Windows

The historic Edmonstone walled garden is the site of an ambitious £5 million housing development, which includes 47 affordable homes. The development project has 16 cottage flats and 31 houses made up of one, two and three-bedroom properties. The design respects the existing wall and has seen the historic structure become an integral part of the fabric of the new homes. With such a sensitive and renowned structure, the choice of contractors was critical. The window contractor selected for the project was Spectus Approved Window Contractor Walker Profiles Ltd, a leading manufacturer, supplier and installer based in Motherwell. The 483 windows were manufacture from the Elite 70 system from Spectus Window Systems. As a complete product system, Elite 70 had all the credentials required, not least because it could Spectus flush casement windows have been used in a 16th century building near Chelmsford, Essex. The Pig and Whistle has a long history as a public house but got converted in 2013 to a popular local restaurant. The replacement windows were undertaken by local domestic installation company, Chignal Windows Ltd who are based near Chelmsford. Kevin Lovett, Managing Director of Chignal Windows, said: “The Spectus flush casement windows were chosen to replace the property’s ageing timber frames. The heritage importance of this building was fundamental and the windows needed to sympathetically reflect the style and aesthetics of the originals. I knew the Spectus flush casement was the perfect choice for this high-profile job as the windows would enhance the character of the building and offer modern day thermal efficiency too.” All windows at the front of The Pig and Whistle needed to be replaced and where fitted with white flush casements with Georgian bar deliver the reversible, tilt and turn and casement windows the project required and maintain a streamlined, seamless appearance throughout. The windows were manufactured in Anthracite Grey on White, to create an aluminium-like appearance on the exterior with an understated neutral interior. Elite 70 is a formidable 70mm five chamber system for fully enclosed aluminium and/or steel reinforcement and it meets the requirements of BS EN 12608. In addition, it meets security requirements to PAS24:2016, which was critical because the development was designed to meet the Secured by Design accreditation. The national police initiative encourages developers to create housing projects with security in mind, using landscaping that promotes natural surveillance, as well as high-performance windows and doors to help prevent break-ins. As with every heritage project, there were additional complications to factor in. The key challenge was to ensure the windows fitted perfectly into the historic wall structure. To achieve this, the Walker Profiles’ team worked closely with the detailing and monkey-tail handles. Due to the build of the original window aperture, the windows had to be fitted from the outside. Kevin explains: “The original windows had building contractor to ensure the existing wall apertures were cut to fit the windows precisely.

The new development has secured the future of the historic wall and it will remain for years to come as a nod towards the site’s rich history. The quality of the development has already attracted attention because it been screw-fixed into large timber fronts within the aperture. As such, we needed to reverse the lugs on the windows and fit from the outside to ensure a perfect, clean fit was achieved.” won Police Scotland’s Secured by Design Gold Award. David MacGregor, Business Development Manager at Walker Profiles, comments: “This was a superb project to be involved in and we enjoyed being part of a sympathetic restoration of such a historic property.”

Tel: 0808 178 3370 - www.spectus.co.uk

The flush casement windows were manufactured by Chignal Windows’ fabrication partner and longstanding Spectus fabricator, Universal Trade Frames. Universal Trade Frames manufactured the flush casement windows using specially designed hardware that gives the added benefit of a night vent facility and the option of a French casement opening.

Karla Greenhalgh, Area Sales Manager at Universal Trade Frames, said: “The flush casement window is a popular window choice and enhances both heritage and new build properties. We were delighted to have worked with Chignal Windows on this heritage project and the finished result is superb.”

Chignal Windows is a domestic business formed in 2019 by Kevin Lovett. Kevin has been fitting Spectus windows since 1984 into the commercial sector via his installation business, Seaxe Contract Services Ltd. In setting up his new retail business Kevin’s objective was to offer a range of high-quality products with an exacting service promise and no pushy hard sell. And in delivering a stunning heritage project like The Pig and Whistle, Kevin has achieved exactly what he set out to do.

The United Kingdom's landscape is awash with properties from a variety of periods and with a variety of styles. From the ultra-modern abodes of the suburbs to heritage properties full of character and until recently, there wasn't one window that could fit all these unique homes.

With the introduction of a new, groundbreaking PVCu flush sash window system from Liniar in 2019, homeowners can now benefit from not only the personalisation they want but the exceptional thermal performance they need. "In the last three decades, the market has changed drastically. Once, most homes were fitted with cheap timber windows, but those days are behind us. The main reason the popularity of timber windows has dropped is that they've become more bespoke and relatively expensive," commented one Liniar fabricator. "PVCu windows have surpassed the energy efficiency and security that timber windows can provide. The maintenance of these windows is also a huge consideration for homeowners. Timber windows require a lot of ongoing maintenance, and if you have a lot of windows, this becomes a massive undertaking. In contrast, PVCu windows need practically no maintenance, simply wash them down with soapy water occasionally to keep them looking their best." In 2018, Liniar reported on the rise in PVCu windows that were being foiled to replicate the look of timber - especially in properties that would traditionally feature timber windows. Things haven't changed much since then in terms of what customers wanted from their windows in 2018 except for ever-increasing demand for more energy efficiency and non-traditional foil colours which speak to their own unique style.

