a wide range of premium window and door solutions under the main brand and also under that of Legend and WarmCore. It will also be an event to remember as the brand celebrates the 125-year anniversary of the original business with a champagne reception central to their festivities. This year’s show will showcase all variants of the flush sash window including the concealed mullion, along with premium upgrades to the PremiLine patio door, 70mm, 76mm and 88mm window variants and new head vents and cill range for Kömmerling 70. WarmCore will also feature on the stand with patio and bi-folding door options, as will the Legend window and door system which includes a dedicated cavity closer and the Kömmerling VS sash window. But the
big draw to the stand will be the celebration of the important milestone for the business. While the celebratory bar will be open for the duration of the show, on the Wednesday late night this will be transformed into a cocktail area, where revellers will be able to enjoy the festivities up to the 8pm closure of the show. Robert Thiroff, managing director of profine UK and Kömmerling commented: ‘This year’s FIT Show is arguably our most important event yet in the UK given our relatively new facility, new brands and the celebration of 125 years. With the owner Dr Mrosik also due to fly into the event, we want to make it one to remember for all the right reasons and to celebrate with customers, business partners and the industry as a whole.’ www.profine-uk.com www.kommerling.co.uk
FIT SHOW
Element Focused On Helping Manufacturers Improve
Testing And Certification At FIT Show Element Materials Technology will join industry peers at FIT Show 2022, as the exhibition returns after three years to Birmingham on 10 – 12 May 2022. During the three-day event, Element will be showcasing the range of testing services it offers to door and window manufacturers. Visitors can engage with Element’s team of expert colleagues on stand B21 over a wide range of testing requirements, such as security, durability, weather, acoustics, smoke, fire and photogrammetry. 2022 is also a landmark year for Element, as it is the 25th anniversary since BM TRADA, part of the global testing organisation,
launched its ‘Q-Mark’ third-party certification scheme for construction products. Leigh Hill, the divisional director of fire & building products, said: “We are very excited to be back at the FIT Show this year and are looking forward to helping door and window manufacturers with their testing and certification requirements. “We have continually developed our services and our technical capabilities and have invested heavily in our UKAS-accredited laboratories to raise standards across the industry. We’re here to support manufacturers through changing regulations like UKCA marking and updates
to Document L, to emerging issues such as supply chains impacting on product certifications, ensuring that they can continue to bring new products to market quickly and cost-effectively.” In addition to the 25th anniversary of the Q-Mark certification scheme launch, 2022 marks 30 years since the introduction of leading fire protection product certification scheme ‘Certifire’ from Warringtonfire, also part of Element. Alongside these anniversaries, it is 50 years since Warringtonfire started conducting fire testing at its High Wycombe laboratory. Element operates out of its flagship test laboratory in Wednesbury, Birmingham. At the site, manufacturers’ can attend and witness door and window testing such as PAS24 security attack testing, weather testing and cycle testing. https://bit.ly/3KuXWtY WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 73
FIT SHOW
Wake hup! To The Future Of Home Extensions
Visitors to the Ultraframe stand R59 at this year’s FIT Show will be the first to see the company’s new hup! building system. Ultraframe says hup! is the better way to build home extensions and conservatories, consisting of a fast to build and highly energy efficient wall solution that can be used in conjunction with any Ultraframe roof – allowing installers and builders to create every possible style of home extension, orangery, or conservatory, quickly and easily. Explaining more, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “There are many challenges facing installers today: brick and skills shortages, more complex installations which increase site time, unpredictable weather, complex 74 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
consumer demands, post-Covid demand, and of course, the changes to Building Regulations. We have put huge amounts of research into the hup! system to create a solution to these problems – and more – and we think that installers will be delighted with the result.” Continuing, Alex said: “The hup! system is truly unlike anything else on the market. hup! uses highly energy efficient and BBA approved Ultrapanels in place of brick walls, and engineered Ultraframe roofing systems in place of timber and slate roofs, making it five times faster to build than traditional methods. Available in any roof shape on footprints with 90° corners, installers can com-
bine hup! walls and claddings with a choice of 5 Ultraframe roofs to create a bespoke hup! extension or conservatory. With hup! there is far less mess and disruption than with traditional methods, meaning happy homeowners. Finally, the groundbreaking technology in Ultrapanels means that a hup! build is on average at least five times more energy efficient than the average UK home so hup! extensions are every bit as warm and thermally efficient as the rest of your home – if not warmer!” Along with the revolutionary hup! wall system the new Vista and Flat Roof choices will be on display at FIT along with other hup! compatible choices, Glass Roof, Ultraroof, and Livinroof. According to Ultraframe, the huge amount of style options for hup! extensions, allows for styles ranging from lean-to’s and gables, through to contemporary new choices such as the reverse leanto Vista with a choice of pitches, or the new Ultraframe Flat Roof. In total, 13 roof styles ensure complete design flexibility, catering to the most adventurous homeowners.
FIT SHOW
QANW Joins The Installer Support Hub At FIT Show
Concluding, Alex said: “Our ambition is to change the way people extend their homes by harnessing the strengths of conservatory installers who already provide a superior service in terms of design, customer service, speed of build and project management. With hup!, what would usually take months can be built in weeks. This is because hup! is fast and simple to build from the pre-manufactured kit. As the majority of the building work is done in a factory, this also means less mess and disruption for the homeowner. This next generation of home extensions will be more thermally efficient than ever, yet still have plenty of natural light as a result of large areas of glazing. hup! is thermally efficient, simple and quick to install, and designed to work with any windows, doors and claddings. We believe that installers will win work from local builders because they will be able to increase the capacity of fitting teams and provide warmer, brighter, better designed extensions far quicker than a traditional builder. Never has a strapline been truer than when we say that hup! is the better way to build.”
Quality Assured National Warranties (QANW), the insurance protection experts for home improvements & construction, will join the Certass Installer Support Hub at FIT Show 2022.
https://bit.ly/3vBhnx6
Gemma Swankie, head of sales
A must-visit stand for installers to find expert advice on all aspects of their business, the addition of QANW as a stand partner is a perfect fit. Jon Vanstone, chair of Certass and FIT Show Ambassador, says: “We are so pleased to welcome QANW to the Certass Installer Support Hub. Their expertise in protecting consumers’ home improvement investments with Insurance Backed Guarantees and Deposit Protection Insurance is a welcome addition to our stand. It’s all part of Certass’ focus on supporting SMEs with a complete package of member benefits to help with every part of their business.” QANW is one of the largest IBG providers in the industry and offers a range of benefits to installation companies when they register installations with them.
and marketing at QANW says: “We work with certification bodies, including Certass, across a range of home improvement sectors, to help them offer a ‘one-stop-shop’ style of job registration to make life easier for installation companies. “We understand from our member surveys that many installation companies fit products other than windows and doors, including roofline, conservatories and roofing work, so we offer schemes that cover a whole spectrum of work types under one roof. “We’ll be available to chat through all of our IBG and DPI schemes as well as the additional benefits we offer members. We’ll also be taking a guest-spot on the stand presentation programme to explain how we can help product manufacturers with bespoke schemes for their installer networks.” The Certass Installer Support Hub is on Stand D49 at the show and has been designed to bring the award-winning Certass Members-only Forum to life. Stand events include daily seminars about certification, competence and regulation. www.qanw.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 75
FIT SHOW
Ultraframe To Showcase
Grand Designs Solutions At FIT Ultraframe has announced that it will be showcasing and launching its latest innovations in conservatory and extension roofing technology at the FIT Show, which takes place at the NEC from 10th – 12th May. The Clitheroe-based industry stalwart will showcase the exciting new developments on the large, front-of-house stand R59. Explaining more about what visitors to the FIT Show can expect to see on the Ultraframe stand, marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “We’re extremely excited to get back to meeting so many from our industry face-to-face at FIT. The new innovations on display will provide installers and builders with fitter-friendly ways to create the ‘Grand Designs’ demanded by
today’s discerning homeowners. As with all of our systems, they are not only fitter-friendly, but also beautiful, highly configurable, and extremely energy efficient. A huge amount of work has gone into their development, and we cannot wait to share them with the industry.” Alongside the new systems on display, Ultraframe will also be showcasing important enhancements to current systems, as well as demonstrating the further bolstering of its already-impressive marketing support offering. Concluding, Alex said: “Here at Ultraframe we work as hard on our support services as our products, and at FIT we will be demonstrating a range of new marketing
Alex Hewitt
support tools, including our digital samples. We will also have an on-stand stage hosting seminar presentations on new products, industry insight on hot topics such as Building Regulations, and digital marketing support. The seminars will be a great way for visitors to our stand to learn more and interact with members of the team. See you at FIT!” https://bit.ly/3ORNoso
inal, our foam-core option and entry into the world of DoorCo; Flip, our revolutionary glazing cassette option that is standard across the DoorCo range; Firecore, our FD30+ fire door that is a step above the rest; as well as our approved components including Glazing and Paint.
Composite door supplier, DoorCo, is returning to FIT Show for the first time since 2016, with what the company says is the ultimate composite door industry offering, showcased on stand Q11.
“Our aim for the exhibition is to not only showcase our comprehensive product offering, but to connect with customers, prospects and the industry as a whole. It’s a great chance to catch up with our team and meet some of the newer members too. There will be representatives from our overseas partner DoorCo KR, customer services, sales and marketing. Plus, the IT and manufacturing teams will be on hand to discuss the technology behind DoorCo – such as our unrivalled onboarding support and paperless manufacturing system which makes order information highly accessible for customers and offers the option for personalised barcoding and JIT delivery.
