Glass News June 2015

NEW

New Market Report

points to big industry changes

Installers | Fabricators | Glass People | Also stocked in Trade Counters

Compiled following in-depth research of almost 15,000 fabricators and installers, the annual Insight Data Market Report provides the clearest, most concise snapshot of the UK window, door and conservatory industry.

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

• More companies cease fabrication

Issue 51 June 2015

• Trade counters dominate growth • Aluminium products take market share

IS !!

TH NTH MO

IS !!

TH NTH MO

• Showrooms back in vogue

PAGE 28

PAGE 86

Glass News reports on the highlights, and the full report is available to download for free from www.insightdata.co.uk.

COLOUR

The window, door & conservatory industry 2014 ended with 14,771 fabricators and installers on the Insight database. There were over 1,200 changes every month on the database, but it is the number of companies added to the database and those being removed (ceased trading) that gave a strong indicator of churn in the market.

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During the year 455 new companies were added and 819 removed; business failure and a growing number of business owners retiring are responsible for the increase in ‘ceased trading’.

Regional Activity

RECRUITMENT

Fabricator and installer by region.

The Southern Counties is the UK hot spot for window companies, with 1,821 trading firms, followed closely by the East Midlands, while the Northern Counties saw the highest net increase in firms with an additional 18 companies in the area taking it to 862 firms.

Northern Ireland had the lowest number of companies at 264.

One of the most notable changes in 2014 is ‘lifestyle fabricators’. Small companies producing under 50 frames per week have historically been content fabricating for themselves. However, there has been a significant swing away from manufacturing at this level, with the number of small fabricators dropping by 94 during 2014.

Manufacturing

Installers

The number of PVC-U, aluminium or timber manufacturers now stands at 4,265 with the East Midlands having the highest number of fabricators and Northern Ireland the lowest number.

The number of window, door and conservatory installers has increased for another year and now stands at 12,609 firms.

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Check out our vast range of cladding (a fantastic alternative to tiles, and easier on the pocket too) - in store today.

We also stock a huge range of roofline products - all ready to take away.

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JUNE 2015

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Is it set fair for both the economy and a good summer?

After what seemed an interminable time running up to the General Election, and some apprehension about the outcome and what it may mean for the country, its business as usual. Whatever ones political persuasion, there must be some relief that the markets have reacted favourably to the result and the pound has retained its strength against other currencies. So it should be set fair for a settled economic outlook which should be good for our industry. Or is it?

The snag is that the Bank of England has revised its projections for growth for 2016 and 2017 in a downward direction and our weak productivity performance means that there is little hope of increased government revenues to reduce the deficit. Productivity is still below pre-2008 levels and growth of the economy is dependent on productivity performance to help improve living standards. Strong growth means that the deficit will reduce more quickly and give the government room for manoeuvre with taxes and spending. We’re not on our own and the phrase ‘secular stagnation’ is being used to describe advanced economies where the norm is becoming lower growth rates than have been experienced in recent decades. While employment levels are good and those out of work is reducing, much of that can be put down to wages being relatively static. As wages gently rise income tax revenues will increase as will the standard of living as long as household debt doesn’t grow, too.

While interest rates are widely expected to increase, it seems these will be small, and over a long period, and there is no expectation of interest rates returning to prohibitive levels. All in all, it’s a case of more of the same, with nothing likely to either give our industry a massive boost

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

DOORS & HARDWARE! See page 4

I hate to say it, as I sit here on a relatively autumnal day – all it needs is a few leaves blowing off the trees and it could be September – but this is summer! Not only that, but in a month’s time the night’s will be drawing in! But before we get too depressed, the diary is filling up with a variety of corporate events, open days and product launches. From Synseal’s launch of the Celsius Solid Roof, to RegaLead’s Ryder Cup Style Golf Challeng, to DOORCO, with lots of new products to come from them. There are events and people to see every week and I feel it will be a good summer, whatever the weather!

CONTACT DETAILS

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Publisher & Owner: Christina Shaw 12 Sunderland Street, Tickhill, Doncaster, Postal DN11 9QJ Address!

M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

Doors & Hardware

26 Glass News Interview: DOORCO 28 Front Cover Story

nor anything that will hurt it significantly.

With this outlook we should look forward, hopefully, to small but steady growth.

Certainly, our industry is doing what it can.

Innovation abounds and new products are appearing every month. This represents a confidence in the future as investment is an inevitable part of bringing new products to market. And talk of new products reminds that the FIT Show is back with us next year and, although a trade show, having our own domestic show seems to give the industry a boost that will hopefully translate into increased sales throughout the industry.

It can’t be long before the FIT publicity machine bursts into life and I’ve already heard of company’s selecting the person for their ‘FIT face’ for the promotion. It is definitely something to look forward to.

CONTENTS

28 Colour 34 Installer Focus 39 Installer Insights 40 Legal Eagle 40 Conservatories 46 Solid Roofs 50 Face To Face

‘TIME OUT’ Winners

– MAY!

Crossword: C. Allan, IG Technologies, Carlisle Eye Spy: Mrs P Khuttan, Denham Spot The Difference: Marney Baker, North Cornwall Glazing, Cornwall

54 Fabricator Focus 62 PG Tips 62 Windows 66 Face To Face 68 Glass News Interview: CiiLOCK Engineering 69 Trade News 80 Letters 82 Glass

Sudoku: Sharon Cottingham, INS Services, Crowborough

86 Recruitment

Congratulations to all our winners! Good Luck in this months Time Out pages!

94 Time Out!

90 Charity News 95 Find A Supplier

May 2015 crossword solution: @GlassnewsMag

New

Advertising Enquiries: Christina Shaw M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk Editor: Chris Champion T: 07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk Features Editor: Sheilah Reed M: 07880 990144 E: sheilah@glassnews.co.uk Sales: Kathy Leeming T: 01405 947279 E: cathy@glassnews.co.uk Trade Counter Distribution Department: Roz Worgan E: roz@glassnews.co.uk Graphic Design: hook-a-duck Deadline for copy: 28th of each month glassnews™ is a registered Trademark.

The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility.

The paper we use is 100% recycled.

Christina Shaw

/GlassNews

Please recycle this newspaper so we can continue to use recycling in our effort to help the environment.

Joined the Golf Register?

Chris Got Something To Say? Email Chris at: chris@glassnews.co.uk

Just email chris@glassnews.co.uk with your name, company, address and golf handicap (or what you play off).

You never know, you may just get an invite to a corporate golf day in 2015!

3

DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Another Sure-fire Winner

From Whiteline

Innovative fabricator Whiteline has launched a new door lock system that increases household security and customers’ peace of mind whilst looking really great.

Multi-point, hook locking has become a familiar feature on new doors in the UK, but sometimes owners forget or have difficulty lifting the handles to throw the locks with home security being compromised as a consequence. Now Whiteline has introduced the Autofire, Wink Haus lock option for its full range of PlatinumNRG Composite doors and now, with a UK “first”, across their range of PVCu residential doors.

The Autofire lock does just what it says, autofiring the hooks when the door is

closed, requiring no manual throwing and achieving immediately greater security. Effortlessly and consistently, the hooks are automatically engaged. The new system can give classic good looks outside, with a door knob or pull latch but no handle, or a fixed handle can be specified if required.

Inside, the lock cylinder houses either a standard key operated fitting or an easy to use Thumbturn alternative.

A simple quarter turn of the lock internally, or with the key externally, engages the maximum security deadlock position to provide total peace of mind.

With standard lock height available for all door types, a higher option for Composite doors and attractive furniture options to suit your customers’

needs, Autofire door locks from Whiteline take home security to a whole new level.

To find out more visit www.whiteline.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0003

KENRICK’S SPLIT SPINDLE DELIVERS

FLEXIBILITY & CONVENIENCE

Kenrick has reported a successful first six months since the launch of its high specification Excalibur split spindle door lock during which a number of high volume customers have added the lock to their range of products.

Many top hardware distributors and fabricators have boosted their suite of products with the split spindle door lock which brings greater flexibility to fabricators who want to quickly and cost effectively fabricate either a lever/lever or a lever/pad system from just one lock.

The versatile door lock is a development beyond traditional twin spindle locks which require a longer back plate for all types of operation. It incorporates a standard 92mm centre, which has been designed to accommodate both long and short back plate handles and either a solid spindle to make a lever/lever lock or a split spindle to create a lever/pad lock.

Steve Williams, Sales and Marketing Director at Kenrick, said: “As the window industry gathers pace in 2015, there is more pressure on fabricators to deliver products within even shorter timescales but without compromising on performance. This product is an intelligent alternative to traditional twin spindle locks.

We believe the door lock has been in demand since we launched it last year because it brings guaranteed speed, simplicity and versatility to the fabricator so they can increase production rates and make the most of better trading conditions.”

The door lock brings an added benefit for installers who can easily alter the operation

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Securing great aesthetics

The importance of choosing the right hinge SFS has always strived to be at the forefront of innovation and the unique Dynamic 2D and 2D-F hinge are no exception.

The attachment of a bespoke sash plate to the hinge body via steel bars integrated with vertical pins make a far stronger hinge compared to a standard hinge design. In recent PAS 24 specification tests, the Dynamic 2D recorded a potentially record breaking pass result of 14.2KN, at which point the door only failed due to the hinge screws being pulled out of the frame, as opposed to the hinge actually breaking.

The hinge meets the Police Preferred Specification requirements of Secure By Design and has a proven operational reliability of over 200,000 cycles, more than twice the industry requirement, allowing SFS intec to offer a 10 year guarantee.

Moreover, this feature combined with a unique system for fine adjustment allows quick and more importantly, precise installation first time every time. This in turn, leads to a perfectly functioning door-set that will not require remedial visits, thus reducing overall fitting costs.

As we know, ‘fast to fit’ may be a priority from a

fabricators point of view, due to saving production time and money, but the benefit to the end user is just as paramount and a door-set that provides longevity, reliability and security, such as that which is offered by the Dynamic 2D and 2D-F hinge, combines the complete package as opposed to focusing on just one aspect.

Dynamic 2D & 2D-F Hinges Benefits • Superior aesthetics and performance • Fit and forget - eliminates remedial work on sagging doors and can be fitted with by one operative • System specific jigs guaranteeing accuracy • Complete security down both sides of door with maximised door opening.

• Custom design sash plates for all leading profile systems Nick Monger, Purchasing Director at TruFrame, commented: “We have been using the 2D hinge for all of our ‘Secure by Design’ jobs for some time as we continue to make a real impact in the marketplace.”

In addition, with aesthetics being a strong part of our product profile and developed in order to meet the required need for a complete range of guaranteeable metallic finishes for our door hinges, SFS intec have introduced our new

of the door set after installation by simply changing the handles and spindles without needing to change the lock or re-route the door sash.

As well as bringing greater convenience to the fabricator and installer, the Excalibur split spindle door lock also offers guaranteed levels of security for the homeowner. Durable and robust, its three hooks, two steel anti-lift bolts and three rollers ensure exceptional performance and smooth operation.

For greater flexibility, the Excalibur split spindle door lock is extendable and utilises a gearbox which is sprung on both spindles to avoid the need to buy more costly sprung handle sets. A wide choice of components, including a one piece keep, individual hook

superior high performance Endurabrite Bright Chrome and Gold finishes in addition to another 21 solid colour offerings.

As it is impossible to know where a door will be installed - a sea front building at Scarborough or next to a cement works - a product that can withstand harsh environments whilst still retaining its lustre finish is imperative. Endurabrite has successfully been used within the automotive industry for truck parts such as wheel bolts and other tough applications, and the unique double protection process has been proven to exceed more than 1000 hours salt spray with no signs of corrosion.

For further information please contact Customer Services on 0113 2085 500 or your local representative.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0004

roller and centre hook latch and roller keeps, is also available.

Kenrick is a leading supplier of hardware solutions for PVCu, aluminium and timber window and door systems. The company has a proud heritage spanning more than 200 years, having been established by Archibald Kenrick who manufactured buckles and livery fittings. Kenrick’s range of top quality products includes the market leading Excalibur multi-point locking system, the four-point Centurion system and the Easifit and Espagnolette locking systems. www.kenricks.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0005

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Introducing the new DUO Contemporary Bowater Door range New designs, new glass, new hardware, any colour

Call 01282 718 406 Email info@bowaterdoors.com www.bowaterdoors.com 0615/0006

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

5

DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Make a graceful entrance with DDP Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead is pleased to announce the launch of Inox Monaco to the market. As the latest addition to the company’s Inox range of glazed options for doors, Monaco is manufactured using 316 grade stainless steel glazing frames, which provide a distinctive European flavour, and which are guaranteed to keep their high shine and stunning looks for years to come.

With a long slim glazing detail running virtually the full length of the door, Monaco provides a very contemporary style which can be easily created using a 44mm flush composite slab from any of the major suppliers, as well as with the DoorCo Monza grooved slab. DDP’s turnkey solution includes CNC programming information, weather performance test

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data from Wintech, glazing methodology and the stainless steel glazing frames themselves. For customers buying in prepped slabs, the company has worked closely with several partners to ensure a wide range of programmes have been set up for cutting the various apertures. Initially a range of six glass styles in 41mm units will be offered from stock for use with the Monaco door and Inox frame combination.

Paul Edwards, Market Manager for the DDP division comments: “Since the launch of Inox Glazing in 2013 it has proven very popular with both the trade and consumers due

to its highly contemporary European look, but as it’s manufactured using a standard 44 composite door it offers the same security, performance and insulation characteristics of the more conventional composite door styles. We are delighted to introduce another stunning design to the range in the Monaco in order to provide even greater choice for composite door fabricators who want to differentiate their offering from their competitors’.”

For more information about Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead visit www. decorativedoorproducts.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0007

PJ Plastics have just upgraded their stunning showroom in Bexley, Kent, which now features 10 beautiful Solidor composite doors, with all 18 colours on show including the latest Cotswold-inspired Painswick finish.

consumers can design their very own Solidor in real time and it’s already proving a big success. The first sale of a Painswick, Ludlow door was completed on the very first day that the Painswick door was put on show, an impressive achievement.

The Showroom Bexley, as it has been branded, was formally opened up by the local mayor, with local MP James Brokenshire attending the first formal day of opening for the Premium Installer, just 18 months ago.

The showroom is managed by Heidi Farmer, who believes that 9 in every 10 door sales are sold to a female in their experience, in what has been traditionally seen as a more male dominated sector.

Statistics have also shown that the sales of Solidor products in The Showroom Bexley have also come at the expense of timber, a clear indication of the product design and quality that’s inherent in a Solidor.

While Solidor’s impressive and proven lead generation engine has provided some strong leads, the reputation of the company, the products on show and the newly refurbished showroom have done much to provide a constant stream of enquiries.

The company’s reputation was enhanced back in 2013, when they won G13 Installer of the Year and have built a very strong reputation in the local area. Now with this impressive new showroom and a flat screen TV mounted on the wall,

Heidi commented: ‘We’ve invested heavily in this showroom to stand far apart from the typical double glazing showrooms of yesteryear. It’s a clean, modern environment and one in which is generating a lot of Solidor sales.’

Joe Martoccia, managing director of Solidor concluded:’ This is a perfect

The first installation of the new Painswick finish, in a white door frame by PJ Plastics.

example of a premium showroom environment and their sales speak for themselves. With new product developments and point of sale materials in the pipeline, we’re ready to raise our game even further, to support our network partners such as PJ Plastics.’

To find out more about Solidor, then log on to www. solidor.co.uk, call 01782 847300 or e-mail enquiries@ solidor.co.uk. To keep up to date with all of their developments follow them on Twitter @solidorltd or look them up on Facebook.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0008

REHAU ANNOUNCES NEW PROFILES FOR COMPOSITE DOORS REHAU has announced that its new composite door outer frame profiles are now available to the whole of its fabricator network.

In line with REHAU’s policy of providing a total product offering, it has added two new profiles to its range for composite doors.

Customers now have a new 62mm profile suitable for use with a 44mm door slab and a new transom for fabricating a fixed light above, as well as an existing 72mm outer frame profile so that they can choose the solution which suits them best.

Marketing and Technical Director Gareth Jones says: “The profiles help to complete our range at a time when the composite door market is continuing to boom.

REHAU customers can now offer the slimmer sightlines which many prefer with composite doors and, at the same time, offer profiles which suite perfectly with REHAU TOTAL70C side lights and matching window installations.

“Our technical team have ensured that the new profiles meet all of the requirements of our customers so, for example, they are suitable for producing a door with a DER A rating and they are available in a wide range of colours from stock.”

Additional benefits of the new profiles are that they work neatly with all of the most

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widely used low thresholds on the market and feature standard brush pile height.

The new transom can be either mechanically jointed or welded and, because it is part of the REHAU TOTAL70C range, it is compatible with a wide choice of glazing beads so that customers can choose any size of glazing unit for the fixed light.

Gareth added: “Customers selling a whole house of windows and doors can now offer REHAU profiles throughout without compromising on any aspect of the fabrication or the installation. It’s one more step in our efforts to offer the widest range of profiles and to give REHAU customers a solution for every application.”

The new door profiles, which were previewed at last year’s FIT show, have until now only been available to buy as finished frames from a limited number of specialist door manufacturers but REHAU is now making them available to all of its customers.

A full dedicated technical manual for fabricators is available from REHAU’s regional sales offices. www.rehau.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0009

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0010

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www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

7

DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Phoenix Doors presents ‘Meridian’ – the 70mm high performance, rebated composite door Phoenix Doors is proud to unveil its new, high performance 70mm rebated composite door range, ‘Meridian’.

A game-changing, luxury product that will help installers meet today’s consumer demands and take full advantage of the premium composite door market.

Offering the highest specifications in security and A-rated thermal-efficiency, the 70mm double-rebated door with triple weatherseals and 50mm triple-glazing delivers outstanding weather, energy and acoustic performance. In addition, the Meridian range is manufactured to achieve Secured by Design as standard.

“We are extremely proud of the newest, premium addition to our comprehensive composite door range; the Meridian is a truly niche product for discerning homeowners, which in turn, creates exciting market opportunities for our customers,” says Haydon Statham, Phoenix Doors’ Sales Director. “With outstanding performance in all areas, the Meridian door ticks all the boxes for installers and consumers alike.”

Taking its name from the Meridian Wood, located next to the Phoenix door

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manufacturing facility at Bluntisham, the new range is being promoted as a ‘doorway to a greener future’. The innovative Meridian door, with a u-value as low as 1.0, is specificallydesigned to champion sustainability and efficiency without compromising the natural environment by using the latest modern materials and manufacturing techniques.

To further underpin the Meridian door’s credentials as a truly industry-leading product, tests have shown it is 19% more thermally-efficient than a 48mm solid timber core composite door and 17% more thermally-efficient than a 44mm traditional timber panelled door.

Demonstrating their commitment to the environment and sustainability, Phoenix Doors has pledged its on-going support of Meridian Wood through the Woodland Trust and has sponsored a tree-planting scheme at the site to help ‘preserve and protect’ it for future generations to enjoy.

Alongside broadening choice for customers, an added benefit of the Meridian door is ease of installation, as Haydon explains: “Because double-rebate doors are easier to install and adjust on site compared to singlerebate doors, fitters will also love them. The double rebate allows for greater tolerances in

movement between the door leaf and frame during installation – similar to installing a PVC panel door.”

The Meridian range delivers versatility and choice; the collection includes nine styles, all named after tree types and features both traditional and contemporary designs with five brand new and exclusive glazing options.

Available in a palette of stylish new heritage colour finishes including French Grey, Duck Egg and Chartwell Green, plus bright solid colours like ‘Very Berry’ – the range has been designed to support installers and meet current consumer demand, whilst helping to create valuable new business opportunities for Phoenix customers. Furthermore, with the recent launch of Phoenix’s in-house paint spraying facility, catering for any specified RAL colour means that the personalisation options of Meridian are virtually limitless!

Haydon adds: “This is an important, elegant and market-leading addition to our GRP composite door range that we predict will make a positive impact with our customers and provide the broadest product range available today in the UK composite door market.”

To support the official June launch of this exciting new door range, Phoenix has produced a premium consumer brochure

printed on environmentally-sustainable FSC® paper, dedicated Meridian point-of-sale material and a fully-responsive consumer website. This launch comes at an exciting time for Phoenix Doors, which will also be launching a new website to showcase their entire composite and uPVC panel door range, in conjunction with an innovative online ordering system.

For more information on Meridian, to request a free marketing pack or to express an interest, please call Phoenix Doors on 01487 740469, email info@phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk or visit the website at www.phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0012

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DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Martin Thurley brings SECURIKEY LAUNCHES BRAND Premdor experience to Door-Stop NEW DIGITAL DOOR LOCKS Martin Thurley, Operations Director of Premdor, has joined Door-Stop for a six month secondment. Both companies are UK divisions of one of the world’s leading door manufacturers, Masonite International Corporation.

Martin is MBA qualified and has extensive senior management experience in lean manufacturing, ISO 9001 quality management systems and Health and Safety Management. Martin is ideally placed to offer ‘operational horsepower’ and support to Door-Stop.

He will head up projects relating to Door-Stop’s five year growth plan, involving capital investment, factory layout and management structure. “My primary concerns are safety, quality and output in this order of

Leading physical security product supplier Securikey has launched two new models as part of its best selling Keylex digital door lock range.

The Keylex 700AR Series for commercial applications and the Keylex 700M Series for domestic use extend the options for customers requiring a high quality, user-friendly and quick to install access control solution.

The Door-Stop factory.

priority. Safety first - always,” says Martin.

Door-Stop is a market leader in service, image, IT and delivery, with a unique ‘if it’s late it’s free’ guarantee on 3 day doors. Martin’s role is to help the composite door manufacturer achieve the next stage of growth through operations with even more efficient manufacturing, development and delivery of new products and enhanced customer service.

“I’m focusing on safety, quality and efficiency,” says Martin, “We’re aiming for continuous improvement in operations by examining

and perfecting factory layout and manufacturing. We’re taking a serious approach to achieving ‘right first time’ on all our products through each process.”

As a qualified Health and Safety Manager, Martin is passionate about the issue: “It’s about more than legal compliance - the welfare of everyone in the business and everyone who comes into contact with our business is paramount.”

For more information on Door-Stop doors visit www.door-stop.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0015

VITA’s Composite Door Hardware Offers Outstanding Durability With more than three decades of global experience in hardware design and manufacture – including in the UK for 15 years – VITA Hardware Ltd is proud to introduce its Composite Door Hardware range, now also available with the unique Porcel Coat™.

Stewart Lamb, Managing Director of VITA explains: “As a specialist in quality hardware, VITA has been supplying excellent composite door hardware for a long time, but as a company that is committed to continuous development and improvement on behalf of its customers, it has now introduced a new coatings option for additional durability. While powder or PVD coatings tend to perform admirably and endure 480

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hours of neutral salt spray testing, our unique Porcel Coat™ achieves 3,000 hours in neutral salt spray when tested to BS EN 1670:2007.

To this end we will shortly be announcing some new market beating finish guarantees.

“The composite door market of course continues to provide opportunities for growth for fabricators and installers in 2015 and beyond. But as with any market, the more it develops, the more companies there are to compete with and the more important it becomes to make your products stand out from your competitors.

VITA works closely with its customers to achieve exactly this and our range of composite door hardware, with or without the Porcel Coat™, gives our customers

The Securikey Keylex 700AR combines robust structure with adaptable functionality to meet a variety of customer requirements. Perfect for use on LL standard duty, high security external door installations requiring either the Adams Rite 4710 or 4720ANSI Deadlatch, its narrow design also makes this model perfect for stile widths down to 60mm. It is particularly well suited for use on aluminium or hollow metal door sections. An inbuilt ‘free exit’ feature enables users to depart through the door without code entry, regardless of the lock status, ensuring strict control for those accessing the building while allowing a quick and easy exit for those who have authorisation to enter. If required, the ‘passage function’ feature allows free passage from both sides at the security manager’s discretion.

The 700M Keylex model is suitable for all residential external doors where a conventional multi-point lock is required and offers two modes of operation depending on the level of security required. In both instances, unless double locked, the inside lever is always operable so residents and visitors can easily exit the property, and there are various possible configurations to control access from outside by code or key. If required, the key override facility allows key holders access in all instances, which is more convenient as they do not need to know the user code. Featuring a narrow stile design, the 700M model is ideal for PVCu, aluminium and hollow metal door sections.

Both the 700AR and the 700M models are built to the same high standard as the rest of the Securikey Keylex range and will withstand many hundreds of operations per day for years of reliable service. Their entirely mechanical operation means that there is no complicated electrical wiring involved, ensuring quick and easy installation and straightforward use. Code combinations of up to 12 buttons can be set if desired, with

peace of mind that they can offer a reliable and quality range, specifically designed for composite doors.”

For more information on VITA and its products, log on to www.vitahardware.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0016

“An inbuilt ‘free exit’ feature enables users to depart through the door without code entry, regardless of the lock status, ensuring strict control for those accessing the building while allowing a quick and easy exit for those who have authorisation to enter.”

over 4,000 selectable code permutations, and reinstating security is quick and easy if a code is ever compromised. For added security, a slipping clutch mechanism protects against forced attack or vandalism from the outside and the brushed stainless steel buttons prevent usage being indicated.

Both models are suitable for use on all internal doors and external perimeter doors, including timber, aluminium, steel, PVCu and composite doors. Securikey extends the options still further by offering factoryfitted modifications such as extended fixings, spindles and free passage turns to suit doors up to 75mm (700AR model) or 80mm (700M model).

Securikey’s complete range of existing Keylex mechanical digital door locks offer the perfect access control solution for nearly any building, whether domestic, light commercial or heavy industrial, thereby eradicating the need for keys, cards or tokens that could be lost, stolen or damaged. With four Keylex ranges depending on the level of security required, including Mini, Light Duty, Medium Duty and Heavy Duty, there is a model to suit any specification.

For those requiring information on the new Keylex 700AR and 700M models, or to receive advice on selecting a digital door lock to match specific requirements, Securikey is always available to help. Please contact 01252 311888, email enquiries@securikey.co.uk or visit the website at securikey.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0017

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0018

MECHANICAL GUARANTEE

IN STOCK

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www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

10

YEARS

11

DOORS & HARDWARE

Jason Hart celebrates 20 years’ service for Carl F Groupco

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

“Everglade CF 68 is a high quality bifold door that offers installers lots of choice, faster installation and exclusivity.”

Make a graceful

entrance with DDP

Two decades service for Carl F Groupco is marked by warehouse operative Jason Hart

A Carl F Groupco employee is celebrating twenty years with the company. Jason Hart joined Groupco in 1995 as a Warehouse Operative: he has continued his career with the company, which is now known as Carl F Groupco, supporting the hardware supplier in all aspects of warehouse duties.

Jason is a member of the warehouse team providing essential product storage and despatch duties. His role supports Carl F Groupco’s strong customer service focus which is backed by the company’s On Time in Full delivery (OTIF) target. Jason enjoys all aspects of his work and has taken the new systems in his stride that have been implemented to support the organisation’s expansion.

The Carl F Groupco team spirit plays a key role in Jason’s job satisfaction. He keeps his colleagues smiling, and sometimes groaning, with his jokes and in 2013, he captained a company team to victory in a major annual music quiz.

Follow Carl F Groupco on Twitter using the handle @Carl_F_Groupco.

Tel: 01733 393330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0019

12

Everglade CF 68 Aluminium Bifold Door gives a lot more for your money Everglade is passionate about top quality aluminium wide span doors and the latest addition to the family is CF 68. “Everglade’s heritage is in aluminium,” says Jay Patel, Sales Director at Everglade.

“We are always looking for products to support customers by giving them more choice and value. Everglade CF 68 is a high quality bifold door that offers installers lots of choice, faster installation and exclusivity.

All at a very competitive price.”

Everglade CF 68 Bifold Door has been developed in partnership with Reynaers so it’s made from top quality components.

Clever adjustable side jambs speed up fitting. Providing up to 9mm of adjustment on both sides, it makes installation and ongoing maintenance easier than ever.

Up to seven opening door leafs can be configured lots of ways. The first leaf can open independently to the rest of the system so it can be used as a main door. We know that replacing back doors is high on the agenda when remodelling homes, so the main leaf has internal and external handles so it can be opened from the outside.

There’s also a concealed shootbolt handle with a unique pop-out mechanism on slave doors.

Multiple threshold options offer flexibility with different building levels and floor finishes. CF 68 provides excellent wind resistance, air and water tightness. It’s thermally efficient achieving a U-value of 1.3 Wm3K. Slim sightlines and low-line gaskets create the big glass area customers want. Whilst more choice is on offer with any RAL colour, duo colour and even a textured coating option.

“But it’s not just about getting the right product,” explains Jay. “Buying CF 68 from Everglade means customers get the benefit of our highly trained team of fabricators.

We understand the importance of precision in manufacturing, especially when it comes to large span aluminium doors. We care about making sure customers get the very best. Whether it’s the wide range of products we offer, marketing, technical knowledge or installation support, we have it covered.

“For big ticket items like bifolding doors, installation companies need high levels of accuracy and support from their supplier.

CF 68 Bifold Doors offers installers the extra choice and superb quality to compete, plus all the expert backing they need.”

Tel: 020 8998 8775

Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead is pleased to announce the launch of Inox Monaco to the market. As the latest addition to the company’s Inox range of glazed options for doors, Monaco is manufactured using 316 grade stainless steel glazing frames, which provide a distinctive European flavour, and which are guaranteed to keep their high shine and stunning looks for years to come.

With a long slim glazing detail running virtually the full length of the door, Monaco provides a very contemporary style which can be easily created using a 44mm flush composite slab from any of the major suppliers, as well as with the DoorCo Monza grooved slab. DDP’s turnkey solution includes CNC programming information, weather performance test data from Wintech, glazing methodology and the stainless steel glazing frames themselves. For customers buying in prepped slabs, the company has worked closely with several partners to ensure a wide range of programmes have been set up for cutting the various apertures. Initially a range of six glass styles in 41mm units will be offered from stock for use with the Monaco door and Inox frame combination.

Paul Edwards, Market Manager for the DDP division comments: “Since the launch of Inox Glazing in 2013 it has proven very popular with both the trade and consumers due to its highly contemporary European look, but as it’s manufactured using a standard 44 composite door it offers the same security, performance and insulation characteristics of the more conventional composite door styles. We are delighted to introduce another stunning design to the range in the Monaco in order to provide even greater choice for composite door fabricators who want to differentiate their offering from their competitors’.”

For more information about Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead visit www.decorativedoorproducts.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0020

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0021

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0022

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13

DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Crafted in Britain

using traditional skills

George Clark tells Composite Door installers why ‘craftsmanship’ is so important, and why the approach taken to this by IG Doors on their Truedor range was one of the reasons why he got involved with them. He believes it is one of the things which will benefit the installers of Truedor operating in an increasingly competitive consumer market.

I am a very ‘hands-on’ architect. I like to get heavily involved with all the projects I take on, and I also like to know that the products which go into my developments are crafted using traditional skills.

It is one of the reasons why I am excited to endorse the Truedor range from IG Doors. It is exciting to see that every door is crafted in Britain and finished to perfection.

The dedication which goes into every individual door is really encouraging to see.

