Window News Magazine November / December 2023

4 Anglian

98 Maximising acquires Safestyle Composite Door UK assets Sales

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CONTENTS

W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

TRADE NEWS 4 VIEWPOINT 50 PEOPLE 84 DOORS 94 PRODUCT NEWS 112 SOFTWARE 130 MACHINERY 132 ON SITE 138 MARKETING & INTERNET

150

AWARDS 158 TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

168

CHARITY 170

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Cover picture: Bask In The Glow With Tuffx: Read more on page 110 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 3

TRADE NEWS

Anglian Home

Improvements completes

transaction to acquire

Safestyle UK assets Last week (Friday 17th November), Anglian Home Improvements completed a transaction which sees it acquire the customer order book, brand and intellectual property, and certain other assets from H.P.A.S Limited, previously trading as Safestyle UK. Rick Harrison and Will Wright from Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators to H.P.A.S Limited, trading as Safestyle UK, Style Group Holdings Limited and Style Group UK Limited (together “the Group”) on 30 October 2023.

The transaction ensures that all Safestyle UK customers impacted by the Company’s insolvency have the opportunity to have their home improvement projects carried out in full by Anglian Home

Improvements.

Anglian Home Improvements manufactures a wide range of home improvement products at its factory in Norwich, and is responsible for the employment of circa 1,500 people across the UK. It has over 40,000 living space orders under warranty and 400,000 orders of windows and doors under warranty.

Anglian says it is proud to achieve the Made in Britain accreditation, which showcases the best in British manufacturing.

As a company that has been manufacturing its own products for over half a century, Anglian is proud of its British heritage and is focused on raising the standard across the industry.

4 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Peter Mottershead, executive chairman of Anglian Home Improvements, said: “Since the announcement last week [Thursday 9th November] that Anglian had reached agreement with the joint administrators to take on the Safestyle order book, our customer service teams have been working hard to make contact with all customers impacted to arrange for their orders to be installed.

Having been manufacturing and installing home improvements for around 60 years, we are looking forward to helping them transform their homes.”

Rick Harrison, joint administrator of H.P.A.S Limited and managing director at Interpath Advisory, added: “We are pleased to have secured this transaction which not only provides certainty for customers, but which also represents a positive outcome for Safestyle UK’s creditors.”

A team comprising Rick Harrison, Sam Pacey, Tom Swiers and Louis Noblet at Interpath Advisory were supported by Barney Smedley and Victoria Procter at DLA. Anglian Home Improvements were advised by Malcolm Walton, Alex Green and Rosie Duckworth from Macfarlanes.

TRADE NEWS

New Leadership And BGF Investment At

The deal was led for BGF by Edwin Davies and Hannah Waters, who worked closely with Victorian Sliders group managing director Steve Winslet.

Davies, investor at BGF Victorian Sliders Signals New Era Edwin who also joined the Victorian

Sliders board following BGF’s initial £14-million investment in the Carmarthenshire-based company, said: “As a long-term investor, we are very proud to have supported Victorian Sliders accelerate its growth journey over the last three years.

“We have seen Victorian Sliders go from strength to strength and we are confident that with BGF investment, combined with the new leadership team’s experience and expertise, the business’ impressive growth trajectory will continue to gather further momentum.”

Mark Shather (finance director), Jason Powell (production director), Steve Winslet (group managing director), Nick Evans (strategic development director) & Sue Davies (commercial improvement manager)

Following its original investment in August 2021, BGF – one of the biggest and most experienced investors in the UK and Ireland – has provided an additional round of funding alongside HSBC to support the growth plans of manufacturing business Victorian Sliders.

As a result of the transaction, Scot Starkey will pursue other ventures and will no longer be involved in the business.

Group managing director Steve Winslet has been joined by an experienced team to help build on Victorian Sliders’ proposition.

Mark Shather joins as finance director, with decades of experience in multiple sectors, including window manufacturing.

Strategic development director

Nick Evans has significant funding and operational experience in private equity backed businesses across global markets and multiple sectors, including manufacturing.

They, together with Jason Powell, who has worked alongside Steve Winslet since August 2022 leading production, will combine to deliver the team’s customercentric growth agenda.

In the coming months, they will seek to drive product development, key strategic partnerships, and expansion into adjacent markets and geographies.

The imminent appointment of a new sales & marketing director to spearhead this customer-centric strategy will complete the new team.

Group managing director Steve Winslet comments: “We want to thank Scot Starkey for his years of investment and dedication to the business, and wish him all the best for his future ventures.

“Now, with an experienced new leadership team in place, our focus is on implementing a customer-centric strategy that puts the Installers, Housebuilders, Local Authorities and Housing Associations we work with first.

“Over the last eighteen months, we’ve already driven huge improvements in quality, reliability, lead times and customer service in general.

“In the months and years ahead, we’re determined to continue those improvements, and turn Victorian Sliders into a worldclass manufacturer.

“We’re delighted to be entering this exciting new era.” www.victoriansliders.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 5

TRADE NEWS

Emplas Expands

Its Glass Cutting Capacity To Meet Triple-Glazed Demand Emplas is building further capacity in its Padiham IGU operation with the addition of a state-of-the-art Bottero cutting table.

Representing a major investment, the Bottero table significantly increases its float cutting capability in line with exponential growth in demand for IGUs in general and increasing demand for tripleglazing.

John Spiby, managing director Padiham Glass, explained: “We’re growing, so at its most basic, we have a requirement to increase our capacity.

“We’re also seeing increased

demand for triple-glazed products, which increases our cutting requirement.

“With the Future Homes Standard likely to increase that demand from 2025, it’s important that we build additional capacity now to make sure that we continue to have the room to comfortably meet future growth.”

Consultation on the Future Homes Standard is expected to start imminently. While it may still change under the current proposals it’s widely expected that this will introduce a new notional value for new build of 0.8 W/m2K with a limiting value of 1.2W/m2K,

6 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

says the company.

“We’re investing to build our capacity in general but it’s our expectation that Future Homes will increase demand for triple-glazed products one way or another”, John added.

Its new Bottero cutting table is a continuation of Emplas’ investment in its glass operation. This includes a more than £1million investment in a new Forel Vertical IGU Line, which was installed at the end of last year.

It includes the Forel Vertical Washer, Emplas has also opted for Forel’s Art AS Flexible Spacer Applicator.

This automatically applies the spacer bar to the edge of the glass sheet with an ultra-high level of accuracy, delivering an instant and far better bond than traditional spacer systems, maximizing thermal performance.

TRADE NEWS

Premier Arches Sees

Record-Breaking Month

John Spiby

The Forel coupling press then simultaneously couples IGU’s while filling them with gas ahead of automatic sealing, delivering a highly accurate final seal on units and significantly reducing the likelihood of failure, claims the company.