Dan Sullivan, MD comments: “It’s been a while since DoorCo exhibited at the FIT Show and since 2016, DoorCo has certainly evolved. We still have our same core values of being a conscientious supplier, committed to constant innovation, never compromising, and always with our customers and their customers in mind. And this year, we are returning with an all-new brand supported by a comprehensive range of unrivalled composite door innovations. These include: Gripcore our solid timber-core door; Orig-
“FIT is the only dedicated exhibition for the industry, and with the delays thanks to all the trials of the last two years, visitors will be even more hungry to link up with the supply chain and see the latest innovations – something which DOORCO has in abundance. We’re excited to be back from both a business perspective and socially, so come along to stand Q11, tuck into some Korean tapas, enjoy a drink on us and find out more about the ultimate industry composite door offering.” www.door-co.com
DoorCo Is Back At FIT With Much To Share
76 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
FIT SHOW is the latest innovation from the West Yorkshire-based systems house, and is set to be a big hit with existing customers and other fabricators looking to switch or add a supplier, claims the company. So, to make sure you don’t get left behind on what’s new in the market, register now for free VIP tickets using the QR code and head to stand F31. This will be the third time Alutech Systems has exhibited at FIT Show, the first time being 2017. Since then, the company has grown significantly and the stand will reflect that by featuring more products and configurations than ever before. As well as the new aluminium window, there will also be a chance to see first-hand just how versatile the highly popular BF73 aluminium profile system really is, with a single door, French doors and corner bifold presented on the stand.
Alutech
Systems Unveils New Aluminium
Window At FIT Show
Alutech Systems, one of the UK’s fastest growing aluminium systems supplier, invites you to join them on their stand F31 at the FIT Show 2022, NEC Birmingham, 10th–12th
May, for the exciting unveiling of their brand-new slimline window system. The company has worked tirelessly perfecting this eagerly-anticipated new product, which
Managing director, Steve Hudson, commented, “We can’t wait to see the reaction of visitors to our stand and have no doubt the new window system will go down a storm. It means that fabricators can now count on us as their main supplier for the key products they need. And we’re looking forward to helping them grow their businesses with this enhanced product offer. “It’s also a chance for our customers and suppliers to meet the team and put a face to a name. And the insight we get from talking to people in this capacity as we showcase our products is second to none. So please do come along and let us know what you think and discover the many other benefits of partnering with Alutech Systems, such as industry-leading lead times and UK-based technical and customer support.” Visit Alutech Systems on stand F31 at the FIT Show 2022, NEC Birmingham, 10th-12th May. www.alutechsystems.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 77
PRODUCT NEWS
Yale Unveils Smart Hardware For Windows And Doors Yale has announced the launch of SensCheck, its new integrated smart window and door lock sensors. This new smart addition to the company’s hardware portfolio means that fabricators and installers can offer homeowners the option of being able to check the status of their doors and windows on their smart devices and phones. 78 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
The Yale SensCheck Door and Window Sensor range is currently compatible with Yale’s Lockmaster door locks and several of its largest-selling window lock ranges, including the Rapide and Yale Shootbolt systems. Soon to follow from Yale’s range of smart hardware are its AutoEngage auto-firing door locks for composite doors,
PRODUCT NEWS patio locks, bi-fold door locks and tilt and turn window hardware. Yale SensCheck allows the homeowner to be notified via the Yale Smart Living Home App if their doors are open or closed, locked or unlocked, and whether their windows are in the night vent position. As well as checking the door or window status, SensCheck can be set to give a chime when the window or door is opened. SensCheck is also compatible with leading voice partners Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant enabling homeowners to ask a variety of commands, such as “Alexa, is my front door locked?” and “Alexa, is my bedroom window open?”. Paul Atkinson, managing director at Yale, comments: “We have 180 years of trusted innovation behind us, and have enjoyed significant sales of smart door hardware since 2010, so we have learned some valuable ‘smart’ lessons along the way. This provenance means that all over the world we’re trusted to make homes secure, and people feel secure too. The Yale SensCheck range is the latest in a long line of products that do this. “The range utilises smart technology to provide homeowners with ‘instant connected security status’, enabling them to protect the things that matter most and be sure of their door and window security for instant peace of mind.” Paul adds: “For fabricators and installers, the SensCheck range provides a fresh competitive advantage. Household penetration of smart home technology is currently at 41.6% and is predicted to reach 85.7% by 2025. With Yale smart hardware incorporated into windows and doors, fabricators and installers can benefit from offering smart windows and doors as an addition to their range.” The Yale SensCheck sensors have been accredited with the BSI kitemark for the Internet of Things (IoT). This provides reassurance
that it has been rigorously tested to ensure that it is safe, secure and functions properly as part of an ecosystem of connected products – a vital guarantee for a type of technology that is still building trust with the public. Compatible with Yale’s Sync Smart Home Alarm and CCTV systems, SensCheck also has the additional standalone security feature of an integral alarm system via the Yale Sync Hub for extra reassurance. The 94dB internal siren is triggered during a break-in, as well as receiving a notification through the Yale Smart Living Home App. The Geofencing feature allows homeowners to set notifications via their smartphone or smart watch when they leave their home or preset boundary, receiving alerts if they have left their door and/or window open or unlocked. Paul Atkinson continues: “The route to market is simple for fabricators and installers. Once the installer has fitted the door and windows, the homeowner simply scans the QR code (found on the hardware or an additional frame sticker), that takes them to the Yale Home website where they can purchase the desired Yale Sensors to fit themselves into the door or windows of their choice. The homeowner then downloads the app and follows the user-friendly step-by-step installation guide. If they have Amazon Alexa, Philips Hue, Google Assistant or a Yale Sync Smart Home alarm it can also be expanded using the Yale Sync Alarm accessories for a more comprehensive security set up – forming an eco-system of smart products within the home. “As with all products in our consumer line, Yale SensCheck is supported by online and phone technical back-up seven days a week, and there are how-to videos and many hints, tips, and FAQs available on our website should the end-user or the installer need assistance.” https://bit.ly/38qbB8u WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 79
PRODUCT NEWS
Sophisticated Opening From Bohle MasterTrack BT sliding door hardware from Bohle offers a new high-end solution to the increase in demand for internal glass partitioning.
“In the last few years, we’ve seen the amount of glass going into buildings – not just the external fabric – absolutely rocket,” Bohle managing director Dave Broxton said. “And for good reason. You can define specific areas very easily, and still let that most precious of commodities – light – reach every corner. Plus, if you want privacy, then there are many options, such as blinds, smart glass and interlayers, that can easily create the appearance of solid walls.” Just as the demand for glass has gone up, so too has the demand for high quality aesthetic hardware. Not only is cheap hardware evident in its use – clunky and unreliable – but subsequent call-backs 80 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
eat away at the margin. This has driven building owners and installers to specify quality hardware that is not only a pleasure to use, but will continue to operate smoothly long after its installation. MasterTrack BT from Bohle offers a sophisticated sliding mechanism that comes with the option of a hydraulically operated dampening system. There are further options of a synchronous opening, so that two doors can open at the same time, and telescopic opening, which allows two or three leaves to retract simultaneously. “Sophistication is built into the MasterTrack BT sliding door system,” Dave said. “Building on the popularity of MasterTrack FT, the BT version offers some high-end additions, such as flush mounting, and anti-jump protection. It is also suitable for space-saving pocket applications, which are increasingly popular among interior designers.
MasterTrack BT is made up of three components: track, roller system and clamping mechanism, which make both installation and use particularly easy. Its modular system means there are no limits to the room design. With only a few individual components, and thanks to the compact track in which the glass is suspended below the carriage, single and multi-leaf doors – as well as flush ceiling designs – can be installed quickly. A simple, accessible glass clamping mechanism provides a secure hold, and means there is no requirement for expensive drilling or cutting out glass. Height adjustment of +/-3mm is also straightforward being achievable from the front of the carrier. MasterTrack is simple to install, and very reliable. For more about Bohle’s product and service offer, or to request a brochure, visit www.bohle.com
PRODUCT NEWS
Help Add Value To Sales With
Carl F Groupco’s SmartSecure Range phone or tablet. And the SmartTouch comfort is a transponder that allows users to unlock the door by moving towards it and gently touching a sensor. The popular Gilgen Electromechanical Door Opener range is fully compatible with the multitronic 881 to provide a complete electronic door solution. With nearly 60% of homes now having some sort of smart home device, there has never been a better time for fabricators and installers to embrace the added value benefits of smart technology. This is the view of John Crittenden, managing director of independently-owned hardware distributor Carl F Groupco who says. “Research shows that people value smart technology such as smart speakers, video doorbells and remotely-operated heating systems because they make life easier. That’s exactly what smart door technology offers, and here at Carl F Groupco, we have the products to help installers tap into consumer interest and add value to their sale.” The comprehensive SmartSecure range of electronic door locking systems offers a suite of modular technology solutions that are perfect for both new and retro-fit projects in all sectors, claims the company.
With the Yale Conexis L1 Keyless Locking System, the homeowner’s Bluetooth enabled smartphone is now their door key and represents a new era in secure, smart home technology. John commented: “We know from feedback from our customers that young professionals, busy families and people with caring responsibilities are just some of the people who are particularly interested in this technology. In commercial settings, they offer valuable hygiene benefits too. Fewer touch points mean fewer opportunities for germ transmission, a benefit that has come into sharp focus post-Covid 19.” As with all products from Carl F Groupco, the SmartSecure range offers tried and tested solutions from world-renowned suppliers, so they combine the valuable combination of cutting-edge and reassuring reliability, says the company.
The FUHR multitronic 881 Door Lock Kit is a complete electronic, motorised multipoint locking system with integrated panic function suitable for aluminium, timber, composite or PVC-U main entrance doors in residential and non-residential buildings.
John concludes: “Smart technology is an exciting development for the industry and the latest technology has been designed to deliver safety, convenience, connectivity and peace of mind to homeowners. It is also an added value sale for the fabricator and installer and allows them to differentiate their offer from the competition.”
