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Standfirst: As the regulatory construction landscape continues to evolve, Nigel Headford, Chief Executive at the Council for Aluminium in Building, champions the launch of the Built Environment Competence Hub as a vital source of accessible guidance.
For construction professionals, the regulatory landscape has changed fundamentally in recent years. With competence firmly in the spotlight, accountability is front and centre, documentation is essential, and expectations from clients and regulators are rightly higher.
In this environment, obligations and expectations must be crystal clear. That is why the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) welcomes the recent launch of the Built Environment Competence Hub
Developed by BSI in collaboration with the Industry Competence Steering Group (ICSG) and the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), the Hub provides a single, trusted source of competence frameworks, standards and practical guidance for the entire built environment
As a central, trusted location to access up-to-date, authoritative information, the Hub brings together the work of the ICSG Sector Led Groups, as well as resources and insights from BSI and other key stakeholders.
As a space to engage on competence and share best practice, visitors to the site can find all the key resources they need in one place.
Under the Building Safety Act and related reforms, clearly demonstrated competence is a critical aspect of compliance and accountability. The central nature of the Hub ensures we are all singing from the same hymn sheet.
Crucially, the Hub is the product of coordinated, sector-wide leadership. The ICSG was established to respond to the need for a more joined-up approach to competence following the Grenfell tragedy and by working alongside BSI, it has upheld the collaborative approach the construction industry needs to take.
Easy access to reliable guidance helps reduce ambiguity and strengthen decision-making across projects, strengthening relationships between contractors and clients.
As the regulatory construction landscape continues to evolve, Nigel Headford, Chief Executive at the Council for Aluminium in Building, champions the launch of the Built Environment Competence Hub as a vital source of accessible guidance.
Leading machinery specialist Haffner Ltd has demonstrated the strength of its service offering with the successful relocation of machinery for long-standing customer Mercury Glazing, ensuring fabrication continuity with minimal disruption.
Specialist PVC-U and aluminium fabricator Mercury Glazing required its existing Haffner machinery to be transferred into its main manufacturing facility in Gloucester as part of an operational reorganisation. With production uptime critical, the project demanded careful planning, efficient execution and rapid recommissioning.
Haffner’s experienced team managed the entire process, from dismantling and transportation through to installation and commissioning. The relocation, which included four machines and the large CNC machining centre, was completed in just two days, ensuring everything was back up and running with minimal disruption.
HÖRMANN UK TO GO BIGGER AND BETTER AT FIT SHOW 2027
Christina Shaw Editor M: 07805 051322
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PAGE 13 THE NEW MAKITA COMBI DRILL DELIVERS POWER THAT HITS HARDER
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KENRICK APPOINTS SUZANNE NICHOLL AS SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR
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HAFFNER DEMONSTRATES SERVICE EXCELLENCE WITH MACHINERY RELOCATION SUPPORT
Fenestra Build™ is a registered Trademark. The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Fenestra Build™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, Fenestra Build™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of Fenestra Build™ and therefore cannot take responsibility.
As a trade-only fabricator, we can focus on giving you the products and service you need to grow your business:
• Veka Windows and Doors
• Flush Sash Windows
• Conservatories
• Leka and Leka Xi Roofing Systems
• Marketing Support
• Profile 22 Windows and Doors
• Patio and Bifolding Doors
• Conservatory Roofs
• Ultraframe and Wendland Roofs
• Technical and Sales Support
We put FIT Show event director Nickie West in the hot seat as the one-year countdown to FIT Show 2027 begins. Nickie discusses show momentum, industry regulations, installer insight, international growth and why face-to-face matters now more than ever.
Q: FIT Show is now a year out from the 2027 edition. How would you describe the show’s momentum right now?
We’re in a really strong place. There’s a huge amount of positivity around the show, with exhibitor interest building, new conversations happening all the time and a real sense that the industry sees FIT Show as the place to come together, do business and keep moving forward.
Q: The world, and indeed industry is facing a lot of change, particularly around regulations. How will FIT Show help the market navigate that?
That’s absolutely one of the most important things we can do. There are some big regulatory updates coming through, and FIT Show is the perfect platform to bring those conversations in person and into one place. It’s timely, practical and relevant, and we want the show to help visitors and exhibitors understand what those changes mean in real terms, and how they can be transformed into opportunities.