John continued: “We’re in a good place. Product quality and service has been transformed in the last 12-months, with the new Forel line significantly increasing our capacity but also quality.

“The Bottero cutting table allows us to build increased resilience and further capacity into our operation, including increasing our inhouse toughening capability, delivering a positive impact right down the line and ultimately better quality and a more flexible service to our customers.” www.emplas.co.uk

Arched frame supplier Premier Arches has seen a recordbreaking sales month, having sold over a quarter of a million pounds worth of arched and angled frames in October. This record sales month comes as the company has finished its 2022-2023 financial year with a 45% increase compared to the previous financial year.

Currently selling 650 arched frames per month, the St Helens-based company is an established supplier within the industry, all thanks to three core principles: manufacturing excellence, clear and honest customer service, and a ‘make life easier’ offering for customers.

Managing director Sean Greenall comments: “Our dedication to excellence extends beyond our products – we offer fabricators a simple and pain-free process for profile bending, transforming what can often be a daunting procedure into an efficient one that saves both time and money.

“We also provide an instant online pricing and ordering

system along with professional CAD drawings and nationwide delivery, additional services that contribute significantly towards our commitment to delivering excellent customer experiences throughout every stage of the process.

“Looking ahead to 2024, we are planning further expansion by investing over £100K in state-of-the-art manufacturing machinery. This investment will position us for even greater growth while ensuring we continue to provide top-quality products at competitive prices.

“With a record-breaking sales month and an unwavering commitment to innovation and customer-central solutions, Premier Arches stands as a testament to excellence in the industry. As we gear up for further expansion and investment, our promise remains unchanged – to make the complex simple and to continue to deliver exceptional products and services that help our valued customers get ahead.” www.premierarches.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 7

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TRADE NEWS forward to what the future brings.

Everest Announce Purchase

Of Evolution From UKWDG Everest 2020 Limited, owner of the UK’s well-known home improvement brand which has been operating for over 50 years, has announced the purchase of the brand, order book, and assets of Evolution, a manufacturer of timber alternative windows and doors based in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire.

Evolution was previously a profitable business unit within the UK Windows and Doors Group (UKWDG), with the wider group recently going into administration, affecting hundreds of UK manufacturing jobs. The acquisition secures the future of the uPVC windows and door fabricator and will save many of those jobs.

Importantly this development

gives certainty to loyal trade customers who have been partnered with the Evolution brand for many years.

Continuation of supply to these partners is of the highest priority to Everest, whose primary focus will be on helping Evolution customers navigate this change of ownership. All customers with outstanding orders with Evolution will be contacted over the coming days to inform them of their estimated delivery date to complete their order. New orders will be welcome from next week as the factory gets back up to capacity.

Paula Chambers, CEO of Everest commented: “This is a significant milestone for Everest, especially following the recent supply agreement with Veka, and we are very much looking

10 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

“Firstly, I want to reassure Evolution’s trade customers that we intend to recommence trading the Evolution business as soon as is practicable and thank them for their patience – I appreciate the last few weeks have been very difficult for them and their customers. Our priority is to work closely and collaboratively with them; in the short term that means fulfilling orders which have been on hold since UKWDG’s entering administration and in the slightly longer term it means working together to enable continued delivery of excellent products and services to their customers.

“We are keen to maintain and build on these long-standing relationships and have been working hard over the last two weeks to secure supply and create an investment plan for the Evolution business which will build on its previous successes. Evolution partners chose the brand and its products for the high standards of quality and workmanship they rightly expect, and we are committed to building on these and the service Evolution provides its customers, to create even stronger partnerships going forward.”

“Everest already has strong relationships with many of Evolution’s suppliers and we are looking forward to building on these partnerships to ensure the Evolution product continues to lead its market over the months and years ahead.”

Paula continues: “For many, Evolution was the Jewel in the Crown of the UKWDG organisation, offering superior quality products and a market leading style and performance that UK homeowners are now demanding more than ever before.”

TRADE NEWS “For Everest, the deal brings several opportunities in terms of product innovation and access to new markets. However, our priority is to maintain and build on the Evolution brand and operating approach and expand the reach of its business model. Longer term the aim is for both brands to drive the market for quality windows and doors based on exceptional performance and design

styling.”

setting the standards for the quality of window and door This development comes hot production in the UK,” Paula on the heels of Everest’s recent comments. “For over 50 years partnership with Veka – a leader the Everest brand has been in uPVC extrusion profiles, which synonymous with premium supports Everest’s plans to offer quality and best-in-class windows and doors that meet service, and we will continue the proposed Future Home driving forward our window Standards 2025. and door proposition with high performing and beautifully “This is a clear demonstration designed products”. that the brand is once again

Glazing Summit

Acquired By

Mark Allen Group

class conference and gala dinner.

This year we had almost 500 industry professionals attend the event tackling the biggest issues facing our sector.

“Mark Allen Group is a major media business that specialises in events such as the Glazing Summit and are ideally placed to take the event forward. Insight Data and Purplex will continue to support the Summit as it goes from strength to strength, while I look forward to spending more time working closely with clients as the industry faces some challenges ahead.”

Ben Allen, chief executive officer, Mark Allen Group stated: “The Glazing Summit is an excellent addition to our portfolio of brands in the glazing sector. Andrew and his team have done an outstanding job in developing the event and we are delighted that Insight Data and Purplex Marketing will continue to support the event under our ownership.

Mark Allen Group, which owns Glass & Glazing Products magazine and the Installer Awards, has acquired the Glazing Summit conference.

The acquisition of the Glazing Summit conference by Mark Allen Group further solidifies the company’s presence in the glazing sector. Meanwhile, Andrew Scott, founder of the

Glazing Summit and CEO of the event organizers, Insight Data and Purplex Marketing, will remain closely linked to the event.

Andrew commented; “I created the Glazing Summit to enable the industry to connect, learn and share valuable insights and experience. We held the first event in 2018 and it’s gone from strength to strength with a first-

The Glazing Summit will be run out of MA Business, under the leadership of Jon Benson, managing director and COO, and Marc Young, publishing director, of MA Business, who will continue to grow the Summit and ensure that its excellent reputation as being the mustattend event for the industry’s most influential leaders is maintained”. glazingsummit.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 11

TRADE NEWS windows with new windows that meet current standards can reduce heat loss in an already insulated home by half, from 44% to 22%.

Other figures that are certain to shock millions of homeowners are: • 80 million windows would benefit from being replaced now • The UK’s housing stock is the worst performing country in Western Europe in terms of heat loss, and three times less energy efficient than Germany • Double glazing installed pre2002 is in approximately 23% of the UK’s current housing stock and is 50% less energy efficient than new windows to current standards • 22% heat saving could be achieved in properties that have already been insulated to best practice if pre-2002 windows are replaced Chris Beedel, head of advocacy, GGF

80 Million Windows Need To Be Replaced

Across The UK, Says GGF

80 million home windows need to be replaced if the UK hopes to meet the government’s net zero targets, says the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF).