The intelligent SmartConnect easy access control system allows users to open doors with a smart
www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk
Rich Fraser (L) and Jamie Phillips, National Sales Manager for Caldwell
Folding Openers In High Demand Window Ware has reported its biggest ever monthly sales of Caldwell folding openers in October 2021: up 374% on October 2019. And it’s looking good for the year ahead too, says the hardware supplier, with January and February 2022 proving to be equally busy. Window Ware’s business development manager for aluminium and commercial, Rich Fraser, is in no doubt that this ongoing success comes down to three factors: a highly specified product; a deepening supply partnership with Caldwell Hardware; and Window Ware’s sustained investment aimed at developing a folding opener provision that’s second to none. “Caldwell folding openers have always been a market leading solution,” explains Rich, “and a top choice among architects and contractors looking to achieve safe, restricting window opening in a wide variety of commercial buildings. A quality, cost effective product like this is always going to be in demand.” But the hardware is only half the story. Through a deepening distribution partnership, Window Ware and Caldwell Hardware (UK) have been working even closer together to create the superior service and expert support their customers need to help their businesses thrive. www.windowware.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 81
PRODUCT NEWS
Origin Launches
New Internal Door Origin has unveiled its latest product launch – the OI-30 (Internal Door). The new aluminium internal door is the company’s first ever interior product, featuring a sleek steel-look frame, and offering wide consumer and trade appeal, says the company. The OI-30 is designed to separate home and office footprints into practical spaces. It revolutionises interior design by allowing light to travel unhindered through the building, creating the sense of space and airiness, while providing protection from noise and distraction. It is also a great option for commercial spaces to section out individual offices. Its development comes as a result of market feedback highlighting a gap in the market for an affordable premium grade internal door. The move shifts the steel-look offering from a pipe dream to a reality for homeowners. 82 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
tude of configurations, including fixed, single, French, and corner styles. Kickplates and solid panels can also be added which minimise fingerprints and scratches. What’s more, the OI-30 is immediately available for Origin Partners to quote and order on Origin’s OSS. Like all Origin products, it is manufactured in the UK and offers an industry-leading guarantee of up to 20-years.
With ultra-slim sightlines, the internal door can accommodate 4mm, 6mm or 6.8mm glazing, and installers can opt for clear, frosted, or reeded glass, allowing them to offer homeowners the benefits of privacy where required while still maximising light. Minimum widths for a single door begin at 300mm and extend to a maximum size of 1000mm. Height starts at 1500mm and extends to 2500mm, offering lots of flexibility. Additionally, fixed frames can be added to the top or side to fill larger apertures. The OI-30 is available in a multi-
Daniel Baker, managing director at Origin, comments: “At Origin, we are always striving to challenge industry norms to make the lives of our Partners as simple as possible by offering them the best products on the market. When our customers called for a high-quality but affordable steel-look internal door, we answered. The result is an incredibly versatile system that allows the Origin Partner network to diversify their offering and venture into internal doors. “The launch of our first ever internal product is further testament to our ambitions as a business and the work ethic of the team who have gone above and beyond to deliver yet another industry-leading design.” origin-global.com/
PRODUCT NEWS
Original Doors Meet New
Approved Document L Regulations 15th June 2022, with all relevant test data available in support.
Composite door supplier DoorCo has confirmed its Original foamcore composite door meets the new regulations of Approved Document L, which are effective from
Dan Sullivan, DoorCo MD comments: “The upcoming changes to building regulations in the UK are focused on reducing the carbon emissions of new homes by 30%. In short, this means the products we manufacture as an industry need to help homes become more energy efficient. When it comes to doors, the new Approved Document L, which is focused on energy efficiency, require the overall U-Value of doorsets to be 1.4W(/m2 K), or DSER Band “C” where the glazed area is greater than 60%, and Band “B” or better for “other doors”. “DoorCo has been working with
Distinction Doors Launches
our supply chain partners to ensure our entire Original composite door range performs to this standard ahead of the 15th June 2022 deadline. Testing of all designs is now complete using a standard aluminium threshold and PVC profile for frames. Datasheets based on this standard composition are available from DoorCo or the data can be accessed through Build Check’s Oracle U-Value calculator, which is available to members on a subscription service, to calculate your own results based on your specific product configuration. “The regulation changes for timber doors vary slightly and will not change until 2023. The current Gripcore door complies with current Doc L standards and Gripcore version 2.1 will be available in 2022 which will future proof the product for all future Part L compliance.” www.door-co.com
New Brand Identity Distinction Doors has unveiled a new streamlined brand identity to reflect its premium position in the marketplace and appeal to the consumer market.
Instead of the blue and grey Distinction Doors logo with a door surround, the identity is now 100% black and simply states, Distinction Doors in a geometric sans-serif typeface called Gotham Book. The typeface is inspired by architectural signs of the mid-twentieth century. The composite door supplier says this design is a visual representation of the Distinction Doors tone and voice. It is clean, clear and easy to read; it gives confidence. Additionally, the simplified design of the logo allows it to work especially well across different platforms, materials and mediums. To preserve the premium identity, brand ambassador and Distinction Doors marketing manager,
Bethaney Larkman will permit only subtle colours in neutral tones when enhancing design items such as literature. Discussing the updated brand identity, Bethaney Larkman, said: “Updating our brand identity represents how we as a business are evolving. We have strong business recognition in the trade sector, but independent research proved that we also needed to elevate the brand and create consumer pull for our customers. “Our refreshed look – created in-house by our design team – is more premium. It works across multiple touchpoints while staying true to our values and core business. It’s also representing a statement of intent, proving our commitment to supreme quality, both inside and out, exceptional value, service and experience.” www.distinctiondoors.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 83
PRODUCT NEWS
Fentrade Adds CP 130 Aluminium Slide And Lift-Slide System To Its Portfolio Specialist aluminium fabricator Fentrade has announced it has added the Concept Patio 130 slide and lift-slide system from Reynaers to its portfolio. Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s director, commented: “The Reynaers CP 130 system is an incredibly versatile door that offers a multitude of ways to deliver the large glazed expanses today’s homeowners are looking for.”
For even more versatility, there is a pocket solution for the lift and slide system in duo rail, 3-rail or up to 8-rail options, which creates an open space without visible elements when the door is open. There is also an open-corner solution for the CP 130-LS duo rail variant to answer the current architectural need for large glass surfaces with minimal visible elements.
As its name suggests, the Reynaers CP 130 is available in two variations: a sliding system and a lift and slide system. The sliding system has a monorail, duo rail and 3-rail options while the lift and slide system has a monorail, duo rail, 3-rail and multi-rail options.
Every element of the system has been built for exceptional insulation, stability and safety. Opening panes move on durable wheels and stainless-steel rails for effortless daily use. The door is impressively weatherproofed and meets all requirements for thermal efficiency as
84 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
well as security. Panes can be up to 2700mm wide and 300kg in weight, and the products are Document L 2022 compliant. Chris commented: “It’s a door system that’s been intelligently designed to open up opportunities for installers. For example, the Reynaers CP 130-LS has the option of a floating corner, to allow the whole corner of the property to be opened up to the outside giving uninterrupted views!” The Reynaers CP 130 joins an impressive product portfolio that includes options for all sectors, including commercial. Like all Fentrade products, it will be manufactured using state-ofthe-art machinery in the company’s Newport headquarters. To see the Reynaers CP 130 visit Fentrade’s stand at the FIT Show, which runs 10-12 May at the NEC in Birmingham. fentradealuminium.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
Window Warehouse Ready To Help Customers Get Into Ali
capacity and stepped up our output so that we can continue to grow and help even more customers make the move into aluminium with us.” AluK has supported Window Warehouse throughout its 5-year journey with them. As well as consistent supply levels, this has included extensive technical advice and access the AluK’s G-Award winning marketing hub.
With signs that consumer confidence is starting to waver in the wake of the war in the Ukraine, the ending of the energy price cap and the rise in inflation, pressure is understandably growing on fabricators to help their installer customers target and exploit new sales opportunities.
significant savings during the pandemic.
Quick out of the blocks is Portsmouth based Window Warehouse, which is using its expanded AluK aluminium fabrication set up to support customers who want to target the potentially more resilient aluminium end of the market.
Window Warehouse switched its aluminium fabrication exclusively to AluK in 2017 and its success since then prompted it to invest in a new dedicated manufacturing facility this year alongside its existing PVC-U operation, so that it now occupies an extensive 21,400 sq ft facility. This has been equipped with the very latest Elumatec CNC machining SBZ122 machining centre and DG104 double mitre saw and includes one line fabricating just the perennially popular AluK BSF70 bifold.
Operations director Remi Cake says that while the mainstream white PVC-U casement market may be squeezed by the tightening of household budgets, he expects demand for the company’s AluK bifolds, sliders and Heritage style windows to continue amongst higher earners and those who accumulated
Remi Cake explains: “We supply trade customers right across the south of England, many of whom are operating in those affluent south coast towns which are likely to be relatively shielded from the impact of rising costs. We saw a huge rise in demand for our AluK range during the pandemic and we’ve expanded
Remi Cake adds: “We chose AluK in 2017 primarily because of the quality of the system but also because of the high level of brand recognition amongst consumers. That definitely helps our installers to win business, particularly when it’s all backed up with AluK’s stylish and high-quality marketing support.” Window Warehouse is a long-established business, still run by the family that founded it in 1986. It combines traditional family values in terms of customer service and attention to detail with a highly efficient manufacturing operation. Barcode scanning is in place throughout its factory for full product traceability and customers can utilise online quoting and ordering tools. Russ Cusworth, AluK’s national sales manager, is backing the company’s efforts. He says: “Window Warehouse is absolutely right that the biggest opportunities in 2022 are likely to come in aluminium. We’ll be supporting the team with their ambitious plans and very much looking forward to helping them make waves in the market.” www.window-warehouse.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 85
PRODUCT NEWS
Eurocell’s All-New, Bespoke Contemporary Conservatories And Orangeries Eurocell has extended its range of conservatory and orangery solutions with the launch of new contemporary designs that create desirable extended living spaces or can modernise existing and traditional conservatory structures. Responding to increased consumer demand for 21st century conservatory designs that include greater use of glass, reduced brickwork, superior thermal insulation, and a contemporary build aesthetic for shape and colour, Eurocell has added a raft of new quality-led features that improve liveability and reflect changing homeowner tastes. 86 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
The designs bring together a combination of Eurocell’s pilaster and slimline roof systems, with a modern highline gutter solution. The new features include pilaster solutions providing strength, durability, high insulation performance, and varied decorative options. Using corner posts with reinforcement, the pilasters provide a robust construction solution. They are also the foundation for stunning cladding options such as Coastline and Ecoscape that are available in a range of colours, including anthracite grey, moondust grey, silver birch, spiced oak, and
midnight black. Eurocell says the contemporary visual impact of the new conservatory options is reinforced with the addition of a slimline roof system solution with a thinner ridge system and reduced sightlines. The system’s colour range includes white, anthracite grey, smooth aluminium grey, and matt black to provide a modern look. According to Eurocell, the new contemporary highline gutter perfectly complements the slimline roof system. Available in white, anthracite grey, and black, the highline gutter is suitable for internal and external 90-degree corners. They have been designed to make the installation process quicker by allowing increased space for installers to fix to the conservatory structure. The bottom of the gutter has been designed to allow better aesthetics over full height brickwork and pilasters.