Cutting edge technology is impressive and is a really important part of manufacturing to provide an affordable product for the end consumer, but there is nothing more satisfying to me than human hands applying the finishing touches to the end product.

When I first went to IG Door’s plant in South Wales it was one of the things which really jumped out at me, and it made me excited

“There is something really refreshing about a company which sets its stall out to be different, which is prepared to nail its colours to the mast and state that customer service from first to last is going to be one of their key principles.” consumer. As an installer, being allied to this can only bring benefits to you too.

about the prospect of getting involved. It demonstrated to me that they share the same passion for high quality that I do; that they value traditional skills.

It is a part of a wider understanding they have that in today’s world standardisation and automation are not the only ‘watch words’, and that tailored and bespoke solutions are very much the order of the day in satisfying ever more demanding consumer wishes.

It is this different approach which attracted me, and it is this different approach which should attract you if you are a composite door installer. There is something really refreshing about a company which sets its stall out to be different, which is prepared to nail its colours to the mast and state that customer service from first to last is going to be one of their key principles.

It is representative of a great philosophy, and one which will ultimately win out with the

Consumers want to choose products for their homes which they feel are personal to them. It is why the extent of the Truedor range is so impressive – there are styles for all property types, and a vast choice in terms of personalisation. It is why the Truedor on-line door designer is so popular; it supports the customer and gives them the opportunity to design a door which exactly suits their property and their personal style. It is also why the Truedor approved installer and gallery schemes are so important – they give the consumer an assurance that the installation of their door will be carried out to the same level of professionalism and skill as the manufacture.

Knowing that their door is hand finished and hand crafted is the icing on the cake for the consumer. It is something else which is personal to them and I totally understand why they attach so much importance to it, especially in today’s world where automation seems to be the order of the day amongst manufacturers often at the cost of true quality.

There is something really exciting to me about knowing that every door is worked on by human hands and that someone will get the opportunity to make a personal statement to their end customer. It shows that they care, and that they have as much interest and the same sense of ownership in the product as the person who is buying it.

It is one of the reasons why I am so happy to endorse the Truedor range.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0023

14

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0024

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Origin is the UK’s leading specialist in aluminium folding sliding doors and windows, and thanks to our national press and TV advertising, we are also one of the industry’s fastest growing brands. As an Origin supplier, your business can enjoy significant benefits: • Huge consumer demands through national advertising support • 24hr lead-times • Tailor-made, aluminium bi-fold doors and windows • UK based customer services and support • Unmatched quality products • Designed and manufactured in the UK

Join in our success by calling us today on 0808 168 5816, e-mail info@origin-global.com or visit www.origin-global.com for specifications & quotes.

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www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

15

DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

ORIGIN TEAM TRADES DOORS FOR DIRT! Glazerite Adds VEKA Employees from Origin, a UK manufacturer, will be running in a 10K Muddy Mucker obstacle challenge to raise money for Rennie Grove Hospice Care, taking place at the Penn Estate in Hertfordshire on Sunday 27th September 2015.

Origin, a British manufacturer of bespoke aluminium bi-fold doors, windows and made-tomeasure blinds, has over 30 employees taking part in aid of Rennie Grove that has been caring for patients and families in Herts and Bucks for over 30 years.

As part of Origin’s commitment to helping its local community, Origin has chosen to become a corporate patron of the hospice, getting involved in some of the events that Rennie Grove put on throughout the year, such as the Muddy Mucker, where Origin will be one of the main sponsors for the event.

Ben Brocklesby, Sales and Marketing Director at Origin, said: “We feel very privileged to be able to take part in such an activity, whilst raising money for a worthwhile charity that

does such great work in supporting families who need palliative and end-oflife care for their loved ones.

At the moment we are all feeling quite calm about the challenge, but I am sure as it gets closer this will change!

Rennie Grove Hospice is very close to all our hearts, so we wanted to support them as much as possible with sponsorship as well as taking part in the challenge.

The sponsorship money and donations from the public really do make a real difference to local patients suffering from life-limiting illnesses and their families, so we’re hoping to raise as much as possible and hope customers and suppliers will get involved too.”

To make a donation to the Origin Muddy Mucker team please visit www.justgiving. com/Origin-Global and for more information about the Muddy Mucker challenge please visit Muddy Mucker – Penn Estate.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0025

DUO To Door Range

June 1st 2015 will see Glazerite Windows Ltd launch the acclaimed VEKA DUO contemporary door series, bringing its total offering to three separate composite door ranges.

The 70mm, steel-reinforced, dual/double-rebated door will be offered with choice of sculptured or bevelled outer frames and 50mm triple glazed toughened units as standard plus other options including Secured by Design and Part M threshold.

Glazerite is backing the range with extensive marketing support including online door designer, POS, swatches, corner samples and literature – as well as a VEKA DUO branded brochure. The VEKA DUO comes in ten style groups with 39 design choices, and almost infinite colour variations including the choice of any RAL colour, plus all 18 VEKA Variations colours and foils available for outer frames.

Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said: “We already offer an exceptionally wide array of composite doors, with the VEKA MONO and Solidor ranges, and now we are able to extend that offering very significantly with the addition of the VEKA DUO. Each of those ranges offers a solution for all requirements, making our installer partners more versatile than ever.

“They can also benefit from VEKA’s – completely free – online lead generation scheme which has already seen over 1,000 door leads passed to their customers in this year alone.”

As well as the three composite door ranges, Glazerite recently launched its VEKA Imagine patio door, warmcore folding sliding door system and the New Wave slide/swing system, and is continuing to expand its already extensive array of PVCu windows and doors.

Glazerite is VEKA’s largest trade fabricator in the UK as well as a longstanding Network VEKA member. It offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester as well as its distribution hub in Bristol. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0026

0615/0027

THE FASTEST HINGE ON THE MARKET CEMENT TO BE

Introducing 5 new colours for the ProSecure door hinge including Cement Grey, Chartwell Green, Anthracite Grey, Silk Grey & Cream

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online | mila.co.uk

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June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0028

Introducing the Imagine

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• Outstanding thermal performance – U Values of less than 1.0 achieved

• Fully tested to BS6375: Part 1 Weather and BS 6375: Part 2 Durability

• Choice of sculptured or bevelled sashes and glazing beads

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Visit our website: www.bisonframes.co.uk 17

DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Shelforce –

Driven by Passion, Commitment & Teamwork Shelforce, the window manufacturing arm of Birmingham City Council, has undergone a major re-structuring over the past 2 years, and 2015 sees the organisation in a very healthy position with new contacts underway and discussions in progress with a raft of potential new customers.

Set up in the mid 19th century as part of the Royal School for the Blind, the company initially provided the blind with the opportunity to find useful, paid work in the manufacture of small items such as brushes. Now known as Shelforce, the company has produced PVCu windows, doors and curtain-walling since 1984 from its modern manufacturing unit in Erdington.

They have remained true to their philanthropic heritage, as 75% of the workforce is listed as having a disability, such as Autism, hearing impairment and mobility issues among others.

The company suffered along with many others during the recession, and underwent a model re-design in early 2013 to ensure its long term future. Howard Trotter joined as Business Manager with the remit of making Shelforce a commercially viable enterprise once again.

Howard advises, ‘We do a lot of good work here providing people with disabilities with gainful employment, but at the end of the day we’re a business that needs to work, just as any other successful enterprise does. We understand that what the customer wants is a top quality product, delivered on time, and at the right price. If we miss out on any of those aspects the customer will buy elsewhere, so our team here is committed to achieving those goals.’

One of Shelforce’s major customers is builder Willmott Dixon, who is a maintenance partner to Birmingham City Council (BCC). BCC has a social housing stock of 62,000 homes and also operates schools and new build programs.

Willmott Dixon recently won a tender to supply 600 composite and PVCu residential doors and awarded the contract to Shelforce. Willmott Dixon has stated that it is ‘proud to work with Shelforce, whose unique approach supports people who often face the greatest barriers to employment. Their work has a hugely positive benefit on local families and communities.’

A requirement of the contract was that all doors must be independently approved to the PAS24 security standard. This led to the eventual selection of MACO’s C-TS door lock and Guardian ASP profile cylinder as the locking system. Howard explains, ‘We use MACO’s RAIL security lock on our windows so know that their quality is top notch and the performance meets, and usually exceeds, the required standards. Added to that, the support we receive from MACO is excellent.

We saw the C-TS flood door at the FiT Show and were impressed by the ease of operation so made enquiries that eventually resulted in the lock’s selection for this contract.

‘We buy our MACO through VBH, who worked closely in partnership with the manufacturer

18

and ourselves when drawing up the spec.

VBH is the biggest independent stock holder of MACO products and hold massive stocks of MACO hardware. We can rely on them to deliver on time to keep the factory running smoothly. Dan Powell of VBH and Stuart Stimpson from MACO are always on hand and are themselves becoming vital parts of the team.’

Although Willmott Dixon/BCC is a major customer, Shelforce also serves other customers including installers and builders. They are also in talks with a number of other local authorities and housing associations and have plenty of spare capacity to fulfil additional orders.

Howard has overseen the construction of a brand new display area at one end of the factory, which they encourage customers to use as their own showroom. Shelforce’s standard product range is on show, as is the MACO Z-TA electronic operated door that is offered as an option. Howard says ‘Many of our customers don’t have the means to display the doors and windows they supply. They can bring their potential clients to us to view the finished products, and because the display area is situated within the factory itself, the clients can see the manufacturing process for themselves. We hope they’ll be impressed with the cleanliness and order of the factory and that will help persuade them to place their order.’

One organisation who recently placed an order is Oscott Manor School for children with Autism. Each Friday, pupils from the school attend work experience sessions at Shelforce. The supervised sessions extend to the factory floor so the children will have the exciting opportunity to help make the windows for their own school.

Howard concludes ‘The staff at Shelforce all live and breathe by the three bywords ‘passion’, ‘commitment’ and ‘teamwork’. These reflect passion for the company’s past and what can be achieved in the future. As the majority of the team overcome difficulties in their everyday lives, this stands them in great stead to achieve well in the working environment. They are committed to each other and to their customers, and to working together to provide the best products possible.

Teamwork sums up the importance of working together for the good of everyone in the partnership. This includes Shelforce and its staff, our customers and also our suppliers.’

It’s an exciting time in Shelforce’s long and varied history, and one which should give everyone involved confidence that the story will continue long into the future.

More information on Shelforce can be obtained by calling 0121 603 5262 or emailing shelforce@birmingham.gov.uk. Contact details for VBH and MACO can be found at www.vbhgb.com and www.macouk.net.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0029

Busy start to 2015

for Made For Trade as bi-fold door range expands Aluminium bi-folding door fabricator Made For Trade have added several new options to their doors, including a rebated integral cill to allow for lower step-over height and improved weather resistance.

The company’s SMART bi-fold doors will now include the additions of a square sash offering and an optional upgrade to PAS 24 certification, all of which is available with a two-week lead time in standard colours.

Made For Trade expect the new rebated integrated cill to be a very popular choice from their range. Combining the benefits of the existing rebated outer-frame system with the reduced step over height of the existing low threshold, the step-over height can be only 51mm including a cill.

Other advantages include the addition of a weather rating, with the doors tested to ensure the penetration of rain and wind does not occur during extreme weather conditions, as well as general cost savings to be made with the more efficient system.

The company have also expanded their bi-folds portfolio to include the addition of a more contemporary square sash and have also added the option of upgrading to PAS 24 certification; a guarantee which meets national security requirements.

Managing Director Bradley Gaunt explains: “We want to ensure our customers are offered products of the highest possible quality and that are fully secure. PAS 24 certification

“We are now offering a lead-time of around two weeks and will try to beat any like-for-like quotes.” allows us to maintain our excellent manufacturing and security standard.”

It has been a busy start to the year for Made For Trade, with the introduction of aluminium sliding patio doors to their product range, alongside their existing bi-fold doors and conservatory roofs.

The company have also started supplying products north of the border into Scotland, with further expansion expected.

Bradley thanks his loyal customer base for helping the rapidly-growing firm become one of the most in-demand suppliers in the industry.

“We have 35 years experience in the conservatory business and ten years of supplying conservatory roofs and bi-folds across the UK, priding ourselves on our reliable and quick service. We are now offering a lead-time of around two weeks and will try to beat any like-for-like quotes.”

He adds: “For the high volume of orders we process and dispatch, mistakes are incredibly rare and are rectified instantly, allowing our deliveries to be 99.5% on time and in full. The high percentage of customers returning to us prove that we are very hard to beat.”

For more information on Made For Trade’s expanded bi-fold door range and patio doors, please call 01642 610798 or email sales@ madefortrade.co.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0030

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Frame Fast (UK)’s aluminium sales reflecting buoyant market Sales of aluminium products across the industry have increased by over 30% in the past four years and one of the companies benefiting from this surge in demand is Frame Fast (UK) Ltd. Nigel Leivers, Frame Fast’s Sales Director, said, “The market in aluminium products has grown rapidly in recent years and our sales of these products are growing similarly.”

It’s perhaps hardly surprising that Frame Fast (UK) has seen sales of its aluminium products increase in line with market growth – the company offers the products every wellbalanced and on-trend portfolio needs.

Frame Fast (UK) manufacture the Smart’s range of aluminium products which includes casement and horizontal windows, bi-folding doors, sliding doors, residential doors and curtain walling. All products have the sleek aesthetics for which aluminium products are renowned and offer industry leading performance. The casement windows meet BS 6375 Part 1:2009 for weatherproofing and BS 7950:1997 for security. There are B and A rated versions and there are PAS-accredited options. The doors all feature exceptional security and a choice of hardware to create a distinctive finished look. All products meet current Building Regulations and are available in a wealth of colours, including dual colour options and woodgrain finishes.

The range covers residential and commercial

applications so can be a one stop shop for installers working in all market sectors.

Frame Fast (UK)’s aluminium range is manufactured in the company’s technically advanced 30,000 sq ft, purpose-designed production facility in Derby, enabling the company to monitor and maintain the exceptional standards for which it is known.

As well as the quality of the products, choosing Frame Fast (UK) as a supply partner gives installers the reassurance of a company that has a reputation for excellence. The company works closely with its customers to make sure they’re equipped with everything they need to grow their business, including technical support and advice when needed. So if you’re looking for an aluminium partner, Frame Fast (UK) might just be the answer you’re looking for.

Tel: 01332 344459 - www.framefastuk.com

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Modplan adds the Warmcore

Folding Sliding Door to its portfolio!

Leading trade fabricator Modplan has just announced it has added the Warmcore Folding Sliding Door to its portfolio.

Chris Reeks, Modplan’s Sales Manager, said, “It is our policy to monitor trends to ensure our product range meets the needs of our trade customers. By adding the Warmcore Folding Sliding Door to our portfolio we can help our customers to meet the increased demand for an aluminium folding sliding door.”

The decision to add the Warmcore Folding Sliding Door to its portfolio reflects

22

Modplan’s drive to be a valuable partner to its customers, by providing a comprehensive product range that’s it tune with market trends backed up with a level of service that recognises each customer’s individual needs.

As you would expect from a product supplied by Modplan, the Warmcore system has market leading credentials. It been designed from the ground up to offer best-in-class thermal performance, protecting against future tightening of Building Regulations Part L and providing a clear advantage over traditional aluminium doors.

It also offers superb aesthetics. Its slim sightlines, bi-fold, french and residential versions, choice of four profiles (pencil

round, chamfered, square and decorative) and range of 16 colours, including four (white, cream, black, grey) that are available from stock, make it perfect for both residential and commercial settings. Alongside the wealth of homeowner benefits, the Warmcore Folding Sliding Door system has been designed to be fitter-friendly too.

The innovative clip-in bead design makes it easy to glaze without the need for wedge gaskets and the aluminium track design also enables a quick all-in-one fitting procedure without the need for de-sashing. Furthermore, plain hinges, pivot roller hinges and espag hinges provide +/- 1mm adjustment to cater for fine tolerances on site while single roller and double ‘pivot’ rollers provide +/- 3mm vertical adjustment

A touch of glass with proven performance Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead is pleased to announce that it has further cemented its status as the leading supplier of quality decorative glass units for composite doors with the addition of yet another accreditation to its arsenal, in certified membership of the IGCC (Insulating Glass Certification Council) and IGMA (Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance).

RegaLead has long held the internationally recognised ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 14001 (environmental management) certifications across all business divisions, and since 2012 has also been accredited for Investors in People. As an IGU producer and importer, DDP proudly holds EN 1279, including Part 3 for gas retention, across all three spacer platforms that it manufactures in the UK, along with the same certification on all imported units and it continues to invest in the proven quality of its decorative glass units for doors.

Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director at RegaLead explains: “Many companies look at standards as an inconvenience or a necessary evil in order to do business, but we appreciate that many of the procedures and checks needed to achieve them actually enhance the business and the quality and performance of our products. As well as holding all the UK accreditations you should expect from your supplier, DDP last year, achieved the 2190 standard for IGU production which relates to the US and Canadian market and we are delighted to now be certified members of the IGCC and IGMA. “What’s more, customers who work or are looking to work in the UK new build sector

can rest assured that their doors are future proof ready for the amended Approved Document Q deadline of October 1st, as all of our laminated decorative glass units for doors have included a P1A laminate as standard since 2013 – a requirement under PAS 24, the main standard recognised by Secured

by Design. Our business is adding value through decoration, and there is little value in a product which doesn’t perform, no matter how attractive it – or its price - may be.

We have the widest range of decorative glass units for doors available in the UK, units whose quality we are proud to say is such that they even meet the very stringent requirements of the US and Canadian market.”

For more information about Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead visit www.decorativedoorproducts.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0036

for precision installation.

Chris concludes, “The Warmcore Folding Sliding Door system is a valuable addition to our range. With its stunning looks and practical benefits it offers everything our customers are looking for and more.”

Modplan manufactures and provides a comprehensive range of products that includes three VEKA profiles, composite doors, PVC-u and aluminium patio and bi-fold doors, conservatories, the Vertex solid tile-effect roof and glass and polycarbonate conservatory roofs.

For more information on any of Modplan’s products, including the VEKA DUO composite door, simply Ask the Man from Modplan.

Tel: 01495 246844 www.modplan.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0037

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0038

manager

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

23

DOORS & HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Listers launch their Architectural “Designer Range” Diversity is the key to success and changing with the market place is critical to ensuring company progression. Lister Trade Frames of Stoke on Trent have certainly taken heed of the changing trends by launching their new brand, Designer Range.

Designer Range offers a complete service from consultation, surveying to product specification all the way through to installation.

And in order to fully highlight the wonders of Designer Range, Listers have built a purpose designed showroom at their base in Fenton.

Delivering the very highest quality of glazing products, Listers have brought into their product portfolio, the very best in glazing solutions. Partnering with world renowned companies such as Internorm, Solarlux and PanoramAH! to name but a few, Listers developed a brand that was worthy of representing their innovative and in some cases, awe inspiring products.

“We’re very proud of the new Designer Range showroom and our aim is to make it a home from home for Architects”, commented Mark.

“We’re encouraging Architects to bring their clients to our facilities and use our showroom and the Designer Range consultation rooms as if they were their own.”

On further inspection of the showroom, what is immediately apparent is the diversity of the products themselves. From PassivHaus accredited products to massive minimal framed sliding doors, Designer Range has a plethora of imaginative and well-engineered glazing solutions for the more discerning client. And Designer Range is not limited just to glazing, it also provides some innovative interior design products to complement their glazing solutions.

Designer Range was officially launched over two nights in May to local Architects, business owners and dignitaries. Cutting the ribbon were two local football legends from the 1972 League Cup winning Stoke City team, Jimmy Greenhoff and Terry Conroy.

It was a fantastic couple of nights and the

“Designer Range is all about quality, service and choice. We want people to know that when they’re sitting watching Grand Designs on TV, they can have the same panoramic sliding doors, or the same windows, or the same glass extensions and all of them are available from Listers right here in Stoke!” said Phil.

Phil Warren, Sales Director for Listers said, “Designer Range is our new niche brand of high-end products aimed at Architects and new-builders. It provides exceptional products and is a truly outstanding brand.”

Designer Range was met with enthusiasm and general excitement.

LIVELY DEVELOPMENT FROM HURST Hurst Plastics has unveiled its most advanced and accessible online personalised trade portal ever.

from our selection of door styles, frame options, door and frame colours, glass and hardware options and then build their bespoke door online with a real time quotation. There’s even an option to save the order or progress straight through to order placement if they wish to.”

The launch follows an intensive period of development with the help of window industry digital specialists The Consultancy to deliver this sophisticated tailored account management system to Hurst’s growing network of account customers.

Efficient order tracking has been built into the heart of the system and customers can easily follow orders from processing through to delivery.

For added convenience, customers can even view their order history and retrieve invoices from the last two years. Linking seamlessly with Hurst’s fleXipod electronic proof of delivery and fulfilment system, Hurst Live also provides customers with fast access to PODs and live delivery schedules, whilst significantly reducing paperwork.

‘Hurst Live’ is a totally bespoke system which has been designed to bring speed and convenience to customers and help them to access technical data, track and trace orders, order and price bespoke composite doors and download a wealth of marketing point of sale materials within just a few clicks.

Mark Atkinson, Sales and Marketing Director at Hurst Plastics, says: “We are really proud to launch this cutting edge solution which delivers unrivalled support to our customers and helps them to build their businesses. A completely tailor made resource, Hurst Live brings some superb technological advances to our customers, but in an incredibly easy to use ‘paperless’ format.

Users now have access to our full online quoting and ordering system, order tracking and personalised pricing for our panel and composite door ranges at any time of the day through their PC, laptop, tablet or Smartphone.

“We’ve extensively researched and tested this system with customers to ensure it delivers exactly what they need. Our intelligent Door Builder software, for instance, has opened up enormous potential for customers to develop an unlimited number of composite door configurations. They simply chose

24

Mark adds: “This system has been created to bring a host of benefits to customers and help them to effortlessly design, price and track orders in real time without needing to speak to anyone if they don’t want to. However,

we are still there to help and we are available to assist customers with any queries via our newly developed ‘Live Support’ icon or on the telephone if they need us to.”

Hurst Live also allows customers to access brochures, product imagery, point of sale and technical information with ease. Live, personalised pricing for Hurst’s entire range of panel and composite doors can also be securely downloaded.

The system is available free of charge to Hurst trade customers and can be easily accessed by visiting the main Hurst website. Once set up, Hurst Live launches straight into a customer’s trade account at the click of a mouse.

If you are an existing Hurst customer and would like to hear more about Hurst Live, or if you are interested in becoming a Hurst trade partner, then please contact Hurst on 01482 790790.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0040

L-R Phil Warren Sales Director, Jimmy Greenhoff and Terry Conroy opening the new Designer Range Showrooms.

Listers have once again shown that standing still is never an option and that diversity is key to success. Phil says that “It’s early days, but we’re confident that Designer Range will mark a new successful step era for Listers and we’re looking forward to watching it grow over the coming years.”

Tel: 01782 391900 - www.listertf.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0039

VBH Offers Packers in Handy New Packaging Hardware specialist VBH now stocks Glazpart’s Packers for Professionals range of plastic accessories for the glazing industry.

The range, known informally as P4P, includes all the items regularly used by installers and manufacturers of windows and doors, as well as those who maintain and repair them. P4P products include flat and wedge glazing packers, frame packers, glazing shovels, drain hole covers and screw washer cover caps.

VBH have long supplied such products in bulk packaging, usually of 1000 units or more.

However, they report that they have received customer feedback advising that the requirement to order and store these products in bulk is a problem. This is particularly true of glazing and frame packers, which are available in many different thicknesses.

The feedback highlighted that

it would be a real benefit if these products were available to buy in smaller pack sizes.

P4P addresses this issue by breaking down the products into handy bags containing more manageable quantities.

P4P packers, for example, can be ordered in bags of 100, either of all the same thickness or in bags of mixed thicknesses to further cut down on stock holding.

Gary Gleeson of VBH says ‘It’s not always practical for customers, particularly the guys on the vans, to stock bulky boxes of packers and covers. P4P is the perfect solution to this problem as customers can have a comprehensive selection of all the items they need, whilst taking up minimal space. The clearly labelled bags allow quick product identification so save time on site and eliminate waste and costs through ‘lost’ products.

We’ll be encouraging our expanding nationwide network of VBH Service Centres to stock P4P, so users will be able to pop in to their nearest Centre and pick up what they want, when they want it.’

More on P4P can be downloaded from www. vbhgb.com or can be requested by calling VBH Sales on 01634 263300.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0041

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0042

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www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

25

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: DOORCO

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

The best GRP composite door?

DOORCO’s ever growing customer list would seem to say ‘yes’.

If dogged persistence is the route to success, Macclesfield based DOORCO is proof of this. Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, meets with DOORCO’s Managing Director, Dan Sullivan, to talk about doors and specifically the DOORCO GRP composite door and its place in a £multimillion market.

I have to say I feel privileged to secure an interview with you, Dan. Let’s say, although the company is well known, you personally, fly beneath the radar!

were not the first into the market but you have certainly ridden the wave of a very successful product. Can we talk about how it came about and how you found Capstone?

After all, there are only 3 or 4 manufacturers of GRP composite doors, worldwide.

Actually there’s a raft of manufacturers throughout the Far East and I researched a great number of them.

The issue was that many of them would be able to supply a first container but, as the demand grew and more containers of product were required, they would be unable to adjust to it and would simply fall over.

When I found Capstone, a manufacturer supplying around a million GRP doors into the United States, annually, I knew they were the right supplier for us.

It’s true that we have been very low profile and that’s simply because we have been building a business.

I don’t think we are ‘low profile’ to our customers: it’s just that we probably do things slightly differently to others in the marketplace.

We’re sitting in a portakabin in an industrial unit – it’s all about the product and its development for our customers.

Your entry into the composite door market came as the composite door market was taking off. You 26

So, job done. Supplier sourced and you became an importer of GRP composite doors?

If only that was the truth!

No. I went to see them and they were less than impressed at the potential of 100K to 150K doors per annum for the UK, bearing in mind their worldwide sales. However, I kept going to see them. I turned up on their doorstep every 3 weeks for around 18 months, with designs and ideas... bear in mind that all their doors at that point were designed for the American market.

Persistence pays off. Some would call it sheer bloodymindedness, but they kept seeing this Brit turn up with different designs and finally relented. The beauty of this strategy, if you can call it a strategy, was they knew I was serious. You don’t keep flying round the world every three weeks for fun!

You must have been very certain to have been so relentless…

Dan and Jayne Sullivan.

I was certain I wanted them to supply me and through all those visits to Korea, I built a rapport with the people at Capstone. They knew I wanted to supply the best GRP composite door into the UK market and, when it came to tooling for the UK

designs, they bought into my ideas and I was able to influence much of what they were doing, even to the point that once the specification was agreed upon: the density of polyurethane foam, the LVL and its source, the rigidity of the polymer rails, and so on, was set in stone. I didn’t want cost engineered out of the product so that it became a ‘me too’ GRP door.

They know that I’ll keep turning up and ensuring the specification doesn’t vary.

That’s very important in supplying a quality product to our customers.

It was always said that you had a great advantage by buying in £ Sterling from Korea…

Cleaning and QA before despatch.

The time to negotiate is at the very beginning of a relationship. You get the

deal you negotiate. I wanted to pay in £ Sterling and they were agreeable. I had had experience of buying products throughout the Far East and finding that I was spending all my time watching the exchange rates, and wondering whether to forward buy our currency.

I didn’t want to be doing that. I could have bought in any currency but, as I say, negotiate your terms and your relationship at the very start. This also applied to payment terms and lead times. Everyone always says that products from the Far East are on a 12 week lead time. Why? We have a 6 week lead time and that makes a vast difference to being able to supply our customers with the product as they need it.

Can I go back to the beginning…around 2007?

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: DOORCO

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Routing the door blanks.

My door experience started around 10 years ago and people either don’t know, or forget, that John Collins International (my fatherin-law’s company) was an agent for internal and exterior timber doors that we imported from all around the world – Asia, South America, South Africa – and also have a timber folding sliding door business called Vufold. We were supplying the ‘sheds’, and large door distribution companies.

With just 4 people we were handling huge volume of containers per month.

Basically, the exterior timber door market was declining and we needed a replacement product and that’s when I started scouring the world for a composite door and ended up at Capstone in Korea.

So once you had sorted out tooling for the door designs, you started to import?

I should point out that although I knew I wanted

Protection and packing of the finished prepped door blanks.

High quality edgebanding.

DOORCO’s Dan Sullivan.

DOORCO’s new spray booth.

to run a business, I had never done it. I worked for JCI International and learned from my fatherin-law. After all, having a mentor in someone who has started and run businesses, becoming a millionaire in his own right, is ideal grounding. It then came to a point where he said that I should run it myself. So I ordered a container and sold it, then bought two, and sold them…and so it went on.

Was it always based on moving containers from Korea direct to the customer?

It certainly started that way and many of our customers continue to trade with us on that basis. It was what I understood, and helped start the business, Basically, I am debt adverse. Everything we have is bought and paid for… the only exception being some machinery leases.

Could I have borrowed to put vast stocks on the ground? Absolutely. But it’s just not the way I do things.

The GRP composite door business is constantly changing and fabricators big and small want suppliers that are flexible.

We have both very big and, I must say, very loyal customers, as well as smaller ones. We value all our customers and know

that from little acorns, large oaks grow! We moved into prepping, initially to provide back-up for our large customers with CNCs for when servicing or breakdowns occur, but we also prep for the small customer.

Was that plain sailing?

The simple answer is no.

We made mistakes from our choice of edgebander to tooling for our CNC machines etc. etc. but we learn quickly and are not afraid to invest and swiftly corrected those initial errors and started to attract a large volume of customers.

Interestingly, we still operate from three small bases in Macclesfield and run a tight ship, with a small workforce.

We have 15 staff with an additional 3 shared accounts staff. We do, however, pride ourselves on having good people work for Doorco and even with such a small workforce we can supply between 12K/15K doors per month.

Each blank is carefully checked after routing on the CNC.

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

And the change from Capstone to DOORCO?

A simple name change. We are a door company and, in years to come, GRP may not be the number one product, but I can guarantee you DOORCO will still be innovating and supplying products customers want and need... It’s about building a UK brand that states our intention, our supplier is phenomenal.

They’ll listen, and work with me on development…a good example being the development to combat the cut-through test in PAS24.

It is good to know that we are giving our customers the best product and that is very important to me.

As for DOORCO, it was a simple decision as we are a door company, not just a supplier of the GRP composite door.

I know you are experiencing significant growth.

What can you tell me about your plans for the future?

We experienced a 21% growth in March and 25% in

April, so yes, we are growing rapidly. Negating the issues over the cut through test for both our regular door and fire door has been important to our customers as has been the introduction of the 6/4 Combi Panel door blank that can take Twin Tops, Half Glazed and Twin Vertical glazing cassettes, saving the need to buy three doors in three sizes.

Are there more new products to come? Absolutely, but that’s for another day!

Our development also involves people and bringing my wife, Jayne Sullivan; on board as Operations Director, as well as Mike Roe who has vast experience in the window/door industry, has been important.

Jayne’s background in senior positions with Ernst and Young, Price Waterhouse Coopers and Astra Zeneca has made a vast difference to our systems and workflow, purchasing and finance.

Basically we’re gearing up for the future. There’s a lot to come from DOORCO!