Exhibiting at FIT Show sends a clear signal to customers and the wider market that your business is stable, strong and ready to do business. In periods of global and economic uncertainty, that message is more valuable than ever.
Q: You’ve also spoken about getting under the skin of the installer. Why is that so important?
Because installers are such a vital part of the supply chain,we need a clear understanding of their business needs, and challenges in order to translate that into solutions on the show floor. FIT Show also needs to speak to housebuilders, developers, specifiers and architects, as well as the wider trade. If we really understand the different needs across the entire audience mix, then we can make the show much more valuable for everyone involved.
Conservatory Outlet, the UK’s leading fabricator of home improvement products, is looking forward to hosting several more Network-wide events after its series of Operations Conferences has proved to be a real boost to its retail Network.
The events, held in both Glasgow and Birmingham, allowed members of the fabricator’s Premium Retail Network to come together to discuss industry-specific challenges, changes to Building Regulations, regional legislation, and other topics relating to their businesses.
As part of the round-table forums, Conservatory Outlet invited several guest speakers to present on a range of topics, including innovative new construction methods and other operational matters.
Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, Greg Kane, commented: “Our unique model allows for events like this to take place where everyone comes together without the fear of competition. The turnout for this year’s events in Glasgow and Birmingham was phenomenal, with over 90% of our Retail Network represented by key personnel.
“These events allow everyone to share their knowledge and expertise and work as one to provide solutions that benefit all involved. They are an incredible tool and have a widespread positive impact across our Network of Premium Retailers.
Internal feedback scores from the two events have reached a 96% satisfaction level, with the attendees praising the organisation, locations and discussion topics. One such attendee was Stewart Kelly, the Managing Director of Eden Windows, who said: “It was another fantastic example of the support that Conservatory Outlet provides.
“The guest speakers were informative, and the wide range of topics that we discussed covered everything from product design to health and safety to the structure of contracts. Being able to ask questions, get answers and see what similar companies to Eden are doing is extremely beneficial. It gives us attendees the chance to learn from each other, share best practices and help each other improve.”
Window Warehouse, UPVC and Aluminium window and door manufacturer based on the south coast, prides itself on fantastic lead times. In an industry where delays can often disrupt project schedules, the company’s ability to deliver quickly without compromising on quality is a significant advantage for both trade customers and homeowners.
The UPVC range remains particularly strong, with the VEKA system profiles available in just 7-10 working days for stock colours. This fast turnaround also applies to flush windows within stock profiles, making them an ideal choice for projects requiring both style and speed. VEKA’s Feinstruktur profile also boasts a 7-10 day lead time from Window Warehouse in both the Anthracite Grey and Black stock colours. This new, refined textured finish profile sets installers apart from standardcolour competitors. For more bespoke requirements from customers, non-stock colour options are available within a competitive 7- 8 week timeframe.
Window Warehouse also offers two well-regarded composite door ranges to suit homeowner preferences and budgets. The single rebate range from DoorCo offers a practical and stylish solution with lead times of 3-4 weeks. For those seeking a premium, higher-end composite, the Palladio range features a double rebate design with lead times of 4-5 weeks. Aluminium systems at Window Warehouse, supplied by AluK are equally impressive in terms of efficiency. Bifolds have a lead time of 2 weeks, with windows and doors taking 4-5 weeks, and the Heritage door available in 4 weeks. These lead times apply to stock colours consisting of black, white, and grey, while commercial projects and non-standard specifications are 6-7 weeks.
To start your project with Window Warehouse, visit www.window-warehouse.co.uk, call 02392 327744, or email info@window-warehouse.co.uk.
Hörmann UK has announced it will be returning to the FIT Show with its largest and most ambitious presence to date, underlining its long-term commitment to the UK domestic door sector. 2027 will see Hörmann UK with double the floor space compared to previous years, located prominently at the entrance of Hall 9, across two adjoining stands, L20 and M30. This expanded footprint will give visitors the opportunity to discover, experience and engage with Hörmann’s extensive range of garage and entrance door solutions.
Stand L20 will be dedicated exclusively to Hörmann’s front door portfolio, creating a clear and focused environment in which visitors can explore the full breadth of the company’s entrance door offering. The stand will showcase the Hörmann Truedor composite range alongside their steel and aluminium entrance doors, allowing visitors to examine design flexibility, construction quality and advanced security features in depth.
