Fenestration Digital Magazine Edition 61 August 2024
Welcome to the August edition of the Fenestration Digital magazine!
As summer draws to a close, many of us are either on vacation or planning to be soon, with thoughts of windows and doors taking a backseat for now.
This time of year is usually our quiet season. However, September—and the busy pre-Christmas period that typically energizes the industry before the holiday season—is just around the corner. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves!
In the meantime, we’re excited to bring you another excellent edition this month, packed with updates on significant investments, new product launches, and training opportunities.
While we have your attention, there are fewer than five weeks left to cast your vote in this year’s National Fenestration Awards. If you haven’t yet, visit www.fenestrationawards.co.uk/ nfa24/ to make your choice!
Plus, with only a few tickets remaining for the awards presentation on October 26th, be sure to secure your spot at this marquee event of the year.
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue!
Team FD
KELLY’S HEROES KILIMANJARO CHALLENGE
Ian Ward of CNC Recycling is currently preparing himself for the challenge of a lifetime after committing to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in September a huge 5,895m volcano in Tanzania. Ian is part of a team of fifteen made up of glazing industry representatives in support of the overall fundraising effort for the Kelly’s Heroes charity. The charity was established in 2019 following the suicide of Kelly Hewitt the daughter of John Hewitt the former chairman of the Glazerite Group which offers support for mental health initiatives and for families in crisis
The team as part of their training have now climbed both Snowden in Wales and the most recent stage was climbing Scafell Pike in the Lake District, with the next step of the team’s training is to take on the Three Peaks Challenge in Yorkshire in July. The climb up Kilimanjaro will take seven days in total following the Machame route which allows for gradual acclimatisation to the altitude giving a better chance of reaching the summit.
Ian said “This is such a challenge to climb Kilimanjaro but ultimately an exciting and rewarding one and having met most of my team members that are involved in the challenge will hopefully provides us with a once in a lifetime experience as they are such a great group of people. Being able to do this for the charity knowing about the unbelievable work and dedication they show means that for me to be able to help and be a supporter of Kelly’s Heroes is a great privilege.
We hope that our fund raising efforts can raise awareness on mental health issues which leaves many to suffer in silence and help the prevention of suicide. Fundraising events such as these are vital as it allows them to continue their amazing work.”
As the team work towards their target if anybody is able to kindly sponsor or donate it would be greatly appreciated by the charity www.justgiving.com/page/ ian-ward-1704660146308
MANY HAPPY RETURNS AS INVERGORDON’S ERG CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF SUCCESS
A family-owned window and conservatory specialist is celebrating 50 years of serving the Highlands in style by posting record sales and launching a special birthday competition.
ERG, which was originally founded as Easter Ross Glass by David Joy in 1974, has been designing and installing windows, doors and contemporary living spaces for customers across an area the size of Belgium, spanning from Fort William to Inverness and as far north as Wick.
The business is now led by David’s son Ian Joy and, under his leadership, has grown turnover to nearly £6m, employing more than 40 people at its showroom and factory in Invergordon.
As a thank you and to celebrate its 50th birthday, the firm is giving customers the opportunity to win a top-of-the-range Apeer composite door (up to the value of £3000) through its social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram.
“When my father started the business in 1974, he originally sold glass out of Fearn Aerodrome,” explained Ian Joy, Managing Director of ERG.
“He founded the company on the principles of excellent customer service and that is still at the heart of what we do, combined with the very best products and investment in new technology.”
He continued: “This has helped us grow over the
last five decades and withstand various recessions and, in more recent years, the Covid-19 pandemic. Our staff and customers have been with us throughout and the birthday competition is our way of giving a little back.”
ERG has added an Architectural Technician to its team this year, to enhance its turnkey offering for customers wishing to add a conservatory or living space to their homes.
This service allows it to take a project from idea to completion and ensures challenges, such as planning permission and building warranty, are efficiently managed.
It’s the latest innovation from the business, which was recently named as a Premium Retailer by Conservatory Outlet, whose network it first joined five years ago.
Ian continued: “This was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made, and we have benefited hugely from the additional marketing support, digital activity and access to premium products such as its Extreme window and door collection – some of our biggest sellers.
“They feel like an extension to our business, and this has translated into strong growth, with sales increasing from £4m in 2019 to £6m at the end of this year.”
Greg Kane, Chief Executive of Conservatory Outlet, concluded: “Home improvement is such a competitive sector, so to have been operating for five decades is some achievement by ERG.