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0043

27

FRONT COVER STORY

COLOUR

Continued from page 1...

Painted Wood Effect

The market is still dominated by small companies, with 8,600 installers fitting 1 to 25 frames per week.

The landscape for installers is changing. Many have now become home improvement companies rather than specialist window companies, and offer a wider range of products such as garage doors or roofline products.

Meanwhile, there are now over 22,000 local builders active in home improvements, extensions and self-build projects all of which can include windows, doors and conservatories.

In the last 12 months the activity among builders has increased dramatically. With the growth of trade counter outlets builders can now offer the same products as traditional installers without the overheads and sales/ marketing costs associated with a typical double glazing business.

As a result traditional installers are seeking ways to differentiate their product offering. One way of doing this is a showroom, and it is interesting to note that after many years in decline, the number of companies with a showroom presence has risen sharply in the last two years and now stands at 3,473.

Diversification Of the 12,609 installers 10,706 buy-in products from a fabricator or trade-counter depot, while the balance continue to fabricate and install.

Diversification was an underlining theme of 2014.

Aluminium windows and doors, including bi-folding doors and patio doors,

“We predict that as window companies evolve into home improvement specialists and builders capitalise on the availability of window and door products through tradecounters, the line between installer and builder will dissolve, and we will see 34,000 home improvement companies.”

Window Foil

are now offered by 4,834 installers, an increase of 291 compared to the previous year. But it isn’t all about aluminium; installers continue to promote premium PVC-U products including flush sash and coloured frames.

The stand-out PVC-U product in 2014 was PVC-U vertical sliding sash windows, with 7,495 installers now actively offering this product, an increase of 600 firms compared to 2013.

Trade Counter Growth The single biggest shift in the window industry is in distribution channels. Trade Counter Depots supplying products directly to local installers, builders and other markets (including DIY or self-build) is the big growth market.

Trade Depots can be wholesale/re-sell models, whereby the operators

buy-in products from manufacturers and sell through their trade counter, similar to small builders merchants, or they can be vertically integrated whereby the manufacturer is operating their own outlet to supply local markets.

Several major PVC-U fabricators are now recognising the growth potential and benefits of a vertically integrated distribution network and have launched, or are launching, their own networks.

It is this growth in trade counter networks that is fuelling the ‘Builder Installer’, with over 22,000 local builders now actively offering windows, doors, conservatories and other products directly to consumers. Trade counter depots are changing the traditional business channels and disrupting the market.

We predict that as window companies evolve into home improvement specialists and builders capitalise on the availability of window and door products through trade-counters, the line between installer and builder will dissolve, and we will see 34,000 home improvement companies.

This is an excerpt of the full report. The Insight Data Industry Report is an annual white paper provided as a free resource of the industry.

Download the full report from www.insightdata.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0044

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Four new RENOLIT EXOFOL MX exterior grade solid colours are launched, combined with a new stunningly realistic Elegant Ash surface finish. The emboss design has a detailed woodgrain textured surface with a matt finish to replicate an extremely realistic painted wood look.

Available in four neutral tones, two match contemporary RAL colours and two are established modern powder coat shades, they meet the increasingly popular trend for greys. The new decorative foils will suit a wide range of architectural styles and brick colours.

RENOLT EXOFOL MX Elegant Ash colours are offered with a guarantee of up to 10 years and are available ex-stock.

• Buckingham Grey (46871–100200) RAL 7005 Mouse Grey A dark toned slate grey, this colour has maximum contrast to lighter coloured bricks, or painted rendered walls.

• Kensington Grey (46870–100200)

RAL 7037 Dusty Grey A lighter grey with warm blue undertones, Kensington Grey goes well with lighter bricks and concrete.

• Windsor (46857–100200) A sandstone beige, this colour will blend ideally with character stone buildings or in combination with darker wood effect cladding.

• Balmoral (46858–100200) Desirable taupe greybeige, Balmoral is toned towards the modern trend for concrete styling and will go well against a variety of render facades or multi-toned bricks.

RENOLIT EXOFOL MX classic exterior films are a tried and tested two-layer PVC and acrylic laminate, which have enhanced all kinds of profiles in a rich variety of colours and decors for decades and which feature RENOLIT’s unique Solar Shield Technology (SST). SST acts as a protective shield for the entire component, reduces heat build-up in the profile and slows down the ageing process to prolong the life of the construction component.

To request a RENOLIT EXOFOL Elegant Ash colour swatch and further information about RENOLIT EXOFOL Exterior films with Solar Shield Technology please contact RENOLIT Cramlington Ltd at renolit. cramlington@renolit.com, by phone on 01670 718222 or via www.renolit.com/exterior.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0045

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0046

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

29

COLOUR

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

We want our

Giving Britain the colour it wants

colour back!

We love colour. We are blown away by it, says Roy Frost Deceuninck Managing Director.

Our buildings are made for colour, but the industry made it impossible to sell.

One in four homeowners now choose coloured windows and doors. From Country Creams to Chartwell Greens, homeowners are getting bolder and more confident in choosing colour for their windows and doors.

Traditionally, most windows and doors were painted in colour. Homeowners would choose all sorts of colours to brighten up their property and it would often complement local architecture: soft greens and creams in the Cotswolds, bright pastels in South West England and blacks and whites in Cheshire, for example.

But by the 1960s Britain’s housing was in a poor state of repair and its windows needed replacing. The replacements, Aluminium and PVC-U were virtually monochrome – metal finish and white - to start with. Aluminium soon offered a full-spectrum colour choice but for domestic properties both aluminium and timber were pushed to the fringe and white PVC-U was dominant in retail. Over two decades it whitewashed the landscape.

Colour in PVC-U meant a few woodgrains and that was it.

But today colour is on its way back. In mainland Europe it’s around 75%. In Scotland it’s around 45% and in Ireland colour is 55%. It’s making its way back in the UK too.

Currently it’s 25% and rising. We don’t want our homes to look like everyone else’s. So homeowners are choosing coloured profile to enhance and complement the style of their property, add kerb appeal and give their home a personal stamp.

Sell more with colour Window companies who sell a wide choice of colour are taking advantage of this growing trend. Offer a better colour range than your competitors and you’re more likely to sell more and sell better-margin business. But coloured windows need appropriate hardware and spacer bars. A coloured warm edge spacer bar that complements or matches the coloured window makes the window stand out and looks infinitely better.

SWISSPACER is the only warm edge spacer bar with a wide range of 17 colours. From standard grey and black to more vibrant colours such as red, green, yellow and blue, there’s a spacer bar for every window and door. Our colour range lets installers match or contrast spacer bars with the colour of the window for a high-end look.

SWISSPACER’s sample cards display the colours, so installers can use them on sales pitches to show homeowners the eye-opening colours they can have.

Colour + performance = the complete package According to a recent study by Kingfisher*, the owners of B&Q, 65% of homeowners worry about rising energy bills. They want to improve their homes with energy efficient products. But they also want great looking products that cut their energy bills.

The best performing window depends on the energy efficiency and quality of its components and warm edge spacer bars are at the heart of the energy efficient window. They can make a big difference to energy efficiency and long lasting performance.

SWISSPACER warm edge spacer bars give excellent thermal performance. Our flagship spacer bar, Ultimate, was the first warm edge spacer bar to be Passivhaus certified – and the only one to be Passivhaus Class A certified.

In fact, 80% of all triple glazed Passivhaus windows have SWISSPACER inside.

Homeowners want choice, but they don’t want to exchange looks for efficiency – they want it all! SWISSPACER warm edge spacer bars have the widest choice of colours and have excellent thermal performance. SWISSPACER is the complete package.

In today’s challenging market you need the right products to keep you ahead of competitors. Insist on SWISSPACER inside to help your coloured windows stand out and make your customers smile.

Visit www.swisspacer.com, call 0845 601 1265 or follow SWISSPACER on Twitter @ Ultimate_Spacer.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0047

30

Throughout most of its history Britain has opted for colour inside and outside the home.

Restored Victorian houses, for example, often have bright, strong coloured walls, carpets and furniture. The Georgian’s loved it too.

And until the black, white and grey of the Puritans, Britain was a riot of colour. We can argue whether it was too much or too little, or if it looked good or garish but Britain was bold, bright and colour confident.

In the aftermath of the depression, two World Wars and the unwinding of Empire, Britain’s decline extended to housing neglect and a focus on building new homes rather than repair and upkeep of the current housing stock. Then along came low maintenance white PVC-U, which took the market by storm.

Homeowners wanted these energy efficient, hassle free windows that didn’t whistle in the wind and warp in winter. Systems Companies (Syscos) offered one or two woodgrains but within 20 years or so the bulk of Britain’s housing stock turned white.

Commercial projects were different because of the scale of the orders. Specifiers could get any colour they liked if the order was big enough and they’d have to order months in advance. But if a homeowner fancied grey, pale green or blue PVC-U windows and doors, they stood no chance. Colours weren’t on the menu.

But British homes are made for colour. When you pull into Bristol Temple Meads train station you can see rows of pastel coloured houses lining the hilltops. Or when you arrive in a seaside town in Pembrokeshire, the bright, bold array of green, yellow and blue

houses is beautiful. Traditional pink-walled houses in Suffolk are sought after. Each region has its characteristic architecture and colours.

The roots of our love affair with colour are obvious. And colour is on its way back.

For years the industry made it almost impossible to satisfy our liking for colour, but now the industry is responding to the need and colour is taking off. Scotland is now around 45% colour, Ireland is up over 50% and continental Europe is 70% or so. In England and Wales colour is 25% and rising.

Britain’s got the colour bug!

Deceuninck has always been obsessed with aesthetics, and colour is a big part of it. We make it easy for our fabricators and installers to sell colour with confidence. For example, we keep 9 colours, in 18 colourways, in stock with matching and complementary cills, trims and ancillaries across our whole suite of products. And fabricators can order as little as a single length of profile and get it on their next order. And because it’s in stock they know it will arrive on time and in full on their next delivery! If they want to check, they look into our warehouse via Deceuninck Online and put their name on it. And we’ve now added the new eye-catching Heritage Colour Collection, introducing eight more premium colourways from stock.

Fabricators can now sell their installer customers all their windows and doors, including the top performing New Sliding Patio, and the innovative Slide & Swing New Wave Door, in 26 fantastic colourways on a ‘no wait’ lead time, with any order size.

Installers can sell colour with confidence. It’s no wonder our fabricators and their installer customers are number one in colour and sell 50% more colour than their competitors.

To find out how Deceuninck can help you lead in colour call Roy Frost, Deceuninck Managing Director on 07808 365234, follow @DeceuninckUK and visit www.WhyDeceuninck.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0048

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

COLOUR

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Essex-based installation company, Silika Ltd, used a little expertise from Kömmerling manufacturer Climatec Windows for the replacement of a number of non-thermally broken, two-tone aluminium windows in a retirement block in Chelmsford.

The existing windows to the former housing manager’s flat were replaced initially, which resulted in two further enquiries from other residents, which now have been completed.

Given the colours of the original windows and the need to make a direct replacement, the Kömmerling windows were sprayed in RAL 8014 (brown) for the outer frames and RAL 1019 (cream) for the sashes, including trickle vents, while the inside of the windows were left white at the request of the residents.

Climatec Windows harnessed the C70 Gold® system from Kömmerling with their latest slim sash to make for reduced sightlines and the windows were also triple glazed, offering incredible levels of sound reduction, along with impressive energy efficiency credentials.

Rod Charnick, director at Silika commented: ‘This was a unique project for us, given the need to colour match, offer incredible levels of energy efficiency and the need for sound reduction. Thanks to Climatec and Kömmerling, we satisfied all the requirements, to the delight of the residents.’

Kevin Warner, head of sales and marketing at Kömmerling commented: ‘This job by Silika shows that a little lateral thinking and commitment by them and Climatec, can result in a product designed to the most exacting of standards and that’s also what Kömmerling’s all about. This must be the first tri-coloured installation in browns and creams that I’ve ever seen!’

For further information on Silika, log on to www.silika-ltd.com, e-mail info@silikaltd.com or call 0800 1513088. For further information on Climatec Windows, log on to www.climatec-windows.co.uk or call their sales office on 01702 613733.

0615/0051

INTRODUCING THE

Distinction Doors adds three on-trend colours to its portfolio

The decision to add the colours to the range is a reflection of Distinction Doors’ awareness of market trends. Chantel said, “It’s important to us that we give our installers the tools they need to make the most of the opportunities that are out there.”

“By adding these softer shades to our core range, we are helping our customers to demonstrate they understand current retail trends and close more sales as a result.”

The last few months have been colourful ones for Distinction. The company opened an in-house painting facility, a move that has proved incredibly successful by improving quality, lead times and cost in this area. It has also launched a new suite of marketing literature.

The centrepiece of the range is a homeownerfocused brochure that beautifully showcases the entire Distinction range. It’s supported by a RAL colour guide along with the unique Explore Colour brochure that shows skin swatches of Distinction’s woodgrain finish, helping customers to visualise exactly what each colour will look like.

Combine all that with a focused and supportive supplier that has a finger on the pulse and it’s clear why Distinction Doors is the industry’s number one.

Tel: 01226 352265 www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

INOX MONACO DOOR

The UK’s largest composite door supplier, Distinction Doors, has just added three new colours to its range: Pistachio, Hazy and Pastel Blue. Distinction’s Marketing Director, Chantel Roach, said, “We have added these three colours to the range in response to consumer demand for softer shades.”

Chantel commented, “A Distinction door has a wealth of practical advantages, not least that it’s the most thermally efficient composite on the market. It also has a wealth of aesthetic advantages, including our beautifully authentic woodgrain skin and extensive range of classic and contemporary colours.

Together, it all adds up to a compelling proposition.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0049

EW N

SILIKA’S TRI-COLOURED PROJECT

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0050

Available from a UK wide fabricator network • 6 stunning decorative glass options • 29 door colour options

RegaLead Limited I Columbus House Altrincham Road I Sharston I Manchester M22 9AF Telephone 0161 946 1164 I Email sales@regalead.co.uk

o c . s s a l g r o o www.d

Decorative Door Products is a division of RegaLead Ltd

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COLOUR

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

100,000 COOLSKIN PANELS FOR GBW

The Earl of Wessex officially

opens Distinction Doors’ paint plant The Earl of Wessex officially opened Distinction Doors’ paint plant on 13th May, 2015. Chantel Roach, Marketing Director of Distinction Doors, said, “It was a great honour to welcome The Earl of Wessex to our site today and we are delighted that he officially opened our paint facility.”

During his visit to Distinction Doors, His Royal Highness was given a complete tour of the facilities and met key members of staff who explained the scale of the company’s operations. Prior to officially opening the paint plant, The Earl of Wessex watched a door being sprayed. The visit ended with The Earl unveiling a plaque to commemorate his visit to Distinction Doors before signing the company’s Visitors’ Book.

Chantel Roach says the visit was suggested by The Earl’s office, who contacted Distinction Doors to suggest a visit. Chantel said, “It was a wonderful surprise to be contacted by His Royal Highness’s office. It was felt that Distinction Doors represented a great success

story and was therefore very appealing for an official royal visit.”

Distinction Door’s paint plant opened only a few months ago and the 1000th door to be painted recently left production. The move to bring painting in house has proved very successful for Distinction, the UK’s largest composite door company, improving quality, lead times and cost in this area.

The company celebrated ten years in business last year and is enjoying unparalleled success.

As well as being the UK’s largest composite door company, it was also named in the London Stock Exchange Group’s 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain for the second year in a row and was also listed in the 2015 Sunday Times Fast Track 100 list, which ranks Britain’s private companies with the fastestgrowing sales over three years.

Tel: 01226 352265 - www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0052

GBW have just celebrated manufacturing their 100,000th foiled door panel and thanks to the use of the CoolSkin® product from 3D Laminates, product remakes now account for just 0.035% of production.

The once problematic performance of door panels is now very much a distant memory for companies such as GBW and for the last 6½ years, they have been exclusively manufacturing foiled door panels with CoolSkin® technology from 3D Laminates.

The company has a long-term agreement with one of the country’s leading home improvement companies for all door panels, supplying in excess of 1,000 panels every month.

The company was part of the Caradon Group up until 2002 and is now a stand alone business, headed up by managing director Mark Cuthbert. The success of the business is also evident in the export market with sales of door panels now exceeding 4,000 per annum for the French market.

In the UK market, the Colordor range has been a big success, offering 10 colour/woodgrain finishes with a laminated CoolSkin® exterior with colours such as red, blue, anthracite grey and woodgrains such as Irish Oak. The 5-chambered PVCu door frames are also made with a perfectly matching window grade PVCu foil for uniformity and lasting weathering.

“CoolSkin® technology has quite simply revolutionised the door panel market.”

Mark Cuthbert, managing director of GBW commented: ‘We have a strong relationship with 3D Laminates and rightly so, their CoolSkin® technology has quite simply revolutionised the door panel market. While we have our own composite door offering, door panels still remain a fundamental part of our business.’

Mark Lofthouse, managing director of 3D Laminates concluded: ‘GBW have been a valued customer of ours for a number of years and know how to make a high quality door panel. It’s important for us to work with companies like this, so we can continue to innovate with our CoolSkin door sheets.

For further information on GBW call 01905 340095, e-mail sales@gbwuk.com or visit www.gbwuk.com. For further information on CoolSkin and 3D Laminates call 0113 273 6281, e-mail info@3d-laminates.com or visit their website at www.3d-laminates.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0053

Setting up a spray shop couldn’t be easier with RegaLead Back painted glass has become increasingly popular over the past few years as a great alternative to tiles for splashbacks, whilst also suiting larger applications such as spandrel panels. In fact, it’s fair to say that it is now a major product in the glass processing sector, and yet many people still see spray painting as something of a ‘dark art,’ but with the turnkey package from RegaLead it actually couldn’t be easier.

RegaLead’s Glass Processing division was launched at the end of 2014 with the purpose of providing glass processing

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customers with the highest quality added value products for glass, along with expert advice and support at every step. Tony Mallick, Business Development Manager, Processing explains: “Back painted glass can be simple when using the right products from the right partners. We invested a lot of time and effort into bringing only the highest quality solutions to market, and our glass processing customers can benefit from the full turnkey package when it comes to paint, along with all the support and advice you would expect from a division of RegaLead.

“This package includes everything needed to set up a spray shop, and to help it run in the most efficient manner possible, even when changing colours. Our uniquely formulated ColorSpray resin based paint system is ideal for the back painting of glass for a host of applications, with its range of 19 colours which can create thousands of finishes and effects at the touch of a button, whilst our partnerships with SATA, Drester and Goldglass ensure that all ancillary needs can also be met by one trusted supplier.”

Available from RegaLead’s Glass Processing division,

Drester’s Quick-Rinse gun cleaners can clean a gun in under 30 seconds, ensuring there is no need to leave the booth between colours, whilst the simple three component Rapid Preparation System from SATA – including a cup, a lid and a sieve - enhances the painter’s productivity, while reducing the use of cleaning agents and solvents.

For customers looking to produce larger volumes ColorSpray application can also be automated with the M.R.C 2350- CI automatic painting machine from preferred partner, Goldglass Technologies, the

Israel based manufacturer of specialist application solutions for the glass and paint industries.

Tony concludes: “With our package for back painting glass, the only thing you need to provide is the booth itself and we can even help recommend the right option to suit your business. All of these options and more can be found in our Definitive Product Catalogue and we’d be delighted to hear from anyone who’d like to talk about incorporating back painting into their offering.”

For more information about RegaLead’s range of glass

Setting up a spray shop is easier than you think with the full turnkey package from RegaLead.

processing products or for a copy of The Definitive Product Catalogue, visit: www.regalead.co.uk or call 0161 946 1164.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0054

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

COLOUR

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

PWS SCOTLAND CHOSEN FOR LATEST HUNGRY HORSE DEVELOPMENTS Two of the newest Hungry Horse restaurants to open in Scotland feature REHAU PVC-U windows fabricated and installed by Glasgow based commercial specialists PWS Scotland, part of the Perfect Glazing group.

Foiled windows in the REHAU TOTAL70C system have been installed in both the Tail O’the Bank in Greenock and The Oystercatcher in East Kilbride to match the exterior styling of the buildings.

At the Tail O’the Bank the windows have been foiled in a smooth slate grey to suit the contemporary look of the pub/restaurant and its waterfront setting on East India Harbour.

At the more traditionally styled Oystercatcher, the windows are in a Goldenoak woodgrain foil with a striking six section apex window fabricated for a gable feature.

PWS fabricated and installed more than 50 windows on each project, working on behalf of main contractors Ogilvie Construction.

They were awarded the contract on the basis of their product quality and on site efficiency, which had been proven on previous successful installations for large main contractors in Scotland.

On both projects, PVC-U was specified as the frame material by the client Greene King Plc working with architects Smith Design Associates because of its low maintenance, thermal efficiency and choice of finishes.

REHAU prides itself on being the systems house with the broadest and best colour and finishes range and now offers 22 different colour options. www.rehau.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0055

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

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INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

FENSA PAY AS YOU GO

– THE NEW ALL INCLUSIVE ROUTE TO BUILDING REGULATIONS COMPLIANCE FOR INFREQUENT INSTALLERS FENSA Pay As You Go is the new surveillance process that enables companies to demonstrate Building Regulations compliance without individual operatives having to hold an MTC (Minimum Technical Competency) Card. It is designed for companies that infrequently install replacement windows and doors in domestic properties.

Instead of the original FENSA route to compliance through random inspections, FENSA Pay As You Go companies will have all jobs inspected (similar to going through Local Authority Building Control) and will have no need to hold an MTC Card, or provide

mandatory Insurance Backed Guarantees (IBGs).

FENSA Pay As You Go companies will still need to be ‘Certified’ to demonstrate competence and undertake a document and procedures audit at an onsite Certification inspection. The Certification inspection will be repeated every three years.

“The introduction of requirements for individuals to hold an MTC card to prove their competence to MTCs and provide IBGs for self-certifying companies on the original FENSA scheme has introduced an extra level of administration that many companies who infrequently install are finding difficult to deal with,” explained FENSA managing

“FENSA Pay As You Go is a direct alternative to the Local Authority Building Control compliance route and has been priced keenly to reflect this.” director Chris Mayne.

“There seemed a need for a route to compliance which still came under the FENSA name, but omitted the need for operatives to hold MTC Cards or companies to provide IBGs. FENSA Pay As You Go is a direct alternative to the Local Authority Building Control compliance route and has been priced keenly to reflect this.”

this charge to £100 for a limited period to encourage as much sign up as possible – and minimise potential black market activity. Appropriate

homeowner financial protection against Building Regulations non-compliance will be provided by FENSA through an independently managed fund – to which a contribution is made within the Pay As You Go fee.

Though FENSA Pay As You Go has been designed specifically for companies

that infrequently install replacement glazing in domestic properties – it is in fact open to any installation company, whatever their size.

Companies can immediately register interest in FENSA Pay As You Go by emailing PAYG@fensa.org.uk today.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0056

The largest selection

of cladding from National Plastics

Under FENSA Pay As You Go all installations receive an inspection visit at a cost of £125 each (ex VAT) that includes the notification fee.

FENSA will be discounting

THE TOOLBOX MAKER All Checked Ltd, the software developers behind the biggest independent home improvement review website in the UK and the Price Engine, are now launching their latest innovation designed specifically for the glazing market.

The Toolbox Maker is a cutting-edge, online hub, which systems companies and fabricators can use to

attract installers to their network and then retain them for life.

So what does it do?

Well, it does exactly what it says on the tin; it makes Toolboxes!

Toolboxes are online control panels designed to make it easy for even the most Internet averse users to build their businesses online, and are already used by hundreds of window, door and conservatory installers across the UK. Each Toolbox is supplied with innovative sales tools designed to showcase the installer’s credentials, flood Google with positive customer reviews and

generate sales leads.

A sophisticated lead management system is also included with each Toolbox, so that installers can track the progress of all their sales enquiries.

Systems companies and fabricators can use the Toolbox Maker to create an unlimited supply of their own branded Toolboxes in seconds, which they can then distribute to their network of installers for free!

The icing on the cake is that other than a one-off set-up fee, there are no other charges for the Toolbox Maker, ever! There’s no charge to create Toolboxes, there’s no license fee, or rentals and even the Toolbox Maker hosting is free, for life.

This could be the most effective, and lowest cost strategy ever for systems companies and fabricators to build their networks and inspire loyalty.

To find out more please all Greg Allen on 01530 414167, or visit www. toolboxmaker.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0057

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National Plastics, the UK’s largest independent trade counter network now stocks one of the industry’s most comprehensive ranges of internal cladding throughout their 31 stores.

The stocked ranges of decorative cladding includes Freefoam’s Geopanel®, which is available in 250mm, 600mm and 1000mm width fittings, Consortias internal cladding system and the Swish Marbrex range.

Also available is the Belgium Dumaplast® range which consists of Dumapan® PVC waterproof panelling, Dumawall® interior wall panelling, Dumaclip® wall and ceiling system and Dumalock® DIY tile system. All cladding systems are suitable for commercial and residential applications. Furthermore, National Plastics supplies different types of product jointing methods such as V groove, seamless, U groove and click lock finishes.

All are available in a variety of sizes to suit any application with a choice of tile, marble, mosaic and wood effects too.

Offering an increasingly wider range of products demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to being the industry’s ultimate ‘one stop shop’ experience for installers. Managing Director, Geoff Foster, is more than clear

why. He said, “All our customers are very time-pressured. Our aim is to reduce that pressure as much as possible by stocking as broad a range of products as we can. It means our customers need to go to fewer places for their supplies. Our cladding ranges cover both European and Chinese systems all at different pricing points, which give our customers the variety and flexibility they are ultimately looking for.”

National Plastics is one of the industry’s success stories and is developing an enviable reputation for making its customers’ lives as easy as possible. Geoff concludes, “Offering a greater choice of products and holding huge amounts of stock has been a winning formula for our business. But what makes us different is we back this up with good quality customer support that always delivers.”

With 31 nationwide stores now open for business and with plans for a further 19 by the end of 2017 there really is no stopping this ‘one stop shop’ approach!

Tel: 01495 244551 www.nationalplastics.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0058

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0059

In-line sliding patio door specialist

Have a nice day...

Available in 2, 3 and 4 pane designs and in a wide range of colours, it is not surprising that we rank amongst the most highly specified products in the market place.

Superior quality and high security accreditations make the PatioMaster door a sure winner and a name you can trust.

For more information call now on

0808 178 33 70 SECURE SECURE

or visit

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

www.patiomaster.co.uk

SECURE SECURE

35

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

CDW Systems launch new door Seal the deal on the spot

with Windowlink’s digital signature facility

Specialist aluminium fabricator CDW Systems has launched a new door to help installers capitalise on the thriving aluminium market.

Retail window companies have just got a new ally in their quest to speed up the sales process and increase revenue, thanks to a game-changing feature introduced by software specialist Windowlink.

CDW Systems worked together with aluminium systems company SAPA to modify and enhance its Stormframe ST II door and bring it to market.

Stormframe ST II is a robust 65mm deep system which is suited to a wide range of applications, from domestic installations and educational, through to heavy-duty commercial construction projects - opening up increased opportunities for installers across these sectors.

Managing director of CDW Systems, Jerry Webb comments: “Economic conditions continue to improve, with more and more commercial projects being specified and constructed.

“This optimism surrounding the economy is also seeing homeowners more willing to spend on home improvements, with renewed interest in aluminium increasing demand for these types of products.

“The SAPA Stormframe ST II door can help installers take advantage of the growth of aluminium through offering a high performance entrance solution, which is visually appealing to the homeowner and a strong enough solution for large-scale commercial contracts.”

Available in single or double door options, Stormframe ST

Stormframe ST II.

II is compatible with SAPA’s Dualframe and Si Window Wall.

Using advanced polyamide thermal break technology, the door can achieve low U-values of 1.9W/m2K and is tested to PAS024 security standard, allowing it to fulfil thermal performance and security requirements of both replacement and newbuild installations.

The introduction of Stormframe ST II to its product range is part of CDW’s commitment to bring a new product to market every year through partnering with some of

the leading aluminium systems companies. Previous products have included the EasySecure commercial door.

Jerry comments: “All the signs point to a prosperous next few years, regardless of the General Election disruption, and we expect this market to become a profitable source of business for installers. With this in mind we will continue to adapt our products accordingly and introduce new innovations to help installers remain competitive in a growing market.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0060

Salespeople are now able to seal the deal on the spot when pitching windows, doors and conservatories to homeowners. The market leading design, sales and pricing software modules for installers developed

by Windowlink, Focus and Vector, can now be specified with a digital signature facility. This means salespeople could virtually price up, quote and get the order signed in just one interaction with the endconsumer.

To simplify things even further, the programs can email the job file, specification and signed contract directly to the customer and back to the office, to as many contacts as desired.

Windowlink managing director, Mark Dudley, explains: “The digital signature works on any touch screen device that supports the Windows operating system, such as tablets or tablet-computers.

Where these devices are not

Windowlink’s digital signature facility is helping salespeople seal the deal on the spot.

available, external signing pads can be used instead.”

With Focus for windows and doors, and Vector for conservatories and orangeries, the salesperson can design products in any style, colour and configuration, while the pricing is done in real time by the system. Once the product has been agreed on, the software modules can automatically generate a professional quote and/or contract based on the exact measurements and features selected.

“This is when the digital signature facility comes into play,” added Mark.

“Rather than returning to the office to print and post the order form to the client, both Vector and Focus now allow for the signature to be collected digitally, using the touch screen device. This accelerates the sales process and helps installers capitalise on the homeowners’ excitement for the purchase.”

Tablet devices have had a major impact on many industries, helping to streamline processes and services, and resulting in

significant time and money savings. Retail window companies can now further benefit from this technology, thanks to software solutions designed to make selling to the end consumer both painless and effective.

“The impact our software modules have on retail businesses is instantly rewarding. Focus and Vector are powerful tools that help installers save time and money and increase sales by creating a trusting relationship with the homeowner – the price is always visible. They also represent the natural step forward – in an era of instant gratification, having to wait for quotes and contracts when deciding to make a purchase can be frustrating and even off putting for the end-consumer.

But now installers can capitalise on these modern expectations with software solutions created specifically for them,” concluded Mark.

For more information visit www.windowlink.com or call 01452 348575.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0061

BIGGER PREMISES FOR THE G-14 INSTALLER OF THE YEAR G-14 Installer of the Year The Window Company (Contracts) has extended its Chelmsford head office to keep pace with its continuing expansion.

Fittingly, the company has built its own glazed extension to accommodate new members of the administration and customer service team. The 3.5m x 8m extension was constructed by the company’s own specialist installers and has been fully integrated into

36

the existing office to make a new open plan working environment.

Managing Director David Thornton said: “We’re growing fast as we win new window

and door installation business across the social housing and private new build sectors. Obviously, we’re determined not to compromise on our proven efficiency or customer service levels as we expand, so we’re making all the investments we need in our people and our premises.”

The Window Company (Contracts) is based in Chelmsford and operates throughout London and the South East, typically fitting around 600 windows per week.

Tel: 01245 268120 www.thewinco.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0062

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0063

Book up your ideas Liniar is delighted to announce the launch of its brand new, full colour, 94-page Specification Guide.