Flush sash windows have been around for decades - and they haven't changed much in all that time. With the launch of Liniar's revolutionary Resurgence window, the UK's first PVCu double-rebated flush sash window, in 2019, the industry-leading systems company filled a gap in the market and demand is on the rise. Resurgence brought to market the look of traditional flush sash timber windows, but with the superb energy efficiency, that Liniar window systems are known for. This top of the line PVCu window features patented Liniar components such as its coextruded bubble gasket, and with its doublerebated weather seal, those telltale brush piles in the shadow gap of timber windows are nowhere in sight. A first in the industry! For modern properties, the Resurgence window is more than an alternative for timber. With sashes and frames foiled two different yet complementary colours, it gives an entirely fresh style for fenestration.

With clean lines and in popular shades such as Agate Grey or Gale Grey Finesse, the Resurgence window is right at home in contemporary designs as well as character properties. Perfect for homeowners looking to lower their property's carbon footprint the Resurgence window can achieve as low as 0.9 W/m²K U-values and comes with PAS24 and Secured by Design accreditations as standard, even in its fully mechanically jointed fabrication.

Demand comes not only from homeowners but also from fabricators. The Resurgence flush sash window has been designed to meet the specifications homeowners want from modern PVCu windows, but also to be a versatile product for fabricators when manufacturing. This was achieved by consulting a group of Liniar fabricators throughout the design process to ensure their needs were met. The result? Resurgence can be fabricated using four manufacturing methods, including Timberweld®. This fabrication process gives Resurgence a more authentic appearance and provides the ultimate timber replica option for homeowners. Liniar's PVCu windows and doors can be ordered in a wide variety of woodgrain effect finishes - including three recent additions to the range - Sheffield Oak Concrete, Sheffield Oak Alpine and Turner Oak. Read the 2018 case study about the rise in timber replica window popularity by visiting www.liniar.co.uk/case-studies/thestyle-of-timber-without-the-hassle/.

150 Spectus Elite 70 flush tilt and turn windows were specified in the development of 26 two bed flats for social rent, including 10 amenity homes on an urban site in the heart of Paisley, Renfrewshire. The new development replaces the former Arnotts department store in the town's new Abbey Quarter.

The project was secured by Spectus Approved Window Contractor Walker Profiles Ltd, a leading manufacturer, supplier and installer based in Motherwell. The high-profile city centre location of the flats meant the aesthetics of the windows were paramount. The flats had a streamlined design aesthetic with a carefully selected materials palette and well-planned interior spaces offering generous daylight from the windows. The 150 windows were manufactured from Elite 70 flush tilt and turn system from Spectus Window Systems which is suitable for both medium-rise and high-rise buildings. The system has been designed so the framework doesn’t overlap, giving a ‘flush’ appearance that means it delivers the aesthetics of an aluminium window. In this project, the windows were manufactured in smooth anthracite grey on white to build on the aluminium aesthetics required. The window has been tested to PAS 24: 2016 up to a maximum size of 1450 x 2400 and has a weather performance of 2400 pa and can achieve a Window Energy Rating of A++ too. The windows had Secure by Design certification as required, which is a police-backed initiative that recognises only the most secure windows and brings an extra level of security for the occupants. The city centre location opposite the town’s bus station meant this was a project that required careful planning and collaborative project management. Due to the hightraffic location, noise reduction was a critical element to the project and acoustic glazing was used throughout to provide the calm, quiet interiors needed. As an experienced contractor, Walker Profiles had a clear understanding of all the demanding requirements and found installation smooth and straightforward. The flats support Renfrewshire’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2020/21, which aims to deliver 1,000 affordable homes by 2021. Walker Profiles’ David MacGregor commented: “We were delighted to work on this project. We have helped to create a striking building that delivers much-needed affordable housing in this area.” Tel: 0808 178 3370 - www.spectus.co.uk