“Since joining our network, we have been hugely impressed with Ian and his team’s dedication to exceptional customer service and innovation in their markets – especially considering the huge geographic area they cover. The company is without doubt one of Invergordon’s true business stars.”
For further information, please visit www.ergscotland.co.uk or www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk
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NEW TRAINING PARTNERSHIP FOR COMPOSITE DOOR FIRE TRAINING
ASSOCIATION FOR COMPOSITE
DOOR
MANUFACTURERS
CHOOSES FDM AS OFFICIAL PARTNER
Fire Door Maintenance (FDM) is delighted to announce that the Association for Composite Door Manufacturers (ACDM) has unanimously voted for FDM to be its training partner. The decision was made at ACDM’s recent AGM, and members will now form a training steering group to assist with future course materials to be released later this year.
FDM opened the doors to its purpose-built, 3,000ft² Training Academy in Bury, Greater Manchester early in 2024. The centre combines classroom and hands-on experience for installers, inspectors, specifiers, and fire safety specialists and professionals. Out of the current 22 different types of fire door and component rooms for hands on practical training experience – there is a total of nine composite doors from various manufacturers. FDM currently offers a specific composite door inspection course accredited by GQA.
Nicola John, FDM’s Managing Director, who has more than 20 years industry experience, commented: “FDM was set up to be a training centre by Industry for Industry and to date we have over 30
partners who have supplied products for the learners to get hands on experience whatever course they chose.
“Because of this, plus the space and scope we have at the training centre, we are able to run a bespoke composite course where learners get to see firsthand how a composite door is engineered.
“It is important for inspectors, installers and maintainers to learn more about composite doors to keep them up to manufacturing and test standards when in the field.
“As part of the syllabus, we show test videos to show composite doors burning under test conditions and we explore test evidence and fields of application in relation to past and present legislation.
“Training is centred around the legislation, composition, components and manufacturing of composite doors to give the learners increased knowledge.”
Find out more about FDM and its courses at www.fdmltd.co.uk
PART L COMPLIANT
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HOMEOWNER VIEWS ON SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY UNCOVERED IN NEWLY RELEASED KEYSTONE MARKET RESEARCH CONSUMER FENESTRATION TRENDS REPORT
Keystone Market Research is excited to announce the release of the Summer edition of its quarterly UK Consumer Fenestration Trends report, sponsored by Epwin Window Systems. This latest edition provides invaluable insights on developing consumer behaviour and trends within the fenestration industry, with a special focus on smart home technology.
In this Summer edition, we look at the shifts in consumer behaviour from the Spring to the Summer survey results, highlighting demographic variances, material and style preferences for windows and doors. We also consider homeowner priorities, changes in purchasing motivation, and budget allocations, which positively has swung into increased spend indicated for the latter half of this year.
A standout feature of this edition is our in-depth analysis of homeowner views on smart home technology—a topic that has consistently ranked as the lowest priority for consumers in our surveys this year. Through our detailed study, we sought to determine whether this low ranking is due to a lack of interest or awareness among homeowners. We are pleased to share the findings, which uncover not only what functionality homeowners desire in smart home offerings but also the barriers preventing them from adopting these innovations.
Charlotte Hawkes, Director of Keystone Market
Research, comments: “Feedback on our previous reports has been really positive, and we are confident that this Summer edition will continue to deliver strategic value and practical insights. By examining smart home technology preferences and obstacles, we aim to equip businesses with the knowledge to overcome these barriers and better cater to consumer needs.”
Additionally, this edition presents fenestration preferences analysed by homeowner type, based on the well-regarded Mosaic® profiling system. By distinguishing varying tastes among different types of homeowners—from young “Aspiring Homemakers” to “Senior Security” retirees—our report provides businesses with the insights necessary to effectively target diverse homeowner segments.
Looking ahead, our Autumn report promises to be the most comprehensive yet, drawing from the views of over 4,000 homeowners—the largest published dataset of its kind. This upcoming report will provide a detailed overview of UK homeowner views on fenestration products and include the first look at anticipated homeowner-indicated spend levels on home improvement in 2025.
The Summer report is available now, with single report or annual subscription purchase options. For more information, please visit www.keystonemr.co.uk.
LESS THAN 40 TICKETS REMAIN
For The 2024 National Fenestration Awards Event!