PRODUCT NEWS
Super Slim Launches Internal Glazing System
The range of features are suitable for new conservatory structures or as a cost-effective method to modernise existing and traditional conservatories. Sean Bunyan, Head of Commercial Operations for Eurocell, says: “Our further enhanced range of conservatory solutions is designed to help create ideal living spaces for homeowners. The impact of the pandemic and the work from home rules have made many people reappraise their living and working environments. As a result, we expect to see continued strong market demand for newly realised modern conservatory solutions, as well as projects where homeowners are looking to transform traditional conservatories. We have also ensured that customer feedback has been used as part of the design and development process for the exciting new features.” https://bit.ly/3vOqklC
While open plan spaces have been an aspirational aspect of contemporary living and work spaces in modern times, Covid-19 has made it necessary to rethink how we use large interior areas. The need to create safe, practical segmentation without compromising on natural daylight or style has seen a rapid growth in the popularity of glazed room dividers. Perfect for both commercial and residential projects, a new system from Super Slim Glazing meets this demand with a full suite of fixed glazing and a range of door options that utilise one of the slimmest profiles on the market. Providing the largest possible area of glass without compromising on durability, the Super Slim Glazing system has been designed by a company that truly understands glazing, comprising of a high-strength, rigid aluminium frame into which the glass unit is fitted.
“We’re seeing more and more businesses opt for internal glazing as they welcome staff back after the pandemic,” says Will Woods, Super Slim Glazing managing director. “Not only does it enable them to provide additional safe workplaces, but it also promotes enhanced employee wellness by encouraging natural daylight and the feeling of space. “Homeowners are also looking for ways that they can create extra living spaces without compromising on light and connectivity between rooms. Internal glazing enables them to maintain the appearance of open plan living in a practical yet stylish fashion. “It’s also a quick way to partition a property in order to contain cooking smells, preventing them from spreading and lingering throughout. Plus, with rising energy costs, it can make a home much more efficient to heat.” superslimglazing.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 87
MACHINERY
Twice The Output
Means Half The
Waiting Time Hugely impressed with their first purchase four years ago, Seaham based North East Bifolds has invested in a second AMC308 Machining Centre from machinery manufacturer Kombimatec. Delivered in April, the new addition has been housed within a recently completed 600msq, on-site warehouse. As the industry continues to recover from two years of disruption, Tony Meah and Chris Craggs, owners of North East Bifolds, have noticed intense, increased demand for perfect 88 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
end products and are keen to fulfil orders at a faster rate. “Primarily, we chose to take on a second machine to safeguard the business against any issues we might face if the existing one was out of action, but ultimately, having two machines running will enable us to double our output and reduce lead in times by at least a week” says Tony. “The added benefit that the entire team already know the control panel, made the decision to expand in this way an easy one.”
The Dunstable based manufacturer are a preferred supplier to North East Bifolds because of their quick turnaround on orders and exceptional after-sales service, claims the company. Used across aluminium and PVC profiles, Kombimatec’s 3+1 Axis CNC system is proving popular, with repeat orders becoming a regularity. Chris added: “Our team are comfortable with the machines, but we know that if we need a product demo, or any additional training, we only have to ask. We’re so chuffed at the quality of the Kombimatec products, that we’ve also bought a brand new aluminium saw, too!” Kombimatec’s director, David Parsons added: “We’re really proud that businesses like North East Bifolds choose to repeatedly buy from us – if we can help get the industry moving again and support people like Tony to speed up his production of high quality products, then everyone comes out winning.”
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WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 89
MACHINERY
Jade Engineering Supplies Multiple End Milling Solutions As Clearview Glaziers
Commences R9 Production Peterborough-based Clearview Glaziers manufactures a range of aluminium and PVC-U products and offer installation services to home improvers, local authorities, commercial clients and increasingly, operating as a trade fabricator to local installers. Recently, the company’s expansion has included fabrication of the highly successful R9 window and door system from Residence Collection, a product that has done much to popularise the flush sash window in the UK in recent years.
Designed to replicate 19th Century timber designs whilst providing the performance of modern windows, R9 windows and doors are manufactured from often large and complex PVC-U profiles for which specialist machining and tooling solutions are required. To provide these, Residence Collection turned to tooling and machin90 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
ery specialist Jade Engineering, who worked with the designers of R9 to produce the authentic mechanical jointing effect that is a key part of the aesthetic of the system. The Jade machinery and tooling package has now been the recommended package for fabricators, since the window was launched in 2011. Jade therefore supplied seven end millers fitted with interchangeable tooling to Clearview Glaziers, as part of the recommended production package. These have been installed in a dedicated R9 fabrication facility at Clearview Glazier’s 60,000 feet2 production, showroom and administration site. The Jade machines have been specifically developed for the purpose of providing an elegant solution to the increasingly popular ‘mechanical’ joint applied to Heritage style replacement windows, with each
of those supplied to Clearview Glaziers tooled to process specific profiles in a logical sequence. Key features of the units include an automatic pneumatic system for clamping and driving the cutter feed; milling to =/- 45 degrees and full height adjustment for the cutter stack. Robin Squibb, managing director of Clearview Glaziers said that he is excited to be able to offer R9: “We decided to offer R9 to our retail and trade customers as a premium, Heritage product; it’s a terrific addition to our range. It was essential that we offered the window with an authentic mechanically-jointed finish, for which Jade provided the machinery package recommended by Residence Collection,” explained Robin. “The installation has been faultless, including the training of our operatives to use the kit. Compared to our usual casement windows, the R9 profiles are large and with complex multi-chambers and as a premium product they require precise and perfect finishing. Using the Jade end millers we are consistently achieving excellent results.” www.jade-eng.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 91
ON-SITE
Eyrise Dynamic Glazing Helps BAFTA Considerably Improve Its
Headquarters’ Energy Performance 92 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Eyrise dynamic liquid crystal glazing has contributed to an improved energy performance certificate (EPC) for the iconic Grade II listed headquarters of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) in London. Following the recent completion of major renovation works at 195 Piccadilly to enhance facilities and double the building’s capacity so it can increase its charitable programme, BAFTA’s certification has been upgraded to a B.
Built in 1883, the prestigious location has served as BAFTA’s headquarters since 1976. Despite having increased the glass surface of the building, the upgraded EPC rating is in line with new build standards in the UK. BAFTA partnered with glass specialist Eyrise to provide instant solar shading for a newly created fourth floor. 82 liquid crystal windows of varying shapes and sizes were specially produced and installed to glaze two restored Victorian rooflights. Known as the Richard Attenbor-
ough Rooms, the floor provides a members’ area and space for exhibitions and events. Benedetti Architects designed the redevelopment of the BAFTA building. During the seven year renovation, the hidden rooflights were revealed for the first time since 1976 when they were covered to create a dark space for a 227-seat cinema. “At the start of the project, our Victorian heritage building had old technology and original features which leaked heat, giving
us a high EPC rating. Putting in a fully glazed roof was a challenge if we wanted to concentrate on sustainability,” said Pauline Campbell, BAFTA’s head of property. “The new rooflight structures developed by Eyrise can automatically adjust the shading of the glazing to reduce solar gain, resulting in a lower cooling requirement. This is controlled so that the solar gain can be limited when not needed but can also be actively allowed to heat the space, when heating is required. Working the Eyrise glazing into our project ensured WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 93
ON-SITE
a UK EPC rating of B48, which is comparative to a new build, something that would never have been possible without the technology.” Proprietary Licrivision liquid crystal technology enables Eyrise glass to be tinted to provide instant solar shading without compromising on natural daylight. The windows provide lightwellness – visual comfort, thermal regulation and colour neutrality – for occupants, while also helping to reduce energy consumption. 94 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
“BAFTA has successfully delivered a relevant and exciting refurbishment that is not only aesthetically exquisite but future focused,” said Celine Glipa, CEO of Eyrise. “While traditional glazing has historically lowered a building’s energy efficiency, implementing the latest developments in glass technology has helped this world-leading arts charity reduce its ecological footprint and create a sustainable centre of excellence for the stars of tomorrow.”
promote the next generation of performers and break down barriers that make it hard for talented individuals to build careers in the creative industries.
BAFTA works to support and
https://www.eyrise.com/
BAFTA’s President HRH The Duke of Cambridge attended the new building at the end of January, to hear more about its ongoing support to develop the next generation of talent and launch the expansion of the arts charity’s learning and new talent development programmes.