The Liniar ‘bible’ contains all the information you could possibly require to specify our innovative windows and doors. An online version of the Liniar Specification Guide can be viewed at http://bit.ly/LiniarSpecGuide and specifiers can order their own free copy at www.liniarspecguide.co.uk/gn1.

To accompany its Specification Guide, Liniar has also launched an online resource centre for specifiers and developers, containing a wide range of information to assist with specifying Liniar profile.

For more information call us on 01332 883900 or email sales@liniar.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

|

www.liniar.co.uk/specifiers

37

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Liniar roof

set to reach new heights

It’s now 18 months since Liniar took full ownership of the Liniar Zoom conservatory roof business. With a recent change in management and a forthcoming relocation on the horizon, we caught up with new General Manager Alan Baxter to find out why he believes the roof system is now ready to achieve similar levels of success to Liniar’s other innovative products.

“Since I joined Liniar, I’ve been impressed with the dual focus of customer service and new product development,” explains Alan, “and by adopting the same philosophy in the roof department I believe we’re in a great position to take the roof to new heights. The roof system itself is an absolutely outstanding product; Liniar has invested a significant amount of resources in making it not only technically superior, but what I believe is one of the most attractive conservatory roof systems on the market.

Roof kits “One of the biggest benefits for installers is that the easy-to-fit Liniar roof comes in kit

38

format. Everything the fitter needs is supplied together in one delivery, having been fully checked before it leaves the factory to ensure all parts are correct. Each kit is individually designed and put together, so the installer is getting a bespoke roof, to the exact dimensions and specifications required.

More attractive “The new software we’ve recently installed is allowing a greater degree of accuracy than ever before, resulting in the most beautiful compound cuts and a seamless finish for the roof. Every single part of the system - from the profile to the ridge, the end caps, and even the glazing retainers - is foiled to match. I

truly believe our coloured conservatories can’t be beaten on aesthetics.

Unique top caps “Liniar’s unique twin walled EnergyPlus top caps not only offer higher thermal efficiency, but also enable a more secure and sturdy finish. With no splaying or bending, Liniar top caps offer a more attractive alternative to aluminium rivals whilst being easier to cut.

5 day turnaround “From quote to order to delivery, we’ve simplified the whole process and can even offer a 5-day turnaround on roof kits in some circumstances.

Fully matching “With a wide range of colour choices from stock, the Liniar roof matches fully with the rest of the Liniar suite of windows, doors, bi-folds and patio doors, offering customers a single point of guarantee.

Support “There’s a range of literature and two videos to support installers who want to fit the Liniar roof – these are available on YouTube and demonstrate the benefits of the roof.

Relocation “Once the new warehouse is built at Liniar’s main Denby site, the roof operation will relocate onto the same site, which will unlock the potential to not only produce more roofs but to streamline and improve our turnaround times even more.

Alan concludes: “The next year is certainly set to be an exciting one for the Liniar roof team – with more new product development, continuously improving software and even greater customer support than ever before.”

To find out more about the Liniar conservatory roof, ask your Liniar fabricator or contact the Liniar roof team on 01332 883883.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0064

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

INSTALLER FOCUS

GLAZERITE ADDS IMAGINE PATIO DOOR

INSTALLER INSIGHTS One-Stop-Shop

Glazerite Windows Ltd is set to launch its innovative Imagine Patio Door in full production after the system earned applause at its FIT Show preview.

The Patio Door is the latest addition to the VEKA Imagine family, joining the widely acclaimed Bi-Fold and Flush French doors, and combines the benefits of the current patio system with a host of new enhancements and developments.

Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said: “Our existing patio door has been a firm favourite of installers for some time, so we have very high hopes for the Imagine system with its improved technical performance, wider range of options and easier fitting.

“Our entire Imagine range is proving very popular with installers and consumers and we are very pleased to be adding the patio system to that offering.”

The Glazerite Imagine Patio Door is available in 18 colours and foils from the VEKA Variations range, with a choice of sculptured or bevelled sash and bead as well as a midrail option for a letterplate.

Opening doors can be made to slide internally or externally, or both doors can slide if required, and a choice of two, three or four pane configurations is available.

The system has a stepped outer frame to couple with standard 70mm products and ancillary products. Its interior sits completely flush for improved looks and a neater plaster line.

The system boasts an array of specifications and special features including: • Aluminium interlocks for extra mechanical strength • Unique quadruple seal interlock for maximum weather resistance • Secured by Design • Tested to BS6375 and PAS24 • Optional aluminium low threshold.

Glazerite is VEKA’s largest trade fabricator in the UK as well as a long-standing Network VEKA member. It offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester as well as its South West distribution hub in Bristol serving South Wales and The West of England. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0065

Showroom expansion

supports Atlas’continued success VEKA Approved Installer, Atlas Windows and Doors has proudly unveiled an updated and expanded showroom at its Grovewood House premises in Wickford, Essex.

Atlas has reflected the popularity of outdoor living solutions with a showroom design accommodating seven conservatory styles one featured as an impressive free-standing centrepiece.

Atlas’ Director, Stuart Campbell explains: “The new showroom is primarily aimed at our domestic customers, allowing us to showcase the huge variety of home improvements that we offer. Sun rooms are particularly popular at the moment so we’ve highlighted the numerous styles available. Visitors can see, for example, how a lantern roof can complement a conservatory or orangery as well as providing a striking yet practical addition to an existing flat-roofed extension.

that, equipped with our new showroom, that position will only become stronger.

“As well as domestic customers, trade clients have the opportunity to see, first-hand, the solutions that will best fit their projects alongside the other products we have available to complement them.

“We’ve already seen an upturn in business since the new showroom opened its doors and eagerly look forward to more customers, both old and new, paying us a visit – we’re certain they’ll be impressed by what we have in store.”

Tel: 01282 716611 - www.vekauk.com

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

– what does it actually mean?

Synseal’s Head of Marketing, Mark Schlotel, looks at the age old concept of the “one stop shop” and asks whether it’s still useful in today’s market.

Once upon a time the term one-stop-shop was a bit revolutionary – companies that had previously only sold windows and doors, were now offering so much more.

Installers for example started adding roofline and conservatories to their portfolio while fabricators took it in turns to leap frog each other with the latest colour range, hardware range or entirely new additional product. I think most would agree that the term has become overused now so is it still a useful concept?

The benefits There are some undeniable benefits to companies buying all their products from the same person, whether it’s homeowners buying everything they need from the same installer or installers buying everything they need from the same systems supplier via their local fabricator. For example, it takes time to select a supplier, so if you find one you are happy with and they offer all the products you need with reliable service levels, you don’t have to go through the same search and due diligence process for each new product. You know the level of quality to expect and you will have a good idea of the level of back up service too – do they sort out problems quickly and answer your calls in good time? If they do that for the windows you’ve always bought, they are likely to do the same for the doors, conservatories and solid roofs too.

In addition, if you buy your windows, doors and conservatories from the same supplier, you should expect a perfect colour match between all products. If you select one product from one supplier and a second from another, you risk products sitting alongside each other in the home, in a range of whites or differing shades of grey – not a good look!

Customer expectations

“We’re proud to provide state-of-the-art PVC-U window and door systems from The VEKA UK Group and now our customers can view the full range – from casement to tilt and turn windows and bi-folding doors.

“We’ve been a significant player in Essex and East Anglia’s home improvement market for more than three decades and we’re confident

INSTALLER INSIGHTS

READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0066

The benefits of the one-stop-shop model are clear and well versed by those that offer such a business proposition, ourselves included, but of course it isn’t just about the range of products you offer. Each and every one of those products needs to work in its own right – it needs to be the high quality customers expect and offer real benefits to everyone involved in its manufacture, installation and

end use. If any of the products in the range fall short of these expectations, it calls into question the overriding benefits of your chosen one-stop-shop and can put the whole package at risk. Perhaps then companies based on the one-stop-shop model have to work even harder than most to maintain their reputation.

Synseal has recently been labelled Champions of Choice for the wide range of products we offer but we work hard to ensure they all have the ‘Synseal’ factor in common – do they save fabricators and installers time and money, do they make your life easier and do they ensure a long lasting, low maintenance high quality end product for the homeowner?

This is what all of our customers, across all of our products, whether windows, insulated glass units, conservatory roofs, orangeries, vertical sliding sash, bi-fold, patio, French or residential composite doors, have come to expect from us, so this is what we deliver to ensure our one-stop-shop means something and provides tangible benefits.

Give Synseal a call today on 01623 444 390 for more information or visit www.synseal.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0215/0067

39

CONSERVATORIES

LEGAL EAGLE

Call Saul...

A CALL SAUL READER ASKED:

A Call Saul reader asked: “We know the Consumer Rights Act will strengthen the customer’s hand when dealing with faulty or substandard goods and/or services. But what about the firm or installer who buys a double glazed sealed unit with a latent fault from a manufacturer and inadvertently supplies it in their own frames to a consumer?”

The short answer is that the entire responsibility for the consumer issue lies squarely with the installer, unable to fob the customer off onto the manufacturer- providing the customer with a one stop solution.

That’s not to say that the installer doesn’t have any recourse from the manufacturer- on the contrary – the customer claims from the installer and the installer claims from the manufacturer.

The Sale of Goods Act 1979 covers just that, the sale of goods- and there isn’t an exclusion for business to business transactions.

However, the problem is that many manufacturers do business on their ‘standard terms of contract’ which is many instances limits their liability to just the replacement double glazed unit, leaving the installer out of pocket for loss of profit, time and expenses in replacing it.

FRAMEXPRESS ADDS THE ULTIMATE IN

QUALITY, SPACE & STYLE

Philip Harmer

About

Philip Harmer

Philip Harmer is a Business Lawyer and partner at Stormcatcher Law specialising in employment and business legal services.

His real world experience in construction and property as well as car sales, repair centres, and finance and leasing, give him a true commercial outlook to the business of law pertaining to commercial and company law including employment, anti-bribery, competition and ethics, anti-money laundering , consumer law and trading standards, for the small and medium sized businesses, as well as PLCs and large firms.

Whether or not the limitation is unreasonable under Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977 isn’t really the point, as you’d have to be in Court to argue it.

So as always, the devil is in the detail, requiring a close look at the terms of the contract and careful selection of suppliers who may not be the “cheapest” at the front end, but may offer favourable terms when things go awry. Although that’s not to say that an installer or joinery firm couldn’t negotiate their own terms from the get go.

Contact Philip

Tel: 0333 700 7676 philip.harmer@stormcatcher.co.uk

The ‘Call Saul’ column in Glass News is brand new and, unlikely as it seems, we have a lawyer in the shape of Philip Harmer who is giving his advice to our readers, free of charge!

Now I know you will be gasping at the thought that a lawyer isn’t going to sting you with a large bill, but it gets better… if you have any queries about the subject he is talking about in his column, Philip is happy for you to contact him by ‘phone or email and he will impart his wisdom absolutely free. So please, take Philip up on his offer. The ‘Call Saul’ column will try and bring you news and views on current and impending legislation to help you keep ahead of the game.

And why ‘Call Saul’? Those aficionados of TVs Breaking Bad will understand!

Chris Champion, Editor

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READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0068

A recent conservatory installation for frameXpress once again specified the highest performance products from the company’s range whilst maximizing space and light.

The project in central London, worth approximately £10,000 is one of the latest state-of-the-art installations to be commissioned, in what appears to be a growing consumer trend when adding value and living space.

Incorporating thermally efficient conservatory roof glass as well as modern bifold doors in black u-pvc, ensured the completed project comprises only the best in terms of innovation and style.

Ian Davis, Sales Manager at frameXpress believes that the market has taken a bold shift towards aesthetics and performance as the consumer realizes the benefits offered by high performance conservatory roof glass.

Ian comments, “The innovations in roof glass that have been achieved over the last few years have for some time been impressing homeowners. Additional space equally gives so many more benefits bringing added value both physically and fiscally. The look of the finished installation is not only striking but is providing substantial financial benefits to the end user. They are quickly grasping that year round use and reduced energy bills are real benefits that are easy to achieve.”

Buyers have become disillusioned with the dull, lacklustre conservatories that offer no real relaxation environment due to the limitations caused by lack of temperature control. Now conservatories are being integrated into everyday living areas such as kitchens.

Ian considers that there is great potential for the second generation conservatory investor as they are learning that more innovative design options are available, that will enable them to use the space daily if they so desire.

Insulation and noise reduction also appear to be important criteria for those looking to invest. frameXpress customers are increasingly discussing solar glare, noise reduction and year round use when making specifications.

Ian Davis comments, “The look of a finished project now is entirely different to 10 years ago and many customers are winning business referrals from homeowners because of this. Using thermally efficient glass roofing systems such as those from Ultraframe, Global and Quantal places frameXpress in a very strong position.”

Ian concludes, “This particular market sector is becoming much more buoyant as dynamic design, thermal efficiency and regular usage are attractive qualities for buyers who have previously been disappointed and are now inspired to add true value and space to their properties.”

For more information on the range of conservatories available from frameXpress please call 01952 581100 or visit the website www. frameXpress.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0069

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

OPENING A WINDOW ON A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY...

SGG BIOCLEAN AQUA GOES EVEN COOLER WITH NEW LOWER SOLAR FACTOR

The East Midlands has a new opportunity to capitalise on the growing demand for conservatories.

Mansfield-based Windoworld, already one of the region’s leading window frame manufacturers under the direction of Kevin Hutchinson and Danny Newton, has expanded to now produce conservatory roofs, using the Aztec system.

As a result, customers can source their complete conservatory from one place, and achieve better value in the process: “The Aztec system is unbelievably fitter friendly.

It is different from others in that is is selfsupporting. It is so simple to put together, and can handle even really complex designs easily.

It is more cost-competitive to fabricate toowe didn’t need to invest in any special tooling.

We pass our savings on to our customers.

“Our customers will win all-round: they have another string to their bow in being able to offer a full conservatory, and can do so with a system that makes them money,” says Kevin Hutchinson.

He adds, “We work on quality and customer service, which is one reason why we wanted to make our own roofs rather than buy them in. Aztec has the same attitude, to help

customers every inch of the way. So if any of our customers have a problem with a roof that we can’t resolve, we know we can pick the phone up to Aztec and between us sort it for them.”

Windoworld (www.windoworldltd.com) is the latest window fabricator to go into partnership with Aztec to add roofs and therefore complete conservatories to the portfolio.

Explained Aztec managing director Tim Frank, “More and more window fabricators are appreciating that, unlike any other conservatory roof system, with Aztec all they need is a bit of space. Our system is so simple it requires no additional, expensive tooling. We make no demands re minimum stockholding or order value, we take no business direct, and we guarantee a protected area of operation.”

Tel: 0151 678 0691 www.aztecsystems.net READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0070

Bioclean Aqua, the leading conservatory roof glass from Saint-Gobain Glass now has improved solar control with the launch of BIOCLEAN AQUA LOWER SOLAR FACTOR (LSF).

More than a year’s development has gone into boosting the heat reflection of the popular self-cleaning glass from 78% to 82% and cutting the g-value from 0.22 to 0.18, without affecting the existing 1.0 U-value.

The result is a glass that will keep indoors even cooler on sunny summer days but give the same heat retention in colder weather, said Jenni Bailey, Marketing Manager for SGG’s Conservatory Range: “This will be a great benefit for end-users and a strong selling point for installers but because it is single coated, it will be just as easy to process as the current dual coated Bioclean Aqua.

“Temperature control within conservatories is a major issue with end-users who quite rightly want to use them as much as possible throughout the year. Once again, Saint-Gobain is responding to consumer

demand with a product that will add a real plus point to any conservatory.”

The launch of BIOCLEAN AQUA LSF is backed by technical support, especially for processors who have not yet trialled it, and marketing support in the form of revised conservatory glass sample kits and an updated conservatory brochure.

For more information about Saint-Gobain, visit www.saint-gobain.com or www.saintgobain-glass.com and the twitter account @saintgobain.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0071

0615/0072

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CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Frame Fast (UK)’s Skypod® is

giving the market what it wants

Sales of Frame Fast (UK)’s Skypod® skylight are rocketing and the company’s Sales Director, Nigel Leivers, knows why. “The key design trend at the moment is for light airy spaces, particularly in kitchens and living areas. An aluminium skylight is aspirational, but out of many people’s price ranges. The Skypod® lantern roof lets homeowners create an aluminium aesthetic with a PVC-u price tag.”

Nigel is right to highlight the Skypod®’s key selling point as the biggest factor in its success. But it’s clear that it isn’t just a ‘one trick pony’. The Skypod® is packed with features that will appeal to homeowners and installers alike.

It is available in a two-bar pitched gable design, which is suitable for openings of up to 1.5m x 6.5m, and a three-bar pitched gable design which is suitable for openings up to 2.75m x 7.75m, meaning it is suitable for a huge range of projects big and small. The Skypod®’s interior frame colour is White as standard, to maximise the airy feel it creates.

External frame colours are White, Rosewood, Golden Oak, Anthracite Grey and Moondust, while glass colours are blue, neutral, bronze and clear.

The Skypod® system can achieve a U-value of just 1.0 meaning it also offers exceptional thermal efficiency, helping homeowners to avoid the problem of a space that’s too hot in summer or too cold in winter. The package of benefits is completed with a ten year product guarantee for complete peace of mind.

In short, the Skypod® is the perfect product for spaces such as flat-roofed extensions, orangeries, new builds, kitchen-diners, garage conversions or anywhere homeowners want to flood a space with light and create a modern, stylish look.

The Skypod®, which is part of the Eurocell product portfolio, is manufactured in Frame Fast (UK)’s state of the art 30,000 sq ft, purpose-designed production facility in Derby, giving customers the additional reassurance that it will meet the exceptional standards for which the company is renowned.

Nigel concludes, “Sometimes a product fills a gap in the market and opens up a wealth of possibilities for installers. Our sales figures prove that the Skypod® is one of those products that has become a must-have for installers.”

Tel: 01332 344459 - www.framefastuk.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0073

NEW 20mm cavity solution for integral blinds Sunbell, Italy’s leading designer and manufacturer of integral blinds has introduced a new 20mm cavity solution for glazed units designed exclusively for the UK market.

The new 20mm spacer bar available in natural silver or black allows blinds to be successfully installed into traditional 28mm glazed units.

Sunbell integral blinds are the ideal partner for bi-folding and patio doors providing enhanced privacy, reductions in sound intrusion and solar glare. Sealed from any ingress of dirt, dust and moisture, integral blinds offer an easy to use, low maintenance and safe solution that can help to reduce the effect of direct sunlight and heat loss, offering protection from overheating in the summer and improved thermal insulation in the winter.

Designed for windows, doors and glass partitions, Sunbell blinds are available in a choice of stylish Venetian and fabric finishes including blackout options in a choice of colours.

42

Sunbell blinds use a low-voltage motorised system solution powered either by a rechargeable battery or ‘hard wired’ with remote activation for up to 12 blinds. The battery option is a flexible solution, easily installed with no hardwiring, rechargeable by a mains connection with optional external solar panel and controllable by remote activation.

Blinds are available to order direct from Italy on a 3 week lead time ready for assembly into the glazed unit.

Commenting Richard Sheppard, Sunbell’s UK agent; “The launch of the 20mm cavity designed exclusively for the UK market represents a major investment in new tooling and components. Sunbell offers a unique combination of Italian design, quality and engineering excellence, it’s committed to offering the perfect glazing solution for all types of materials and applications allowing complete privacy and the ultimate in solarshading protection”.

For more details please call 01245 422489, email: info@sunbell.co.uk or visit www.sunbell.it.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0074

CLAYTON’S SMARTEST GLASS YET Clayton Glass has recently launched SMARTGLASS® Ultra 83, which they claim is the industry’s most advanced solar control, true selfcleaning glass for conservatory roofs and rooflights.

The market for specialist conservatory roof glass is really only twelve years old, yet the developments in products over the last two years have been significant and the SMARTGLASS® range has very much led the way. SMARTGLASS® Ultra 83 is now the benchmark for all round performance with warm edge technology, a u-value of 1.0 W/m2K, g-value (solar control) of just 17% and combined with a good level of light transmittance at 25%.

The key to choosing high performance roof glass is about ‘selectivity’, in this case by reducing the solar energy able to enter the structure, yet allowing sufficient light transmission to ensure an open and airy feel, the very fundamental proposition of a glazed extension.

For the last few years SMARTGLASS® has been quietly building market share and the brand is now widely recognised and respected, boasting customers such as Connaught Conservatory Roofs, Prefix Systems and Tailored Roofing Systems.

The once 1.4 W/m2K standard for conservatory roof glass has now been replaced by 1.2 W/m2K, with a recent move towards the 1.0 W/m2K SMARTGLASS® range, all with true self clean and warm edge technology offered as standard.

There are impressive glass features available from all the leading European flat glass manufacturers and as a fully independent processor, it’s the role of Clayton Glass

as experts, to harness all the best technologies into a single SMARTGLASS® insulated glass unit.

Jason McCabe, commercial director of Clayton Glass commented: ‘SMARTGLASS® Ultra 83 is the result of our research into cutting edge products, thanks to our pan-European network of partners. It’s credentials are unsurpassed and it’s the flagship in our SMARTGLASS® range which includes SMARTGLASS®, SMARTGLASS® Plus+ and SMARTGLASS® Ultimate.’

For further information on SMARTGLASS® log on to www.smart-glass.co.uk, e-mail enquiries@smartglass.co.uk or call the sales office for a free sample pack on 01207 288200.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0075

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0076

THE GUARDIAN™ ROOF IS

THE BEST REPLACEMENT CONSERVATORY ROOF ON THE MARKET This product is both easy to sell and install.

Here are some of the many advantages of joining Team Guardian™: Increased sales opportunities with sustainable all-year-round profits We supply our Team Guardian™ members with retail leads from our dedicated Guardian™ website Full marketing support package available Full technical support and in house training

This product is in demand So all you need is a good, reliable supplier who can give you all the help and support you need to maximise the potential.

Look no further than

Connaught Conservatory Roofs Limited.

Add this brilliant new roof system to your portfolio by becoming an approved and registered Guardian™ roof installer and member of Team Guardian™ and watch your profits soar.

Call 01709 710100 info@connaughtconservatories.co.uk We do more so you do less!

Fax: 01709 525262 Unit 3, Lloyd Street.

Parkgate. Rotherham. S62 6JG www.connaughtroofs.com

Visit our dedicated Guardian™ website for more info

www.guardianconservatoryroofuk.co.uk

The Guardian™ Warm Roof carries both LABC & LABSS approval throughout Great Britain.

Which will give you an excellent sales advantage and extra peace of mind for your customers.

Registration No. RD320

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

Local Authority Building Standards Scotland

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June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

45

SOLID ROOFS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

IS THE MARKET FOR TILED GARDEN ROOMS

STRUCTURALLY SOUND?

As the market for tiled Garden Rooms truly opens up for both replacement projects and new installations, Chris Baron and Chris Cooke of Prefix Systems highlight the structural issues that should be taken into account and question whether we should do more as an industry.

The conservatory market as we once knew it has fundamentally changed into one that in its broadest context is one for extended living space. We are now actively competing in a market place that was once the domain of the builder and other tradesmen, which is great news for us all, but there are several caveats.

The latest tiled Garden Rooms are not just a product genre destined for conservatory installations, but also firmly aimed at the market for single storey extensions as a number of our customers are now enjoying to the full. As with all products that come under the remit of Building Regulations, there is an overwhelming need to comply.

While the typical tiled Garden Rooms roofs may well comply to Building Regulations, we must as an industry all ensure that the supporting window and door frames and base all meet the required standards. We’ve already had an instance where we’ve had to go on-site and replace one of our competitor’s offerings

These are the very same standards that are used across the construction sector, something that we believe all manufactures of tiled roofs should adopt. Above all, we must protect the integrity of this important and emerging market sector. The growing replacement sector for conservatories is also showing a marked trend by homeowners for tiled Garden Rooms, which in itself highlights further structural issues.

Chris Baron and Chris Cooke.

with our own engineered Garden Room roof, which has been completely designed by us from scratch with the aid of our own structural engineer. As a business Prefix Systems manufactures structural products and therefore the need of a qualified person in this discipline seems obvious to us.

We believe our Garden Room roof is the most configurable and structurally robust in the market, based on our research and testing procedures. This means that we can offer customers larger spans, shapes necessitating double hung valleys and even the ability to carry traditional roofing tiles and slates.

New installations require an accurate survey and the incorporation of load bearing posts throughout the structure, as is also best practice for conservatory projects. If large

span patio doors or bi-folding doors are specified, then there must be a means to adequately support these and our own BiSpan solution does the job perfectly and at a better price point than running an oversize ring/eaves beam around the perimeter.

For some of the larger installations, and we have already carried out quite a few, then our structural calculations have necessitated a supporting, yet stylish hardwood strut which in effect performs the same role as a tie bar but active in both tension and compression, and is far better from a visual standpoint.

As the sole remaining Ultraframe fabricator carrying BBA, we can also manufacture both our Garden Room roof and our conservatory roofs to BS:6399, which provides accurate, postcode specific criteria for wind and snow loading calculations.

The market for conservatories peaked back in 2004, when homeowners looked for a cost effective means to add valuable living space and at the time polycarbonate prevailed as the preferred roofing material. This was a period when the standards in fabrication and installation were distinctly below par at times, as companies leapt on the wave of potential quick sales and profits. Thankfully things have improved as the unscrupulous companies have fallen by the wayside.

We are now left with a conservatory stock of around 3mllion in the UK, with around 500,000 in need of repair or upgrade. Many of these installations didn’t have the necessary structural loading points and now as an industry we are looking to replace these roofs often glazed with 16mm polycarbonate with either glass roofs, or heavier still, tiled Garden Room roofs with no accountability or clear legislation.

For our purposes and with the criteria laid down in our BBA accreditation, we often specify Retro-Fix, the industry’s only dedicated structural posts for replacement roofs. By running down the internal face of the existing windows, these are designed to spread the loading of a heavier glass roof or Garden Room roof down through the original conservatory base without loading the frames.

Additionally, they ofer matching PVCu cappings to the windows, which form part of the new structure.

We believe that as an industry we must acknowledge the additional attention needed, focusing on the structural requirements of each and every installation, whether for a new or replacement project. We are not dealing with 16mm polycarbonate roofs anymore and in an ideal world we’d all work towards the same standards as the rest of the construction industry as we do at Prefix Systems. Only then will we be able to compare ourselves to our peers elsewhere in that sector.

Tel: 01254 871800

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0078

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June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

All seasons ad:Layout 1

18/5/15

09:53

Page 1 0615/0079

Give them a room for all seasons

Performance Glass

Orangeries

Colour Foils

Bi-folding doors

Prefix Systems UK (Head Office)

Prefix Systems (South)

Prefix Systems (Southwest)

Roof Fabrication Lancashire Tel: 01254 871800 Fax: 01254 399995

Roof Fabrication Northamptonshire Tel:01604 750212 Fax: 01604 750214

Roof Fabrication Swansea Tel: 01792 588254 Fax: 01792 580599

www.prefixsystems.co.uk www.twitter.com/prefixsystems

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

Solid Tiled Roofs

Innovative Conservatory Roof Systems

bi-fold door support system for conservatories

47

SOLID ROOFS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

GARDENROOM REPLACEMENT ADVICE NORFOLK NOISE ELIMNATED BY FRAMEXPRESS The Guardian Warm Roof option is proving an increasingly popular choice from the frameXpress range, with customers stating that homeowners are impressed by the overall finish and year round benefits it provides.

The tiled GardenRoom solution from Prefix Systems is arguably the most configurable and structurally robust in the sector, but given the number of these new solid roofs that are replacing tired, old conservatory roofs, there’s a need for greater structural information and indeed advice from manufacturers.

Prefix Systems have developed their solid, tiled GardenRoom roof with a structural engineer leading the team, through harnessing their 20-year experience and by involving customers within the product development process at every stage. With three branches covering the UK, the company is now offering all installation companies with a comprehensive technical support service from survey through to on-site installation training.

There are around 3million conservatories in the UK, with around 500,000 in need of upgrade and repair, with a recognised proportion being upgraded from a polycarbonate glazed roof to a solid, tiled GardenRoom roof. The difference in weight is considerable, anything up to 5 times that weight from the original installation, so structural integrity is a pre-requisite on any installation.

At each Prefix branch they are able to advise installation companies on an individual and project by project basis, about all things relating to the survey and installation of tiled GardenRooms. They can even advise as to whether any additional structural supports are necessary, including their own engineered Retro-Fix posts and couplers for larger roof spans. The specifications for which are BS6399 compliant, fully CE marked and Prefix are the only independent company able to do so in the sector.

There are an increasing number of people highlighting the structural implications of a solid roof structures, yet few offering the necessary levels of expertise. Right from the outset of the development of their product, Prefix have involved their customers in the key issues for the emerging replacement sector. It’s happened already that Prefix customers have had to replace a number of newly installed, lesser quality, tiled roofs with the GardenRoom roof, the clearest indication yet that their product is the best on the market.

Chris Baron and Chris Cooke, co-directors of Prefix Systems commented: ‘It’s important for us to take a leading stance on the issue of structural integrity, particularly for tiled roofs. Our product offering has been specifically designed by us for both new fit and replacement projects and at each branch we can offer expert advice.

More and more customers state that consumers who are looking to add space, value and style to their properties, consider the Guardian Roofing option one of the most viable choices as an extension to their home.

The company has been offering the Guardian Warm Roof option as part of its range for some time, due to the energy efficient benefits it offers as a conservatory roof that has been approved by the Local Authority Building

Control (LABC) and which is fully guaranteed.

Most recently this was installed on a property in Norfolk as part of a conservatory extension. As the homeowners wanted year round use it was considered the best option, primarily due to the thermal performance benefits it offers, along with the striking aesthetics that blended extremely well with the existing roof. With the home located near to an RAF base this also provided the ideal solution as a noise barrier.

For frameXpress, the Guardian Roof System has been one of the most positive innovations to hit the home improvement sector in the last few years.

It has revolutionised conservatory design but also added a new dimension for frameXpress customers who have been developing it as a retrofit conservatory roofing option in their business portfolios.

It is particularly popular with homeowners looking to revitalise their existing conservatories, as it offers a dynamic alternative extension that provides year round use.

As a Guardian Roof takes only three days to install the company has seen a large uptake in orders, particularly as there is minimal disruption to the home for the owners.

Designed to replace the existing glass or polycarbonate roof of a conservatory whilst retaining the original windows, doors, frames and walls, it offers substantial energy savings, which frameXpress customers utilise when looking to capitalise upon a lead. frameXpress has an established reputation for offering excellence as standard across the window, door and conservatory sector.

They continue: ‘As an industry we need to protect consumers and the future reputation for both the tiled GardenRoom market and the replacement conservatory sector.’

For a free copy of their latest trade brochure, contact the sales office on 01254 871800, e-mail enquiries@prefixsystems. co.uk or add to their considerable following on Twitter @prefixsystems.