The countdown has begun for the most anticipated event in the fenestration industry! With just over three months to go, we are thrilled to announce that there are now fewer than 40 tickets remaining for the prestigious National Fenestration Awards 2024. The awards ceremony will take place on October 26th at the iconic Doncaster Racecourse. This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable evening, celebrating excellence and innovation across the UK’s fenestration sector. With industry leaders, innovators, and influencers gathering under one roof, it’s an unmissable opportunity to network, share insights, and honour the outstanding achievements within our community.
The National Fenestration Awards, now in its 11th year, has grown to become the largest, most inclusive awards event in the sector. It recognises the hard work and dedication of companies and individuals who have excelled in various categories, from manufacturing and installation to design and innovation.
Why Attend?
Network with Industry Leaders: Meet and connect with key players in the fenestration industry. Celebrate Excellence: Honour the winners and
finalists who have made significant contributions to the sector.
Enjoy a Spectacular Evening: Indulge in a night of entertainment, and celebration at one of the UK’s premier venues.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this prestigious event. With tickets selling fast, we urge you to secure your place now to avoid disappointment. Whether you’re a nominee, a supporter, or simply passionate about fenestration, this is an event you cannot afford to miss.
How to Purchase Tickets:
Tickets can be purchased online through our official website: https://www.fenestrationawards. co.uk/winners-event/ or by contacting us on 01924 911234 or info@fenestrationawards.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of celebration and recognition at the National Fenestration Awards 2024. Let’s come together to honour the best in the business and set the stage for another year of excellence in fenestration.
About the National Fenestration Awards:
The National Fenestration Awards was established to celebrate and promote excellence within the UK fenestration industry. The awards are unique in being open to all companies and individuals, regardless of size or turnover, and are voted for by the industry itself, ensuring the winners are truly deserving of their accolades.
SLINOVA
The slimline sliding door
Stylish, minimalist and sustainable.
SLINOVA offers slim sightlines and the flexibility of a dual and triple track door system, as well as a large number of sliding door combinations. With a minimalist discreet design, SLINOVA provides outstanding performance and design, for today’s modern contemporary homes.
QUANEX BUILDING PRODUCTS CLOSES ON ACQUISITION OF TYMAN
Combination Creates a Comprehensive Solutions Provider to Building Products OEMs Acquisition Enhances Scale, Global Reach and Product Offering
Quanex Building Products Corporation (NYSE: NX) (“Quanex” or the “Company”) today announced that it has closed on its acquisition of Tyman plc (“Tyman”), creating a comprehensive solutions provider in the building products industry.
“We are excited to welcome the Tyman team. This transaction accelerates our growth and value creation by delivering best-in-class building products solutions to OEMs in the building products industry,” said George Wilson, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quanex.
“The acquisition of Tyman directly aligns with our ‘BIGGER’ strategy and, as a combined company, our scale and reach will enable us to build on our leading positions across an enhanced offering of differentiated engineered components. Our teams are focused on executing a smooth integration as we work to realize the operational and financial benefits of the transaction for the benefit of our employees, customers and stockholders.”
The transaction creates a larger, more diversified supplier of components to OEMs; strengthens brand leadership by adding Tyman’s highly recognizable brands with wide customer bases; and enhances the combined company’s financial profile by accelerating growth and increasing
profitability through greater scale and stronger cash flow. The Company intends to complete approximately 50% of the integration within the first 12 months and expects the acquisition to be meaningfully accretive to earnings within the first full year after closing.
In connection with the acquisition, Quanex will grant a Board Observer right to Teleios Global Opportunities Master Fund (“Teleios”), formerly the largest shareholder of Tyman. Teleios committed to the all-share alternative in support of the transaction and the Quanex leadership team. Quanex is entitled to terminate the agreement with Teleios after the Company’s annual meeting of shareholders in 2026.
In connection with the completion of the transaction, trading in Tyman’s common stock on the London Stock Exchange was suspended at 7:30 a.m. today (London time) and will be cancelled with effect at 7:30 a.m. tomorrow (London time).
Advisors
UBS Investment Bank served as sole financial advisor to Quanex. Foley & Lardner LLP and Travers Smith LLP served as legal advisors to Quanex.
For Installers, Fabricators and Specifiers, REHAU Answers provides:
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▪ Compliance Guidance
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THE RESIDENCE COLLECTION & WINDOW WIDGETS:
BRIDGING HERITAGE RESTRAINTS WITH MODERN PERFORMANCE
The demand for timber alternative windows that replicate the original frames of heritage properties and boast modern performance has surged. Homeowners naturally want to retain the features of their period properties, but often face planning constraints and Article 4 restrictions that prevent home upgrades to improve energy efficiency and functionality.