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ON-SITE
Senior Helps Build The Arc Architectural Systems is continuing to make a name for itself in the leisure sector after completing work on the new Arc Cinema in Daventry. The new cinema’s welcoming 96 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
frontage has been created using a combination of Senior’s thermally-efficient slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system, alongside the company’s robust SPW5021 aluminium commercial doors and stylish low U-value
PURe® SLIDE doors. Designed to offer the perfect balance between daylighting and thermal comfort, Senior’s fenestration package was fabricated and installed by supply chain partners Acorn Aluminium for main contractor Willmott Dixon. The cinema has been designed by Marchini Curran Associates and the extensive use of glazing floods the main entrance, restaurant and bar areas with natural light during the day, and creates a show-stopping effect at dusk. The dark grey powder coated frames of the doors and curtain wall sys-
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Wolverhampton
Glass Shows Why 4-Decade
Reputation Matters
West Midlands-based installer Wolverhampton Glass has demonstrated why reputation is so important, after a local resident used the company for a window and door install – 37 years after originally using them.
tems also perfectly complement the exterior façade design of grey and white cladding with feature multicoloured panels. The new Arc cinema in Daventry has been created as part of the wider £12.5m regeneration of the town centre. Senior has played significant roles in other cinema projects over the last few years, delivering the aluminium fenestration packages for the new Savoy cinema complex in Doncaster as well as completing work for the national chain Everyman. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
Steve Trainer originally had hardwood and satin aluminium windows fitted by Wolverhampton Glass all the way back in 1985. When they started rotting, leaking and looking rather shabby, he turned to them again to upgrade them to the Deceuninck Heritage 2800 system. “I had always kept Wolverhampton Glass in mind due to the job they’d done when we had the original windows fitted, and then I saw an advertisement in one of our local publications,” said Mr Trainer. “We wanted to use a local company, and the new windows are bril-
liant. The fitters were very quick, very thorough, and everything was as it should be. Even the neighbours were impressed, and we’ve had a few people ask us about the service.” Neal Harper, Wolverhampton Glass’ managing director, said: “For Mr Trainer to keep us in mind after 37 years was brilliant and it is testament to the local reputation Wolverhampton Glass has built up over the last 45-plus years. It shows why building an excellent local name through quality products and service over many years is so vital.” “The Deceuninck Heritage 2800 system was the perfect solution for the client thanks to look, performance and security,” added Neal. “The windows and doors are hugely complimentary to the property.” It means yet another satisfied customer for Wolverhampton Glass – and shows that the service hasn’t changed, even 40 years on. www.sustainium.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 97
ON-SITE
Pilkington
Helps Improv
Welfare At Bird
Senior Goes Back To School With a proven track record of successful work in the education sector, aluminium fenestration solutions provider Senior Architectural Systems was more than qualified to deliver the fenestration package for this new secondary school in Brighton.
The new Chailey School in South Lewes has been designed by architects Jestico + Whiles and features a full range of aluminium fenestration solutions including Senior’s thermally-efficient, slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system and robust SPW501 aluminium commercial doors. The new school has also reunited Senior with main contractor Bowmer & Kirkland, with whom Senior has an established supplier framework agreement. The two companies have collaborated together on numerous projects, with Bowmer & Kirkland being the first contractor 98 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
to specify Senior’s patented low U-value PURe® aluminium window system when it was launched back in 2015. The main contractor has gone on to work with Senior and specify its aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall systems on many other education projects across the UK.
Chailey School is itself part of Department of Education construction framework agreement to modernise educational facilities and improve the environmental efficiency of this sector. Senior worked closely with specialist contactor RKN Aluminium to design, fabricate and install the fenestration package for the new school building which comprises some 85 windows, 14 section of curtain wall and 12 door sets. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
When Mere Sands Wood, a nature reserve in West Lancashire, decided to create a new visitor centre and café, minimising its impact on the local wildlife was top of its list of priorities. With 170 species of bird visitors, protecting its large avian population and minimising the risk of bird strikes to the new building’s glazing was of particular concern. That’s why the reserve’s owner, Lancashire Wildlife Trust, opted to install Pilkington AviSafe, a glass that features a special coating designed to be visible to our feathered friends, allowing them to greatly reduce the number of collisions. Unfortunately, the reflection of vegetation, the sky, and other buildings are deceptive and can result in bird collisions. Birds in flight are unable to use visual
ON-SITE
AviSafe
ve Animal
d Sanctuary
signals such as window frames to distinguish the location of the glass, as a human would. The resulting collisions can often cause serious injury or death to the birds. However, birds’ eyes can recognise light across parts of the UV spectrum. This is reflected in the design of Pilkington AviSafe , which includes a uniquely patterned UV enhanced coating This means that, from a bird’s perspective, reflections become disrupted and the glass much more visible, warding them away from the structure and keeping them safe. At Mere Sands Wood, the new building’s glazing consists of insulating glass units made of 6 mm Pilkington AviSafe as the outer pane and an inner pane of 4 mm Pilkington K Glass S low-e glass,
providing protection for the birds as well as thermal insulation for the café’s visitors.
extremely effective, and I’m confident that the results will be equally positive at the reserve.”
Leo Pyrah, marketing and VA manager at Pilkington UK, said: “Our mission as a company is to change our surroundings and improve our world, and through the development of Pilkington AviSafe we are able to help address the issue of bird collisions with glass and protect our cherished bird populations.
Alice Singleton, marketing officer at Lancashire Wildlife Trust said: “We wanted our visitor centre and café to take advantage of the lovely views of our nature reserve and create a space where people could watch for wildlife comfortably.”
“It’s a happy coincidence that this installation at the Mere Sands Wood reserve is so close to our European Technical Centre at Lathom, where most of the work to develop this innovative product was carried out.
“It’s imperative for us that our buildings let us show the public the beauty of nature and the value of conserving it, while interfering with the wildlife we protect as little as possible. Pilkington AviSafe has allowed us to provide this without putting our many different species of bird at risk.”
“In fact, we have installed Pilkington AviSafe at our site in the areas where we most commonly saw bird strikes. It has proved
The Mere Sands Wood site is a former sand quarry used to harvest minerals for glass manufacturing. https://bit.ly/38xzUkK WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 99
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Optima Windows And Doors Specified For
Townhouse Development In Sheffield Over 100 Optima windows and doors were manufactured and installed in a sustainable townhouse development that offers a contemporary twist on Victorian terraced housing. 100 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Sky-House is a development of design-led, eco-friendly townhouses in Fox Valley near Sheffield. The two, three storey buildings consist of 27 one bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments.
The specification was exacting, with luxurious design elements and bright and airy interiors thanks to full height double glazed doors and windows throughout. The contract to fulfil the window and door specification was given to experienced commercial contractor, Kingfisher Windows using the Optima PVC-U Flush Casement Window System from Epwin Window Systems. The Optima Flush Casement Window System was considered perfect for this development. It replicates the original features of timber casement
ON-SITE
windows and also gives superior thermal performance, which was important on this product to meet the exacting specifications for the eco-friendly development. It meets the requirements of UK and EU Building Regulations as standard and includes a Secured by Design option. It also features optimised drainage and ‘perfectly positioned’ seals for long-lasting performance. The project has a stunning location with extensive views across the valley. To maintain the level of performance required on such an exposed site, fixings, transoms and mullions used additional reinforcing to meet more stringent wind and barrier loads. Enhanced glass was also specified to meet the barrier load to satisfy the requirements of BS 6180, barriers in and about buildings. The windows were manufactured in anthracite grey 7016 smooth on white to offer a contemporary exterior and understated interior. As an experienced commercial contractor, Kingfisher Windows is familiar with the exacting requirements of new build developments. The team worked closely with the client and all the contractors on site to ensure the window and doors were manufactured and installed in line with the timescales required. Five years ago, Fox Valley was a large stockholding yard for the local steelworks – now it is a bustling urban development. Sky-House has provided stylish contemporary housing for the young professionals the area attracts. And because it celebrates sustainable living, it’s also a future-proofed development. epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
CDW Systems Provides Solution For Marketing
Agency’s New Headquarters
When marketing agency Purplex needed an internal glazing solution for its new 15,000 square foot office facility, finding the right product and supplier was a no brainer. Purplex have handled the PR and marketing requirements for CDW Systems since 2011, so managing director Andrew Scott was fully aware of the vast product range on offer from the specialist aluminium fabricator and the quality of their workmanship. When the time came to specify the internal glazing, it didn’t take Andrew long to make his decision and place the order. He takes up the story: “The new Purplex office boasts an open plan workspace, various meeting rooms, a ‘pitch room’ for major client presentations, a lounge area, a bar and even a gym. It’s a fantastic environment to work, exercise and relax and I wanted to separate the different areas with a glazing product that had real wow factor. “Purplex helped CDW launch their new range of Smarts Alitherm Heritage aluminium in 2020, so I was already fully aware of the product
and had seen how fantastic it looks in a commercial building. I contacted CDW to discuss the project and they took care of the rest – the sales process was smooth, the product was delivered on time, the quality was impeccable, and the finished result is absolutely stunning. In all honesty I’d expect nothing less from CDW!” The perfect choice for refurbishment projects, the Heritage range of thermally broken, ultra slim profiles provides untouchable quality, strength, and low-level maintenance, and can achieve U-values as low as 1.5 W/m²K and achieve a ‘B’ rating for thermal efficiency performance, claims the company. Richard Smith, technical director at CDW Systems, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, commented: “Our Smart Alitherm Heritage range ticked all the boxes for Purplex’s new office, and we are delighted to hear that they are so happy with the results. Purplex have been a great support to us for over a decade, so we were more than happy to help.” www.cdwsystems.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 101
MARKETING & INTERNET
Freefoam
Supporting Independent Stockists Freefoam has released a new video as part of it’s ongoing Helping Customers Grow campaign, featuring Nottingham based business Jayplas Building Supplies. The campaign is part of Freefoam’s strategic marketing plan to shine a light on it’s customer base and show how both supplier and manufacturer are working together to build long term relationships and grow business. Freefoam’s route to market is to predominantly supply independent stockists. Companies who are specialist PVC 102 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
suppliers with extensive knowledge of this specific part of the building trade, and who have strong local connections. Often owner managed, with an entrepreneurial spirit to make things happen, the campaign provides the platform to showcase these businesses and explain how Freefoam works with and supports its customers. Jayplas Building Supplies is one such business. Started in 2010 by Jaime Nield, Jayplas is a typical example of a Freefoam customer who has grown year on year. Selling the core roof-
line range, as well as external cladding and internal panelling, Jayplas have a broad customers base, from small to medium sized builders, though to double glazing and conservatory companies. In the video Jaime explains that he chose Freefoam as his supplier over others because of both the brand loyalty from his installer customers and Freefoam’s route to market – to predominantly supply independent suppliers. Jaime explained “I’d previously sold Freefoam products before I set up my own business so I knew that installers liked the product. They are loyal to the Freefoam brand, and are used to installing it. We like that Freefoam have added products to their range over the years, including external cladding and internal bathroom panels as it gives us other markets to tap in to.” Jaime receives regular visits from his area sales manager Simon Parkes and also benefits from the knowledge and expertise of Richard Jackson,
MARKETING & INTERNET Freefoam’s sales director. He explains “They have always helped us out, and I have always felt I can go to them and they’ve always done their best to help. I can only see a positive future. We’ve been dealing with Freefoam for 12 years and I can’t see why that wouldn’t continue”
Colin St John, Freefoam commercial director summarised “We are proud to be the main supplier to so many successful businesses. And this campaign, that uses a variety of mediums including video, PR, social media and print advertising, gives us a powerful platform to highlight the benefits of partnering
with Freefoam. This latest video with Jayplas is a great example of a local business who have grown into an established and well respected Freefoam supplier. It’s a sure fact that no business has gone backwards with Freefoam, the growth or our customers is our growth.”