For more information on the range of products available please call 01952 581100 or visit www.frameXpress.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0080

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0081

SYNSEAL LAUNCHES THE HIGH PERFORMANCE CELSIUS SOLID ROOF Synseal is proud to introduce Celsius solid roof – a new and innovative system that employs a structural framework of timber components with environmentally-friendly Envirotile external roof tiles and cappings to create a truly warm solid roof construction, with no possibility of cold bridging.

with structural insulated panels (SIPs) from Kingspan TEK Building Systems, fixings from Rapierstar and optional roof windows from VELUX we have sourced the very best products to construct a well-engineered system of the highest quality,” comments Synseal’s Head of R&D, Phil Parry.

“At Synseal we have been monitoring competitor solid roofing products for a while and the market is now ready for our Celsius solid roof,” says Steve Brown, Synseal’s Products & Customer Service Director.

“Sitting neatly alongside our exclusive Celsius performance glass, our new solid roof solution can be summed up in just two words: thermal excellence.”

Synseal Envirotile external roofing components are injection moulded to Synseal’s exact specifications from 100% recycled polypropylene. Precision manufactured and lightweight, each single Envirotile has a low profile chamfered front-leading edge with an aesthetically pleasing riven finish, is 12mm in thickness, weighs just 610 grams and is extremely simple to fix yet performs exceptionally, securely locking into adjacent tiles without any need for battening to form a quick-fitting and fully integrated roof covering.

A single mechanical fixing point at the head in addition to the innovative interlocking design ensures that Synseal Envirotiles fit securely and easily, ready to withstand wind and weather.

At the heart of the system are thermallyefficient structural insulated panels (SIPs), enabling Celsius solid roof to achieve a pitched roof U-value of 0.18 W/m2K for compliance in England and Wales. The U-value of 0.15 W/ m2K for compliance in Scotland is achieved by fitting insulated plasterboard to line and finish the solid roof interior.

“Selecting the right supply partners to complement our Synseal Envirotile was key to the success of Celsius solid roof and

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Envirotiles are 80% lighter than standard concrete tiles, weighing 8.4kg per square metre in contrast with cement or natural slate roof tile products that typically weigh 50 kg

per square metre. Available in a choice of 3 popular and appealing colours: Black, Brown or Terracotta, the interlocking Envirotiles are self-draining, self-ventilating and branded with the Synseal logo for ease of identification.

The single or double Envirotiles are easy to handle and cut on site for a precision finish at concealed hip or valley roof edge intersections.

In addition to single and double roof tiles, the Synseal Envirotile range includes an elevated and interlocking ventilated ridge cap, radius end/apex cover, hip, hip end cap, gable end cap, dry verge, tile starter trim and push-fit screw cap cover to ensure a high quality aesthetic finish for each Celsius solid roof. Fully approved and registered by the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), Celsius solid roof is available for existing glazed conservatory roof replacements or new build applications in Lean-To, Georgian, Gable and Victorian building extension styles.

Synseal’s Roofing Technical Manager Neville Gleed has been the driving force behind the product development, overseeing all the key design stages including component prototyping and trial site installation of the full system to ensure that every detail of Celsius solid roof is perfect and ready for launch.

“Our aim has been to create the best-looking, most thermally-efficient and easiest-to-fit solid roof on the market today,” says Neville, “while at the same time delivering full compliance with Building Regulations for new or retro-fit applications. Speed of installation is essential, because on site time = money.”

Unlike rival systems which employ aluminium rafters, aluminium ridge beams, aluminium eaves ring beams, aluminium valleys and aluminium box gutters similar in design to glazed conservatory roofs, Celsius solid roof is a truly warm roof, featuring all timber construction without any metallic “cold spots”.

Tel: 01623 446207 or 07764 229694 READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0082

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0083

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

49

FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THIS MONTH: David Jolliffe, CEO of Pyroguard David joined Pyroguard as their CEO in 2010. Five years on, the company has re-branded and he is committed to ensuring Pyroguard remain ‘First in Fire Glass’ , enabling architects, specifiers and installers achieve their vision of safe and aesthetically beautiful living and working spaces. For further information visit http://www.pyroguard.eu/

It’s all about you Where were you born and live, currently…

I was born in Glasgow and currently live in Bothwell, a small town on the outskirts of Glasgow.

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

I attended the Larkhall Academy and then went on to study accounting and economics at Glasgow University. My forte throughout this time was socialising and having fun and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there!

Your favourite sports or interests…

to be haggis, potato scones and scotch pies. Heaven!

I am an avid spectator of all sports and particularly love football, rugby and athletics.

your career

Your biggest regret in life…

I have made lots of mistakes in life but I don’t regret any of them. Learning from them is the most important thing.

When and how you joined this industry...

Someone or something that inspires you…

I joined Pyroguard 5 years ago initially on a temporary basis but quickly got bitten by the bug as I thoroughly enjoyed working for such a dynamic ,international organisation.

My family, consisting of my lovely wife and children who I couldn’t live without.

The job you do in 25 words...

The temptation you can’t resist…

My job title is CEO, primarily this means finding good people to help develop and run our business. The rest of my time is selling.

This question was too easy to answer! As a Scotsman, it has

Your greatest achievement...

Yet to come!

The mistake you’d like to correct...

I’ve made plenty of mistakes but have learned from them all.

The talent you would like to enhance...

I would like to develop my ability to motivate people

and to help them achieve more then they ever thought possible.

and your future What you would like to do if you weren’t in this industry...

A particular ambition...

For Pyroguard to be known as the number one provider of fire glass in the industry.

The way you want to be remembered...

A fair person and a good leader.

Relaxing on a yacht in the sunshine!

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

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June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0084

Turn the heat up with ATS ECO CONVECTION 2700 5500 Thinking of changing, adding to or simply buying a new glass tempering plant then look no further than Mappi and their range of ATS ECO furnaces supplied by Promac. Our latest machinery venture provides revolutionary innovation in furnace design and technology that guarantees improved quality, performance and productivity.

The entire Mappi range of furnaces will provide up to 50% saving in running costs using specialized technology regarding heat source, patented convection, quench and insulation. The onboard control system delivers hyper accurate tempering and data reporting which can be archived meeting all of the requirements of ANSI and CE Standards.

Offering incredible reliability, low maintenance and key benefits like complete overnight shutdown, rapid restart (within an hour back to temperature), high speed recipe changes all without any need to operate using SO2.

At Promac we are proud to partner Mappi International in this new venture with our UK and Irish based sales, service and technical support.

Designed, Engineered and Competitively priced to deliver lasting benefit.

For Spares & Consumables www.promacshop.co.uk

www.promac.co.uk

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T: 01788 577577 F: 01788 567938 E: sales@promac.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

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June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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0800 014 2769 | Email: sales@pearlwindows.co.uk 53

FABRICATOR FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Liniar

FUTUREPROOF MACHINES FOR

HERITAGE SPECIALIST

For the third time in the last twelve months Yorkshire based aluminium fabricator Marlin Windows have invested in new machinery. This financial commitment demonstrates their confidence in the market and commitment to provide consistently high quality aluminium glazing products to meet the demands of its discerning customers.

fabricator

answers TV SOS call When the BBC television programme ‘DIY SOS – The Big Build’ came to a small town in Derbyshire, the windows and doors were donated and fitted by local manufacturers, in keeping with the programme’s ethos of local communities working together.

In March 2015, the BBC made an appeal for local companies in the area to get in touch regarding a project to build an extension to a family home. Their severely disabled second child needed a specially adapted space – and with the existing layout of the house not suitable, the DIY SOS team, led by Nick Knowles, were drafted in to help with the major construction project.

Darren Shelbourn, MD at Langley Millbased window fabricator Glazedale, explains why the project appealed to him: “We regularly watch the show and jumped at the opportunity to get involved and help a local family. This particular project was especially rewarding, as the family’s situation was close to my heart. We could see what a huge difference the extension would make to them and wanted to help however we could.

“Our windows and doors are manufactured on site using Liniar PVCu window profile, which is also designed and produced locally, in Denby, so the supply and fit really did have a local, community feel. The whole Liniar product range is also highly energy efficient and easy to fit, making it ideal for this build.”

“Initially, we thought the extension involved a pair of French doors and a couple of windows, but soon discovered that the windows needed replacing throughout the whole house so the full set matched. We provided white windows, French doors and a black front door which were all energy efficient to help the family save money on their ongoing heating bills.”

Glazedale’s MD Darren Shelbourn on site.

The build took place in mid-April, with Glazedale’s installation teams also being involved in the fitting of all the windows and doors, a total of six fitters onsite for five days . They described the DIY SOS team as a real pleasure to work with, and Darren even got his own hands dirty to help.

“Running a business, you don’t usually get the chance to go back to grass roots level, so I loved being able to get stuck in and be part of the team for this fantastic cause.

“It was amazing to see how quickly everything came together over the course of the week the build took place,” continues Darren.

“The team told us at the start that with these projects, it usually looked like chaos but somehow everything always came together at the end – and although there were a few very long days, they were right.”

The Glazedale team was also part of the team ‘reveal’ at the end of the show, when the family returned to see their new, revamped home. Until the programme is aired later in the year, the details are kept under wraps, but Darren confirms “there wasn’t a dry eye in the house!”

So, would they take part in such a project again?

“In a heartbeat,” declares Darren. “We didn’t go into this for financial reasons, and the whole process was so rewarding – it’s good to give something back to the local community when we get the chance and I’d recommend it to any local business. The whole team is still talking about the experience!”

For more information about the Liniar product range, visit www.liniar.co.uk.

Marlin Windows specialises in manufacturing high quality bespoke aluminium windows and doors for residential applications in the contemporary, retro refurbishment and heritage sectors. Working closely with the client Marlin believes it has the product knowledge, technical expertise and engineering ability to provide the perfect glazing solutions for the most challenging of projects.

In 2014 the company recognised the need to develop and improve its manufacturing facility and decided that a dedicated machine should be acquired for this challenge. A visit to the Elumatec Fabricator Show led to discussions about the machine range options, which in turn helped to identify the key machine tool features and precise specification.

With guidance from elumatec’s technical sales manager, Andrew Robson, it was decided that with its proven track record the SBZ 122/33 automated CNC profile machining centre would be the most suitable addition to Marlin’s existing range of elumatec machines.

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READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0086

Speaking from elumatec’s point of view Andrew Robson said: “It has been great to work with an innovative fabricator that is passionate about quality and manufactures to exceptionally high industry standards.”

Marlin plans to continue working in partnership with elumatec as its preferred machinery supplier with further investment in automated machinery planned for 2016.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0087

Another Fabricator Quits Manufacturing & Goes For Glazerite Yet another fabricator-installer has shut down its factory and turned to Glazerite Windows Ltd as supplier – and now Glazerite is repeating its call to other retail fabricators to think seriously about doing the same.

Family-run Wilson Windows of Loughborough had been manufacturing for over 25 years until it went over to Glazerite and the VEKA system in December and now, says Dale Wilson, the only regret was not doing it sooner.

Dale, son of founder Mick Wilson, explained: “I’d got into manufacturing at the age of 18 so the factory was my baby and I hung onto it as long as possible but now we have made the change, we are very happy with the way everything is going. Looking at the product quality we are getting from Glazerite, if we tried to make a window ourselves to the same standard, it would be ridiculously expensive.”

The changeover has not only meant the company could double its showroom space by extending into the factory area, he added, but also Glazerite has provided many of the new display units to show off the extensive range at its best. To top it all off, the company immediately joined VEKA’s Approved Installer Scheme then the elite Network VEKA and now has the VEKA logo displayed very large on many pages if its website.

The Glazedale team with ‘DIY SOS Big Build’ presenter Nick Knowles.

The main considerations were: the ability to accurately and consistently machine aluminium profiles; it’s flexibility and adaptability to accommodate a wide range of project applications; and the machine must have sufficient capacity to cope with forecasted expansion in production. The new 3-axis profile machining centre was delivered and installed in March 2015. Andy Bates, elumatec’s production support and training manager, provided training for the machine’s operators.

Wilson Windows is the latest to shut its factory and go with Glazerite but it is far from being

the first – and probably won’t be the last, as Glazerite Director Jason Thompson explained: “We are now main suppliers to eight companies that have given up fabricating and 12 more that still do some but come to us for specialist products such as VS, bi-folds and Residence9.

We are also talking to a couple more who are thinking about making the move.

“It just makes so much sense for so many small and medium fabricators to concentrate on what they do best and let us do what we do best, and we would encourage any others to give some serious thought to doing the same.”

Glazerite is VEKA’s largest trade fabricator in the UK as well as a long-standing Network VEKA member. It offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester as well as its South West distribution hub in Bristol serving South Wales and The West of England. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0088

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0089

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

55

FABRICATOR FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Conservatory Outlet aims for national coverage to

unleash the network’s full potential

Conservatory Outlet was the first fabricator to introduce the concept of an installer network based on area exclusivity to the UK window and door industry, back in 2005.

Over the past ten years, the fabricator has adapted and perfected its business model, while remaining loyal to both the core values that still make Conservatory Outlet unique today, and the installers who have recognised the substance behind the proposition and embraced the opportunity. With a customer base of less than 30 retail partners, collectively installing over £10m of product each month, Conservatory Outlet is one of the largest uPVC and aluminium fabricators in the country and, as managing director Greg Kane explains, the business is now ready to embark on its next stage of extensive growth.

Since it was established, the Yorkshirebased fabricator has built one of the most successful retail networks in the country, with one showroom in almost every region of the UK. “Conservatory Outlet started as an ambitious initiative aimed at bringing together likeminded retail installation companies from different parts of the UK that wanted to really push their business forward and drive growth,” said Greg. “Our model was unusual at the time, but we knew it had tremendous potential if we invested the necessary resources and brought together the right people.”

The Conservatory Outlet difference The network grew rapidly thanks to a pioneering marketing strategy that involved,

national expansion,” said Greg. “It’s great to see the interest stirred by our announcement, and we’re looking forward to partnering with growth-oriented companies from Aberdeen and the Highlands, North and South Wales, Essex, Devon and Cornwall.”

Joining the network

Conservatory Outlet managing director, Greg Kane.

amongst other things, the intensive use of the online medium as means to generate consumer leads.

Greg commented: “We knew that it would only be a matter of time before online marketing was more widely adopted, and we also anticipated the emergence of similar business models, so we constantly diversified both our support, as well as our product portfolio, which is now among the most comprehensive available under one roof.

“Being able to offer an extensive range of high quality products is essential, but matching these with holistic marketing support, and a valid strategy for adding long term value to our partners is what makes our approach different. It’s less about offering ‘approved installer’ status to the first taker, and more about making a real difference to the right

business, which explains why some very lucrative trading areas are still currently unoccupied by our network.”

A national force On its 10th anniversary, the fabricator has announced its intention to expand the network to full UK coverage. “After two years of consolidation and investment that has seen our production capacity grow by 70%, we’re now ready to form new partnerships in the few remaining areas where we’re not yet reaching,” commented Greg.

The fabricator intends to take the network’s advertising strategy from locally-based to national campaigns, unlocking a previously unexplored potential. “Both our future partners, as well as our long-established members will hugely benefit as a result of our

Conservatory Outlet offers a very comprehensive support package to help fabricator-installers transition to a retail only activity should they wish to become part of the network. Greg explains: “We are looking to partner with businesses that have similar views to our own, regardless if they’re an installation only company, or if they’re also involved in manufacturing. Despite the booming home improvement spending, the strong competition indicative of a tight market is swaying some fabricators towards restructuring their activity, and focusing on the more profitable side of the business. We can help fabricators who manufacture mainly for their own retail activity to make the transition – we have done it previously with two of our valued members.”

The inspiring fabricator Having reported its best sales year yet in 2014, Conservatory Outlet has been recently listed as one of the fastest growing and most innovative companies by the London Stock Exchange Group, one of 1,000 inspirational British businesses in 2015 - an impartial accolade not open to applications or nominations.

“Our latest results and achievements are a direct consequence of the hard work contributed by our members, and yet another validation of our business concept. Our track record shows commitment to growth and innovation - we grow by helping our partners become the retail leaders in their regions, and, to this end, we invest heavily in identifying all possible commercial opportunities and supplying the right tools to capitalise on these,” said Greg. He concluded: “It’s perhaps the best possible time and probably the last opportunity to join forces with Conservatory Outlet.”

For more information, contact Conservatory Outlet on: 01924 239813.

A Conservatory Outlet network showroom.

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READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0090

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0091

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www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

57

FABRICATOR FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Intrigue surrounds

mysterious new brand

A well-known company is preparing to launch an exciting new product range and brand into the industry.

Räum is a collection of premium products designed to help fabricators and installers capitalise on the most profitable areas of the high-end home improvement market. The name Räum is influenced by the German word for ‘space’ and it encapsulates the stand-out aesthetics of the high performance products within the brand.

The full details of Räum will be announced in the following months but fabricators and installers are encouraged to visit www.raumdesigns.co.uk to register their interest and be the first to know about this exciting product range.

A spokesman for Räum said: “Räum will only be available to a limited number of companies initially so I would urge any installer that’s keen to steal a march on the competition to register their interest and get in touch.”

For more information visit www.raumdesigns.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0092

RAPID PVC-U PRAISES BUSINESS MICROS Business Micros has been commended for the work it has carried out at Rapid PVC-U throughout its recent expansion and investment programme.

The Doncaster based fabricator, which produces more than 1100 frames per week, is nearing the end of a £600,000 investment programme which has seen its factory extended and new automated welding and cutting centres installed.

During that time, Director John Duggan has been impressed with the whole Business Micros team – from the sales and installation team who have visited the factory to the support staff who answer the phone to solve queries.

He says: “Business Micros have been with us every step of the way and have timed and coordinated their software programme perfectly with our overall expansion. They have set up all the required machine links promptly and efficiently and are already planning and preparing for the final phase, which will be a new EDI link to our glass suppliers Glass Systems in Swansea so that we can place online orders automatically.”

Rapid PVC-U has been a Business Micros customer since it was established in 2009.

John Duggan had used the software at his previous company and liked the products and the support which comes with them.

Starting out with Business Micros’ Evolution processing software, Rapid PVC-U has since added EvoWeb online ordering and tracking, EvoSatellite remote pricing and most recently

EvoNet production and dispatch planning with management reporting.

It has bar code scanning stations in place at cutting, beading and dispatch locations in its factory and is using the software to move towards a paperless operation.

John Duggan adds: “Our focus is on quality and accuracy. We’ve built our reputation in the retail and new build sectors on our ability to get things right first time, and having the right software linked to our machines and managing so many of our processes has been an important part of that. Evolution, EvoWeb and EvoSatellite help us to run a really efficient, customer focused operation and last year’s investment in EvoNet with a number of bespoke modules has given us an important added dimension in terms of management reporting and future planning.

“Throughout our partnership with them, Business Micros have worked hard to understand how we operate and how we need the software to help us achieve our objectives.

They are always available to help and always return calls when they say they will.

“As we have developed the business, they have made sure that the software has developed with us and we are looking forward to continuing working with them as we move into the next phase of our growth.”

Further details are available at: www.businessmicros.co.uk and at www.rapidpvcusystems.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0093

£350 for BFRC Fabricator Licences & £85 for BFRC Authorized Installer BFRC is offering a 15% discount on fabricator System House Simplified Energy Licences (SELs) and authorized installer status for the rest of 2015. This is the first promotional discount package that BFRC has offered and is open to all non-registered fabricators and installers.

For fabricators this means that System House Simplified Energy Licences covering the rest of 2015 can be purchased for just

58

£350*. An entire window product range can be rated through BFRC for the whole of the rest of the year with a Simplified Energy Licence (SEL) covering all product variations and all components.

Installers can be approved

by BFRC for just £85** for the rest of the year. That means the company will be listed as an approved installer on the new BFRC website – the first port of call for any homeowner searching for the best

installers of energy efficient windows and doors.

BFRC registered businesses will have full use of their energy ratings labels, can get free technical advice and free marketing support including van stickers, sales leaflets and template press releases. And customers can receive a BFRC Energy Ratings certificate that lists your company name.

“BFRC is not just the premier body for the independent rating of energy efficient windows

and doors in England and Wales,” comments BFRC managing director Chris Mayne. “BFRC is also a world leader. All this technical knowledge and marketing support can be a valuable tool for all manufacturers and installers. UK homeowners want the best in energy efficient products in their homes – and, according to our research, they want a BFRC Energy Ratings certificate too.”

This SEL promotion

is available for newly registering companies and only applies to System House product already BFRC licensed.

The non-discounted price for an SEL for 6 months is £420 – so this offer represents a 16% discount.

The normal 12 month cost is £840. The non-discounted price for BFRC approved installer status for 6 months is £100 - so this offer represents a 15% discount.

The normal 12 month cost is £200. Full rates will apply

from 1 January 2016. The offer only applies to Direct Debit payments and all costs quoted are ex-VAT. For the full Terms & Conditions visit the BFRC website.

Tel: 020 7403 9200 Email: enquiries@bfrc.org READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0094

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WHY DECEUNINCK? Its business model is a perfect match “We order colour from stock, knowing it will arrive on our next delivery, on time and in full. It helps us cement our position, and our installers’ position, as leaders in colour.”

Tim Hull, CEO Trade Window Specialists 01684 891 200 Sales@TradeWindowSpecialists.co.uk

Building your brand, builds ours 0615/0095

Call Sales Director Rob McGlennon 07818 383 385 www.WhyDeceuninck.com Follow @DeceuninckUK

Tim Hull ad Glass News.indd 1 www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

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22/05/2015 14:09:18

FABRICATOR FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

The Pioneering Spirit Danny Williams in one of those dyed-in-the-wool ‘double glazing’ people – started from scratch and has all the badges.

Glass News talks to Danny about how he sees the future for the replacement window industry in post election Britain.

For old school ‘double glazing’ companies the route to market for their founders typically comes from beginnings as sales people or as chippies turning their hands to aluminium or PVC-U replacement windows. Danny Williams is the former, beginning his career 28 years ago as a salesman with Marley Windowline, cold calling and door knocking.

“It was hard work,” said Danny “but I could see how much money some of the guys I worked with made – it was serious money in those days – and so I stuck at it. I went to Marley for the training, and it was great for a while before I was head-hunted by Danum Windows.”

At Danum, Danny regularly topped the UK sales chart. “But then some chaps from Zenith came in and started messing around so I decided to look at my options,” he said. “And the best of those seemed to be setting up my own company.”

Buying-in trade frames gave way to manufacturing, making mechanically jointed PVC-U windows – 30 frames a week to begin with. “It was worth it in those days,” explained Danny. “There was a good margin and that was all you needed to start making your own frames.”

After splitting with his business partner during the recession of the 1990s, Danny began a trade-only operation on the outskirts of Chelmsford using Synseal profile. Pioneer Trading was born and to this day Pioneer Trading remains a Synseal fabricator. “I have to give Synseal their due,” says Danny. “They have supported me over the 25 years we have worked together and of course, I have seen big changes at the company. I worked with the Duttons [Gary Dutton and son Nick, former owners of Synseal] for most of that time of course which was great fun, a real roller coaster and it was a great period. Since the MBO it has been different but I still enjoy dealing with them, the people at the top of the company are still very accessible.

“Of course I continue to look at other options, different suppliers but I would change only if Synseal messed up repeatedly and of course, I discovered a fantastic, innovative new system that was going to give me a worthwhile edge.

And so far, there is still nothing out there that beats our own Signature window.”

Danny refers to the exclusive sash that he developed with the assistance of Synseal, when he decided that he wanted an exclusive

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commercial projects include installations on various Cross Rail sites and a whole host of other stuff. Commercial is very good for us.

“And of course we have Willow Windows, our local retail operation. I still have retail in my blood but what this contributes to the whole business is that we can test market products and operations before we push them out to our retail customers. It has worked very well so far, being able to say ‘It worked for us so it should work for you’ to our customers. Mind you, it also saves us making the occasional mistakes,” laughs Danny. “It also makes us one of the best trade frame suppliers in the South East,” he adds.

Hands on Danny boasts that he can carry out every discipline in the factory.

product that differentiated his offer and which outperformed everything else being offered by his competitors, including Synseal products: “I wanted my customers to go in to their customers and say ‘This is the best window that money can buy and you can only buy it from me in this area.’ And when their prospect then says ‘yes but XYZ Windows down the road say they can do this cheaper’ our customers can then say ‘No, they can’t because they don’t have this window’. Basic simple sales stuff really but I was determined to have something different. I designed the window with Synseal and they backed me.”

That was four years ago which allows Danny the knowledge of whether this expensive strategy has worked or not: “It saved us.

We had been losing money for the first time in our history. As we entered what was a recession by any standards prices and margins were being eroded and companies were going pop all over the place, including some of ours who were trading too cheaply.

We created a two-tier system: those of our customers that wanted to carry on regardless we continued to supply as previously. And those that consistently showed ambition and professionalism we offered the Signature window together with a whole marketing package including branding, the website and a whole support package.

“It did what we wanted it to: drove up sales, returned better margins and it more than put us back on our feet,” insists Danny.

The company has developed its infrastructure and can offer a complete package, says Danny: “Our insulated glass unit supplier got into trouble some years ago and so we brought that into the fold as Tudor Glass and it has actually become a very good part of our business. And we are also well established in the commercial sector with contracts that include replacing windows at the social club at Silver End, the estate created by the steel window maker Crittall; that was a great project and in aluminium too. Other

Being able to understand and even better, carry out something himself is a key driver for Danny: “I have been and continue to be a direct salesman, I still go out surveying and I can make a window from scratch in the factory. I have also got my Class 1 HGV and forklift licenses so if push comes to shove – literally! - I can get out there and deliver the windows as well,” he laughed.

Commercial work is growing for Pioneer.

Pioneer has a thriving export business. Here the company’s ‘English’ conservatories are shown at a Tokyo home improvement show.

What of the future? Danny has strong views on pretty much everything and the General Election enabled an exceptional output of opinion. He was pleased with the result: “The truth is I believe that we have the right government although I suspect like many that voted Conservative I am not a Tory. I believe that we needed to maintain the momentum achieved, that business and consumers are gaining in confidence and we should not do anything to deflect that. Business is good because more people are in work – which in turn means more people are likely to improve their homes but also to spend more in doing so. People worried about their jobs are unlikely to go out buying bi-folding doors.”

What are the long term prospects for home improvements: “We have enjoyed the best years, times when you could fall out of bed and get an order,” reflects Danny. “But I believe that we may reach a stage when the market dictates less to the industry, that lead times become longer as order books grow but also, as the shortage of fitting teams bites.”

Danny has been raising the issue of training – of the lack of it – for years, especially amongst window and door installers. “This could be a double edged sword,” asserts Danny. “Retailers may well have to extend their installation timetables if they cannot get their hands on installers. That could mean that prices and therefore margins harden as lead times lengthen. On the other hand, more likely it will mean an unwelcome growth in poor installs.”

But says Danny, quality at every level has improved and that is more likely to get

“Quality and professionalism is way ahead of where it was and I believe that generally there is far more trust of us by homeowners.”

Pioneer Signature Sash - unique to Pioneer and still one of the most energy efficient windows available.

better still: “We are at a good place in the replacement window industry,” says Danny.

“Quality and professionalism is way ahead of where it was and I believe that generally there is far more trust of us by homeowners.

Now we have to get them to spend their money. We have to show them that their existing replacement windows are old, look shabby and perform poorly by comparison with the latest windows and doors. We need innovation and exciting new products.

Composite and bi folding doors have shown that sales are stimulated by great new ideas – we need more of them!”

Will there be any more of those from Pioneer and Danny Williams? “The Signature Window is still working very well for us and in the way intended. But we never stop thinking or looking; who knows?”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0096

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0097

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www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

61

PG TIPS

WINDOWS

PG TIPS! A common difficulty that installers face when fitting, particularly large frames, is that the aperture is not always true, plumb and square.

Given the boom in bi-fold door sales over the last few years it has never been more important to ensure that the frames are installed plumb and square.

Paul Garforth is Technical Manager at innovative window systems company Liniar. With more than 30 years’ experience in the industry, Paul has seen a vast array of installation errors, many of which are costly to repair. In this regular column, Paul will highlight some of the most common errors and offer advice to help you get it right – first time.

Sit down with a cuppa & take time out to read the latest tips!

Turning up on site with a 4 foot level will not suffice when the frame is more than likely to be over 2m in width and height.

Obviously a 6 foot level would be better but this has its limitations, and I would suggest you can’t go far wrong with good old fashioned string lines and plumb lines.

You can see immediately if there are distorting dips and peaks in a 4.5 m bi-fold frame. A plumb line dropped from the frame head would ensure that the frame sill is inline across its width.

Another little tip is to use a timber roofing lat, cut to the exact height of the internal rebate of the frame at one side. Once you are happy the sill is fixed level and without distortion, the lat can be used as a gauge at several intervals across the frame width to ensure the head is parallel to the sill whilst fixing.

It’s incredibly unlikely that you will ever get a job that is exactly level, but anything more than a few millimetres will cause problems for your installation.

On a Liniar bi-fold door, adjustments can be made to ensure that the product works under slight deviation, with in-built tolerances in the hardware.

I’ll be back next month with another top tip. In the meantime, to coin a common phrase, if I don’t see you through the week, I’ll see you through the window!

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0098

62

Sovereign supplies 369 VEKA Vertical Sliders for Notting Hill social housing renovation The Vertical Slider Window System from VEKA has been used exclusively in the re-glazing of a large social housing development in West London’s Notting Hill.

Fabricated and installed by Sovereign Group Ltd. – close neighbours of The VEKA UK Group’s HQ and flagship manufacturing plant – the substantial order totalled 369 Matrix 70 frames, delivered and installed over the fourmonth period from October 2014 to January 2015.

Winterbourne House, the 1930s-built development under renovation has made the news in recent years for its location on Portland Road, close to the homes of such Hollywood stars as Nicole Kidman and Matt LeBlanc.

Frances Austin, Managing Director of Sovereign Group Ltd. explains: “Winterbourne House is in the vicinity of one of London’s most prestigious postcodes and, as you might expect, presentation of properties in the area is taken very seriously.

“The VEKA UK Group’s Vertical Slider was the perfect replacement window for this project, fulfilling,

as it did, all the planners’ and landlord’s criteria.

Not only was a system required that would address the shortcomings of its predecessor but also one that authentically complemented the building’s 1930s architecture.

“The Vertical Slider fit the bill on all fronts and, besides receiving the landlord’s commendation for the system’s many attributes and the quality of our installation, we’re told that feedback from the residents has been excellent too.”

The windows previously installed at Winterbourne House also featured vertical sliding sashes but were constructed using timber frames that, inevitably had diminished over the years.

Frances continues: “The traditional styling of sash windows has had a notable renaissance in recent years, with many homeowners and buyers coveting them as a ‘period feature’ of a property.

The obvious drawback with the original timber designs, however, is that no matter how well or regularly the frames are painted and weatherproofed, it’s highly unlikely that rot won’t creep in at some point.

“Climatic changes through the seasons and the varying humidities and temperatures they bring mean timber frames expand, contract and warp, leading to compromised performance and even problems with functionality.

“Opting for a modern-day PVC-U replacement like VEKA’s Vertical Slider offers the best of both worlds.

There’s no need to spend time or money maintaining the frames – the odd drop of oil on mechanical parts and an occasional wipe down with soapy water is all that’s required to keep them clean and functioning smoothly. We were even able to add external astragal bars, mimicking the look of the building’s original Georgian windows while avoiding the impracticality that comes if the glass pane ever needs to be replaced.”