The Residence Collection has earned widespread acceptance from local authorities in conservation areas and Grade-II listed buildings across the UK. Designed with Article 4 guidelines in mind, their window systems, R9, R7 and R2, align seamlessly with preservation objectives, making for a smoother installation process for installers.
In a recent conservation project, partnering with installer Silent View Windows and fabricator CWG Choices, 26 Residence 9 windows in the popular Grained White colourway were installed on a historic 18th-century bank in the centre of Thame Town High Street as part of a new apartment project.
The windows were used to provide elements of 18th-century architectural design, replicating the style of the original structure. These windows offer modern functionality and energy efficiency, aligning with the preservation needs of the conservation area. These windows were the only timber alternative windows that were approved during the planning process.
With more than a decade of success with its original timber alternative window system, The Residence Collection has been shortlisted for four
awards at this year’s NFA 2024 Awards including, Best Use of Video, Digital Marketing Campaign of the Year, PVCu Systems Company of the Year and Timber Alternative of the Year.
The Residence Collection’s sister company, Window Widgets, is also nominated for Window Component of the Year with their cost-effective solution for PVC-U window and door systems, Werbar.
Werbar is designed to be compatible with most PVC-U window and door systems, providing essential benefits such as creating additional profile chambers to improve energy efficiency as well as improving screw retention.
As a key element in enhancing energy efficiency, Werbar helps to contribute to low u-values in windows and doors. When these are incorporated into heritage properties, it helps boost energy efficiency while preserving the property’s original aesthetic.
Jo Trotman, Marketing Manager at The Residence Collection and Window Widgets, added: “Our innovative products are at the forefront of marrying heritage property guidelines with modern performance and aesthetics, ensuring these properties can be energy efficient for years to come without compromising on historical features.
“We are very proud that our hard work has been highlighted with these nominations, as it represents our dedication to delivering installations for period and modern properties that not only meet but exceed expectations.”
To find out more about The Residence Collection award-winning ranges, visit www.residencecollection.co.uk or for Window Widgets visit https://www.windowwidgets.co.uk/
STATE-OF-THE-ART AUTOMATED LINE SEES STERNFENSTER
REINVEST IN SUPER SPACER®
Warm-edge spacer experts Edgetech are celebrating a key milestone with renowned window manufacturer Sternfenster, who have invested in a state-of-the-art automated spacer application line. Coinciding with Sternfenster’s 50th anniversary, this move solidifies their commitment to cutting-edge technology, sustainable building practises – and their relationship to Edgetech’s Super Spacer®. The new automated spacer application line boasts impressive capabilities. Representing an investment of £1m, the 42-metre Forel machine features an air cushion conveying system and a robotic hot melt applicator to ensure smooth and precise movement and bonding of window components.
An anti-static bar with a quality scanner and a dedicated quality check station guarantee flawless results throughout production.
The line also accommodates the processing of Georgian bars, further expanding Sternfenster’s design and performance capabilities.
Requiring only a small number of employees to operate, it not only enhances Sternfenster’s productivity but also helps them navigate industry labour shortages.
Sternfenster Glass Production & Stores Manager Einars Kalva comments:
“Super Spacer® delivers exceptional thermal performance, resulting in impressive U-values for our windows.
“This translates to significant energy savings for our customers and minimises the risk of condensation on the IGU.
“With the new application line, we’re able to manufacture exceptional units more quickly, efficiently and in higher volumes than before.”
However, for Einars, the advantages of working with Edgetech go beyond the product:
“We’ve received a huge amount of support from Edgetech in recent years,
and benefitted from their expertise and excellent customer service.
“In particular, I want to thank Edgetech’s Head of Sales Tony Palmer. Tony has an enormous amount of expertise, and is always on hand to offer advice and support.
“He’s been instrumental in helping us get the most out of our new automated line.
“Supportive suppliers like Edgetech have played a key role in allowing Sternfenster to thrive over the last fifty years.”
Tony Palmer comments:
“The trend towards automation is rapidly accelerating in UK fenestration.
“Sternfenster’s farsighted investment positions them perfectly for their future growth, and with Super Spacer® at the core of their production line, they’re well-equipped to deliver outstanding windows and doors for years to come.