That is just one of the alarming statistics revealed in a report, ‘A Window of Opportunity’, jointly published by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) and British Glass. This is the most extensive report in the Glazing industry to date, publishing results from extensive research

on heat loss in homes and the contribution that modern windows can make to keeping people’s homes warm.

When it comes to heat loss in a home, the UK currently has the least efficient housing stock in Western Europe and has seen one of the worst carbon reductions of all sectors since 1990, says the GGF. The report demonstrates that replacing older double glazed

12 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

• Homes fitted with new windows to current standards could see a saving of up to £395 per year • 24% of the UK’s carbon emissions come from the residential sector • Replacing pre-2002 double glazing with new double glazing to current standards is the equivalent of taking 1.88 million cars off the road Chris Beedel, head of advocacy at the GGF, said: “We are in continuous discussion with the government about net zero targets and the positive contribution that would be made if older double glazed windows were to be replaced. As the government looks to achieve net zero, it is clear homeowners and our industry have a vital role to play.

“We are well aware of the current

TRADE NEWS state of the economy, and as the government requires higher energy efficiencies from new windows, there needs to be real incentives for homeowners to make the necessary change to new windows.”

Chris continues: “The residential sector currently contributes to almost a quarter of the entire country’s carbon emissions.

This needs to change – reducing emissions from households, and therefore improving glazing, is crucial in helping reach net zero, which we are all committed to.”

double and triple glazing is light years ahead of what was available 20 years ago with windows installed today performing 50% better than old double glazing and 70% better than single glazing. Almost a quarter of the UK’s homes have double glazing that is at least 20 years old and therefore doesn’t meet today’s standards and would benefit from immediate replacement. It’s like driving a 20-year-old car. It will get you from A to B but will not be as fuel and emissions efficient as a new car.

Natalie Little, President of the GGF, said: “This report may come as a surprise to homeowners, and the government. In the last two decades, replacement window and door technology has developed enormously through manufacturing and improvements in plastics, glass and metals.

“Standards are constantly under review and we await the government consultation on the Future Homes Standard for new build homes which could see a move to triple glazing and much more stringent energy efficiency requirements.” www.ggf.org.uk

Natalie Little

Natalie, who also acts as commercial director of truhouse, her family’s home improvement company based in Stroud, Gloucestershire, added: “Today’s

TRADE NEWS

Preview For Emplas’s

CORE Customers Trade fabricator Emplas held its annual CORE1979 focus group at Epwin Window Systems in Telford at the start of November, bringing together a select number of customers and suppliers to discuss key industry topics and preview new products.

“We established CORE 1979 to bring our core customers together with our supply chain to review market drivers and share best practice,” Emplas group managing director Ryan Johnson said. “The nature of the event means that much of what we discussed stays under wraps for now, but we looked at new product innovation and shared a preview of new

software development, all of which will help our customers maximise opportunities during what is expected to be a tricky 12 months.

“The event was hosted by our profile supplier, Epwin Window Systems, who previewed new product development – along with insightful consumer research undertaken by Charlotte Hawkes from Keystone Market Research. Avantis and Kubu also provided an update on our ongoing collaboration and the continuation of our Smart as Standard journey.

“There was also an opportunity to reflect on how the window

14 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

and door market has responded to economic forces over the last year, thanks to a short presentation by Lasco PR and Marketing, and what could drive sales in the coming year.”

And with much still to be clarified in relation to the Future Homes Standard, Epwin’s technical director Phil Parry summarised the potential impact of the new Standard, which is expected to come into force in 2025, with the official consultation now expected to start before Christmas.

Ryan continued. “None of us work in isolation, and the challenges we face in 2024 will be managed more efficiently if we continue to listen and work in partnership with our customers and key supply chain partners.

“A lot of what we develop needs feedback and buy-in from our customers, and the CORE 1979

TRADE NEWS

TWC Report Increase

In Productivity Since

Relocating To Larger Premises

Window and door fabricator and supplier TWC recently expanded into a new, larger factory to accommodate the company’s increased demand.

Now, six weeks after the relocation, TWC is reporting significant successes as a result of the transition and is eager to share the tangible results of its substantial investments and dedication to development.

focus group gives us the perfect platform to share our strategy and keep customers up to date with all the latest industry trends and developments.

“And no event like this is complete without the informal networking that takes place well into the evening, which this year took place at the Telford Golf and Spa Hotel.” www.emplas.co.uk

Launched in late 2022, TWC has already experienced significant levels of development, to the extent that it has required larger premises for its growing number of staff and operations. Despite having been in the new factory for just over a month, the team at TWC has already noticed a significant improvement in how the relocation has positively impacted the business. There is now a much more streamlined and efficient production process, with the larger space providing room for the CNC corner cleaner, instantly increasing production by 25% and fostering growth, says the company.

Regarding how the new premises have affected

the staff, there has been a noticeable improvement in their productivity. While morale has always been high at TWC, the extra space in the new factory has given the employees enough room to work and carry out their roles more effectively, resulting in smoother and more efficient operations, says the company.

Co-Founder and director of TWC Dom Francis says of the relocation, “The transition into the new factory has been really successful, and because of our dedicated staff, it’s been practically seamless! It’s been six weeks, and we’ve already recruited 3 more employees to keep up with our increased demand and keep productivity consistent. At TWC, we want to make the best products in the industry and be the most reliable supplier for our customers. By consistently investing in continued growth and taking big leaps in our business strategy, we are able to keep expanding while offering the same high quality levels of service that have defined us since the company was founded.”

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 15

TRADE NEWS

Elumatec

And Emmegi

Set To Join Forces In UK elumatec (UK) and emmegi (UK) have announced plans for a formal collaboration in the UK market, designed to help both businesses deliver an even better service to customers.

The move is part of the ‘One Company’ approach being implemented by the Voilàp Group, which owns both elumatec and emmegi, as well as other well-known brands such as Tekna, Someco and Keraglass.

‘One Company’ is all about making the most of the synergies that exist in the individual Voilàp Group businesses, enhancing their inherent strengths and promoting individual talent. It is focused on excellence and growth – excellence in processes and service, and achieving growth by supporting customers

to grow.

The Group’s organisational model is claimed to be one of the reasons why it is able to design ‘highly innovative products and compatible software which distinguish Voilàp in the market for excellence.’ Being able to draw on complementary talents, skills and knowledge helps it to serve customers with a portfolio of products and services that meet all their needs.

In the UK, elumatec and emmegi will continue to operate alongside one another but with a shared vision and shared access to the other Voilàp brands.

In a joint statement Ian Latimer, managing director of emmegi and Neil Parton, managing director of elumatec, said: “This

16 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

is an exciting new chapter for both our businesses and has been warmly welcomed by staff.