The adjoining stand will feature Hörmann’s market-leading range of garage doors. The display will represent some of the most popular door types currently specified in the UK market, including sectional and roller doors – demonstrating product functionality, performance and end-user benefits in a practical and accessible way.
Bringing both stands together will be an overarching show theme titled “The Hörmann Home”, designed to illustrate how Hörmann’s entrance and garage door solutions integrate seamlessly into everyday living environments. In addition, Hörmann is exploring plans for the Wednesday evening networking event, alongside a programme of visitor engagement activities, with further details to be revealed closer to the show.
Wolfgang Gorner, MD at Hörmann UK said, “While preparations are at an early stage, our plans for FIT Show 2027 signal a bold and confident approach. The 2027 show will see us with increased space, clear product focus and enhanced engagement activities all designed to deliver maximum value for visitors and reinforce Hörmann’s strong position within the sector”.
Metal Technology’s Passive House range of windows, doors, and curtain walling is making a significant impact across education and student accommodation projects throughout the UK and Ireland, delivering exceptional thermal insulation and airtightness. The company’s Passive House solutions notably played a key role in the design and delivery of the world’s largest Passive House education project – St Columba’s RC High School and Woodmill High School in Fife, Scotland.
Building on this success, Metal Technology will soon expand its Passive House portfolio with the introduction of a highperformance casement window system, further enhancing design flexibility while maintaining the rigorous energy efficiency standards required for Passive House developments.
Supporting projects from concept through completion, Metal Technology provides proactive technical expertise to ensure each system integrates seamlessly into the building’s overall energy and design strategy. This collaborative approach has made the company a trusted partner for fabricators, contractors, developers, and architects. Its Passive House glazing solutions have recently been installed across several major educational developments, including Drumgeith Community Campus in Dundee, Faifley Campus in West Dunbartonshire, and Tain Campus.
The £100m Drumgeith Community Campus in Dundee opened its doors in August, welcoming pupils and the wider community to a state-of-the-art facility designed by Holmes Miller and delivered by Robertson Group in partnership with Dundee City Council.
At the heart of the development is the new Greenfield Academy – Dundee’s first secondary school built to rigorous Passivhaus standards – setting a new benchmark for energy efficiency and sustainable learning environments.
Makita’s new HP003GZ01 40VMax XGT® Brushless Combi Drill combines robust performance, intelligent technology and rugged durability to deliver professional results. Powered by Makita’s advanced 40VMax XGT® Li-Ion battery platform, this high-torque combi drill is designed for demanding screwdriving and drilling applications.
The new HP003GZ01 combines power with smart control features, and delivers up to 180Nm torque, making it the most powerful Combi Drill in the Makita range. With torque setting stages of 41/30/25 newton metres and enhanced clutch control, users enjoy greater accuracy, and the HP003G XGT 40v Combi features a versatile three-speed gearbox that adapts effortlessly to demanding drilling and fastening tasks across various materials and applications. Furthermore, the tool includes a new medium mode, twice as high operating speed as that in the low mode which provides the ideal balance of torque and speed for heavy duty tasks such as driving longer screws.
For added safety, the drill includes active feedback sensing technology (AFT) that immediately stops the engine if the rotation suddenly cuts out, which also improves the tool’s longevity, as well as an electric brake for maximum productivity and increased operator protection. Additionally, it has a soft start and reversing function that helps to reduce kick back. It also includes a built-in LED light to illuminate dark areas, a conveniently placed reversing switch and a 13mm keyless chuck for easy bit changes without the need for additional tools.
Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita commented: “Our HP003GZ01 combi drill is a great addition to any professional’s toolkit. Compatible with Makita’s 40VMax batteries, the drill offers longer run time whilst delivering robust performance and precise control.”
For more information, visit: www.makitauk.com.
Growing awareness of security risks and building safety has increased the demand for doors that can offer both protection against attack, plus compliance with fire safety regulations.
Rob Mottram, Head of Product and Compliance at steel door manufacturer Robust UK, looks at how fire doors can meet modern security needs while still maintaining certified fire performance.
Why is steel suitable for fire doors?