“We look forward to continue supporting them as their impressive growth continues.”
For more information, please call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk
Watch the video interview with Einars here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_m9T54KWUYw
EDGETECH CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF SUPER SPACER®
Edgetech, leading innovator in spacer technology and a Quanex company, is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its flagship product, Super Spacer®, the world’s first foam warm-edge spacer bar.
Introduced in 1989, Super Spacer revolutionised the fenestration industry by offering superior thermal performance and productivity compared to traditional metal spacers.
Super Spacer’s innovative foam construction boasted a staggering 950 times lower thermal conductivity compared to the mainstream metal spacers mostly used at the time. This significantly reduced heat loss at the crucial window edge, a major factor in overall window energy efficiency.
Over the past 35 years, Super Spacer has become the industry leader in warm-edge spacer bars, and the market has experienced a shift with warmedge technology now used in the majority of units, thanks in no small part to Edgetech’s tireless campaigning.
And it’s innovative design is still leading the market today.
Used in iconic structures worldwide, from the renovation of the Eiffel Tower to Dubai’s Museum of the Future, Super Spacer empowers architects and manufacturers to achieve ambitious projects
that prioritise energy efficiency.
Super Spacer enables faster window production with less labour, translating to significant cost savings. The latest high-speed automated Super Spacer lines can produce 23.5% more units with just three employees compared to a nine-person line using rigid box warm-edge spacers.
Super Spacer reduces heat loss, condensation, and noise transmission, creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient living environment.
What’s more, Super Spacer’s resilience has been rigorously tested, withstanding extreme wind speeds and temperature fluctuations.
“We’re incredibly proud of Super Spacer’s 35-year legacy,” says Chris Alderson, President of European Fenestration at Quanex.
“In an era of increasing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, Super Spacer remains a vital tool for architects, builders, and homeowners alike, and as a company we’ll never stop challenging ourselves to create the products that propel our industry forward.”
For more information on Super Spacer and how it can elevate your next project, please visit our website or contact us today: www.edgetechig.co.uk
VBH INTRODUCES AFTERCARE PRODUCTS
VBH, the hardware specialist behind the greenteQ brand, has introduced two new products to expand its aftercare range.
The greenteQ Cleaning and Care Kit contains the basic products that are required to keep windows and doors in pristine decorative and working condition.
Supplied in a sturdy recyclable box, the kit includes a non-abrasive cleaner and cloth that provide streak-free cleaning of PVCu, aluminium and painted timber frames. The cleaner is PH-neutral, so can also be used to clean window and door furniture without damaging the decorative finish.
VBH advise that the ‘Lube’ penetrates deep into the cylinder’s barrel to clean, lubricate, and protect, by breaking down deposits deep inside the lock to ensure ‘perfect operation’.
Dry Lube displaces moisture and can free up rusted and frozen locks. Once applied, it forms a barrier that protects against the formation of dirt, dust and rust deposits that can cause stiff operation and, on occasion, jammed cylinders.
There is a bottle of fitting oil to lubricate the moving parts of the hardware, although VBH are at pains to point out that this should not be used to lubricate profile cylinders. Also included is a seal care solution to keep the gaskets soft and flexible to provide perfect weather sealing and closing action long into the future and, finally, the kit contains user instructions.
VBH has also recently introduced its greenteQ Dry Lube, which has been specially formulated for the internal workings of all profile cylinders and other locks, including padlocks.
Dan Powell, Head of Brand at VBH says, “Even the best windows, doors and hardware will not operate at their optimum forever, without proper care and maintenance.
“Some consumers still labour under the misapprehension that windows and doors are maintenance-free, while others try to do the right thing but with the wrong cleaner or lubricant. Getting that wrong will always do more damage than good.
“We at VBH want to ensure the end user understands why they should maintain their frames, furniture and locks, and why it is important to use the correct products. We now inform those homeowners who have registered for any of our direct guarantees about the ‘hows and whys’ of maintenance, and which products to use.”
Contact VBH on 01634 263300 or by email at info@vbhgb.com.
DIY
“At MB DIY, we understand the diverse needs of our customers. Whether you are a trader needing a variety of fitting materials or a fabricator looking for reliable supply chains, we offer products from numerous manufacturers all under one roof. Our aim is to ensure that every trader and retailer has the tools they need to succeed, supported by flexible pricing structures and a strong commitment to customer service.”