We are still finalising our new operational structure, but we will certainly be working more closely together in the future, identifying new shared opportunities in the UK and Ireland and growing our combined market share.

“The benefits to customers will come in the form of better access to a broader range of machines and software, more servicing and maintenance resources, and more investment in process efficiencies.

“Our customers will continue to deal with their current emmegi or elumatec contacts, and can contact either of us directly for more information.”

More info at: www.emmegi.com/en/home and www.elumatec.com/en/home

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TRADE NEWS given for the slowdown is the UK’s slower economic growth and high interest rates. A recovery in private housing and new build and r&mi is not due until 2025.

Meanwhile the CAB Q3 State of Trade Survey (SoT) demonstrates that aluminium fenestration seems to have remained reasonably buoyant during 2023 with members remaining busy and positive about historic sales and future demand.

Concern Over Future Demand Phil Slinger

This can be attributed to at least two factors. Firstly, some projects already out of the ground will continue to be built with fenestration requirements lagging from starts by eighteen months to two years. Secondly, the growth in aluminium in the home improvement market continues apace as households with greater disposable income improve using aluminium based products as opposed to the use of other materials. Reviewing any fenestration trade magazine today emphasises the interest in aluminium. Commercial and Industrial output remains strong which is where aluminium fenestration products are traditionally used.

‘Historic sales volume’s’ have dipped for members of CAB, for the first time in the last twelve months. This follows the wider construction output reporting a drop of -47% on net balance in the Q2 2023. The annual drop in historic sales for members is just -5% on net balance, but nevertheless, indicates a crucial drop in demand. CAB members remain much more positive about trade than the wider construction supply chain.

By Phil Slinger – CAB CEO The Construction Products Association Autumn forecasts reports states that construction output remains on forecast to fall by 6.8% during 2023. The

two largest construction sectors contributing to this fall is private new housing and private house repair (r&mi), maintenance and improvement. In 2024 the forecast is for a further drop of 0.3% in construction output. The reasons

18 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

‘Expected sales volumes’ reported by members has decreased significantly from a high of 77% on net balance in Q1 2023 to -6% on net balance forecast for the last quarter in 2023. Important to note that the membership still see the full year ahead as a positive

TRADE NEWS

JDUK Extends

Colour Offer

Through To The

End Of 2023

growth with 39% on net balance indicating sales growth into 2024.

This is favourable against the slight drop in forecasted sales from the construction supply chain of just -6% on net balance.

‘Sales volumes – quarter-onquarter’ views are mixed with 37% of members reporting no change between Q2 and Q3, 47% stating a drop in sales and only 16% reporting growth between the two quarters. ‘Sales volumes – yearon-year’ are a little more polarised with just 11% of members stating no change, 48% stating a drop in sales and 43% reporting growth between the two years. With the years previous three quarters results showing growth in sales, the sales volumes again indicate a slowdown in demand.

indicate that 84% of members on net balance report this as the greatest cost factor. This has remained constant throughout 2023 only superseded in Q4 2022 by ‘energy costs’. The rise in living costs and mortgages coupled with a skill shortage puts experienced people at a premium who can negotiate increases in salary.

It comes as no surprise that when we look to ‘likely constraints on activity over the next twelve months’ that we see 89% of respondents claiming that demand is the likely constraint on business moving forward. Whilst demand has always been at a high level over the last twelve months, this is its highest report figure to date.

After a very warm reception, West Yorkshire-based specialist door systems supplier JDUK has announced the extension of their colour offer on their range of Pro Plus sectional garage doors to January 2024. Providing homeowners with aesthetic control to ensure their ideal designs come to life, the colour offer entitles customers the choice of any colour from the Classic RAL palette, for the same price as white.

‘Historic unit costs’, whilst softening during the last twelve months have risen in Q3 showing on net balance a greater increase than the wider construction supply chain for both quarterly and annual costs. Whilst aluminium costs have remained fairly level in the last six months, increases in labour costs will increase unit costs at the gate. There remains a crucial skills shortage in the fenestration industry as it carries an older demographic compared to other construction industries.

JDUK Door Systems is dedicated to offering its customers total design control. Now available until January 2024, the colour Reported ‘labour costs’ remain high offer enables homeowners to on net balance from members, over personalise their Pro Plus garage twice that of the wider construction doors with a variety of colour supply chain, reinforcing the lack of options, in a range of panel designs and textures. JDUK an experienced labour pool. believes this design freedom will increase properties’ kerb appeal Members ‘capital investment’ on net balance has reduced in the year and give any home a unique finish. ahead compared to the previous Available in a wide range of year. Only ‘customer research’ shows an increase in spend for the design options, the Pro Plus range provides competitive levels of year ahead. sound and thermal efficiency, with a sound insulation coefficient of The full report is available to CAB Rc=24db and 40mm insulated members. Please contact me at wind resistant sectional door CAB if you are considering joining panels, says the company.

CAB. c-a-b.org.uk

As expected, ‘cost factors’

c-a-b.org.uk

www.jdukltd.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 19

TRADE NEWS

June To August Builders Merchant Volumes Up +5.3% On Previous 3 Months The latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report shows builders’ merchants’ value sales were down -3.3% in the month of August compared to the same month in 2022, with volume falling -10.5% and prices up +8.0%. But value sales in the last three months, June to August, were +3.3% higher than March to May 2023 with volumes up +5.3% and prices down -2.0%.

Eight of the twelve categories sold more this August than in August 2022 with Renewables & Water Saving (+37.6%) continuing to dominate the

field. Workwear & Safetywear (+11.6%), Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+10.8%) and Decorating (+10.8%) increased more than other categories.

Landscaping (-7.0%) and Timber & Joinery Products (-13.2%) were weakest.

Month-on-month, total merchant sales were down -1.9% in August compared to July. Volume sales were down -3.2% while prices increased +1.4%. With one additional trading day in August, like-forlike sales were -6.3% lower.

Five of the twelve categories sold more, led by Workwear

20 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

& Safetywear (+7.5%).

Renewables & Water Saving (-9.6%) was the weakest category.

Total merchant sales in the twelve months from September 2022 to August 2023 were -1.1% down on the same period a year ago, with volumes falling -12.8% and prices up by +13.3%. Nine of the twelve categories sold more with Renewables & Water Saving (+46.0%) the best performer by a considerable margin.

Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+13.2%), Decorating (+13.0%) and Workwear & Safetywear (+12.5%) also recorded double digit growth. Landscaping (-10.9%) and Timber & Joinery Products (-14.0%) sold less.

Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA Research which produces this report, said: “When the ONS recently announced more accurate statistics for the last three years, it revealed

TRADE NEWS that Britain had done rather better than several European countries, and much better than the dismal economic narrative economists and the national media had been recounting.