Carl F Groupco Launches New Product Catalogue
Independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has just launched its latest product catalogue. Marketing Manager Clare White said: “This is our first major printed hardware publication since the pandemic began. It’s part of a huge investment in marketing during 2021 and 2022 and will help to take our brand presence to the next level.” The catalogue features the most up to date hardware innovations from Carl F Groupco’s manufacturer partners including, Cotswold, FUHR, Glazpart, Greenwood, Hoppe, Kenrick, MACO, Roto, RW Simon, Siegenia, Strand and Yale. Clare commented: “Our catalogue is a comprehensive reference source for all the stocked products that Carl F Groupco offers.” The new catalogue is now A4 in size in response to customer feedback. Clare said: “It’s important to give our customers what they need. They told us that A4 size was best for them and we listened. The extra space on every page has allowed us to clearly and concisely display product information, so it’s very easy to use.” The catalogue is the latest in a series of strategic marketing investments for Carl F Groupco. In Autumn 2021 the hardware distributor overhauled its digital presence when it relaunched the Carl F Groupco, SmartSecure and Carl F direct websites. Clare said: “Our marketing investments are all designed to create a seamless narrative for Carl F Groupco brands and help our customers with the information they need to deliver an exceptional experience. We will also be launching our new bespoke customer portal, My CFG, which is coming on stream later this year and will further strengthen the customer experience.”
Carl F Groupco provides an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware components and has long-standing relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers. It operates nationally, including to the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands, from distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld. The company was established in the 1950s and has a strong track record of providing the support their customers need to succeed, as its impressive new catalogue demonstrates. To request a free copy of the catalogue, visit the Carl F Groupco website or call the sales office on 01733 393330. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 103
MARKETING & INTERNET The content emphasises the heritage and quality associated with a Distinction Doors product. There’s a brief guide to composite doors before consumers begin their journey of discovery. Starting with the bespoke paint range, readers are advised on colour trends and options.
Distinction Doors Unveils New Product Brochure
Distinction Doors has launched a brand-new product brochure. It is the first marketing tool to be released following the company’s re-brand. Echoing the ethos of the new brand identity, the brochure acknowledges how the business has solidified its position as a premium composite door supplier, says the company.
Bethaney Larkman, marketing manager for Distinction Doors explains further: “It’s a brave new design that’s very different from our familiar product directory brochure. The content is radically different, and we have focussed on our USPs to target strongly against the competition. “Factors such as design and packaging are vital elements in the buying psychology of premium products so it’s essential that we arm our fabrication customers and their customers with the right tools.” 104 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
The new brochure has been designed to enhance the consumer experience. This comes after independent research revealed that the company’s sales tools must increasingly work for customers of Distinction Doors, their customers and end-users.
“We have switched to a larger, reader-friendly A4 format. It has been printed using vegetable-based ink on uncoated FSC certified and carbon balanced paper for a premium look and finish. We have also been selective in our choice of printer to minimise the environmental impact of our printed literature.” The company’s new brand identity includes a clean and sharp logo using a modern typeface in 100% black. To preserve the premium identity, Bethaney and her team permit only subtle colours in neutral tones when enhancing other design items such as literature. The product brochure is the first example of this.
The door ranges are then broken down into three sections – nxtgen, Signature and Contemporary, highlighting popular door styles within each range. As there are 300+ door styles to choose from, consumers are directed to the full door range, expressed in a table on pages 60-61 or to view online using the company’s most valued and well-used tool – the door-designer configurator. This too is being updated and will be re-released very soon. Decorative glass and glazing options feature throughout. For inspiration, alternatives are presented for each door style. Once again, consumers are directed to the online door-designer for the complete range of glass. The brochure also highlights key benefits including Secured by Design (SBD) approval of the 44.5mm nxt-gen and Signature door ranges. Distinction Doors was the first and remains the only stockist and distributor of GRP composite door blanks in the UK to be granted prestigious SBD status, claims the company. For those who utilise the Distinction Doors design boutique, they too will receive a brochure update in due course. In addition to the online door-designer, a new Distinction Doors website is due to launch later this summer. The company also announced the introduction of six new colours to its paint colour palette on 1st April. www.distinctiondoors.co.uk
MARKETING & INTERNET
New Amended Part F Summary Document For Window Ware Customers Independent hardware distributor Window Ware is on a mission to make sure its customers have a good handle on the upcoming new Part F guidelines. The company, which has successfully served the window and door industry with hardware, tools, and consumables since 1987, has created a summary document that outlines the key revisions to Part F (ventilation) of Building Regulations in England for both new builds and refurbishments. Ahead of the new regulations, which come into force in England on June 15, Window Ware’s succinct summary aims to break down the changes in layman’s terms and put customers in the know about how best to comply. Commercial director Richard Bryant said: “At Window Ware, we have always made sure our customers receive the very best guidance on the latest regulations so they can take any changes all in their stride.”
that’s a win in our books!” In a nutshell, the revised standard in England for new builds calls for greater background ventilation, with the airflow requirement in habitable rooms increasing from 5000mm2 EA to 8000mm2 EA.
“It’s important that fabricators and installers know exactly how the updates to Part F will affect both them and their customers going forward.” “We really hope they’ll find the summary quick to read and easy to digest, with all the key points set out plain to see. Like any regulations, there’ll always be exceptions to the rule, but the guidance contained in this document should apply to the vast majority of build projects. By giving our customers a solid grasp of the fundamentals, we can help bring them one step closer to Part F compliance, and
Likewise, in the refurbishment market, vents must be fitted to replacement windows as standard. More specifically, if the existing windows already have vents fitted, then the replacements windows must incorporate vents with the same airflow or higher. If the existing windows do not have vents, then the replacements units must have vents fitted to meet the revised Part F requirements. Window Ware’s extensive range of vents, developed by the likes of RW Simon, Greenwood and Glazpart, means they can always provide customers with the right ventilation solution to meet specifications. www.windowware.co.uk/partf
Not Your Usual Fabrication Table Gary Smith, a supervisor at Rehau trade fabricator Euroglaze, found a novel way to recycle offcuts of profile by creating two new coffee tables for the company’s reception area. Working in his spare time, Gary even added foil samples to the tops of tables so that they can be used to demonstrate colour options to customers. Martin Nettleton, Euroglaze’s managing director, is impressed: “This is a typical example of how so many of the team here go ‘above
and beyond’ what we ask of them. Gary came up with the idea, sourced the spare materials here and fabricated the tables outside of his normal shift. They’ve become a real talking point amongst visitors and customers love them.” When they are not being used to fabricate furniture, Euroglaze routinely sends all the PVC-U offcuts from its Barnsley manufacturing plant for recycling. It also has recycling collections in place for the rest of its waste to help to keep its environmental impact to a minimum. www.euroglaze.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 105
EVENTS
Members
Meet
The first ‘hybrid’ members meeting of the year was held at the Arden Hotel, Solihull in March and was well attended by members both in person and online. Besides the continued growth of Qualicoat in the UK & Ireland, the main topic of discussion was the upcoming ‘Future Proofing Facades’ event that is to take place on the 14th June at the Building Centre, Store Street, London. Aimed at facade specifiers, the ‘Future Proofing Facades’ conference aims to offer both an update as to where architectural 106 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
powder coating is today and an opportunity for members of the Association to hear from specifiers and their needs, especially on issues of safety and sustainability. An impressive line-up of speakers has now been confirmed placing the event as a ‘must attend’ for any specifier of architectural powder coatings, says the company. Following the awarding of a Qualicoat licence to Bradleys Metal Finishers, applications for new licences continue to be received by the secretariat. One
Angus Mackie
Midlands based powder coater has recently undergone their second pre-grant inspection of their plant and processes and is close to being awarded their licence confirming their adherence to the latest Qualicoat specification. With this licence granted, there will be twenty licensed applicators across the British Isles who offer architectural powder coating meeting the Qualicoat standard. A further four coaters across are in the process of working towards the standard and will be undergoing inspections by the independent
EVENTS tests house IFO based in the Netherlands. It was raised that some specifiers still request coatings to meet a fire rating of A1 where architectural powder coatings fall into the A2, s1-d0 classification. It was agreed that this is an educational issue as significant tests have been undertaken that prove the safety of a A2, s1-d0 classification. This issue will be discussed in detail at the forthcoming ‘Future Proofing Facades’ conference in June. On environmental issues, the ‘National Resource Wales’ are considering tightening tolerances on industrial discharge to surface water, but the UK agencies feel that the tolerances being discussed will damage general industry at this time. The secretariat will keep members informed of any pending changes. Training of laboratory technicians in the most up to date production recording and testing requirements is a prerequisite of holding a Qualicoat licence. A training day for for 2022 has been set for the 8th November, venue yet to be confirmed. Training will be undertaken by Qualicoat UK & Ireland’s nominated independent test house IFO; all laboratory technician’s must attend a standards update course at lease every two years. The global Qualicoat standard is incrementally revised in realtime with regular update sheets and is revised to include all updates each year end. The standard and any update sheets are freely available for download at www. qualicoat.net. For details on the availability of various colours and finishes contact any QualicoatUK & Ireland member for more information. For updated information about the use and specification of Qualicoat in the UK and Ireland, please visit the UK & Ireland Association website at www.qualicoatuki.org.