Michael Greenup, Director
Comprehensive solutions for the joinery and window industry
Robust product stocks with an extensive array from the industry leading brands
Competitive and customised pricing strategies plus tailored support services for our customers
HALLMARK INTRODUCES AV4 AUTOLOCK FROM WINKHAUS UK
Hallmark Doors and Panels, one of the largest composite door manufacturers in the UK, has recently launched the new AV4 multi-point autoLock from Winkhaus UK for their customers and installers.
Winkhaus and Hallmark have been in partnership for over 20 years with AV autoLocking systems part of the composite door manufacturer’s product line for just as long. AV4 is the latest addition to Hallmark’s range of Winkhaus security systems, which includes Cobra, TruLock and AV2. In addition to this, Hallmark is also a fire doorset partner with Winkhaus, and are accredited to manufacture FD30 Fire Doors under the WHUK/BM Trada Q Mark scheme.
The Benefits of autoLocks
Winkhaus has thrived when it comes to designing and manufacturing effective security solutions to meet the challenges brought by rapidly evolving security standards, with ease of use for customers at the forefront of each new innovation.
Becoming increasingly popular with homeowners, autoLock doors engage when the door is closed
without the need to lift a handle or turn a key. Compared to traditional locks, this will enable homeowners to have better peace of mind when entering or exiting the property, as follow on attacks or burglaries through unlocked doors are less likely, due to the immediate and effective security provided on closure.
All of Winkhaus’ multi-point locking systems feature Nano Protect, our innovative protective coating, which enhances durability, corrosion resistance, and scratch-resistance, meeting the highest EN 1670 corrosion protection standards, and achieving a 66% overrun above the class 5 requirement during tests. Both the AV2 and AV4 autoLocks meet the requirements of the PAS24 standard, are approved by the Police ‘Secured by Design’ security initiative, and are suitable for Composite, Timber, Aluminium and UPVC doors.
A Timeline of Innovation
Introduced nearly 20 years ago, Winkhaus’ autoLock AV2 multipoint locking system was the first step in the company’s journey towards an innovation timeline of industry firsts. AV4 is also part of Winkhaus’ ‘Family of Locks’ range, which makes it easier for fabricators and installers to interchange one of our locks for another based on customer requirements, providing lifetime adaptability. Using the autoLock AV4 routing,
Cobra, Thunderbolt, TruLock and autoLock AV2 can be fitted to all door materials and interchanged on-site, thereby reducing the time spent, and cost of, property services and maintenance contractors.
The AV4 multi-point autoLocking system features 40% lower operational force than the market leading AV2 autoLock, providing significant advantages for fabricators and installers by performing reliably where other locks may not, reducing the need for maintenance and call outs to adjust alignment. For tenants and property owners, AV4 ensures user-friendly operation accessible to all ages and abilities, including those who find it difficult to grip and operate other locking solutions. Its longevity and reliability provide a consistent and dependable locking solution, promoting continuity and stability.
Hallmark Doors and Panels, commented: “It’s been great to see both Hallmark and Winkhaus grow together over the years. AV2 has been successful with our customer base, providing a secure and stylish autolocking option, especially for those who are looking for a sleek, modern look.”
“AV4 is seeing more sales with each month since its launch, and it’s not hard to see why. Along with the impressively low force to operate which is beneficial to customers with limited mobility, AV4 is non-handed, which makes
it easier for installers as there’s less stock to keep and fewer mistakes on the job. We are very loyal to our suppliers - Winkhaus has been there every step of the way, and we’re excited to see the partnership grow further in the future.”
Mike Rushen, Sales Director for Winkhaus UK, said: “Our mission has always been to guarantee our customers success, and we have enjoyed working with Hallmark to bring our newest autoLock to market. As a longstanding partner with Hallmark, we have delighted in seeing the company grow. It has been a pleasure to collaborate with them for the launch of AV4 and observe the positive reception that this product has had with their customer base.”
“The autoLock AV4 not only exemplifies our dedication to reliability, but also introduces a new era of enhanced security and user-friendly technology, providing our customers with a state-of-the-art solution that prioritises both security and convenience.”
AV4 has been nominated for three categories in the National Fenestration Awards 2024.
To vote for your favourites in this year’s awards, visit www. fenestrationawards.co.uk/nfa24.
For more information about AV4, please visit www.winkhaus.co.uk/ en/autolock-av4 or email us at marketing@winkhaus.co.uk.