Britain isn’t in recession, unlike some others. But in October, consumer confidence, as reported in GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index, lost all its gains since April, as consumers were hit by a mix of concerns – war in the Middle East, a rise in fuel and gas prices, and colder weather. In 2017, according to Reuters’ research, 24% of UK citizens were news avoiders.

Today that has jumped to 41%.

More than half the avoiders said the negative impact on their mood was the reason for avoiding the news.

“So it’s good to report that builders’ merchants volume sales were up +5.3% in the

three months June to August on the previous three months.

August sales were a damp squib but that’s no surprise.

In addition to the tail off in demand due to customer and contractor holidays, the wetter than average summer months hampered outdoor trades and project starts, and many people spent their money on last minute holidays to escape the rain, rather than on home improvements. Travel agents recorded a quadrupling of bookings in July for August travel.

“Housebuilding has been an even damper squib. Despite a pause on interest rate rises, net mortgage approvals fell again in August. With people staying put, the repair, maintain and improve market offers the best opportunities for growth in the short to medium term. Britons

have got the message: now’s the time to ‘improve not move’.”

Set up and run by MRA Research, the BMBI – a brand of the Builders Merchants Federation – is a monthly index of builders’ merchant sales, and the most reliable, up-to-date measure of Repair, Maintenance, and Improvement (RMI) activity in the UK. The index is based on actual sales from GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data, which captures value sales out to builders from generalist builders’ merchants, accounting for over 80% of total sales from builders’ merchants throughout Great Britain. An in-depth review, which includes commentary by sector experts, is provided each quarter.

August’s BMBI report, published in October, is available to download at www.bmbi.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

Timber Windows And Doors

Manufacturer Invests

In Livingston HQ High-performance timber windows and doors manufacturer NorDan UK has invested £800,000 in a new Sustainability and Innovation Centre as part of a £2 million upgrade of its national headquarters in Livingston.

makers such as architects and consultants, will participate in training and CPD presentations across NorDan’s product areas, as well as attend seminars on changing building standards and regulations.

The new facility, due for completion in early 2024, will give NorDan’s customers from across the UK hands-on training in the installation and adjustment of the company’s products, recreating different building sites with custom rigs and mock building facades.

The centre will also showcase NorDan’s latest innovations, including smart products, Juliette balcony systems and external sun protection screens.

Training will also be delivered in a purpose-built amphitheatre, where staff, customers, and industry influencers and decision

Alex Brown, managing director of NorDan UK said: “Our new Sustainability and Innovation Centre is a further commitment to our Livingston UK headquarters, and will give us greater capacity to share industry knowledge and deliver advanced training

22 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

on our rapidly evolving range of products.

“Building regulations are also changing, including Scotland’s new Domestic Building Environmental Standards Bill and England’s Future Homes Standard, and as the industry increasingly moves towards lower carbon buildings, NorDan’s alu-clad timber windows and doors are becoming increasingly relevant to a wider audience.

“2023 will also be my 14th and final year as NorDan UK’s managing director, before I set down to assume the role of a non-executive director, so I’m delighted to be able to sign-off on this investment in what has been our base for over 40 years.”

NorDan UK is the UK arm of the Norwegian founded NorDan Group, a multinational business that operates in seven European countries, employing 2,200 people across 12 factories and 35 sales offices. https://nordan.co.uk/

Deceuninck Ready For Future Homes

TRADE NEWS to triple-glazing, if they choose to make up the ‘gap’ elsewhere, for example by increasing the specification of other materials, they could go with a lower level of performance of up to 1.2W/ m2K. “We’ll have to wait and see.

Either way, our customers can be confident that they’ll meet requirements for Future Homes, either from within their existing Deceuninck offer, or through our next generation ranges.”

This includes Elegant. With contemporary minimalist features, it replicates aluminium in an advanced, low maintenance and energy efficient, composite system delivering a step change in performance achieving U-values as low as 0.8W/m2K.

With consultation on the Future Homes Standard expected to be launched imminently, Deceuninck has said that it is confident it will meet future requirements.

Homes make up around 14% of all of the UK’s emissions.

With a commitment to cut total UK emissions by 80% relative to 1990 levels by 2050 under the Climate Change Act (2008) reducing household carbon emissions assumes critical importance in the Government’s climate strategy.

While the Government has dropped some of the initiatives in its climate change strategy, Future Homes remains on track, with a commitment from the Department for Energy and Net Zero to launch consultation

“Elegant gives you a lot of design flexibility,” John says.

“You’re getting a window that can be optimised for either commercial or residential applications with a massive amount of flexibility within those markets because of the combination of sash and frame options that we can offer.”

imminently.

Under the current proposals Deceuninck believes it’s widely expected that this will introduce a new notional value for new build of 0.8 W/m2K with a limiting value of 1.2W/m2K – standards Deceuninck has said it is confident its customers will be able to meet.

“At the time of writing we’re making an educated guess, so figures aren’t exact”, said John Duckworth, director of commercial sales, “We’ll have to also have wait for the outcome of the consultation and ultimately the reaction from housebuilders.

“If, however, developers specify the notional u-value, at 0.8 W/ m2K, windows and doors move

The Department for Energy and Net Zero has confirmed to industry that it intends to launch the consultation on the Future Homes Standard before Christmas 2023.

Following on from the changes seen to Part L in June 2022, this is widely expected to introduce an uplift in standards of window and door performance in newbuild, with home improvement expected to stay at the 2022 1.4W/m2K requirement.

Any change in 2025 would also include a transitional period, allowing fabricators to upgrade the thermal performance of their offers. www.deceuninck.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 23

TRADE NEWS

Euroglaze Amongst Very First To Launch Rehau’s New Sliding Patio Barnsley based Euroglaze is amongst the very first fabricators to start producing Rehau’s brand new Slinova patio door, adding to its reputation as the leading one stop shop supplier of Rehau products in the UK. Having completed the machine tooling and software adaptations required for Slinova well in advance of the official launch at the start of October, Euroglaze has already secured its first large scale order.

Martin Nettleton, Euroglaze’s managing director, commented:

maximising natural light. It has a visible frame and sash width of 129mm, and can be used to fabricate doors up to a maximum width of 4m and maximum height of 2.4m.

“We’re tremendously excited to be doing it all again with Slinova – particularly since this is such a great looking product with huge potential to help our stockists and installers win new business.”

Barry Gilligan, Rehau’s sales director, was quick to praise the Euroglaze set up and team: “Euroglaze has a remarkable track record with Rehau and an impressive pedigree, yet is never complacent about its position and continues to set the pace when it comes to innovation and launching new products.

The efficiency of the operation in Barnsley means new window and door options are always integrated seamlessly into the factory without impacting on service or lead times, and the quality remains as impeccable as ever.

The Slinova sliding patio is all about slim sightlines and

“The Euroglaze sales and customer service team have

“We’re proud to be Rehau’s longest serving customer in the UK, and we’ve partnered with them on the successful launch of some of their most iconic products over the years – from the Heritage vertical slider to Total 70 and Rio.