Unique Window Systems Sponsors Glazing Summit
Dinner For Third Year
Angus Mackie
Aluminium and PVCu fabricator Unique Window Systems is sponsoring the Glazing Summit Dinner for a third year. Taking place this year on Tuesday, October 18 at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham the Glazing Summit is set to attract over 400 business leaders again for a day of debates, discussions and insightful presentations on the challenges facing the fenestration industry. The one-day conference traditionally finishes with the exclusive Glazing Summit Dinner in the Edgbaston Banqueting Suite, an evening of fine dining in a relaxed setting, including a headline after-dinner speaker. Unique Window Systems’ joint MD Sunil Patel said: “Last year’s Glazing Summit offered an excellent opportunity to reconnect with our colleagues across the fenestration industry following the necessary lockdowns and restrictions brought on by the
pandemic. “The event itself is distinctive and constructive in its nature – bringing the industry’s most influential business owners and directors together in one space. We are delighted to be supporting important forums such as the Glazing Summit which we feel contribute to the evolution of our industry.” Andrew Scott, Glazing Summit founder, commented: “We are delighted that Unique Window Systems, one of Britain’s fastest-growing fabricators, is sponsoring the Glazing Summit Dinner again. “The feedback from delegates and sponsors on last year’s Glazing Summit Dinner last year was hugely positive and we are once again looking forward to welcoming around 250 industry leaders and providing them with a space to relax, meet with colleagues and make new business contacts.” www.glazingsummit.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 107
EVENTS
Simplifying And Demistying Part L
At The AluK
Customer Forums
With comments such as: ‘Having the right supply chain partner makes an ‘L’ of a difference’, ‘A great effort by the AluK team to put together all this vital information’ and ’All very clear and informative – looking forward to the next stages of development’, AluK’s Building Regulation Forums clearly struck the right note with the dozens of customers who attended. AluK hosted three events in Chepstow, London, and Leeds to give its fabrication partners a clear and straightforward overview of what the changes to Document L will mean for their businesses. Crucially, the team also outlined exactly what AluK is doing with its prod108 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
ucts to ensure that customers can comply with these changes in time for the June 2022 deadline.
These were just the first phase in AluK’s response to Part L and there will be further Customer Forums held in May to give final details on the product enhancements and updates on timings, part numbers, order forms and marketing support. Michael Williams, AluK’s managing director, explained that the company is taking a very different approach to the Part L challenge to some of its competitors: “We’re not advising customers to use triple glazing to meet the new rules with
The AluK team pictured at the Part L Customer Forum which took place in Leeds
existing products as some suppliers are, or suggesting that they can rely on specifiers to offset higher window and door U-Values against better performing elements in their SAP Calculations. “Instead, we’re focusing on ‘Excellence in Engineering’. By the time the deadline comes around, our design and technical team will have redeveloped no fewer than eight of our products in just six months, which is truly outstanding. It means that, from June onwards, AluK customers will have access to a full suite of products that comply with the new rules using double glazing as standard and with worst-case scenario Uf-Values. They will also still be able to buy our existing products for projects which already have planning permission or Building Control approval and fall within the 12-month transition period.” The AluK forums were all about simplifying and demystifying the new Building Regulations and being honest and transparent with customers about what compliance will mean for them in the real world.
EVENTS Everyone who attended was given a document to take away which explained exactly what the new notional and limiting values are for both new and existing dwellings and new and existing non-dwellings. They were also given details of precisely how the AluK products are being thermally enhanced to make sure they comply, and reassured that the aesthetics, fabrication, and tooling of these products will not change. AluK’s team were also able to answer all the questions fabricators had on the day about the changes, including how the transition period will work, how customers’ LogiKal processing software is being updated to include the product enhancements, how best to communicate with their installers about the fact that they are the ones who will have to demonstrate compliance, and how that compliance is likely to be policed. Michael Williams added: “AluK has been at the very heart of the industry’s response to Part L from the very beginning – from giving our feedback to the initial consultations, to having our representatives on the key committees with the likes of CAB, the GGF and the CWCT, and running communications programmes to keep the market updated. “The whole industry is on a journey towards zero carbon homes and what’s become increasingly clear is that these changes to the Building Regs are just the first step on that journey. We all have to be engaged and ready for even bigger changes to come, so it was really good to see so many of our customers at the Forums, all determined to stay ahead of the curve.” Customers at the London event clearly agreed, with feedback like this: ‘Incredibly useful information provided to keep us up to speed and learn what impacts this will have on us all’, ‘Bravo to all involved!’ www.alukgb.com/learning/fhs
Qualicoat UK & Ireland Releases First Wave Of Speakers For Conference 2022
Following the formal launch of the Qualicoat UK & Ireland conference 2022 – Future-proofing Facades, the Qualicoat membership has released the first names from its speaker line-up. Architect by trade, TV presenter, and formerly the President of the Royal Institute of British Architects, Maxwell Hutchinson is announced as keynote speaker. A prolific broadcaster and best-selling author, Maxwell will draw on his vast experience and incredible work history to produce an inspirational and enlightening session. As an architect Maxwell is best known for buildings such as Skylines on the Isle of Dogs, Aztec Row in Islington and Pink Floyd’s recording studio in Britannia Row. For ten years he was Chairman of the Permorock Group of Building Product Manufacturing Companies, of which he was founder. Joining Maxwell on the speaker line-up are Angus Mackie, chair of Qualicoat UK & Ireland and Ivo Vermeeren, Qualicoat president, both of whom will offer insight and background on the
global Qualicoat standard. The day will also include presentations and panel discussions on topics such as Fire Safety and Facades, and Specifying Powder Coating, with emphasis on the revised standard – BS EN12206 and Qualicoat 3.0 Label. Naveen Sandhu, UK & Ireland specification manager for AkzoNobel Powder Coatings is responsible for one of the most topical sessions at the conference – Fire Safety and Facades. He will present on the role of coatings and finishes in contributing to fire performance and how to specify a safe polyester powder coated cladding system. This is followed by a panel discussion with audience Q&A. Follow Qualicoat UK & Ireland on LinkedIn for updates ahead of the conference on 14th June at the Building Centre, London. To find out more about the Qualicoat UK & Ireland conference 2022 and to register for a free ticket, please visit www.qualicoatukiconference.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 109
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
GGF Tackles Skills Shortage Head On The new Glass and Glazing Federation’s Skilled Pathways Scheme has welcomed its first cohort of candidates in a bid to recruit and upskill the next generation of glaziers. The Federation is determined to incite action now to meet ambitious Government targets ahead of deadline. “The Government’s objective to achieve net zero by 2050 will require an estimated 500,000 additional skilled workers in the construction industry, including the glass, glazing and fenestration industries,” explains GGF Group managing director, John Agnew. “We need to act now to get the right people in place and upskill so we can continue to be an important part of the green agenda in construction. “Working in partnership with Total Support Training and GQA Qualifications, this new programme is unlike any other apprenticeship scheme in our industry. We are funding training up to £4000 per GGF Member Company as part of the pilot scheme to aggressively 110 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
attract more businesses to take part. The scheme will also have a very clear and focussed career trajectory for candidates, to ensure we keep the programme of upskilling on track.” In the first instance the GGF Skilled Pathways Scheme plans to cover Glazing, Glass Processing, Fenestration, Fire Resistant Glazing, Window Film Application and Technical Administration, but as the scheme builds in momentum, this list is set to grow. John continues: “We’ve been excited to see so many member companies showing an interest in our scheme pre-launch. It requires long term commitment from companies as they move their trainees through the programme of both on-site and ‘off the job’ learning over the course of 18-24 months, but our members are clearly dedicated to doing the right thing.” Among the first to take advantage of the Skilled Pathways Scheme is Prentice Glass, who has three candidates starting. Joanne Jackman,
The GGF’s Skilled Pathways Scheme has welcomed its first cohort of candidates
general manager of Prentice Glass commented, “We’re very pleased to be taking part in the GGF Skilled Pathways scheme. Being one of the oldest glazing companies in London, we know how important it is to get young glaziers trained in the industry. Being part of the GGF has meant that we have half of the training costs funded, providing an excellent opportunity for the apprentices and the company. Exciting times are ahead, we hope to support the GGF and see many more schemes in the future.“ John Agnew concludes “More information on the GGF Skilled Pathways Scheme can be found in our online Training Hub, which provides members with a complete resource of the expanse of training opportunities available. We also have a dedicated section within the Training Hub called New to Glass that is open to anyone looking to join the industry. We’re confident we can play our part in helping the construction sector to meet the Government targets, but time is of the essence. Companies must act now, and the GGF Training Hub, including this new Skilled Pathway Scheme, is a great place to start.”