“Steel has become the preferred material for fire doors due to its exceptional strength, durability and resilience. Unlike other alternatives, steel maintains its structural integrity even under extreme heat, making it a popular choice for fire doors. During a fire, steel fire-rated doors are designed to resist warping, cracking and structural failure, allowing them to act as an effective barrier that slows the spread of flames, smoke and hot gas.
In addition to their fire-resistant properties, steel fire doors provide superior impact resistance and long-term durability. Their robust construction allows them to withstand heavy use in high-traffic environments such as commercial buildings, hospitals and schools. Unlike timber doors, which can weaken at joints or degrade over time and may require regular repainting, treatment and refinishing, steel is less susceptible to wear, moisture damage and deformation, maintaining both performance and safety over time.
Made from Magnelis® steel, our doorsets require minimal maintenance and do not compromise on appearance, allowing customers to also meet brand aesthetics and architectural design specifications. The anti-corrosion warranty of up to ten years provides additional reassurance that the door will not degrade prematurely and remain in excellent condition for the long term. As a result, steel fire doors offer a dependable combination of fire protection and security, making them a practical choice for meeting today’s building safety requirements.
Combining fire resistance with security performance
Steel doorsets can be tested to EN 1634-1 and certified for up to 240 minutes of fire resistance, helping to maintain safe evacuation routes and effective compartmentation within a building. These tests measure a door’s ability to maintain integrity over a period of time. Where both fire resistance and enhanced security are required, selected steel doorsets can meet both requirements within a single fully tested solution.
As we approach the brighter summer months, homeowners are looking to prioritise light-filled, versatile living spaces that offer a prime spot for soaking up the sunshine and hosting summer gatherings. Premium window and door designer, The Residence Collection, has shared expert advice to help homeowners make the most of both orangeries and conservatories, from design considerations to styling and practical use.
Orangeries and conservatories are not only popular ways to extend the home, but they also create a calm glazed retreat, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical value, making them a smart investment for modern living.
Orangeries
Sophisticated, elegant and luxurious are words that come to mind when discussing orangeries. As an alternative to the traditional conservatory, orangeries include more brickwork and are often built to blend seamlessly onto the existing property rather than as an add-on.
These versatile spaces can be tailored to suit the homeowner’s lifestyle, whether that is a social environment, a playroom or even a formal dining area; it really is up to interpretation.
Two architectural features commonly incorporated into orangeries are roof lanterns and skylights. They enhance the luxurious sentiment while flooding the area with natural light. Strategic positioning is key to maximising sunlight throughout the day, although south-facing aspects should be approached thoughtfully to avoid overheating. When it comes to styling, The Residence Collection advises keeping interiors light and airy. Trends like Japandi would be ideal for areas like these, focusing on a minimalistic, clean look or maybe a coastal trend, featuring natural elements and hints of dark wood.
Adding high-quality blinds and curtains to orangeries provides homeowners with an all-year-round temperature regulator and a sense of privacy.
Design and surveying software can often feel complicated, but vsHome from PST (Production Software Technology) has been developed to make the process simple and approachable from day one.
vsHome is a 3D design, visualisation, sales and surveying tool that supports installers working on projects such as conservatories, garden rooms, windows, and doors. It brings together several stages of the process in one place, allowing users to create designs, prepare quotes, and produce clear, branded reports. It also includes augmented reality features, which can be used to show customers how a finished project may look in their space.
Getting started is simple. PST offers a 14-day free trial with no obligations attached, giving users plenty of time to explore the software at their own pace. Support is available during the trial to help with any questions and this continues once a licence is in place so users can access guidance as needed.
vsHome is ready to use from the start as it includes pre-built tools such as default reports and an extensive library of models and templates. That means you can begin working on projects immediately, without having to set anything up from scratch. As users become more familiar with the system, there are options to adjust reporting, pricing and other settings to suit their way of working.
vsHome is often described by users as easy to use and whilst experience with similar software can be helpful, it isn’t necessary. The system is designed so that even those with limited technical knowledge can get started with confidence and without difficulty.
Payments for vsHome are handled through a monthly rolling subscription with no long term contract required. Users can choose between a Base Licence and a Professional Licence, depending on their requirements and manage everything through a secure online portal.
If you’d like to find out more about vsHome or start your trial, email info@pstonline.co.uk.