24 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

TRADE NEWS

Growth For Fenestration

Foam Tape Sealants In

2024, Says ISO-Chemie

been really proactive in promoting Slinova, and it’s no surprise that they already have a large scale order ready to go into production.”

Euroglaze is supplying Slinova in the full range of colour options – from white to black, and everything in between. window. rehau.com/uk-en/slinova-slidingdoor www.euroglaze.co.uk

Demand for retrofitted energy efficiency products will help to drive sales of fenestration foam tape sealants in 2024, according to Andy Swift, sales and operations manager at ISOChemie.

efficient accommodation, says Andy Swift. This in turn, will generate steady business for high performance sealants that reduce, or prevent thermal leakage, from around incorrectly fitted window and door frames.

He believes the sealants’ market will remain buoyant over the next 12 months, seeing steady growth despite a challenging construction sector and wider inflationary and economic pressures.

“The retrofit sector in particular will definitely be huge in 2024,” he predicts. “With the continued focus on energy conservation amid higher energy costs and more architects bringing forward their Passivhaus designs, especially in Scotland, readily available high-performance foam window and door sealants will be well positioned to meet specifier and installer needs in the coming months.”

In the face of a gloomy outlook in some quarters – a number of construction companies could go under in 2024 due to cost overruns – refurb projects, particularly in the social housing sector, where improved funding for projects is anticipated over the next 12 months to buoy the sector with an 11% growth forecast, are expected to get the green light to meet affordable housing needs.

This will see a strong focus on the use of foam sealants, with increased specification of rapid product solutions to deliver greater energy conservation – particularly as fuel bills will remain high.

Interest rates will also probably stabilise in 2024, boosting demand for more energy

“Indeed, buildings and homes that provide the highest thermal standards are now a priority for commercial and residential developers. It’s an important message that we and other sector leaders will continue push during 2024 to architects and other property specifiers, “ he adds.

“There are effective products out there to ensure that energy efficiency within buildings should never be overlooked or ignored – it’s a matter of designing in these products.” https://bit.ly/3G64rE8

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 25

TRADE NEWS

Why Force 8

Specialise In Just Veka And Halo Profiles

For the past three decades, Force 8 have been in the specialist profile bending sector and have built a reputation that is, arguably, second to none. Throughout that time, they have dedicated their efforts to just two primary profile selections, namely, Veka and Halo. The focus on the Veka profile has stemmed from its versatility, offering a wide array of sections that make it the ideal choice for bending profiles for various installations in either windows or doors, says Force 8.

The specialisation of Force 8 in Veka and Halo profiles has afforded them the opportunity to fine tune their operations. This has enabled Force 8 to make strategic investments in cuttingedge software, state-of-the-art CNC machinery, and even a precision milling machine with the ability to navigate corners seamlessly, which is all geared up exclusively for Veka. Additionally, their remarkable three decades of

industry experience, coupled with a highly dedicated workforce, have been instrumental in solidifying their position as leaders in their field.

Force 8 has consistently exhibited a flair for innovation and adaptation, which has allowed them to maintain a lead role in the industry and keep one step ahead.

Remarkably, to their knowledge, they are still the only company in the UK producing a full-length bend, which means that an arched frame for a door or window is formed from a single length of profile, with no welds or breaks.

Dennis Sumner, the founder of Force 8, emphasises, “Achieving our level of quality bending would be unattainable if we were bending multiple profiles, and constantly changing settings, tooling, formers and software. We would become jack of all trades and masters of none, we prefer to be true masters

26 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

of our craft. This approach has also enabled us to maintain an extensive inventory of Veka and Halo profiles, ensuring that a wide array of sections are consistently available, which would be almost impossible with multiple profile brands and sections”.

Force 8 says their craftsmanship extends beyond their products and machinery, encompassing the very structure of their organisation.

Notably, in November 2021, they pioneered a move into an Employee-Owned Trust (EOT), marking a significant milestone within the industry. Two years later, this strategic decision has proven to be an outstanding success. In an industry where staff and skill shortages are starting to bite, Force 8 has found what it believes is a unique and longlasting solution to the problem.

According to Force 8, a dedicated workforce is crucial to the quality and success of the company.

Dennis concludes: “The EOT was the last piece of the jigsaw, if you are specialising in one profile for bending, equipping the factory with the correct machinery and software for that profile, you need the right people to make it all work, which is why we can claim to be masters of our craft.” www.force8.uk

SLINOVA The slimline sliding door Stylish, minimalist and sustainable.

SLINOVA offers slim sightlines and the flexibility of a dual and triple track door system, as well as a large number of sliding door combinations.

With a minimalist discreet design, SLINOVA provides outstanding performance and design, for today’s modern contemporary homes. rehau.uk/slinova enquiries@rehau.com Tel: 01989 762600

TRADE NEWS

Liniar Joins

Future Homes Hub Liniar has announced it recently became a member of the Future Homes Hub.

building solutions but are also manufactured with a steadfast commitment to sustainability.

The Hub brings together all those involved in home building to help to achieve the climate and environmental goals for the sector linked to the Government’s legally binding Net Zero and wider environmental targets. Liniar places a strong emphasis on providing energy-efficient products that not only contribute to low-carbon

Ed Lockhart, CEO of The Future Homes Hub said, “New homes are undergoing rapid change to be ready for the climate and environmental challenges of the 21st century. No area of the economy is moving faster in this transition than the homes we build; the new homes sector will be zero-carbon in operation through the Future Homes Standard.”

28 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Martin Thurley

He continues, “We have a collective responsibility to deliver the sector’s climate and environmental targets while building higher quality homes at the scale needed. We can only do this if we all work together.

“I am therefore delighted that Liniar has joined the Future Homes Hub to be part of this positive change. We’re looking forward to working together with this growing community to share our solutions and expertise, accelerating progress to a net zero future.”

Liniar Group managing director Martin Thurley states, “Liniar has a proud history of designing and developing innovative, highly energy efficient

TRADE NEWS products for the construction industry, and is committed to collaborating on the UK’s journey towards Net Zero.

“The recent launch of our Passivhaus-capable window and door system Zero|90 is a prime example. These products offer some of the best energy performance capabilities and noise-reducing properties on the market, as well as a

genuine solution to futurewe’re currently on track to proofing regulatory compliance. achieve our ambitious goal of Being manufactured using being carbon neutral by 2025.” recycled components also means Zero|90 offers whole life carbon He concludes, “Joining the reductions, making it one of the Future Homes Hub will enable most sustainable window and Liniar to play a part in helping to door systems in the UK.” shape the agenda for the future of sustainable construction in Martin adds, “Liniar also the UK and we look forward continues investing in its to collaborating with this facilities to ensure sustainable community.” manufacturing processes and www.liniar.co.uk

Arcoframe Partners

With aluplast

from the oven and clamped into the desired position. Once cooled, it can be used as part of a larger project.