SHEERLINE LAUNCHES INDEX
BI-FOLD TO HELP FABRICATORS & INSTALLERS MAINTAIN COMPETITIVE EDGE
Meet Sheerline’s Index Bi-fold System. With a streamlined product range, designed to meet 90% of bi-fold orders, Index supports high volume retail and contract work. It’s a direct competitor to lower quality imported products, giving fabricators and installers greater choice, and letting them benefit from the best of British innovation.
It offers all the features and benefits Sheerline’s customers have come to expect. Like high performance, straight-forward U-values: DG 1.4 W/(m2K), TG 1.0 W/(m2K). Easily achieving Part L compliance without foam thanks to the company’s unique Thermlock® thermal break technology, which is more stable and warmer than polyamide.
As well as providing the same thermal efficiency as Sheerline’s other products, Index offers the usual stylish aesthetics too. With a contemporary sash, 72mm outer frame with stepped rebate and clipon cill, for ease of transportation and installation.
Index uses standard Sheerline corner cleats and beads for easy integration into a fabricator’s production line and is available alongside new competitive hardware options from Ingenious.
With a double wheeled design and a single roller which eliminates the need for a dummy or floating mullion, index is a cut above lower-quality alternatives.
Five-day lead times backed up by first class UK based service, rather than having to order container loads on 6 weeks plus deliveries with
non-existent technical support, will also help give Sheerline customers the tools to succeed.
Sitting alongside the existing Prestige Bi-fold, which remains the company’s premium, more versatile range, Index is set for success with both contract and high-volume retail fabricators.
Tony Basile, Sheerline’s National Sales Director, said: “We know our customers are competing against cheap imports. Index gives them a direct answer, but doesn’t compromise on our, or our customers commitment to quality. We’re a proud, fully integrated, British manufacturer, and as such, it is our responsibility to leverage the advantages this affords us, so our customers benefit and maintain their competitive advantage.”
“Anyone who knows Sheerline knows how important our network of fabricators and installers is to us. That’s why we’re constantly developing innovative solutions to the everyday challenges they face.” he added.
For more information on the New Index range please call 01332 978000 or visit www.sheerline.com
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NEW GOVERNMENT’S IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY
I welcome several areas of proposed plans to increase growth. The construction industry is set to benefit from initiatives promoting skills and training, addressing current challenges and preparing for future demands. Here are the focuses in which the built environment will hopefully see positive change:
The ambitious housebuilding programme aims to build over a million new homes, creating a high demand for skilled workers, and driving investment in training and education. By focusing on diverse tenures, including social housing, a broad range of skills and training needs are expected to be met.
Addressing recruitment issues will highlight the urgency to develop a skilled workforce, prompting targeted training initiatives. Investment in new technologies and sustainable construction should foster modern, efficient building practices, requiring specialised training and upskilling. Skills England will centralise efforts to address skills gaps, providing a coherent strategy for workforce development. Reforming the apprenticeship levy will enhance training funding, making relevant
DAN BROWN
Strategic Relationship Manager at GQA Qualifications
education more accessible.
Aligning training programmes with economic growth objectives will ensure skills development relevant to industry needs, supporting sustainable development and employment. Well-designed programmes will reduce mismatches between training and industry requirements. Identifying non-levy training eligible for funding should broaden the range of supported programs, enhancing workforce skills. Consulting on levyeligible training will ensure value for money, maximising the impact of investments.
I agree that comprehensive assessments of skills need to inform policy decisions, ensuring they are based on accurate data and industry requirements.
These initiatives and others also planned will hopefully create a robust framework for developing a skilled workforce, addressing current shortages, and preparing for future demands, ensuring the construction industry can thrive. It is early days and we are in ‘wait and see’ mode. Let us hope these ambitious plans can be realised.
GQA Qualifications is a multi-industry awarding body writing vocational based qualifications to support a wide range of career paths.
Accredited training leading to qualifications
If you are looking to retrain for a new career, or looking to develop your skills to open up opportunities why not consider practical training in window and door installation
Learn about Building Regulations, working safely on site, how to remove windows and doors from buildings and replace with new ones
All courses fully accredited and could contribute towards NVQ Qualifications
With further assessment and achievement, successful candidates can go forward to achieve CSCS Cards to enable them to work safely on site
Training delivered in Sheffield in a fully Covid secure environment
For more information on training contact sayhello@buildingourskills.co.uk
For more information on vocational qualifications and CSCS cards contact info@gqaqualifications.com