Colin Torley, Sales and Marketing Director for The VEKA UK Group commented: “Sovereign’s ability to supply Mullaley, the principal contractor on this job, with a window system that complies with planning regulations and satisfies the building owner’s requirements is testament to the great range of products The VEKA UK Group offers.

“Our technical team’s unrivalled expertise allows us to continually preempt changes in building regulations and accelerate advances in window efficiency with designs that complement the full spectrum of properties. By that virtue, it’s little wonder that our Vertical Slider and FlushSash designs are so widely specified for projects where aesthetics are closely controlled.

“Landlords see the VEKA name as being synonymous with performance and durability – important considerations when leasing properties to tenants, and making our products sound, long-term investments. We congratulate the Sovereign team on their exemplary completion of this job and look forward to seeing where they take VEKA profile next!”

Tel: 01282 716611 www.vekauk.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0099

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Newport Window’s ‘Ultimate’ installation

Glazerite Customer Trent Valley Celebrates

Opening Brand New Showroom

When Roseview Windows’ customer Newport Windows recently completed a domestic project to replace original timber sash windows, it was only fitting they should use Roseview’s award winning Ultimate Rose window.

A LITTLE BIT OF YORKSHIRE IN ESSEX (L to R) Derby County players Ryan Shotton and Stephen Warnock, with Rammie the mascot at Trent Valley's new showroom opening.

Always keen to promote the success of its customers, Glazerite Windows Ltd is happy to celebrate the opening of a new Trent Valley Windows showroom in Pride Park, Derby.

With a few VIP guests invited to help the multi-award winning Network VEKA installer celebrate the opening of the new showroom, Derby County Football Club stars Ryan Shotton, Stephen Warnock and the club’s mascot Rammie were on hand to help Trent Valley’s Managing Director Gary McCartan to cut the ribbon at the launch event.

A valued Glazerite customer, Trent Valley, a company with a long heritage of providing top quality windows, doors and conservatories, has been trading in Nottingham for over 24 years and with the new showroom has now expanded the business across Derbyshire.

Gary McCartan said: “I am delighted to be expanding into Derby, one of the UK’s fastest growing cities. The team are looking forward to helping provide the Trent Valley assurance of quality, service and design to new customers across Derbyshire.”

Trent Valley Windows is one of Network VEKA’s biggest and most successful members and holds many of the organisation’s awards for quality and customer service. It is also a long-standing customer of Glazerite Windows Ltd, the UK’s largest VEKA fabricator and an active supporter of Network VEKA. Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said: “It’s so good to see Trent Valley expanding its business. Derby is the second new showroom opened in the space of eight months and these will soon be followed by the opening of a new conservatory village at its HQ in Nottingham.

“This major investment proves what a professional organisation Trent Valley is and I am confident the new facilities will prove to be a tremendous asset to the business and we are proud to have supported the company.”

Interested in visiting Trent Valley’s new showroom? You can visit them at 30 Royal Scot Road, Pride Park, Derby, or visit the company’s website for more details: www.trentvalleywindows.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0100

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

Yorkshire Trade Windows is now supplying more than 100 REHAU frames a week from its southern regional factory in Braintree, Essex, and has already set itself the target of doubling that figure in the next 12 months.

The company manufactures conservatory roofs at the 12,000 sq ft factory and supplies frames in the REHAU TOTAL70C and REHAU TOTAL70S systems to trade customers throughout Essex and neighbouring counties.

Production Director Richard Williams says that trade customers in Essex love the quality of the frames and the good old fashioned customer service they receive from the team. He says: “When we opened in Essex, we wondered whether customers would embrace our northern brand but we needn’t have worried. We’ve exceeded all our targets and are winning new customers all the time.

“They tell us that they like our uncompromising approach to REHAU product quality and the fact that we have a friendly, knowledgeable team here including our new sales and business manager Paul Long, who are always willing to go the extra mile on customer service.”

Yorkshire Trade Windows, which also has a 31,000sq ft factory in Castleford producing 500 frames per week, opened its premises in Braintree in order to establish a national presence. Its aim was to give customers in the south access to the same fast, efficient and reliable service which had made it such a success in the north, and the approach is certainly working.

Richard Williams adds: “We’re probably best known in Essex for our conservatory roofs but demand for our window and door frames is growing fast as the market strengthens and our reputation grows.

We now offer the complete range of REHAU foiled finishes, triple glazed windows if required and composite doors in a REHAU outerframe.”

Further information is available at: www.yorkshiretradewindows.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0101

Ultimate Rose is a uPVC sash window that is virtually indistinguishable from timber and as such can be used as a replacement in period properties as well as buildings in sensitive conservation areas where maintaining original aesthetics is crucial. uPVC window, door and conservatory installer Newport Windows installed fifteen white foiled Ultimate Rose Windows at the front of a traditional house in Dinas Powys, near Cardiff.

Chris Jones of Newport Windows comments: “The homeowner wanted an energy efficient, low-maintenance alternative to their existing timber windows without having to sacrifice the traditional aesthetics of their home. The authentic design details on the Ultimate Rose sash window made it the ideal replacement solution, and with an ‘A’ energy rating as standard, the homeowner can enjoy a more energy efficient home too. You can’t tell the difference from the real thing, and the neighbour was so impressed we’re now costing the front of their property.”

Ultimate Rose is fully mechanically jointed to replicate timber joinery methods and features a deep bottom rail, glass line astragal bar designs and is fitted with premium quality hardware.

It also features an in-house developed run-through sash horn with flush end cap to complete the timber box sash window appearance. Attention to detail was a driving factor in Roseview winning the G-13 New Product of the Year Award for Ultimate Rose, and now this award winning system is even better with a new ultra slim mullion feature.

Rather than having two outer-frames sitting next to each other, which can make the frame appear bulky and distinctly non timber looking, Roseview’s new mullion replaces one of the outer frames to considerably slim down the overall width of the frame and enhance the authenticity of combination windows.

Richard Burrells, Sales Director at Roseview commented: “Ultimate Rose is ideal for projects in conservation areas and high-end consumers living in traditional properties.

We’re delighted the customer chose Ultimate Rose as a replacement option to preserve the original look of the building, and we’d like to congratulate Newport Windows on a job well done – the finished installation look fantastic!”

Tel: 01234 712 657 - www.roseview.co.uk

VBH Stocks All-New Roto TSL Window Lock

Hardware specialist VBH now stocks the new TSL, the latest outward opening casement window locking system from the widely respected German hardware manufacturer, Roto Frank.

The product builds on the features and quality of the original Roto TSL, which has been securing homes for more than a decade. The new TSL meets the requirements of PAS24:2012 by utilising up to four pairs of mushroom headed steel cams to lock into both sides of double entry night vent striker plates.

VBH advise that this provides a smooth closing action and excellent security on windows with sashes as large as 1600mm.

All fasteners are applied to the front face so manufacturing time is reduced Roto have utilised the faceplate from their NT tilt and turn range for the upgraded TSL. The faceplate has stepped edges, which according to Roto provides improved stability over a standard flat faceplate. The product is finished in Roto’s Sil Nano scratch resistant coating to provide corrosion resistance to EN1670:2007 (480 hours).

Allan Price, VBH General Manager for Scotland, advises ‘TSL was one of the original window locks of this type and Roto have managed to improve the product further with this update. The NT faceplate is very strong, and when combined with Sil Nano’s attractive matt silver finish, looks fantastic on any window, whether it’s timber, PVCu or aluminium. It contrasts beautifully with any colour profile and we are confident that many manufacturers will switch to TSL from their current lock as a result.’

TSL is part of Roto’s NT family of products and, as such, is offered with the backing of the company’s 10 Year Functional Warranty.

Ultimate Rose run-through sash horn.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0102

More information on Roto’s new TSL can be requested by calling 01634 263300 or can be downloaded from www.vbhgb.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0103

63

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper 0615/0104

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New steel windows

provide a warm view of London Providing views across the River Thames towards The Shard and other London landmarks, the windows at President’s Quay, in St Katherine’s Way near Tower Bridge, have suffered from significant exposure to the weather. Residents in a number of flats were consequently keen to have replacement steel windows and doors installed that had a similar aesthetic but achieved improved thermal efficiency. Steel Window Association member, NSB Casements, were therefore awarded a contract to carry out the works.

President’s Quay is an historic docklands warehouse building which was converted to, fifteen one, two- and three- bedroom flats many years ago. The replacement steel windows and doors at that time were of W20 style and single glazed.

Within the flats, each of the rooms either incorporated

64

a double door or side hung vent windows. The new windows and doors, manufactured by NSB Casements, match the original design but are fabricated from W40 system profiles and have currently been installed in four flats.

As the most modern version of the traditional W20 steel window, the W40 system achieves continuity of style by offering similar attributes in terms of slenderness and light transmission.

Triple glazing is an option, although warm-edge spacer bars, gas filling and other enhancements enable Part L of the Building Regulations to be complied with in new build, for most applications, when specifying double glazed units.

All the steel windows and doors manufactured for President’s Quay were hot-dipped, galvanised and finished with a white powder coating to provide and almost maintenance-

The view from President’s Quay.

free life span. A multipoint locking system was added for maximum security W40 system installations can be supplied to Secured

by Design standard. This design not only dramatically improves the U-value against single glazed windows but, with the multipoint locking system, draughts are practically eliminated.

For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visit www.steel-windowassociation.co.uk or call 0844 249 1355.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0105

Leading trade fabricator, Bison Frames has further expanded its Genesis range of quality products with the introduction of the New Flush Sash window. The New Flush Sash window has been hailed as an innovation in heritage fenestration applications and suites perfectly with Bison’s highly successful Genesis VS. Designed to mirror the elegant window styles of the 19th century the New Flush Sash is another popular choice from Bison’s Genesis Range for heritage and conservation areas.

Despite its traditional good looks, the New Flush Sash window offers a deceptively modern performance. It’s clever design and timeless elegance is combined with a range of robust security features that meet or exceed all British Standards. The New Flush Sash is extremely energy-efficient with its five chamber PVC-u frame that also ensures

“We are committed to bringing products to the market that are innovative and make a difference.

It’s not only good for our business but it’s good for our customers’ businesses as it allows them to add value to their portfolio and open up other market sectors.”

impressive structural strength too. Double or triple glazing options are available, both complemented with a specially designed gasket system that eliminates draughts and sets a new standard for performance against the worst UK weather conditions. As evidence of its excellence in these areas, the new Flush Sash holds relevant accreditations for all aspects of security and weatherproofing.

The New Flush Sash window comes as standard with multipoint locking and features industry-leading hardware, traditional monkey tail handles and peg stays or stylish contemporary handles all available in a wide choice of quality finishes. The window is available in a choice of 19 colours and woodgrain combinations so installers and homeowners can choose the look that best suits their project.

Speaking about the introduction of the New Flush Sash window Bison’s Director Mark Tetley says, “We are committed to bringing products to the market that are innovative and make a difference. It’s not only good for our business but it’s good for our customers’ businesses as it allows them to add value to their portfolio and open up other market sectors. We have witnessed this success with the wide acceptance of our Genesis VS window all over the UK including many conservation areas and we are more than confident that the New Flush Sash window will be another welcome addition to our expanding Genesis range of quality products and our customers’ portfolios”.

Bison’s reputation as a forward-thinking company is one that they are justifiably proud of. It’s certainly true to say that the addition of the new Flush Sash window can only enhance that reputation.

Tel: 0800 138 3838 - www.bisonframes.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0106

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

13x31.5cm Glass News Advert_Layout 1 20/02/2015 14:00 Page 1

WINDOWS

REHAU NAMES THE WINNERS

OF ITS AUTHORISED PARTNER FABRICATOR & INSTALLER OF THE YEAR AWARDS REHAU’s 2014 Authorised Partners of the Year are Chatsworth Windows, who have won the Fabricator and Installer of the Year title for the fifth consecutive year, and Sedgefield Windows, who have been named Installer of the Year for the first time.

Both companies scored the highest satisfaction ratings in customer questionnaires supplied direct to REHAU and can now proudly display their winners’ logos on their

vans, in their showrooms and on their websites.

Irene Smith, REHAU’s Marketing Communications Manager, says the Authorised Partner scheme encourages best practice throughout the network of fabricators and installers who are members.

Used alongside the annual Authorised Partner audit carried out by REHAU’s sales team, the customer satisfaction questionnaires are a fair and independent way of monitoring and analysing members’ performance.

As in previous years, the questionnaires in 2014 revealed an overwhelmingly positive response from customers, with a high proportion of companies achieving the very highest ratings from homeowners on key areas such as installation and customer service.

Chatsworth Windows and Sedgefield Windows came out on top though

and received trophies and certificates from REHAU to mark their achievement.

As well as giving members access to REHAU Authorised Partner branding and marketing support materials, the scheme continues to generate valuable consumer enquiries for members via its retail website at www. rehauhome.com and via REHAU’s online advertising campaign.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0107

Metal Technology products add style in Polwarth Terrace Metal Technology curtain walling, door and window systems have been installed on the Polwarth Terrace development of high quality homes in Edinburgh.

Designed to showcase the best in contemporary architecture, each apartment and penthouse features energy-efficient panoramic windows to maximise light. The development has been built for Wemyss Properties using the highest quality materials,

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meeting the latest building regulations and energy efficiency standards.

System 17 curtain walling offers the designer a wide and diverse range of profiles that provide structural integrity, weather performance and thermal enhancement. A cost-effective, quality engineered glazing solution, System 17 was an appropriate option for this expansive high rise glazed application. This was further enhanced when combined with system 25 four pane lift and slide patio doors.

All Metal Technology systems are technically innovative with aesthetic flexibility, freeing the designer to create appealing facades while delivering on sustainability, security and weather resistance. Complementing System 17, Metal Technology’s System 25 lift and slide balcony doors and 5-20Hi+ doors, together with System 4-35Hi+ windows complete the outstanding aesthetic solution. These products offer the latest in technical development, low maintenance and infinite recyclability for ultimate value and visual appeal.

Head Office (Unit 1), Warehouse & Distribution (Unit 8), Clifton Business Park, Preston New Road, West Preston. PR4 0XQ Tel: 01772 631441 Fax: 01772 679886

Email: sales@geofast.co.uk

Web: www.geofast.co.uk

Geo-fast is also available to buy direct from your system company:

www.metaltechnology.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0108

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

0615/0109

65

FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THIS MONTH: Patrick Firmager Marketing Director, TruFrame.

Patrick is the marketing director of TruFrame, a company that was started by his Father back in 1994 and today is one of the top 6 largest fabricators in the UK.

It’s all about you Where you were born and live, currently…

I’m Melton Mowbray, born and bred. I live with my fiancée and our 6 year old daughter about 5 minutes from the factory.

Your education and the subjects or activities in which you excelled…

My secondary education was at Oakham School, which I am extremely grateful for.

I’m a bit of a nerd, so I chose to take A Levels in Physics and Biology, with Business being the logical third subject.

Your favourite sports or interests…

I’ve participated competitively in a lot of individual and team sports both at school and over the

years but I’m not really in a position to fully commit to any “extra-curricular” activities right now. Vicki (my partner) and I are huge dance music fans and try and get to at least a couple of festivals and a few one night events every year.

Your biggest regret in life…

I’m nowhere near old enough to be having life regrets!

Someone or something that inspires you…

My Dad has always been my biggest role model and continues to be a huge source of inspiration for me. He taught me from a young age the importance of conducting business ethically, whilst always providing the highest levels of customer service and product quality.

The temptation you can’t resist…

Anything with peanut butter and too much salt in or on it.

Your greatest achievement…

your career

The first FIT Show in 2013 was a big deal for us. We had never done any kind of exhibition before and I had no previous experience of managing a project of this kind. We also chose to use the event as a platform for unveiling our new corporate branding, so there were a lot of moving parts. It was a very stressful six month period but the event went very well for us, and the process of effectively reintroducing ourselves to the industry allowed us to win new business that we wouldn’t have necessarily had access to previously.

When and how you joined this industry…

I got my A Level results in summer 2007 and was due to begin a Masters in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Sheffield that September. However I was a year ahead of myself at school and there are some odd technicalities when looking to study before turning 18, so Dad suggested I defer my place for a year and work at TruFrame to earn some money.

At the time, the company was looking to invest in developing its IT infrastructure, with a view to making the internal systems more streamlined and automated. The job also came with a car, so I was in! Before I knew it, nine months had passed and I had to make a decision whether or not to accept my place at Uni… I chose to stay at TruFrame and I guess the rest is history!

The job you do in 25 words…

Providing vision and direction to our rapidly growing business, collaboratively supporting the senior management team and overseeing the daily operation of our marketing function.

The mistake you’d like to correct…

In 2008 we thought it would be a good idea to manufacture our own sealed units. We hit a plateau of about 500 units a week, which meant our buying power wasn’t great, and our reliance on 3rd party glass tougheners made things very difficult. Our biggest issue though, which ultimately led to us terminating the venture in 2010, was recruiting experienced staff that lived in a commutable distance.

I think the idea was solid, however probably a little premature for our business at the time.

The talent you would like to enhance…

I’d love to learn to play the piano and ultimately how to compose music. I

recently backed an Indiegogo campaign to produce a modular keyboard that can help teach you to play with lights. I’ve got two so me and our little girl can learn together.

and your future What would you like to do if you weren’t in the industry…

I love the idea of being part of a company that make things which people use or interact with on a daily basis. I guess the ultimate job for me (outside of the fenestration industry) would have to be within the Product Design team

of Apple. That or CEO of Apple… either would do ;)

A particular ambition…

My aim is to help make TruFrame the industry’s largest manufacturer, bar none, whilst maintaining an even higher high level of product quality and customer service than we currently supply today. I believe we can achieve this within the next 5 years.

The way you want to be remembered…

I haven’t totally decided myself yet! I guess firstly as a devoted father and husband, secondly as a fair and honest person and thirdly as an incisive and revolutionary businessman!

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

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June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

High Speed

0615/0110

Triple Glazing

For almost 40 years ForEl has designed and built innovative automated solutions for the flat glass, double and triple glazing industry, Whether machines for laminating glass, edge grinding or automatic production of sophisticated sealed units ForEl has the machinery to fit every size, shape and production of any business.

At Promac we are proud to have partnered ForEl for the past 25 years with sales, service and technical support.

Please refer to our website www.promac.co.uk or call Promac today on 01788 577577.

For Spares & Consumables www.promacshop.co.uk

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T: 01788 577577 F: 01788 567938 E: sales@promac.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

67

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: CIILOCK ENGINEERING

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Australian company CiiLOCK Engineering

brings its multi-award winning & innovative design solutions to the UK So, if I were hunting around for a specific component for my project that I couldn’t quite seem to find on the market, I would be able to work with CiiLOCK to find a solution?

Chris Champion, Editor of Glass News, talks with Phil Moulds, Sales Manager of CiiLOCK Engineering, about their move into the UK market.

We’re sitting in an impressive state of the art facility on a new estate in Hinckley, surrounded by, it must be said, some remarkably designed products! I understand it has been quite a journey starting up over here….

Yes, it has been quite a journey, but an exciting one! Setting up in the UK market and designing and building a new purpose built facility; myself and the team are most looking forward to offering the industry our innovative products and problem solving.

Most definitely! We know at times it can be difficult to find that perfect piece of hardware that will fit and operate perfectly with your project, not to mention the frustration returning on site to fix issues caused by defective or unsuitable components that can cause delays between projects.

Our purpose is to help by developing customised hardware that is created with a key focus on enabling effortless installation and ease-of-use. Components that, once installed, allow micro-level adjustment for the freedom to seamlessly integrate within each individual application.

Whether it is a particular style handle, sliding door roller, hinge or locking system, our team is dedicated to meeting and exceeding client expectations. We put emphasis on the principles of creating a value-added service, constantly improving manufacturing techniques and producing superior quality products.

Are you a ‘last resort’ for problem solving?

Let’s start with the name and its pronunciation…

We have a very strong reputation within the industry in Australia for understanding both client and industry needs and demands, and that’s why we are known amongst our broad client-base as a first resort for problem solving.

It’s pronounced ‘sea-lock’ and yes, true to the name, we have (and can!) design and manufacture an extensive range of innovative locks for various applications; but that’s only a fraction of the scope of our design capacity!

We certainly have a much wider range of expertise to offer…

Basically, by understanding that no two projects are the same, and taking into account shifting architectural trends, our engineering team are committed to bringing unique solutions to life that are tailored to clients’ individual needs.

These solutions ultimately help to soundly finish-off and complete projects.

And how would you describe CiiLOCK and what it does?

Does this mean you replace the internal ‘ideas’ people in a company?

We are ultimately a research, design and manufacturing company and we have great experience generating component solutions for the window and door industry. Our generic range is complemented by our custom design capacity; driven by innovatively responding to design issues and problems that have been presented to us by clients, or that we have identified within the industry.

No, not at all – in fact, in many cases it begins with the client’s idea!

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It’s true that we can literally be ‘handed’ a problem and asked to find a solution; but, in many cases we have been called in to perfect an original idea that has been raised, come up with a design and take it through to manufacture.

Our design process is driven by working closely with those ideas people and their concepts to make sure we reach a solution that is uniquely crafted around their requirements.

Our project managers lead clients through every step of the way to make sure we achieve or even exceed their expectations.

And when it comes to manufacture, how is that handled?

Of course, for us it’s not just about transforming concepts and ideas into a solution; one of the most significant steps is turning these unique designs into viable commercial products. ecause of this, we carefully monitor every facet of the manufacturing process with strict QC procedures so we can confidently deliver consistent quality and high performance that our clients can rely upon.

So, quality is at the forefront of all CiiLOCK designed and manufactured products; along with quality control…

Absolutely! And this is an aspect of our product creation process we most definitely pride ourselves on; designing and manufacturing components that are of the highest quality with the capacity to withstand the toughest weather conditions and, most of all, the challenges of heavy day-to-day use.

Is it only new innovations CiiLOCK design on a bespoke basis?

We heavily invest in new technologies that directly address key market issues, primarily improving on performance, ease-of-use and installation. In particular, our signature product ‘The Mother of All Rollers’ has gained quite a bit of attention over the last few years. Since its release on the market, it has been recognised by a string of national and international award organisations and industry members for its ground-breaking innovation that has taken sliding door limitations to new heights!

Right. This is the roller I’ve been looking at. It is fascinating and I have absolutely no idea how it can maintain its position on an uneven surface… how exactly have you managed to achieve this?

It is one of those things that are fascinating!

Just as the name suggests– it truly is the‘Mother of All’ when it comes to sliding door hardware.

We were inspired by the immense structural strength of the Roman Arch principle based on pressure and with this, we developed a range of carriages that operate upon an innovative self-levelling mechanism to enable an even load distribution across each wheel.

But we find the intuitive mechanism isn’t the only reason why The Mother of All Rollers has been so highly sought-after by fabricators across Australia; its superior load bearing makes it ideal and a top choice for application with double and even triple glazed panels.

And where did the concept behind this intriguing roller stem from?

We believe it’s important to keep up with evolving architectural trends; and with glass panels getting larger and larger, we recognised an increasing demand for heavy duty hardware that is able to keep up with the increased door weights.

It was a problem within the industry we set out to solve, and so our aim was to create the most economic, functional and durable roller for today’s market!

Surely, it’s one thing to come up with the principle behind it, and quite another to make it work, and be commercially viable?

Throughout the journey designing The Mother of All Rollers, we kept it our aim to create a lower rolling resistant and highly durable wheel with efficient and quiet operation irrespective of panel size or weight… a seamless blend of form and function!

It’s one of our greatest strengths; bringing a design concept to life that is viable and will physically operate as flawlessly as we created it to. Of course, before the QC and final product release – it takes long and detailed R&D to ensure the end result achieves just what we set out for it to do!

Many thanks. It has been fascinating finding out about CiiLOCK Engineering and I feel the industry will be hearing much more about the company in the future.

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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Case Study The Mother of All Rollers CiiLOCK Engineering Bringing innovative designs to the UK, from concept to reality, hardware design specialist CiiLOCK Engineering’s unique, multiaward winning Mother of All Rollers is ‘taking sliding door limitations to new heights’!

Following growing efforts to increase the energy efficiency within today’s building design, the rapid movement from oncesufficient double-glazing up to triple has sparked concern around the supporting hardware below; with uncertainty looming on its ability to retain smooth and consistent door operation under the considerably weightier panels.

Recognising this emerging issue facing the industry, innovative hardware design specialist CiiLOCK Engineering set out to create the most economic, functional and durable roller for the market. The project, as it was internally code-named, was labelled “The Mother of All Rollers.”

“At this stage, we didn’t know what the product would be; only that we wanted to create something truly exceptional to push the current limitations of the market,” CiiLOCK’s Head of Product Development says.

When Haffner Murat’s SMR-4 welder was introduced to the market, it was billed as a game-changer for fabricators. It seems that the market more than agreed with this statement as sales of the machine have soared and show little sign of slowing down.

“The project, as it was internally code-named, was labelled The Mother of All Rollers.” across the wheels. While it maintains consistent surface contact by comfortably accommodating to any imperfections within the door and track, most notably, the mechanism increases the load rating by up to an impressive 50 percent while preserving the roller’s slender profile.

“When we found the answer, we could not think of any name more fitting; it truly is The Mother of All Rollers.”

An industry welcomed and celebrated ‘solution’ in Australia, The Mother of All Rollers initially gained recognition in 2012 as highly commended for ‘Most Innovative Component’ by the Australian Window Association, with further praise for its innovative design raised by an internationally recognised Good Design Award win last year.

At first glance, it’s hard to believe the story behind its creation begins with the ancient Roman Arches; the slim and miniature profile of the roller stands a sharp contrast against the curved and towering structures whose immense support capabilities revolutionised architecture many thousands of years ago.

“We were delighted to have won such a prestigious award. Such recognition gives us the motivation and determination to continue to invest into new research and development projects that challenge the status quo and push all types of windows and doors to new heights!,” CiiLOCK’s Head of Product Development says.

Inspired by the brilliance of the arches’ incredible supportive structure, CiiLOCK sought to similarly utilise and build upon the ‘pressure-based’ concept to reduce the number of tensional and bending forces that were found within standard rollers.

The design team behind the Mother of All Rollers believes it is CiiLOCK’s commitment and ambition to innovatively respond to key market issues that has ultimately led to their success.

Encasing each wheel in its own internal support structure, the team designed a unique self-levelling mechanism that enables an even weight distribution

“We all, at CiiLOCK, are very proud of our achievements. Not only because we have revolutionised the sliding door industry, but because the product represents our passion for innovation. The Mother of All Rollers is a reminder to us that our persistence and dedication can produce amazing results!”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0111

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

Haffner introduce new SMR-4 video

In order to help potential customers discover for themselves why the SMR-4 has proved to be so popular, Haffner have commissioned a short three minute video that explains the main benefits of the machine in action.

Dave Thomas, Haffner Murat’s Managing Director explains. “The SMR-4 welder really is a formidable machine and we wanted to be able to demonstrate the many benefits to fabricators in an easy format. When it comes to explaining the technical elements of a machine we find that video is much more suitable than the written word and fabricators can see the benefits for themselves straight away.”

The SMR-4 welder is the first welder on the market to eliminate the problem of corner weld misalignment in the fabrication process.

This is because it can auto-align corners as well as transoms. Even if the arrow head is slightly out, it still welds the transom at 90 degrees. Quite simply, it removes the need for a skilled operator and eliminates costly remakes, saving time and money.

The welder’s automatic head positioning offers other benefits apart from eliminating remakes.

It also means there is no need for set squares or aligning tools. Other automatic features include automatic transom fences, automatic corner fences and automatic transom and mullion alignment, all of which dramatically speed up the production process and increase quality. The welder also offers a retracting middle corner fence, three square welding and an on screen window display that makes checking progress easy. Finally, drop down support arms help to anchor small frames, making the production of these much easier.

Dave concludes, “All of these unique features are shown in action on the video and we know it is going to be a useful tool for customers looking to invest.”

Wellness wins award

for Edgetech’s team

Free fruit, cooking demos, help to stop smoking and onsite health checks are just part of the wellness programme at Edgetech UK, a Quanex Company. This commitment to the wellbeing of its employees and the dedication of HR Manager, Suzanne Shelbourne, to health means Edgetech has been awarded the Workplace Wellbeing Charter at Achievement level for all areas, including leadership, communication, absence management and general wellbeing.

Edgetech initially achieved Charter status in 2013 with the local Charter programme and has now achieved higher recognition through the National Charter.

Over the last four years Edgetech has been supporting staff to encourage them to make positive lifestyle choices, alongside continually improving their internal policies to ensure best practise within all the areas of the Charter.

“The team get really involved with the events we put on throughout the year,” says Suzanne.

“Whether it’s cooking competitions or team lunches to sample healthy foods we’re always looking to create the best environment possible to work in at Edgetech. The programme is especially important for our shift workers, as the manufacturing facility runs 24 hours a day, five days a week. Irregular sleeping and eating patterns can make it harder to pick positive lifestyle choices.

“We have had visible results. Feedback on the programme for 2014 reported over 80% of staff felt they’d benefitted and over half saw medical health improvements. Looking out for the wellbeing of team members is a positive step for everyone. People feel more engaged, which leads to lower staff turnover rates and absence rates have reduced to less than one percent.”

Such is the success of the programme that Suzanne was asked to present at the recent Workplace Wellbeing Charter Awards event, covering the business case study for an SME with Charter recognition, to an invited audience representing more than 30 companies in the Coventry & Warwickshire region.

Charter recognition awards were presented to ten companies including Edgetech, Jaguar Land Rover Solihull, IKEA, Network Rail and Brett Martin. Edgetech was one of only two organisations that attained Achievement level in all areas.

“Being awarded Charter status proves we offer our team members the highest levels of support,” adds Edgetech’s Managing Director, Andy Jones. “The results speak for themselves: Edgetech is a healthy and happy place to work.

Tel: 08700 566844

The video can be seen on YouTube by searching for “Haffner Murat SMR-4 Welding Machine” and is also available to view on www.haffnergb.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0112

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0113

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50 FRAMES A WEEK & FRIDAYS OFF Glazerite Windows Limited business plan when it launched 15 years ago was a little off, confirmed the company’s founder and M.D John Hewitt when he spoke to Glass News’ Chris Champion.

Glazerite founder John Hewitt enjoyed success early in his career in the doubleglazing industry. He is that classic entrepreneur, the fabled ‘self-starter’ upon which the UK replacement window industry is founded. John enjoyed considerable success early on having been appointed to the post of Factory Manager of Astraseal’s glass plant when just 20 years old. Joining Poplar Windows as the company’s factory manager he then established that company’s glass production facility, going on to acquire the company in due course. After selling to Darby Group and serving time to facilitate the transfer, John found himself, as so many others have following the sale of their businesses, in a void. John was still in his twenties and had immense energy that needed directing.

“I played golf for a few months but realised I had sold Poplar too soon. I became restless and needed new challenges. I thought about what I could do next and after talking to a number of people I realised there was an opportunity to set up a trade window fabrication company; glass was out of the question due to the restrictive covenants with Darby Glass.

“I began Glazerite in February 2000 with Jason [Thompson] after looking at the market and working some numbers. Our initial target was modest, looking to make just 50 frames a week. We thought that this would give us quite a good business and allow us to take Fridays off when I intended to play golf. Mike Johnson, our Finance Director from day 1, still has a framed copy of our Year 1 forecast on his office wall - we now turn over more in one week than we forecast for the whole of the first year!”