“We win and maintain customers because we can make some bends in large frames without welding.” Jonathan said. “This gives a smooth finish all the way around the arch with no surface variation whatsoever.”

Jonathan said the move to higher value projects, and the interest in bespoke designs, has helped grow the business even as the market has slowed overall.

St Helens-based profile bending specialist Arcoframe, recently chose aluplast as a preferred profile supplier for its arched frames and round windows.

“We work with all systems,” explained director Jonathan Hill. “We’ve been manufacturing arched frames, angled frames and flush sash frames for our customers for more than 20 years now, and we regularly work with all profile types that our customers bring us.

“But on those jobs where a profile hasn’t been specified, we have chosen aluplast as our preferred supplier because it best suits our needs.”

Jonathan explained one of the

attractions of aluplast profile is that it can be bent to a smaller radius than most other profiles, which gives the company greater flexibility when meeting their customers’ specifications.

“Also, once the frame is welded together, we can polish it out much more successfully,” Jonathan said. “We polish by hand, and with aluplast it’s just a seamless finish.

“Our customers are driving for that perfect frame every time, so we’ve got to keep our standards high to meet and exceed their expectations.”

Window profiles are shaped by first placing them in an oven.

Once at the right temperature, it is placed into formers, removed

“As a company, sales have increased 15% every year over the last five years,” he said. “I think the industry as a whole has dropped off slightly these last couple of years, but we have gained customers over that period which has helped our growth.

“We see more colours and foiled profiles being ordered more than white frames now, so that’s also helped us to grow the business over the last five to ten years.

“We are also seeing a greater interest in sustainability, which is another reason we decided to partner with aluplast. Their ecotech recycled content, which sits in the core of the profile, is very responsive to being bent and formed, which in turn helps us win business where sustainability is a critical element.” www.aluplast.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 29

TRADE NEWS

New White Paper

Provides A Guide To Calculating Embodied Carbon

Reynaers Aluminium UK has released a white paper providing an in-depth guide to calculating the levels of embodied carbon in aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling systems.

This new report considers at what stage embodied carbon should be measured and provides an analysis of the contributing factors and methodologies for calculating embodied carbon.

It also takes a wider view of the overall sustainability qualities of aluminium.

In providing the white paper, Reynaers aims to give architects, specifiers and contractors the latest information they need to confidently calculate the levels of embodied carbon in aluminium windows, doors and facades

to support sustainable building design.

Breaking down where embodied carbon in aluminium occurs, the white paper looks at specific stages that contribute to the overall carbon footprint of the products.

Processing raw materials, manufacturing and transport are major contributors to embodied carbon. However, the white paper takes the longer view across the lifecycle of aluminium, breaking down the stages at which additional embodied carbon is calculated.

Applied in practice, this allows for a like-for-like comparison with other materials where initial embodied carbon may be lower but accumulative levels add up

30 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

John McComb, technical director at Reynaers UK

during the useful life of the product and in its end-of-life process.

In breaking down the stages at which embodied carbon is calculated, the white paper supports a holistic view to make an informed and transparent decision in the use of materials in sustainable building design – and sets out how this can be calculated reliably.

John McComb, technical director at Reynaers UK, said: “Embodied

TRADE NEWS

Don’t Just Throw

Those Old Windows And Doors In The Skip! removes during replacement and refurbishment projects.

carbon is a major concern in building design. We are aware of the part that thermal efficiency plays in cutting emissions for buildings through energy savings and in direct and indirect emissions, but we need to target embodied carbon.

“By looking at where carbon is emitted throughout the life cycle of a product, we can also look at ways to continue to address that and reduce embodied carbon – but importantly how to accurately measure levels of embodied carbon through effective calculation.

“An increased use of recycled aluminium to reduce reliance on raw materials considerably lowers the embodied carbon. This has already been evidenced and systems using a larger amount of recycled aluminium are available.

“By using less fuel intensive methods in the early stages of the aluminium process, especially in extrusion, embodied carbon levels can be cut further. This would depend on the introduction of more alternative energy solutions.

“The longevity and recyclability of aluminium needs to be brought into the balance when considering the environmental impact of a building material. A product that is built to last and can be completely re-used will negate the need to rebuild and cut waste in the longterm.”

Read the new white paper here: https://bit.ly/3ur920K

Segregated skips at The Window Company (Contracts) to comply with the new environmental obligations

Specialist commercial installer The Window Company (Contracts) has issued a reminder to fabricators, installers and contractors that they have new environmental obligations when it comes to disposing of waste wood from buildings built between 1950 and 2007 – and explained why there is a real incentive for them to comply as quickly as possible.

As of 1 September, ten specific items, including windows, doors, conservatories, fascias, soffits and barge boards have been classified by the Environment Agency as potentially hazardous because of the invisible treatments they may contain. That means they can no longer be sent direct to wood recycling facilities until they have been tested using the WRA’s (Wood Recyclers’ Association) 02 testing suite and no trace of hazardous contamination found.

The Window Company (Contracts) has already established a new process for segregating, sample testing and reporting on all the relevant timber items it

Katie Thornton, director of compliance and administration at The Window Company (Contracts) explained: “There is obviously a cost for the additional skip we have had to acquire to segregate pre-2007 wood and for the WRA 02 testing, which is around £250 per time. However, we have been assured by the WRA that there are no long term plans for windows, doors and ancillary products to stay on the hazardous list if, as an industry, we can act quickly and efficiently and demonstrate together that they do not present an environmental risk.

“We have worked closely with our waste partners to streamline the process as much as we can, and we would like to see other installers and contractors doing the same. If everyone impacted by the new rules gets their act together in the way we have done and enough samples are submitted to prove that our waste wood products aren’t actually hazardous, this will hopefully be just a short term requirement.”

The Window Company (Contracts) is directing others in the industry to the WRA website where there is full guidance and a downloadable toolkit for those impacted by the new rules: https:// woodrecyclers.org/ https://thewinco.co.uk/

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 31

TRADE NEWS

ohn Waugh, EYG sales director (left) and Mike Moulds, Alunet Systems key account & product development director (right)

Alunet

SystemsAnnounces

Partnership With EYG

Alunet Systems has announced its recent partnership with Hull-based EYG, one of the UK’s leading home improvement and double glazing specialists. This collaboration with a company that boasts over 50 years of industry expertise and employs more than 300 staff marks an exciting chapter in Alunet’s current phase of expansion and development.

The partnership between Alunet Systems and EYG was brought about by a shared commitment to providing customers with the high quality products that meet the high standards of durability and innovation. EYG, known for its determination to stay ahead of industry trends and customer demands, was seeking a new supplier to enhance its product range and offer customers a

unique and stylish solution, while ensuring prices remained competitive. EYG was drawn to Alunet Systems for several reasons. The ultra-slim sightlines that define Alunet’s bifold and sliding patio doors particularly stood out, elevating homes with uninterrupted views and an abundance of natural light. The sleek 25mm profiles of these doors are characterised by their contemporary style, making them a practical and attractive choice, and have impressed both EYG and its customers. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, citing the product’s ease of installation and effortless usability.