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
Euroglaze Bridging The Gap
Between Talent And Experience Rehau trade fabricator Euroglaze is embracing modern apprenticeships, with two young people joining the business in finance and IT.
Managing director Martin Nettleton says: “Done well, in a business which is prepared to really support and nurture new recruits, an apprenticeship is undoubtedly the best way of bridging the gap between talent and experience. “Our new joiners are getting just the right blend of off-the-job university training and on-the-job experience to acquire the knowledge and skills they need to build the foundations of their careers. Just as importantly though, because they’re fully immersed within our business and within our posi-
tive culture from the outset, they’re also learning lots of soft skills and behaviours which will make them even more valuable members of the team.” The young apprentices at Euroglaze are Amelia Bunney, who is studying for a degree level apprenticeship in finance and Chris Gower, who is studying for a degree level apprenticeship in IT. Martin Nettleton adds: “The Euroglaze training programme here in Barnsley isn’t confined to apprenticeships. We invest continually in the development of our team and several of our senior staff have progressed all the way from BTEC to Master’s Degree with us. In an industry which faces an even wors-
Heritage Trade Frames Celebrates
Its Commitment To Training tor of Heritage Trade Frames, said: “We are proud that so many members of our Stellar aluminium production team have achieved this certification. It requires dedication and determination on their part and it’s great to see their hard work paying off for the benefit of both the individual and the company.”
Stellar fabricator Heritage Trade Frames is celebrating the achievements of nine of its aluminium production staff who have successfully achieved their GQA L2 NVQ Certificate of Glass Supporting Structure for Aluminium Manufacturing. Paul Culshaw, managing direc-
Heritage Trade Frames emphasises the value of training in its business. Paul commented: “Investing in your staff through certified training makes good business sense as it helps to ensure that the products supplied are manufactured correctly and with the appropriate care and attention needed to provide a world class product. We have invested further in additional dedicated and committed supervisors and team leaders throughout our production process, whose focus is predominantly coaching and guiding new and existing staff in
ening skills crisis over the coming years, it surely makes sense to develop, reward and retain your own staff.” Whilst the positive and supportive culture at Euroglaze means that the business experiences unusually low levels of staff turnover, there is a consistent pattern that emerges, with many of those who leave the business believing they have found greener pastures returning to Euroglaze as soon as the opportunity arises. www.euroglaze.co.uk the Heritage ethos of ‘We make it right’ as this is what our customers have grown to expect from us. This workplace training has proved very successful and the difference in the finished results helps to ensure that our customers keep coming back for more.” The company is a long-standing Epwin Window Systems fabricator and recently expanded its offering by fabricating the system company’s multi award-winning retail aluminium system Stellar aluminium. It’s an expansion that’s proving very successful. Paul commented: “Installers love Stellar. They appreciate the fact it’s fitter-friendly and is exceptionally easy to glaze because of the pre-gasketed, knock in beads. Stellar is especially good for securing higher-end projects that need something different which gives our customers a competitive edge. When it comes to aluminium window and doors, Stellar offers some of the best aesthetics on the market today.” www.stellaraluminium.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 111
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
All In House At AluK – Including
The Training Academy Reminding the market that it is the only aluminium systems house that has it all ‘in-house’, AluK has just announced the reopening of its training Academy, with a full range of workshops available to book now. After the pandemic forced the Academy to close for face-toface training for almost two years, it is being relaunched with a brand-new website at: www. alukacademy.co.uk and a new downloadable prospectus. Visitors to the website can browse the content and format of all 9 of the workshops that AluK offers in three different categories – product awareness 112 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
Darren Burford
and LogiKal software, theory and fabrication, and theory and installation. They can see the dates when each of the courses are available during 2022 and book their places online.
the system – learning both the basics and some more advanced aspects of estimation and production.
The product awareness and LogiKal software workshops cover either: bi-folds (BSF70 and F82), windows and entrance doors (58BW and 58BD), sliders (BSC94 and SC156) or curtain walling (SL50 and SG50). Each lasts two days and includes a full brief on the relevant systems and their capabilities and then an introduction to the LogiKal processing software. Delegates start with an empty LogiKal file and build up a project using
The one-day fabrication and installation workshops are all about learning best practice direct from the systems house, with the emphasis very much on practical training in AluK’s fully equipped, dedicated facility. The fabrication course guides delegates through how to manufacture windows, doors, and ground floor treatments in line with AluK’s approved processes and technical manual. The installation course is focused around
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
the SL50 and SG50 systems and is designed for installers and site supervisors with any level of industry experience who have not previously fitted AluK curtain walling. Two aspects of the Academy make the workshops particularly valuable to AluK customers. The first is that all the courses are free and the second is that they are all fully GQA Accredited. At the end of each, delegates can undertake a short assessment and return to work with a GQA certificate. Darren Burford, AluK’s experienced training manager, is understandably delighted to be back training customers in person again. He said: “Online training is all well and good, but there’s no real substitute for hands-on, practical experience. The Academy is right in the heart of our Chepstow manufacturing facility, so delegates really do get up close to all the products in a realistic fabrication setting. “The courses are ideal for all those new starters over the past couple of years who might have missed out on formal training and as a refresher for those who might just be new to the AluK systems. With record numbers of customers investing in new machinery and expanding their operations over the past two years, we’re expecting this year’s training calendar to be busier than ever.” There are 35 workshop dates available to book at AluK throughout the rest of 2022 and customers can also request bespoke training at their own facilities or at AluK’s London Design Studio. The AluK Academy is an integral part of AluK’s customer support offering, which also includes in-house CAD design, technical support, and testing facilities. More details at: www.aluk.co.uk
BWF Launches ‘Our Industry’s Next Generation’ Apprenticeship Campaign will run across multiple channels to raise awareness of the diversity of roles, skills, and career pathways within the industry.
Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation
The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has launched a campaign to champion the role of apprentices in woodworking and joinery manufacturing and highlight the diversity of career opportunities in the industry. The campaign Our industry’s next generation: Apprentices tell their stories sees apprentices and former apprentices of BWF members share their journeys to bring to life the passion, achievements, and benefits that an apprenticeship can offer. The construction industry is facing a skills shortage, with CITB estimating more than 43,000 new entrants are needed every year for the next five years to maintain output. This campaign aims to encourage the next generation into the woodworking and joinery manufacturing profession by shining a light on the apprentices and former apprentices and the breadth of opportunities offered by the sector. The campaign, which includes video interviews and case studies,
Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation, said, “Hearing direct from apprentices and apprentice graduates in our profession about why they chose a career in woodworking and joinery is inspirational for the next generations. The wide range of roles, jobs and opportunities within the industry is clear, and as our apprentices have highlighted, every day is exciting, different and a chance to learn new skills. “As the focus on sustainability is pushed to the top of the agenda, it’s clear that woodworking and joinery skills will be sought after as demand for sustainable building materials, such as timber, increases. It’s therefore vital that as an industry we come together to champion the important role that apprentices play in securing the growth and future of our profession. This campaign will maintain the momentum and focus on apprentices throughout the year, raising awareness of the diverse and fulfilling career options that lie ahead for those joining our industry.” The campaign forms part of the BWF’s 2022 plans and core focus on skills, talent recruitment and retention. ‘Our industry’s next generation: Apprentices tell their stories’includes content from BWF members: A R Manley, ERW Joinery, George Barnsdale, Input Joinery, Masonite and William Holmes. https://bit.ly/39ftuXW WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022 113
CHARITY
ABUS UK Family Rallies
Together To Send Help To Ukraine
In light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, the ABUS UK family has joined forces with colleagues in Eastern Europe to collect and deliver urgent essential items including food, blankets, clothes, and toiletries to centres for refugees in Poland and the Ukrainian borders as people fleeing the war are escaping into the EU.
ABUS UK employees, their families and friends, and business partners, customers and members of the wider local community have collected an amazing amount of critical supplies which have been sorted, packed, and driven all the way across Europe by ABUS UK’s Vince and Roy. They were met in Poland by ABUS Polska’s MD
Józef Grabowski and colleagues from ABUS Polska are now distributing the donations to the people who most need them in various locations in Poland where Ukrainian families are being supported, and to entry points on the Poland/Ukraine border. The ABUS team has even been providing hot drinks to Ukrainians at the Polish border to welcome them to safety. “It has been so heart-warming to see how the ABUS UK family and their friends and partners have rallied round to support our Help for Ukraine and to know that those supplies are now reaching the people who need it. Thank you!” says ABUS UK MD peter Romanov. “A special thank you must go out to our colleagues Vince and Roy who drove through the night on a long journey through Germany and into Poland to meet with our friends in ABUS Polska and deliver the essentials we had collected.” Meanwhile, Edgetech’s European arm has donated 5,000 Euros to German aid charity Aktion Deutschland Hilft.
Edgetech Supports Ukraine Crisis Appeal Edgetech has responded to the worsening humanitarian situation in Ukraine by donating to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s Ukraine Crisis Appeal. Edgetech UK has donated £5,000 to support the organisations’ efforts to help those affected by 114 WINDOW NEWS | MAY 2022
the conflict. The company’s employees have also donated goods to be sent to the region, collaborating with Feed the Hungry Coventry Food Bank, a local charity Edgetech has supported previously.
Edgetech managing director Chris Alderson comments: “We all felt moved to show our solidarity with the people currently suffering in Ukraine, and those who’ve been forced to flee to neighbouring countries by the violence. “I know I speak for everyone at Edgetech and Quanex more broadly when I say we hope this horrific situation can be quickly and peacefully resolved. “We routinely supply customers across Ukraine and the wider region, and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time.” To support the Ukraine Crisis Appeal, please visit https://bit.ly/3vOZYQE www.edgetechig.co.uk
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