Glazerite directors Jason Thompson, John Hewitt and Mike Johnson.

The result is that Glazerite has enjoyed an average of 20% growth year-on-year every year for its 15 years in business, a goal of £25 million now being the lofty though eminently achievable goal for the current year. And whilst Glazerite is now feted throughout the industry but also in business circles per se, it was not always that way: “Getting any of the bigger profile extruders to actually come and talk to us when we were setting up was incredibly difficult. But VEKA showed willing and supported us and their faith in us has, I believe, been well rewarded. Similarly getting accounts from other suppliers was also difficult at times and dealing with the local council for a lease presented its challenges!”

Although Glazerite began with a window system from Czech-based Gromathic, after three months it switched to VEKA with whom it has been trading ever since. John remembers those early days very well: “Steve Packer was then VEKA’s Head of New Business and after a face-to-face meeting they took a punt on us and it’s paid dividends for both companies. He always said we would do more than 50 windows a week!”

There are milestones during its 15 years that John particularly remembers: “We have had many great moments but of these three stand out. Moving into the current head office facility, which after 6 months of planning and infrastructure work was carried

out with very little production down time, was a real triumph. Purchasing, setting up and integrating Glazerite North West into the group was also something I am proud of. The fact that few people outside of the company understand the effort that went into both of these is testament to how hard our team worked to make them happen without making any waves. Another stand out moment for us was breaking through the £100 million total sales barrier in just 13 years.”

From that modest original estimate of just 2400 frames a year the management of a £25 million window and door business with three UK operating bases brings with it a whole raft of pressures says John: “We have enjoyed

John is very much the operations side of the business, leaving the marketing and sales to Jason: “I enjoy the challenge of building things – systems, production lines, procedures and watching plans come to fruition,” says John. “I have the thoroughness and patience to make sure that the systems and procedures that I put into place with our team are thoroughly tested before we roll them out for our customers. That approach applies throughout the business as a result I think…in practice we tend to get things right first time, which obviously has benefits for the business and our customers. I believe that if I was asked to define one thing, this approach to business is at the core of our success. But of course there are many other factors.”

Glazerite Wellngborough Head Office.

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Attention to detail is at the core of Glazerite’s success.

tremendous growth and in that respect we’ve never looked back. But of course, predicting and implementing production capacity increases to keep up with our growth requires skill, hard work and of course, financing but we are committed to re-investing profits to deal with this. And our growth continues – it is actually accelerating – hitting our 2015 target will mean an increase in excess of 40% in just two years.

strike up a good working relationship with suppliers, one that works for both of us and hopefully the longevity of the relationships with most of our suppliers shows that philosophy to be right. Things can get stale and you start taking each other for granted but we try to sit down with them on a regular basis to talk through issues as well as future plans, just to keep good lines of communication open.”

“All of our long standing suppliers have been key to us achieving the growth we have enjoyed so far. My philosophy is to treat people the way you’d expect to be treated yourself whether you’re a customer, employee or supplier. We always try to

Good people are at the core of the company’s success and John knows, essential for its future: “I know it’s a cliché but of course we need the best people to run our business, at every level, and this presents challenges.

And of course, as tightly as we manage our

customers and accounts, as with any business we have bad debts and slow payers, which has an impact.”

John says that Glazerite has a clear path going forward: “We have a clear vision of how we will progress. We want one or two additional production facilities in the UK in order to service our customers even better, as well as doing more of the same as we have done so far but of course, scaling up; we need to keep our product ranges fresh, maintain and improve the quality of our products and service and focus on always improving. There is no great revolution planned – just doing things better!

“There will be hurdles of course but these are what make life interesting,” adds John with a smile. “Apart from the obvious issues such as cash flow, we need to find the right locations and of course, the right people for the key positions throughout the business, wherever we might locate.”

Included in this future is the company’s involvement with and support for Network VEKA: “We have been members of Network VEKA for more than 13 years. Glazerite’s top performing customers are all part of the scheme because they are strong believers in the VEKA brand but are also proactive in terms of promoting their own company, have top-end showroom facilities and a strong online presence. And they sell on quality as opposed to price.

“Irrespective of whether they are members of Network VEKA our strongest customers are consistent in placing a strong emphasis on marketing and selling the benefits of the product rather than slashing the price all the time. It is essential that they make good profits that can be reinvested in better marketing, people and service for their homeowner customers.”

That Glazerite’s trend for growth is continuing is confirmed by the company’s sales so far for 2015. The company’s quarter 1 sales were a record and actually ahead of forecast. The goal for the full year is an increase of 15.50%, which will take it to £25 million.

However, nowhere in that plan is every Friday off to play golf.

The opening of the Bolton factory was a key milestone for Glazerite.

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0114

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First ever

National Fenestration Awards winners event a huge success On Thursday 26th March, the National Fenestration Awards held their first ever winner’s event.

Each team took part in one challenge in the morning, and were then treated to an excellent and relaxed lunch. The energy in the room was amazing. People were buzzing from their mornings driving and couldn’t wait to get back out.

From day one, it had always been the aim of the NFAs to be able to celebrate winners at a physical event. So that Thursday marked an important step for the awards scheme, and for those attending and to receive their awards.

The afternoon session seemed to fly by. Both teams getting out on track to test out all three of the cars. The Toyota GT 86 Rally and Caterham 7 both proved extremely popular throughout the day, and are now probably on the “to buy” list for a lot of those who attended on Thursday!

The day started in typical British summer time style, wet, windy and rather chilly. But some excellent staff and equally excellent breakfast made sure that the climate didn’t affect the day. After a few delays due to the traffic, the group was split up into two teams for the day where they would take part in some excellent cars and challenges.

The cars themselves were the superb Caterham 7, Land Rover Defender on a brilliant 4x4 circuit, and some brand spanking new Toyota GT86 Rally cars that we were lucky enough to be the first corporate event to use them.

It was back to the Foggarty Moss suite one last time for more food and refreshments, where Driver of the Day trophies were handed out to the best drivers in each of the cars. And of course, the main reason why everyone was there, to pick up their National Fenestration Awards trophies for their success in the 2014 campaign.

So with everyone in great spirits, it was over to the Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf & Spa for a chance to check in and get scrubbed up for a great night of drinks and relaxed networking, provided kindly by the Truemans Windows team.

Great feedback and a future industry regular event The early feedback of the event from those that attended has been overwhelmingly positive. Jason Grafton-Holt, Co-Founder and Director of the NFAs had this to say: “The reaction from those who attended the race day has bowled over the whole NFA team.

Whenever you attempt something for the first time, you kind of expect a hiccup along the way. But the staff at Oulton Park made sure that every single person there had an amazing day. The rest of the NFA team also put in a great effort to make sure everything ran smoothly.”

“A massive thanks has to go to the industry for giving the NFAs so much support in the past couple of years. And a massive thanks too to The VEKA UK Group, GQA Qualifications and Windowbase, as without their support for the event, it simply would not have happened. We’re already looking forward to the next winner’s event, and I’m

pretty sure everyone who attended this one will want to be part of the next one too! We’re hoping this can become a regular industry event that everyone can look forward to.”

The National Fenestration Awards are already looking to prepare for the next winner’s event, with main event sponsors now being sought. Window Ware are already the first to sign on for 2015, with more companies to be announced in the coming weeks. So with a limited number of main event slots available and lots of interest in the NFAs right now, be sure to contact the NFAs so as to not miss out.

To find out how to take part in this year’s National Fenestration Awards and be part of one of the industry’s fastest growing events, visit the NFA website for more information.

Web: www.fenestrationawards.co.uk Email: info@fenestrationawards.co.uk Twitter: @NatFenAwards READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0115

0615/0116

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June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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FENSA LOGO MISUSE PROSECUTION Your invitation

to join PIGS in London

Bright Windows UK Ltd of Willesden, London, NW10, was successfully prosecuted by Trading Standards for misuse of the FENSA logo.

The case was reported in the local newspaper, the Kilburn & Brent Times. It cost the company and its owners over £7,000 in fines and costs.

Court that Bright Windows were not with FENSA. This was the basis of the Witness Statement.”

FENSA was informed of the logo misuse through www.cowboystoppers.co.uk - a website set up by FENSA exactly for this purpose. The email received contained a link to the Bright Windows website where the FENSA logo was displayed. This was the evidence required to start an investigation.

FENSA is happy to receive any information about suspected misuse of the FENSA logo or name from anyone in the industry and from any members of the public. This information must be accompanied by images of the misuse, and this can include reference to the offending company’s website if the logo misuse appears there.

The FENSA operations team wrote to the London Borough of Brent and Harrow Trading Standards Service to inform them of this misuse of the FENSA logo. FENSA was asked for a Witness Statement by Trading Standards under the Criminal Justice Act 1967 and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980. This was supplied in October 2014.

“FENSA was pleased to assist in any way possible,” commented FENSA Operations Manager Mary Hewitt. “We looked through our records to check the status of any FENSA registration for this company and advised the

FENSA has a defined process it follows once logo misuse has been satisfactorily identified.

This will include informing the local Trading Standards office so that they can proceed with a prosecution.

If you would like to inform FENSA of logo misuse you can do this via www. cowboystoppers.co.uk or direct to FENSA (enquiries@fensa.org.uk / 0207 645 3700).

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0117

With a record number of people coming to Manchester in March for PIGS, it looks like PIGS Summer in London on 16 July is set to be a great night for the industry. PIGS – or to use its full title: People in Glazing Society – is a networking group set up 11 years ago. Initially started for the press and marketing professionals, it was soon clear that other people in the glazing industry would like to join the networking group.

25 sponsors have put their hands in their pockets to ensure a well-stocked bar at Canal125, a 5 minute walk from in Kings Cross, London.

Anyone from the glazing industry is invited and entry is by ticket only. Registration is FREE and very simple by going to https://pigsontour. eventbrite.co.uk.

“Without sponsorship PIGS wouldn’t exist. That’s why it’s really fantastic that so many people have come forward

to sponsor this time,” says PIGS’ organiser Sarah Ball.

“Several companies have already said they’ll support all PIGS events planned for 2015. The autumn one will be held in Birmingham.”

PIGS is not a company, it does not make a profit and its existence relies solely on the fact that companies in the industry support it. Massive thanks to the confirmed sponsors for PIGS London. They are: • Avantis International • Business Micros • Danvac Ltd • Dempsey Dyer • Emplas • Everglade • The Fabricator • FIT Show • GGF • Glass and Glazing Products Magazine • Glassolutions • Insight Data • The Installer

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Profile 22 Purplex Marketing Quickslide Solidor Stuga Swish Window & Door Systems Synseal Thermoseal Ultraframe The VEKA UK Group Whizzle Ltd Window News

For updates, you can follow PIGS on Twitter: @ PeopleInGlazing, like the ‘People in Glazing’ page on Facebook, or join the ‘PIGS: People in Glazing’ group on Linked In. Sarah Ball at Balls2 Marketing is the organiser of PIGS. For more information call Sarah on 07540 049655 or email sarah@balls2marketing.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0118

0615/0119

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

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The pen is mightier than the sword, or in this case, the golf club!

Smarting from a resounding defeat in the RegaLead’s Golf Challenge 3, Ryder Cup Style, Team Challenger’s Captain, Chris Champion, Editor of Glass News, gets his own back with a report on the event. Read on…

RegaLead’s Golf Challenge 3, the third year of an event that has seen a ‘3 Countries Challenge’, a 5 Countries Challenge and, for 2015, a Ryder Cup Style Golf Event, was held at Carden Park near Chester over both the Cheshire and Nicklaus courses.

‘Whupped’ is probably the most appropriate word to describe the beating inflicted on the challenging team by those playing under the RegaLead banner and, to be fair, it came as no surprise to anyone.

the food and drink, although the weather had other ideas.

Inappropriately, this two days of golf was held over the General Election with voting taking place on the Thursday and the results coming in overnight. ‘Inappropriately’ because the good old UK’s election is all about democracy and the choice of the people, whereas in the case of RegaLead’s Golf it is all ‘organised’ by the young dictator, Mr Guy Hubble. This means that, in total contrast to the real Ryder Cup, the teams are picked by Hubble in a not too thinly disguised way of ensuring Team RegaLead wins!

A pleasant Thursday saw the heaven’s open on Friday afternoon and the course resembling a boating lake. It was a sorry sight to see a bunch of golfers who have proved that waterproofs don’t live up to their name and, despite buggies that afford a modicum of shelter, trudging back into the clubhouse looking more than a little bedraggled. It seemed that in this vital matchplay singles stage of RegaLead’s Ryder Cup Style Challenge that there was a certain relief when the match finished early and shelter and warmth could be sought in a welcoming bar!

It’s hard to begrudge them this distinct advantage when they’re generously inviting 24 mixed suppliers, customers and trade press to two days of fun and frolics in great company and with generous hospitality but, of course, that doesn’t prevent us having a whinge!

RegaLead know how to organise events whether at Open Days at their factories, or for golf. Everything is spot on, from the venue to

Synseal's Gareth Edwards kick starts a buggy.

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A Longest drive trophy from RegaLead just had to be made of glass!

Mr Hubble, the young dictator, not only picked the teams but contrived to mix matchplay and stableford formats in a laudable effort to take the competition down to the wire in the final singles matches.

Sam Ryder would have had apoplexy at the bastardisation of his format that meant everything was played off full handicaps….I

Steady chaps. This manly love-in will remain nameless.

say handicaps but, apart from the few club golfers with genuine handicaps, this was very much a case of playing off as a high a handicap as you get away with!

However, cream always rises to the top, and despite the look of despair from the single figure handicappers as their opponents ripped two shots down a long Par 5 ,ending up cheek by jowl with the green and exclaiming “I’m there for nothing!”, they showed their prowess when it counted. So, despite the cry

It’s almost a proper golf shot as Chris Champion exits the sand....the rest of his play was dire!

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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A wet but successfully crowned 'Bandit of the tournament' Paul Buckley of RegaLead, with Peter Dyer.

that went round the golf course at seemingly every hole of “I think I get two shots here”, Team Challenger did at least make a fist of things although the final result was slightly embarrassing.

It was in 1839 that Edward Bulwer-Lytton, in his play Richelieu, coined the phrase ‘The pen is mightier than the sword’. I had warned RegaLead’s Captain, Rob Bloomfield, of this and, as the one wielding the pen, I can point out that Global Glass’ Mark Ceronne

took Rob down despite having to give him 10 shots! A mention in despatches also to Promac’s Joe Hague who, off 7, was another of Team Challenger’s stalwarts.

And so it leaves us to congratulate Team RegaLead on a resounding victory and to thank Guy Hubble and Darren Baker, RegaLead’s Joint Managing Directors, for a great couple of days. At the prize giving for longest drives and nearest the pins, the most notable prize was reserved for last when

Peter Dyer, Dempsey Dyer; Paul Young, MB Frames; Guy Hubble, RegaLead; and Chris Kemp, Inagas.

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

Rob Bloomfield, Team RegaLead Captain (and genuine 16.9 handicap) may smile now but he’s about to be beaten by Global Glass’ Mark Ceronne

Guy Hubble picked the player who was the biggest bandit. This was not easy to do, as Guy admitted, with most of his team in with a shout. However, the nod was deservedly given to RegaLead’s Paul Buckley who proudly accepted the bandit mask!

And what of next year? Will there be another RegaLead Golf Challenge of some

description? We can only hope so and we wait with bated breath to see if Mr Hubble can contrive another format to ensure a RegaLead victory!

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0120

DOORCO’s Mike Roe in majestic form.

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The Celsius Solid Roof from Synseal: quick to fit, strong & warm Reporting from the press launch of Synseal’s Celsius Solid Roof, Chris Champion, Editor of Glass News, finds that having ‘the right roof for the job’ is only part of their ever growing company and product range.

While products are continually developing and new products continue to appear, some companies seem to be more innovative than others and are adding products to their stable with amazing regularity. Synseal is a good example and, apart from product development, this company is constantly changing and adding to its ever widening portfolio.

Synseal is a company that is growing rapidly but in a structured and orderly fashion.

Everything appears to be well thought

L to R . Phil Parry, Head of R&D; Steve Brown, Products and Customer Services Director; David Leng, Chief Executive.

through and is part of a corporate strategy rather than being purely opportunist. While being known as a system house, Synseal, under the stewardship of David Leng, has become so much more than that. The PVCu systems for which they are so well known continue unabated but it is what has been added to this that makes the Mark 2 Synseal so different from Mark 1. It is only three years ago that the company turned over £70 million and employed 450 people. Many would say that that in itself is impressive and constitutes a large company, however with annualised turnover budgeted in the £130 million area and employee numbers rising to 1200, the company has come on by leaps and bounds.

I used the word ‘budgeted’ rather than ‘expected’ because with the type of businesses and products that have been added in to Synseal it would not be a surprise to see the turnover for 2015 to be well over the £150 million mark, and that may be conservative.

It’s worth looking at how the company has changed. For starters, from being a one site operation, Synseal now has seven! That in itself presents a company with problems but its venture into insulated glass unit manufacture, under the Global Glass banner, accounts for around a fifth of the revenue and three of the sites. Acquisitions, during a recession while the core business of PVCu bar length sales

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gently tick over on a relatively stable footing, is either brave or inspired. True, a company must do something if its core business is generally flat-lining, but the inspired bit is what Synseal have done. Purchasing of the Wigan plant gave the company much needed IGU capacity and then, for good measure, the K2 Conservatory business was moved to Huthwaite. While it was the right thing to do, the management freely admit that the move was anything but easy.

While this was going on, the WarmCore product, a ‘warm aluminium’ folding and sliding door product was introduced in November 2014, with Synseal’s partners able to buy fully manufactured and CE marked units. That allying of the aesthetics of aluminium with the insulation properties of PVCu is truly inspired and much credit must be given to Steve Brown, the newly promoted Products and Customer Services Director and his team of Kevin Wain, R&D Manager, and Phil Parry, Head of R&D, who project managed the product. For me, it’s where it goes from here. Surely WarmCore will find its way into window production? Would it be an expensive product? From the price point of the WarmCore folding and sliding doors matching that of aluminium doors, a window would undoubtedly be competitive as aluminium finds its way into domestic popularity.

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

David Leng proves that the Envirotiles clip neatly together.

Lots of interest at the Press Launch.

At the end of last year, the acquisition of the trade and operating assets of the Litchfield Group’s UK window and trade extrusion and door businesses was completed. This gave Synseal LB Plastics’ Sheerframe and Manse Masterdor’s Masterdor door business. The Sheerframe has always been well liked and, indeed, specified by many local authorities.

Phil Parry, Head of R&D, commented: “Sheerframe is one of the best engineered profile systems and has huge potential. It is probably one of the undiscovered gems of PVCu extrusion.” This acquisition has also added significant growth to Synseal’s core PVCu bar length business.

One size fits all and we can use that for hips, too!” In the case of Synseal, Brown and Parry recognised that the size of a ridge tile was not right for the aesthetics of a hip, so a correct sized hip tile is in the range.

roof covering. A single mechanical fixing point at the head in addition to the innovative interlocking design ensures that Synseal Envirotiles fit securely and easily, ready to withstand wind and weather.

This Celsius Solid Roof doesn’t just have the Synseal name behind it, but wellknown brands such as Kingspan Insulation, Rapierstar, the fixings company, and VELUX for optional roof windows. The involvement of these companies makes this product what it is: innovative, robust and ready for use. It’s a structural framework of timber components with environmentally-friendly Envirotile external roof tiles and cappings to create a truly warm solid roof construction, with no possibility of cold bridging. The use of timber may come as a surprise but as Steve Brown said: “We looked at roofs over the ages and realised they all had one thing in common…. timber! And for very good reasons such as strength and thermal excellence.”

Envirotiles are 80% lighter than standard concrete tiles, weighing 8.4kg per square metre in contrast with cement or natural slate roof tile products that typically weigh 50 kg per square metre.

It is worth mentioning that, despite acquisitions and new products, Synseal’s own profiles have not been ignored. There are now multi-chambered options for the outer and sash frame profiles of all three of Synseal’s 70mm PVCu window systems – Legend, Shield and SynerJy. This provides the ability for A rated WERs when glazed with 28mm DG units – and without the need for Low Iron glass.

And so, is there anything else new? Very definitely. Here comes the Celsius Solid Roof system. This is another product born out of the fertile brains of Brown and Parry, backed up by Neville Gleed, Roofing Technical Manager, and Product Support Engineer, Alan Green. What makes the Celsius Solid Roof exceptional is that it is complete from day one. What I mean by that is that it isn’t a soft launch, with lots more to come – it’s a complete system that can be used now.

Many companies, and take software as an example, would bring a new product in and let the customer beta test it for them, eventually bringing out V2 as the tested and solid product. That’s not the case with Synseal. Even when it comes to detail such as ridge tiles, they go the extra mile. Many would say “Right, We need a ridge tile. Great.

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

At the heart of the system is thermallyefficient Kingspan TEK Building System structural insulated panels (SIPs), enabling the Celsius solid roof to achieve a pitched roof U-value of 0.18 W/m2K for compliance in England and Wales. The U-value of 0.15 W/ m2K for compliance in Scotland is achieved by fitting insulated plasterboard to line and finish the solid roof interior.

Synseal Envirotile external roofing components are injection moulded to Synseal’s exact specifications from 100% recycled polypropylene. Precision manufactured and lightweight, each single Envirotile has a low profile chamfered frontleading edge with an aesthetically pleasing riven finish, is 12mm in thickness, weighs just 610 grams and is extremely simple to fix yet performs exceptionally, securely locking into adjacent tiles without any need for battening to form a quick-fitting and fully integrated

Available in a choice of 3 popular and appealing colours: Black, Brown or Terracotta, the interlocking Envirotiles are self-draining, self-ventilating and branded with the Synseal logo for ease of identification. The single or double Envirotiles are easy to handle and cut on site for a precision finish at concealed hip or valley roof edge intersections.

In addition to single and double roof tiles, the Synseal Envirotile range includes an elevated and interlocking ventilated ridge cap, radius end/apex cover, hip, hip end cap, gable end cap, dry verge, tile starter trim and pushfit screw cap cover to ensure a high quality aesthetic finish for each Celsius solid roof.

Celsius solid roof is available for existing glazed conservatory roof replacements or new build applications in Lean-To, Georgian, Gable and Victorian building extension styles and has been submitted for assessment by the Local Authority Building Control (LABC).

Neville Gleed has been the driving force behind the product development, overseeing all the key design stages including component prototyping and trial site installation of the full system to ensure that every detail of Celsius solid roof is perfect and ready for launch.

“Our aim has been to create the best-looking, most thermally-efficient and easiest-tofit solid roof on the market today,” says Neville, “while at the same time delivering

“We want to be the UK’s first choice supplier for window, door and conservatory roof fabricators; providing good value, good quality products and services.” full compliance with Building Regulations for new or retro-fit applications. Speed of installation is essential, because on site time = money.”

Unlike rival systems which employ aluminium rafters, aluminium ridge beams, aluminium eaves ring beams, aluminium valleys and aluminium box gutters similar in design to glazed conservatory roofs, Celsius solid roof is a truly warm roof, featuring all timber construction without any metallic “cold spots”.

Alan Green, Product Support Engineer at Synseal sums it up neatly: “As product designer, my brief was to achieve improved installed thermal performance using proven materials with no inherent design weaknesses to eradicate cold bridging. Our Celsius solid roof is truly warm to provide building extensions that homeowners will be able to use in comfort, 365 days a year.”

With Synseal’s portfolio seemingly to be ever expanding, what’s the vision? David Leng, Chief Excecutive of Synseal: “We want to be the UK’s first choice supplier for window, door and conservatory roof fabricators; providing good value, good quality products and services that meet the needs of their businesses to ensure that all our customer partners can be winners in today’s competitive marketplace.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0121

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TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

National Plastics’ growth demonstrates success of one stop shop approach

Geoff Foster, Managing Director of National Plastics, the UK’s largest independent trade counter network, discusses why the one stop shop formula has proved to be a winning one for his company.

If you want to be a one stop shop, there is only one way to do it: stock as wide a range of products as possible. This is our aim at National Plastics and it’s an aim that has paid dividends for us. Our range covers everything from drainage to roofing and everything in between. We also offer products at all price points, so there is something for every project, no matter what its scale.

As a result, our business has grown substantially over the last few years and in

the last five years alone we have added £10 million to our turnover. Some of this is thanks to acquisitions and opening new sites, but it’s mainly because we have increased sales to our customers by offering an ever-wider range of products, holding huge amounts of stock and being able to deliver, in many cases for free.

The success of our approach is clearly demonstrated in the increase in turnover: an increase of £10 million in five years in the midst of a severe recession is one we are justifiably proud of. But despite the success, we have no plans to slow down. In fact, we have big plans for expansion in the next few years. There are 31 National Plastics stores at the moment and we plan to increase that to 50 by the end of 2017. We are excited about our plans and what it means for our business.

The reason for becoming a one stop shop is clear. Everyone is very time-pressured.

Stocking as broad a range of products as we can means we reduce that pressure a little. It

means customers need to go to fewer places for their supplies, saving them time and making their lives easier.

But just stocking a huge product range isn’t always enough – you have to offer something a bit different too. There is no doubt that our range of products is a big factor in our success, but I also think our customer-focused approach is vitally important. What makes us different is we back up our product range with good quality customer support that values every single person who comes into store, orders online or calls our phone line.

Our aim is to make dealing with us a pleasure as well as a necessity and feedback from our customers suggests it’s something they value.

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The one stop shop approach is a simple formula, but it’s notoriously difficult to get right. But as one of the industry’s success stories, I believe we have proved it can be done. And our plans to open a further 19 stores by the end of 2017 means that many more traders will be able to benefit from our simple, customer-focused approach in the future.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0122

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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0615/0123 Glass News Evolution TESTIMONIAL .indd 1 www.glassnews.co.uk | JuneAD2015

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26/05/2015 17:05:17

LETTERS

ANOTHER BUSINESS AWARD

FOR PREFIX SYSTEMS

Hot on the heels after an unprecedented hat-trick in the Red Rose Awards for Lancashire businesses and commerce, conservatory and extended living space specialists, Prefix Systems, have won The Newcomer Award in the first ever Hive Blackburn and Darwen Business Awards.

Hive is a group of business leaders working together to inspire prosperity and is supported by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council. Finalists were joined by the judges, sponsors, dignitaries and supporters, including Jack Straw who was the MP for Blackburn from 1979-2015 and served in the Cabinet from 1997 - 2010, at an exclusive black-tie event held at Blackburn Cathedral on 30th April, where the winners were announced and celebrated on stage.

Prefix Systems were thrilled to take home the winners trophy for The Newcomer Award as an emerging business with considerable ambition, having recently relocated to the Blackburn and Darwen borough. This was to support their growth in their key market sectors for conservatories, tiled Garden Rooms and other products for the extended living space market.

Back in March, Prefix Systems celebrated an unprecedented triple, when they won Construction Business of the Year, Manufacturing Business of the Year and Medium Business of the Year categories at the Red Rose Awards, which were presented at the Empress Ballroom at Blackpool’s Winter

From left to right: Jo Fulthorpe, Business & Enterprise Trust presenting to Chris Cooke and Chris Baron of Prefix Systems.

Gardens, with over 1,000 guests in attendance.

This latest Hive award clearly demonstrates that Prefix Systems is a company with bold ambitions for the future, helping to shape the future direction extended living space market.

Notably one of the judges commented ‘The Prefix entry stood out by a country mile and it’s superb to see that level of sustained and aggressive growth.’

Chris Baron and Chris Cooke, co-directors of Prefix Systems commented: ‘Not only was it a celebratory night for all the successful and innovative businesses in the area, but we achieved The Newcomer Award in a hotly contested category. While we may have received the award on the night, it represents all the hard work and success we’ve achieved as a team and we’d like to thank everyone including our staff, customers and business partners.’

For further information, contact the head office on 01254 871800, view www.prefixsystems. co.uk, e-mail enquiries@prefixsystems.co.uk or add to their considerable following on Twitter @prefixsystems.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0134

Your Letters

TRADE NEWS

TUFFX NOMINATED FOR PRESTIGIOUS BUSINESS AWARD TuffX Processed Glass has been nominated for a prestigious business accolade in the longest established business awards in Merseyside The Knowsley based company has been shortlisted as Manufacturer of the Year in the Liverpool Echo’s Regional Business Awards 2015.

The company has been recognised for its high business standards and professionalism as well as its part in some of the most innovative transformation

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projects around the Merseyside area, including the Liverpool Library and John Lennon International Airport.

Graham Price comments, “It is a real honour to be shortlisted for this prestigious award which is a tribute to the efforts and commitment of the whole TuffX team. This nomination is a great recognition of that and we are all very proud.”

Merseyside’s best selling newspaper will be hosting the gala event on June 18 in St George’s Hall, Liverpool.

Dear Chris,

Having kicked off and grown rapidly to epidemic proportions in West Yorkshire lock snapping has spread across the country.

A recent article in the Sutton Coldfield Observer shows that it is now gathering momentum in Birmingham. It reports of a police warning for the public to be ‘extra vigilant’ following a series of lock snapping attacks in the suburb of Erdington over the course of one weekend.

You’ll find the full report here: http://bit.ly/1KhWN7u.

The article clearly assumes homeowners in Erdington are familiar with lock snapping as a quick and easy way of breaking and entering.

The bulk of installed cylinder locks provide no protection against knowledgeable burglars. Robust door construction and impressively strong hooks and shoot bolts are useless when the cylinder is breached. If you know how, a burglar can snap a lock and be inside in well under a minute. If you’ve left your car keys in view on a hall table they can even drive off with your valuables in your own vehicle.

Most of the industry thinks this is a problem of the past, believing today’s anti-snap 3 star cylinders protect against break-ins. But most ‘anti-snap’ cylinders can be easily and quickly snapped. Burglars learn their weak points and can enter in well under a minute.

We can’t stop people trying to break in, but we can install cylinders that stop them. Surely our priorities are wrong when we sell £2,000 to £3,000 doors with £3 cylinders that enable burglars to walk right in when they feel like it?

Brisant’s Ultion anti-snap cylinder is one of only two cylinders to have achieved Sold Secure Diamond.

It’s a real life test operated by the MLA, the Master Locksmiths Association. If a team of locksmiths using any tools they like can break in, you’ve failed. If they can’t find a way to break in, you pass. I think most homeowners would like that low-cost real-life protection and reassurance. If it was your home, I think you’d like it too?

Sincerely, Steve Stewart Director, Brisant Secure

What’s your opinion?

Feel free to get in touch with your views on the industry, legislation, government, or even the newspaper.

Contact Chris: chris@glassnews.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0125

THE DEBATE

@GlassnewsMag

Christina Shaw

/GlassNews

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0126

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0127

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

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GLASS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

TRIPLE CROWN FROM TUFFX Thermoseal Group Grows & Products from the Ambience roof range were the crowning glory on a triple roofed extension in Washington, Newcastle.

The prestigious private home had been doubled in size to the rear with an extensive orangery, which required easy maintenance and optimum use of light.

performance benefits, the glare reduction it offers and a striking overall sky blue tint finish.