Longstanding hardware manufacturer Kenrick has appointed Suzanne Nicholl as Sales and Marketing Director, further strengthening its leadership team as the business continues its next phase of growth and innovation.
Suzanne joins Kenrick with extensive experience across the fenestration sector, having spent her career working within both the hardware and composite door markets. She brings a strong track record in commercial leadership, sales strategy and brand development and will play a key role in driving Kenrick’s continued expansion across both traditional hardware and smart security solutions.
Commenting on the appointment, Martin Smith, General Manager at Kenrick, said: “We are delighted to welcome Suzanne to the Kenrick team. She brings a wealth of experience from across the fenestration industry and has built a strong reputation for delivering commercial growth, developing high-performing teams and strengthening customer relationships.”
He continued: “As Kenrick continues to expand its product portfolio, particularly with new innovations in both traditional hardware and smart security solutions, Suzanne’s leadership will be invaluable. Her strategic insight and industry knowledge make her a perfect fit for the next stage of our development.”
Suzanne has built her career within the fenestration sector, beginning in the hardware market before moving into the composite door industry, where she held senior commercial roles leading sales, marketing and customer service functions. Most recently she was responsible for driving significant revenue growth while strengthening brand positioning and routeto-market strategy.
Commenting on her new role, Suzanne said: “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Kenrick at such an important time for the business. Kenrick is a company with a long heritage, a strong reputation for quality and a clear commitment to product innovation.”
Leading machinery specialist Haffner Ltd has demonstrated the strength of its service offering with the successful relocation of machinery for long-standing customer Mercury Glazing, ensuring fabrication continuity with minimal disruption.
Specialist PVC-U and aluminium fabricator Mercury Glazing required its existing Haffner machinery to be transferred into its main manufacturing facility in Gloucester as part of an operational reorganisation. With production uptime critical, the project demanded careful planning, efficient execution and rapid recommissioning. Haffner’s experienced team managed the entire process, from dismantling and transportation through to installation and commissioning. The relocation, which included four machines and the large CNC machining centre, was completed in just two days, ensuring everything was back up and running with minimal disruption. Martin Halford, Managing Director at Mercury Glazing, said: “The Haffner team relocated our machinery and had everything up and running in just 48 hours. They were incredible, and nothing was too much trouble for them. There’s no substitute for quality products or service and you get what you pay for with Haffner.”
Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Haffner, commented: “Supporting customers goes far beyond supplying machinery. Projects like this highlight the importance of having the right expertise in place to manage relocations and ongoing support efficiently, ensuring productivity is maintained at all times.”
Haffner has over 30 years’ experience supporting window and door fabricators, with machinery installed in thousands of operations throughout the UK. Since 1990, the company has evolved alongside the industry, embracing advances in automation to help improve efficiency and output across fabrication environments.
Its service support spans relocation, upgrades, maintenance and technical expertise, ensuring fabricators continue to get the best from their machinery throughout its lifecycle. Haffner also delivers tailored solutions across PVC-U and aluminium, helping customers maximise their output with machines designed to perform.
Hörmann UK has unveiled the latest update to its Installer Rewards programme, introducing a competitive new leaderboard feature and a quarterly prize designed to further engage and reward its nationwide network of installers.
The enhanced platform allow registered installers to track their performance in real time via a brand-new leaderboard, providing visibility of how they rank against fellow fitters across the country. The move adds a competitive edge to the already popular rewards scheme, encouraging ongoing engagement and consistent product registration.
In addition to the leaderboard, Hörmann is launching a new “Fitter of the Quarter” award. Each quarter, one installer will be crowned Fitter of the Quarter and receive a voucher prize, adding further incentive for fitters to log their installations and build their points total.
The updated programme retains its simple, accessible format. Installers log completed Hörmann installations, earn points and redeem them for rewards – now with the added motivation of climbing the rankings and securing quarterly recognition.
By introducing performance tracking and a headline quarterly prize, Hörmann is reinforcing its commitment to supporting and rewarding the installers who represent the brand every day. The latest update not only recognises consistent performance but also strengthens engagement with the platform, helping to build long-term loyalty.
Installers are encouraged to log in, check their current progress and start climbing the leaderboard as the new phase of the Hörmann Rewards programme gets underway.
To find out more and sign up for the Hörmann Rewards programme visit – hormannrewards.co.uk/