Available on both classic casements and flush casements, seamless joints are created using a revolutionary Graf seamless welder, a state-of-the-art piece of machinery which eliminates the welding seam seen on standard 45° mitre-jointed PVCu windows. Unlike these standard window joints, where the window is welded together creating a molten plastic ‘sprue’ that is cleaned off to leave a slight groove, Graf-welded windows reverse the process – so the sprue is pushed back into the frame, resulting in not only a stronger weld but also creating a seamless join and high-quality finish. The finished seamless corner is perfect for Quickslide’s textured wood-effect windows that look just like traditional timber. Quickslide, in partnership with Deceuninck, offers 22 woodgrain colourways from stock as well as the option of bespoke wood-effect windows. In addition, External Timber Look (ETL) joints will soon be available on Quickslide’s flush sash range, for customers looking for sympathetic period detailing with all the benefits of energy efficient and low maintenance PVC-u windows. ETL externally utilises the appearance of 90° butt corner joins to replicate traditional joiner-made timber windows; underneath, however, is still a 45 degree cut. This design is crafted using a series of dedicated machines with various milling processes to turn out a strongly welded joint internally and a beautiful mechanical joint externally. Coupled with realistic wood grain effects and the flush frame finish, these windows offer a true modern alternative to timber windows. “We’re delighted to be expanding our range of offerings,” said Ben Weber, Quickslide’s Managing Director. “Since Quickslide first entered the market over 15 years ago, our focus has been on replicating the period look with all the benefits of PVCu. “During that time our products have constantly evolved, and we continue to push the boundaries, leading the way in heritage windows. Quickslide is firmly committed to continually improving our acclaimed window and door range, keeping us at the forefront of the industry.” Quickslide’s latest product expansion is part of an 18-month, £2m investment programme, a commitment to ensure it continues to provide trade partners with award-winning, high quality products. “We also pride ourselves on offering our customers products that others don’t,” Ben continued. “For example, we’ve recently managed to get our new fully mechanically jointed Legacy VS through PAS 24 security certification. We’ve succeeded in producing the only mechanically jointed version of this window – based on the Spectus VS – on the market, which is something we know our customers value and that we can offer them uniquely. “ www.quickslide.co.uk

A leading aluminium windows manufacturer has created a new business development team as it targets rapid growth in the private and public property sectors.

Joe Blythe-Richards, Charlie Skipp and Josh Dewstow have been appointed by Performance Window Fabrications (PWF) to help deliver its vision for future expansion, which will include the creation of further jobs at the Birmingham-based manufacturer. The three recruits have been appointed in business development roles by the fenestration group, which recently launched two new divisions – Fire Windows Direct and Glass Roof Direct. Business development manager Joe joins from Wren Kitchens where he was a salesman and kitchen designer. Charlie, also appointed business development manager, worked for four years at WHS Plastics where he was a sales leader. Sales and estimation manager Josh has extensive experience in the fenestration sector. Alex Sutherland, managing director of PWF, said: “As lockdown lifted we were determined to hit the ground running and we are excited at the potential for rapid growth across the aluminium windows sector. “We are delighted to welcome Joe, Charlie and Josh. It’s a relatively young team but they all have valuable experience, combined with the energy and enthusiasm to drive the business forward on a regional and national basis.” He added: “These are exciting times for the Performance Window Farbrications group of companies and we have a clear vision for our future growth. Our strategy is to become the supplier of choice for aluminium doors, windows and curtain walling in the whole of the UK. Our growth will involve further investment in the latest fenestration technology and in our highly experienced team.” Based in Aston, Birmingham, PWF comes under the umbrella of Six-Twenty Group. It recently launched Fire Windows Direct, targeting the fire rated windows and doors sector, and Glass Roof Direct. Glass Roof Direct supplies thermal flat rooflight windows. It has a range of three top quality products – fixed, ventilation and access - all manufactured to the highest industry standards at its Birmingham factory. Visit www.glassroofdirect.co.uk. Fire Windows Direct is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of aluminium fire rated windows, doors and curtain walling. In partnership with a range of customers, from architects and construction contractors, to property developers and fabricators, we have delivered tailor-made glazing solutions for all market sectors. Visit www.firewindowsdirect.co.uk.

Glazing contractors are needed for an initial term of five years and will deliver the work through a new dynamic purchasing system (DPS). Procurement services provider, PfH which has over 900 members, including housing associations and local authorities, has designed the DPS to help housing providers clear their backlog of routine repairs (estimated to be 2.6 million jobs) and procure repairs flexibly in the future. New glazing contractors can join the DPS at any time, unlike a framework. The total value of the reactive repairs and voids work to be procured via the DPS is estimated at £490million. Other categories of the DPS include electrical, heating and plumbing, fullservice delivery of responsive repairs and voids, general repairs and specialist works such as roofing. For each category, contractors will be required to either supplement a social landlord’s inhouse direct labour organisation or to fully manage an outsourced repairs and voids service, which may include call handling, repairs diagnostics and work scheduling. The DPS helps small, local contractors by streamlining the tender process. Once suppliers have passed the DPS selection procedure, they can quickly bid for any opportunities by submitting a tender. There is no need for them to go through the selection stage again and again for each contract opportunity. Steve Malone, managing director at Procurement for Housing said: “Social landlords are dealing with an unprecedented backlog of routine repairs jobs plus the pressure of social distancing on maintenance jobs. We hope this DPS will help the sector to overcome some of these problems whilst also supporting SME contractors who can quickly register and bid without having to go through a time-consuming tender process.” PfH’s DPS for Responsive Works & Voids will run for five years with the option to extend for another five years. To apply for inclusion visit: https://in-tendhost.co.uk/ procurementforhousing/aspx/Home