For more information on the AmbiSunshade option available from TuffX please visit the website www.ambiglass.co.uk or call 0845 3 400 200.

The Ambi Sunshade blue glass from the company’s high performance range was the preferred choice due to the thermal control and self cleaning properties it provided the homeowners. Wanting year round use was an essential element that had been stipulated, which architects had carefully incorporated into the initial concept design .

Ambi Sunshade Blue provided the ideal solution being the best performing solar controlled glass in the Ambience portfolio, offering remarkable solar properties of up to 84% Solar Heat Reflection, 24% Light Transmission and a U-Value of just 0.7 This option is proving extremely popular with both customers and consumers, due to

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0128

tremco illbruck intelligent membrane cocoons Glasgow University The new Centre for Virus Research at the University of Glasgow has been constructed to BREEAM Excellent standards by a project team embracing some of the best known names in the UK industry and utilising an intelligent membrane from the range of Tremco illbruck to help achieve the required airtightness and energy performance.

The design team was led by Sheppard Robson Architects, supported by Arup Engineering while Laing O’Rourke was the main contractor. Linear Projects Limited, as the fit-out specialist, was the sub-contractor tasked with wrapping the building’s complex structure, featuring reinforced concrete and composite panel elevations, using the ME501. A total of 7,000 (subcontractor says 3-4000) square metres of ME501 was consumed in completing the work.

Joe MacNamee of Linear Projects recounts: “We had to apply the ME501 to cement particle boards – mounted on the SFS (steel framing system) - as well as concrete surfaces, both external to the building and in some interior locations, such as the staircases and plant rooms. It also went across plasterboard internally.

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Pictured is the new Centre for Virus Research at the University of Glasgow.

“This was the first time we had used the illbruck product – which Glasgow University had specified the use of – and the manufacturer’s technical representative carried out a demonstration for our operatives prior to the installation. We didn’t have to prime the surfaces and it went on very easily, before most of it was hidden by the copper coloured cladding.”

As a result of being preferred to the EPDM product originally specified, illbruck’s ME501 offers the benefit of being fully vapour permeable while assisting in making the structure highly airtight; saving energy and contributing to the ‘Excellent’ environmental rating.

Work on site at the University was completed to schedule last year.

For further information on tremco illbruck and a copy of the brochure, please visit www.tremco-illbruck.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0129

Expands into Export Markets

Thermoseal Group, the UK’s leading manufacturer of warm edge spacer systems and bespoke accessories, announces further manufacturing expansion to meet the requirements of a continued increase in demand for Thermobar and Thermoflex warm edge spacers and accessories.

The Group’s Sales Director, Mark Hickox discusses the company’s growth: “We now supply over 50% of the UK spacer market and this percentage is increasing on continual basis now that Thermobar is proven as the most thermally efficient spacer system with a Bundesverband Flachglass (BF) data sheet value of 0.14W/mK. Thermobar has also proven to be the preferred product for our customers to manufacture with due to its many advantages in production of insulated glass (IG) sealed units.

“Thermoflex sales are up by over a thousand percent and demand for this product is seeing continual growth as customers try the product and see its advantages in production. We also have an IFT Rosenheim thermal conductivity report issued stating that Thermoflex has been tested and proven with a thermal efficiency of 0.14W/mK. A BF data sheet will follow shortly.

“This now means that it is proven that we supply the

most thermally efficient warm edge spacer tube AND foam system which, according to BFRC substitution rules, can be substituted within existing Window Energy Rating simulations for any other spacer tube system or any other foam system.

“Thermobar and Thermoflex warm edge spacers have been subject to our rigorous in-house testing facilities before they are submitted for external testing. Both products have passed relevant EN1279 tests and have also been tested to many other international standards. They are now both proving to be of interest to the international market which has compounded the growth in demand for the products and contributed towards the growth of our manufacturing facilities.

“We have invested massively in our innovation centre and EN1279 test facilities to ensure that we understand the conditions within a glazing unit and how each component performs within

“Thermoflex sales are up by over a thousand percent and demand for this product is seeing continual growth as customers try the product and see its advantages in production.”

the lifetime of the unit. This helps us to ensure that the components we manufacture and supply are second-tonone.

“Our recent investment in three additional Thermobar production lines and an additional Thermoflex line is testament to our confidence in our products. We know that we have industryleading products and market demand both in the UK and through export customers.

We have just booked to exhibit at Vitrum exhibition in Milan and Glass Build Atlanta later this year. We also have new warm edge products in the pipeline that we look forward to introducing to the market.”

To download the latest BF data sheet, visit www. bundesverband-flachglas.de.

The link to our data sheet is: http://www.bundesverbandflachglas.de/cms/upload/ datenblaetter_engl/BF_ Datasheet_27_Thermobar. pdf.

To find out about Thermoseal Group and its comprehensive range of insulated glass components and machinery for glazing manufacture, call +44(0)121 331 3950 or visit www. thermosealgroup.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0130

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GLASS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

! ze Pri

GLASSOLUTIONS wins Cambridge

Research Centre contract WIN £10 CASH PRIZE!!

An insulated glass façade with computercontrolled integrated louvre-blinds has been installed for the first time in the UK at the new £6m Bennett Building at the Babraham Research Campus in Cambridge.

UK glass and glazing specialist GLASSOLUTIONS won the £800,000 glazing contract for the new energy efficient bioincubator centre that houses both laboratory and office facilities and is specifically designed to accommodate growing companies.

The DLS ECKLITE SC system is manufactured by GLASSOLUTIONS’ sister company Eckelt in Austria and integrates an electrically operated louvre within the cavity providing efficient solar and glare control. The louvres and other integral parts are thereby permanently protected against weathering and are maintenance free. The thermal insulation of 0.6 W/m²K fulfils all requirements for passive house architecture.

Schueco FW60 curtain walling and neat detailing allowed toggle glazing and silicone sealing of insulated aluminium panels and single glazed glass spandrel panels as well as the glass units containing the automated blinds. The glazing contract also included an 80 sq m glass spiral staircase, which forms an emergency escape route within the flagship

building, which is located at the entrance to the prestigious site.

The Babraham Institute is an independent charitable life sciences institute involved in biomedical research, set in an extensive parkland estate just south of Cambridge.

The new state-of-the-art Bennett Building is designed to bring together research and business skills to enable the creation of innovative new products and services from bioscience discoveries. The aim of increased collaboration is to benefit the economy and create new jobs.

Circle three differences in the boxes above, fill in your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 12 Sunderland Street, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9QJ. Entry deadline: 30/06/15.

For more information visit www.glassolutions.co.uk.

Name: Tel: Address: Postcode: Email: READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0131

0615/0132

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

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GLASS TUFFX GOES UNDERGROUND IN

STYLISH CELLARS

As specialist glass processors, TuffX Processed Glass has established a reputation for excellence with customers nationally since 1997, on both domestic and commercial projects.

Bespoke projects are a recognised speciality for the Knowsley based company, which provides a wide variety of toughened, laminated and safety glasses in various styles and thicknesses.

Most recently a specialist engineering company has been incorporating the 21.5 mm clear toughened glass option from the range in a variety of customized glass cellar floor projects.

The unique glass design characteristic has been adopted by homeowners, restaurants and hotels alike to provide a highly distinctive architectural feature within a number of private and commercial properties across the country.

With a comprehensive collection of specialist toughened glass that is manufactured to ISO 9001, EN12150, EN1279 and EN12543 standards, the brand is of the highest quality and extremely versatile, providing customers with complete peace of mind in respect of reliability.

For more information on the range please visit the website www.tuffxprocessedglass. co.uk or alternatively call 0845 3 400 200 to discuss individual project requirements. Glass samples are also available upon request.

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Simple scratch MORLEY GLASS ADDS CONSUMER-FRIENDLY removal with CLEARSHIELD PROTECTION TO RANGE unit Cero-Gel Sealed manufacturer

For glass processors and insulated glass manufacturers there is nothing more frustrating than products failing quality control due to fine scratches.

Traditional methods of scratch removal are messy and often inconsistent but now Bohle Ltd has launched Cero-Gel, a revolutionary scratch removal and polishing gel containing Cerium Oxide.

Supplied in a convenient 100ml double chamber aerosol, CeroGel removes scratches from glass, natural stone and ceramics and is suitable for manual or automatic polishing with power tools.

The aerosol dispenses the Cero-Gel onto the damaged surface whatever the angle and without the messy dripping associated with liquid scratch removal products. This makes it suitable for use in both the workshop and on-site.

To simply polish glass, Cero-Gel can be applied manually with a suitable microfibre cloth. In the case of persistent contamination and hairline scratches, it is best to use a polishing device.

A cordless drill with a felt polishing wheel will deal with most hairline scratches and for larger surfaces, the Bohle Flex Glass Polisher together with felt disc offers the best solution.

Cero-Gel is also suitable for removing the first signs of glass corrosion including stains caused by cement, concrete or silicone.

Further information on Cero-Gel and the Flex Glass Polisher can be found on the Bohle website, www.bohle-group.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0133

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READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0134

Morley Glass & Glazing has added ClearShield nonstick protection from Ritec to its range of glazing options, offering customers a lowmaintenance solution.

Ritec’s award-winning ClearShield System has been specially developed for the renovation, protection and maintenance of both new and already installed glass.

Just like a non-stick frying pan, ClearShield provides a protective barrier for the surface of glass that is much more effective than a coating. It cuts the amount of window cleaning required by up to 70% without affecting the transparency or solar gain (g value) of the glass.

Ian Short, managing director at Morley Glass & Glazing, which is also the UK’s largest fabricator of integral Uni-Blinds® using the market-leading ScreenLine® systems, said: “We’re always looking to enhance our range and offer our customers the latest technological enhancements. This means that they in turn can add value to their customer offering. The ClearShield System from Ritec complements our SGG BIOCLEAN self-cleaning glass from Glassolutions which is already a hit amongst our conservatory installers.”

ClearShield is a polymeric resin and, when applied to ordinary glass, it crosslinks to form a strong chemical bond. ClearShield is completely transparent, chemically inert, nonhazardous and UV stable. Unlike a coating,

Before and after Ritec’s award-winning ClearShield System has been applied to glass.

ClearShield becomes part of the glass so will not peel, flake or crack.

The result is low maintenance sealed units featuring glass that prevents contaminants from bonding to the surface and limits further damage caused by corrosion and chemical attack. Dirt can easily be removed using normal cleaning methods.

Morley Glass & Glazing is approved and fully trained by Ritec to apply ClearShield. It is applied to glass onsite for glass already installed or in the factory onto new glass.

For more information visit www.morleyglass.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0135

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0615/0136

Genius!

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Simply log-in, choose your design from a range of templates, edit and personalise, and we'll print and mail directly to the neighbours around your chosen address, using our consumer database of 29 million homes.

GoSend.it is a great lead generator that also promotes our brand. We use it on all our installations and it’s a great investment – a real winner for installers that want more leads”.

Lee Parrott – Managing Director, Reddish Joinery

www.gosend.it www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

Contact us today on 01934 428 778 or email enquiries@gosend.it to create your account or for more information 85

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Recruitment

See more positions online at: www.glassnews.co.uk

Helping you find & place positions.

If you are looking to recruit, contact us today for prices!

Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk or Tel: 07805 051322 NEW APPOINTMENT

John Mitchell promoted to Technical Manager, Carl F Groupco John Mitchell, who has held the position of technical support and trainer for Carl F Groupco for nine years, has been promoted to Technical Manager for the hardware supplier. With a track record totalling over thirty years in the fenestration industry, John is ideally placed to provide customers with technical advice and support.

In his new position at Carl F Groupco, John joins the company’s management team where he has input into the strong service focussed strategy for the organisation. As technical expert and trainer, he is closely involved with the company’s suppliers, working in partnership to ensure Carl F Groupco is fully updated regarding new product developments.

John Mitchell joined Carl F Groupco in January 2006. Previous roles included the position of Product Manager including quality

NEW APPOINTMENT

New Appointment for Selecta!

Selecta Specialist Doors have appointed John Moffatt as Regional Sales Manager for the South West. John will be based in the Devon area and will cover the South West of England looking after existing accounts and promoting the Ready-2-Fit Range of Composite Doors.

With over thirty years’ experience of the fenestration industry, John Mitchell is promoted to Technical Manager, Carl F Groupco.

control, product testing and health & safety for a major PVCu and aluminium window fabricator. Since joining the hardware supplier, he has become increasingly involved in technical committees including CAB. As part of Carl F Groupco’s progressive philosophy, he has been instrumental in supporting initiatives that respond to industry changes – these have included addressing technical hardware requirements for bi fold doors.

Follow Carl F Groupco on Twitter using the handle @Carl_F_Groupco.

Tel: 01733 393330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0137

ADVERTISE YOUR VACANCY HERE!

From as little as £150 +VAT, per month.

For print and online recruitment marketing and an effective media mix, email Christina for further details: christina@glassnews.co.uk 86

John brings with him over 30 years of experience within the industry having previously worked for Ultraframe and Sierra Windows, to name a couple. John commented, “Having been explained the vision and commitment to composite doors, of which Selecta has in abundance, I’m looking forward to promoting what can only be described as a quality affordable composite door. I believe my experience and motivation fit in well with Selecta’s ambitions for the future development of the business.”

Mark Richmond, Sales & Marketing Director, added “These are exciting times in Selecta

Specialist Doors development and we believe we have appointed someone who is already established within the industry with great core skills, commitment and motivation to succeed.

We are really pleased to have John on board promoting the Ready-2-Fit Range of Composite Doors within the South West region.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0138

NEW APPOINTMENT

UPVC Maintenance Supplies appoints a new Marketing Manager UPVC Maintenance Supplies Ltd – the Yorkshire-based supplier of door and window hardware – has appointed a new Marketing Manager to help drive their business forward.

With over 12 years of marketing experience across a range of industries from both client and agency perspectives, Janet Webster joins the firm with the brief to design and implement a strategic marketing plan to increase customer engagement.

She says: “To me, marketing is far more than glossy brochures and whiz-bang websites.

It’s about how you communicate with your audience, ensuring what you’re giving them is useful and relevant”.

Owner and Managing Director David Earnshaw adds: “Our position as one of the leaders in our field is of utmost importance

to us and we are honoured to be seen as longterm partners by our larger customers, and as a trusted technical resource by others”.

Analysis and effectiveness are key criteria in the new plan being formed at UPVC Maintenance Supplies: incorporating on- and off-line tools to develop a cohesive strategy spanning the company’s main routes to markets. Key projects include an updated catalogue, refreshed website and widened Social Media engagement.

Tel: 0113 2360800 READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0139

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW APPOINTMENT

BUSINESS MICROS MORLEY GLASS ALUMINIUM BOOSTS & GLAZING MAKES SUPPORT TEAM THREE NEW

Business Micros Aluminium has added a third member to its customer support team providing telephone and online support to users of its LogiKal software system.

APPOINTMENTS

Do you have a full driver’s license and necessary tools?

Aged 19, Ben has undergone a period of intense training and is now confidently guiding customers through the intricacies of LogiKal and helping them with updates and data revisions.

“For us, support isn’t just about fixing problems for customers, it’s about helping them get the most from their software and, with a bigger support team, we can help the growing number of customers who want to do even more with LogiKal.” Tel: 01684 851230 www.bmaluminium.co.uk

Experienced Conservatory & Orangery Installers Are you able to cover one or more of the following post code areas?

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Ben Knight has joined the company as a Junior Support Technician working alongside Dan Etheridge and Daniel Hodges in Business Micros Aluminium’s Tewkesbury office.

Managing Director Dean Hodges said: “We’re enjoying one of our busiest ever periods so it’s essential that we have the resources in place to continue delivering the great levels of service which our customers have come to expect.

0615/0142

Do you like to go the extra mile for your customer?

Are you meticulous with every fitting detail?

Do you take pride in your work?

If it’s a yes to all of the above and you want to earn top rates of pay with continuous flow of work through good & bad times, apply now to Room Outside, Chichester, West Sussex.

Email: jobs@roomoutside.com Matt, Keiran and Danny.

As part of its commitment to excellent customer service Morley Glass & Glazing has made three new appointments.

The sealed unit manufacturer and UniBlinds integral blind supplier has secured a 99.4% on time delivery rate. In order to maintain this rate it has expanded its team with the appointment of a new driver Danny Richardson, service engineer Matt Pendleton, and dispatch worker Keiran Buchan. Morley Glass & Glazing is also currently recruiting for an office junior.

Tel: 01243 538 999 www.roomoutside.com Lakeside House, Quarry Lane, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 8NY

0615/0143

Ian Short, managing director at Morley Glass & Glazing says: “Excellent customer service is at the heart of this business - from responding quickly to quote requests and enquiries to ontime deliveries and after-sales support. That’s why it’s important that as the business grows we employ and train the right people so I’m delighted to welcome on board Danny, Matt and Keiran.”

Ian adds: “Our integral blinds business has grown by 23% in the last 12 months and it’s our ability to deliver within 10 working days that is driving this growth. We’ve listened to our customers and responded to their needs.”

Morley Glass & Glazing manufacturers a wide range of manual and electrically operated Uni-Blinds integral blinds to customers throughout the UK. The combination of high quality ScreenLine systems inside and a production capability to offer 10 day leadtimes plus the largest range of ScreenLine spares in the country, keeps the firm at the top of customer approval ratings.

To find out more visit www.morleyglass.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0140

www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0141

87

RECRUITMENT NEW APPOINTMENT

Hardware sales specialist joins Carl F Groupco

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

NEW APPOINTMENT

SOLIDOR INVESTING IN AN INDUSTRY LEADING TEAM

From left to right: Peter Skinner and Neil Bancroft with an arched composite door.

Cheryl Varley takes the post of Regional Sales Manager, NE England for Carl F Groupco

Cheryl Varley, a fenestration industry sales specialist, is successfully established in the position of Regional Sales Manager, NE England for Carl F Groupco. With over twenty years’ industry experience, Cheryl has extensive sales management experience within the hardware and glass supply sectors.

Cheryl, who is based in Halifax, joined the specialist hardware supply organisation in August 2014: she was attracted to Carl F Groupco due to the company’s established track record, reputation for excellent customer service and quality of hardware products supplied. Her geographic area of responsibility includes Cleveland, County Durham, Humberside, Lincolnshire, Tyne & Wear and Yorkshire.

Over her two decades working in the glazing industry, Cheryl has established excellent relationships with major fabricators and hardware suppliers. She has a strong technical background that includes the industry’s regulations and requirements: this ensures that she is well placed to provide detailed advice to customers.

Follow Carl F Groupco on Twitter using the handle @Carl_F_Groupco Tel: 01733 393330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0144

88

Solidor Group is currently engaged in an investment programme that has seen the Staffordshire-based, composite door manufacturer bring in a number of key, strategic new management appointments.

The composite door innovator has experienced unprecedented growth over the last few years and yet there’s an overwhelming desire to kick-on and make the business truly world class. In order to achieve that goal, Solidor are recruiting the very best people in key positions, whilst developing and nurturing the existing team to meet the new challenge.

Clearly in any manufacturing business, production excellence is a critical success factor and now working under Mike Price, group operations director, are Neil Bancroft, operations manager, Peter Skinner, in the new position of quality, health, safety and environment manager and Phil Taylor, procurement manager. While Matt Grooms has joined as site manager for the new 18,000ft2 Grove Road manufacturing site.

Reporting to Solidor Group finance director, Carlton Hopley, is James Walker who takes up the role of financial controller. Peter Mulligan joins the sales function as area sales manager, having previously worked alongside Joe Martoccia at Ultraframe Limited. Designed to help support the Solidor network, Paul Ogden takes up the newly formed position of technical manager, reporting to technical director, Pierre Mifsud and his key focus will be to help build technical capabilities among Solidor installers and ensure all Solidor products are installed correctly.

Joe Martoccia, managing director commented: ‘This is an unprecedented recruitment programme for Solidor, the scale of which has never before been seen in our industry. We are committed to building a multi-skilled and multi-talented team to underpin our growth and importantly support our dealer network reach their aspirations. It’s an incredibly exciting time for all those involved with Solidor as we develop and future proof this great business.’

To find out more about Solidor, then log on to www.solidor.co.uk, call 01782 847300 or e-mail enquiries@solidor.co.uk. To keep up to date with all of their developments follow them on Twitter @solidorltd or look them up on Facebook.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0145

NEW APPOINTMENT

Ambitious growth plans

sees Colin Stanley appointed as operations director PVC-u and aluminium fabricator Astraseal has promoted longstanding employee Colin Stanley to operations director as part of its plans to significantly grow the trade sector of the business.

Colin, who has worked for Astraseal for the past 20 years and has a strong trade background, will focus on improving efficiency throughout all areas within the company; including manufacturing, admin and transport; and spearheading future product launches.

Colin comments: “Astraseal has grown enormously since I started here and I’m excited to be part of a company that continues to invest in its success. Expansion of our manufacturing facilities and the introduction of exciting new products puts Astraseal in a strong position going forward and I look forward to taking on a more prominent role in the business.”

Managing director of Astraseal Mark McMullan comments: “Colin is a very valued member of the Astraseal team I would like to congratulate him

Colin Stanley, operations director, Astraseal.

on his appointment as operations director. With our manufacturing volumes fast approaching 4,000 frames per week, Colin will help ensure product quality remains high, lead times are short as possible and our wastage and carbon footprint is kept to a minimum. We have big plans for Astraseal over the next few years and I’m sure Colin’s knowledge and experience will add a lot of value, particularly on the trade side.”

One of Colin’s first achievements as operations director was the successful launch of WarmCore, the new aluminium folding sliding door system with an energy efficient PVC-u core.

Astraseal offer this product with quick lead times and

no additional charge or lead times for dual colour options WarmCore aside, Astraseal fabricates a full range of REHAU products including the Total 70 and Geneo systems, along with Smarts and Reynaers aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling, Global conservatory roofs, and Synseal vertical sliders. These are all manufactured in-house including sealed units, and investment in an in-house colour spraying facility means Astraseal can offer REHAU frames in over 150 shades from the RAL colour range.

For more information call Astraseal on 01933 227233 or visit www.astraseal.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0146

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For print and online recruitment marketing and an effective media mix, email Christina for further details: christina@glassnews.co.uk June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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89

CHARITY NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Marathon Effort:

‘Dempsey Dyer Dames’

Emplas’ Jody Vincent’s £3,500

run the Race for Life

Charity fundraiser

PDS Directors take on gruelling cycling challenge to raise funds for Local Charity Things are heating up at PDS in preparation of Managing Director Tim Fairley and Commercial Director Pat Rice’s participation in the Granfondo Stelvio Santini Challenge. On the 7th June, the pair will be cycling over the Teglio, Mortirolo and Stelvio Passes in Northern Italy to raise money for Springhill Hospice, Rochdale.

The hospice provides specialist palliative care for people with life-limiting illnesses.

It is an independent charitable organisation and relies on voluntary contribution in order to keep the doors open.

No strangers to charity fundraising PDS recently became established business buddies of Springhill Hospice. This year they are going all out in order to raise as much money as possible for the hospice which will help contribute to some of the excellent work they do within the local community.

Emplas National Sales Manager Jody Vincent has completed the London Marathon to raise more than £3500 for Pancreatic Cancer UK.

Pancreatic cancer affects more than 8,000 people in the UK each year, accounting for around three per cent of all cancers but five per cent of cancer deaths.

Competing in the 26 mile 365 yard challenge in its 35th year on Sunday [26/4/15], Jody completed the gruelling course through the streets of the Capital in a highly respectable 5 hours and 3 minutes.

It’s difficult to diagnose because symptoms are often vague and may also be a sign of other more common illnesses that affect the gut including heartburn, pancreatitis and gallstones, which means that diagnosis is often late.

He decided to take on this year’s following the death of his late uncle, Peter Wright, who died following a battle with pancreatic cancer on Christmas Eve last year.

Jody said: “Anyone who was lucky enough to know Peter, would know what a kind, loving person he was.

He would do anything for anyone, and had a great sense of humour.

“When he was diagnosed, I was shocked to learn of the survival rate of pancreatic cancer, there are so many forms of cancer but pancreatic cancer is over looked and research is underfunded.

“After Peter died, I decided to I wanted help raise

“It was horrible seeing him go through the last year of his life suffering from one of the worst forms of cancer.

He tried so hard to keep fighting and kept his sense of humour throughout.”

awareness of pancreatic cancer, and help raise money towards research”, explained Jody.

He concluded: “It was hard work and my knees are paying for it now but that’s nothing compared to what Peter and thousands of other pancreatic cancer suffers go through in the UK every day.

The donation fund is still open and I would just like anyone who can, to make a donation to funding research and hopefully a cure, for this horrible disease.”

If you would like to make a donation to Jody’s campaign to raise funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK, you can do so by going to http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ giving/ and searching for Jody’s page.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0148

Anna Cusworth, Amanda Cox, Hannah Carritt, Jessica Shelley, Natalie Shaw, Michelle Bossons, Sarah Fox, Serina Dimmock and Tracy Curtis, will all donning their pink Cancer Research T-Shirts and participating in the fundraising event which takes place on 17/05/2015.

The organiser of the Dempsey Dyer Dames, Tracy Curtis, explains why they have chosen to support this charity: “Cancer is affecting more of us each day and events like this are vital in funding Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work.

We wanted to do our bit to support and I’d like to thank everyone who has donated so far.”

Sales and marketing director Peter Dyer comments: “Cancer Research UK is a fantastic charity and I’m very proud of the ‘Dames’ for signing up. I wish them all the best on their run.”

The Race for Life is just the latest charity effort from the Yorkshire based PVC-u and timber window fabricator. In 2014, Dempsey Dyer staff ‘Wore it Pink’ and donated £860 for Breast Cancer Awareness and the Teenage Cancer Trust.

And in 2013, Peter Dyer ran the Brighton marathon, raising £1,356 for the Lullaby Trust, a charity dedicated to saving babies’ lives.

Tim and Pat will be travelling to Northern Italy to take part in the gruelling challenge of cycling over 2 of Italy’s highest mountain passes in The Granfondo Stelvio Santini.

They will start at Bormio in Northern Italy and finish at an altitude of 2758m at the top of the Stelvio Pass travelling via the Teglio and the Mortirolo (1727m), covering 151 km and a total ascent of 4058m. The Stelvio Pass is the highest paved road in the Eastern Alps and climbs for over 24kms through some 48 hairpin bends.

They have been training hard for the event over the past few months, regularly embarking on 5am cycles before work and weekend cycles across the Pennines. Both are keen to be on top form for the event in order to ensure they cross that finish line in good time and represent the company well.

Nine sporting Dempsey Dyer employees, otherwise known as the ‘Dempsey Dyer Dames,’ are raising money for Cancer Research and running the Wakefield 5k Race Life.

Donate to the Dempsey Dyer Dames https://www.justgiving.com/DempeyDyer-Dames/.

PDS have set a target to raise £10,000 and so far are about half way to achieving this. They are relying on as many of their suppliers, customers, friends and colleagues to get

behind them in this demanding challenge to raise as much as they can.

For more information on Dempsey Dyer call 01977 649641 or visit www.dempseydyer.co.uk.

Not only would completion of this event be a huge personal achievement for both Tim and Pat, it would make a tremendous difference to the hospice who rely predominantly on fundraising of this kind to carry out the work they do.

If you’d like to support Tim and Pat through this challenge donations can be made directly to Springhill Hospice via their Just Giving page. https://www.justgiving.com/PDSTheUKDoorAndWindowCompany READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0149

90

The Dempsey Dyer Dames.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0615/0150

June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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Useful Numbers British Plastics Federation (BPF) Tel: 0207 457 5000

Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) Tel: 0207 939 9101

British Standards Institution (BSI) – Standards & Publications Tel: 0208 996 9001

GQA Qualifications (formerly Glass Qualifications Authority) Tel: 0114 2720033

BSI – Assessment & Certification Tel: 0845 080 9000

Health & Safety Executive (HSE) – Glass & Related Industries Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector Tel: 01782 602300 David Appleton, HM Inspector Tel: 0115 9712800

BSI – Product Certification & Testing Tel: 08450 765600 BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association) Tel: 01449 780444 Building Research Establishment (BRE) Tel: 01923 664000 Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Tel: 01453 828851 Dekura Tel: 01952 201631 Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) Tel: 01827 52337 Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) Tel: 0845 053 8975 Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA) Tel: 0207 645 3700 Get Britain Building (GBB) Tel: 0870 162 0936

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Proskills – Head Office Tel: 01235 833844 Proskills – Glass & Related Industries Neil Robinson – Tel: 07917 015 322 Recovinyl (via Axion Consulting) Tel: 0161 355 7618 The Glazing Ombudsman (TGO) Tel: 020 7397 7200 UK Green Building Council Tel: 0207 580 0623 Veka Recycling Tel: 01322 38721 Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Tel: 01295 819 900 Wood Window Alliance (WWA) Tel: 0844 209 261

We want to know your opinion about the industry!

Contact Christina or Chris today! christina@glassnews.co.uk or chris@glassnews.co.uk June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

FIND A SUPPLIER

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Balustrade Systems

Profile Bending

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Advertise in Glass News!

Contact Christina or Sheilah today! christina@glassnews.co.uk or sheilah@glassnews.co.uk WASTE MANAGEMENT

Balers • Compactors • Granulators • Wood Burners • Can Crushers Whether you’re looking to recycle, reprocess, control Cardboard • Plastic Film • PVC • Glass • waste, Aluminium • Paper • Cans/Drums or compact your we can supply a system to suit.

• Universal Windows

• Window Ware

• Window Fabrications

• A & B Glass

• Euroglaze Windows

• Anglian Windows

• Garrard Windows

• Window Warehouse

• Arden Windows

• Origin Frames

• Leamore Windows

• Window Centre

• Mercury Glazing

• Anglian Home Improvements

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-S NT N O ME S EE ES FR SS A

MANAGE YOUR WASTE!

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Whether you’re looking to recycle, reprocess, control or compact your waste,

we can supply customised systems to suit.

Telephone: 01295 816733 Email: Info@landfillalternatives.co.uk www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2015

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FIND A SUPPLIER

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Machinery 0615/0185

FLYSCREENS

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We want to know your opinion about the industry!

WINDOW OPERATORS

Contact Christina or Chris today! christina@glassnews.co.uk or chris@glassnews.co.uk

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@GlassnewsMag

Christina Shaw

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/GlassNews

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June 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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0615/0191

There’s a Trade Counter near you!

We know the trade

Windows Doors Conservatories Roofline Decorative Cladding (Tile Alternative)

You can visit anyone of our 31 depots and simply call in and pick up whatever you need, whether its windows, doors or conservatories (including fully fabricated conservatory roofs

by Ultraframe) as well as a full range of VEKA products.

Check out our vast range of cladding (a fantastic alternative to tiles, and easier on the pocket too) - in store today.

We also stock a huge range of roofline products - all ready to take away.

Plus, there is free delivery on all orders over £25 (in England and Wales).

Or why not just buy online? You can also pre-order your products and pick up next day!

We make it easy to get the job done!

Let National Plastics become your trade partner - today!

CALL OR GO ONLINE

TO FIND YOUR NEAREST DEPOT!

0800 011 3503

nationalplastics.co.uk 0015 - MAY15 - NATIONAL PLASTICS AD (265MM X 3180MM) _V1.indd 1

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