John Waugh, sales and marketing director at EYG, says of the partnership, “EYG is dedicated to staying at the forefront of

32 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

the industry by updating our product range to meet evolving consumer demands. Our scale and longevity are what set us apart, and our dedication to quality and reliability is as strong as it was five decades ago. In order to keep up our momentum, we have to be selective about who we partner with, ensuring our suppliers are providing us with the best products because that’s what our customers deserve. Alunet has consistently met this requirement. We’re really impressed with their products’ sleek, stylish design and how effortless they are to use, and the positive feedback we’ve received from our customers speaks for itself.”

One of the significant highlights of EYG’s collaboration with Alunet Systems has been its capacity to introduce cutting-edge sliding and bifold doors to its product lineup. These doors have garnered recognition for their impressive aesthetics and user-friendly features. With eight branches operating across the North and East Midlands, EYG is highly regarded across the industry and is trusted among its impressive roster of customers, so manufacturing the best products at the most competitive prices is of the utmost importance.

Mike Moulds, sales director at Alunet Systems explains, “Alunet Systems and EYG’s partnership is set to reshape the home improvement landscape by offering customers unparalleled door solutions that combine security, style and durability. We’re so proud to have EYG as one of our customers because of their longevity in the industry and our shared determination to provide the best possible service. This collaboration reflects Alunet’s dedication to delivering excellence in every aspect of the business, and I’m really looking forward to find out what more we can achieve.” https://www.alunetsystems.co.uk https://www.eygwindows.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

Listers Completes The Offer

With The New Sheerline

Lift-And-Slide Door Listers, ‘the home of Sheerline’, has added the new Sheerline Prestige Lift-and-Slide Patio Door to its comprehensive aluminium offer.

Manufacturing the complete Sheerline range, the new Listers Sheerline Lift-andSlide Patio Door uses the aluminium systems leader’s advanced Thermlock multichamber design, to deliver ‘next generation’ thermal performance.

This includes u-values as low as 1.0W/m2k triple-glazed and 1.4W/m2k double-glazed, making it fully Part L compliant.

The Sheerline Lift-and-Slide also achieves PAS24, and makes Part F compliance a cinch with a discrete overhead vent option.

It’s available from Listers in white, anthracite grey and black on a 10-day lead time, with a further nine on-trend colours

34 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

available in just four weeks.

Roy Frost, Listers MD, said: “We’re adopting the same approach that we brought into play for the Prestige Bi-fold.

“Although we manufacture the complete Sheerline range including Sheerline Prestige and Classic aluminium windows, we understand that our customers also want the flexibility to mix and match PVC-U. “If you’ve got an order for a house full of Veka, Eurocell or R9 windows, plus a lift-and-slide or a bi-fold, you can get the complete order from us on a single delivery and the same lead time, across PVC-U and aluminium.

“Sheerline is a great product but the way that we’re set up to deliver it, makes everything so much simpler for our customers.

That’s what we’re about – we want to make life easy for our customers.”

TRADE NEWS

The Sheerline Lift-and-Slide Door, combines advanced levels of performance with knock-in glazing beads and super slim sightlines of 106mm frame and sash, maximising the glazed area.

These are claimed to be 20%31% slimmer than those of leading competitor systems. It offers a choice of contemporary or stepped sash, offering a perfect match to the rest of the Sheerline range, plus in addition to a standard 80mm, it’s also available in a 52mm slim interlock option.

The Sheerline Lift-and-Slide also maximises design flexibility with a maximum sash weight of 400kg, maximum width of 6.5m and maximum height of 2.5m. It also comes with a choice of three weather-rated thresholds including low and flush threshold options.

Listers became the launch partner

for Sheerline when it added the Sheerline Prestige Bi-fold to its range at the start of 2020.

It followed this with Sheerline’s Prestige Window range, which achieves U-values as low as 1.3W/ m2k with a double-glazed unit and 0.9W/m2k with a triple, and the Sheerline Roof Lantern.

Listers added the beaded Sheerline Classic Window to its offer last December, which with the new Sheerline Lift-and-Slide Door, plus a newly launched Heritage French Door, means that it is the only fabricator to manufacture the complete Sheerline range, says the company.

Roy continued: “We do things properly. Whatever we do, we want

to do it right.

“We’re partnering with Sheerline because we can see the massive opportunities that access to the complete Sheerline range – the bifold, the lift-and-slide, the French door, the roof lantern, and Prestige and Classic windows, gives to our customers.

“The fact that they can also buy it alongside R9, alongside our Timeless Heritage Flush or Eurocell Modus casement window, Doorco composite doors – it’s there for them as part of a single offer on a single order, with the marketing support to win them business.” www.listerwindows.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 35

TRADE NEWS Designer, Business Micros’ Evolution package, and now Business Micros’ LogiKal. Sheerline opted for these software packages as the company wanted to ensure its’ customers could adopt the Sheerline product range using the solutions they are already familiar with. The company also recognises the fact that fabricators need agility, power, and flexibility.

Sheerline Announces LogiKal Integration For

New & Existing Fabricators Sheerline, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of aluminium windows and doors, has announced it’s now supported

by LogiKal software, giving its’ fabricators even more choice when it comes to generating accurate estimations, generating cutting lists and running advanced product specific calculations.

While other software solutions have been developed based on PVC-U requirements, LogiKal is one of the few solutions developed and designed specifically for the aluminium industry. LogiKal has earnt its place as the aluminium software of choice for many fabricators because of its advanced features.

By offering full compatibility, the company is enabling more fabricators to add the Sheerline range to their product offering without altering their established workflows. This is a win/win, says Sheerline, as fabricators benefit from both LogiKal and Sheerline’s advanced features.

According to Sheerline, one of the biggest advantages of this upgrade is the fact LogiKal software uses a CAD-based system. This means it can assist with costings, material planning and manufacturing complex product designs. For instance, it enables Sheerline’s fabricators to perform thermal analysis quickly for a specific manufactured product.

This includes U-value calculations as well as wind-loading for their designs. There is also an option to send designs directly to manufacturing equipment, including CNC machines, through automated links. This is an important feature, says the company, as it reduces the likelihood of errors and saves time.

As a result of Sheerline’s investment, the company now offers its’ fabricators access to three industry-leading software packages. This includes First Degree Systems’ Window

36 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

An ideal way to manage demanding and complex projects LogiKal is supported alongside Sheerline’s other packages meaning Sheerline can easily be adopted by even more customers, regardless of their size or their particular system requirements.

Both new and existing Sheerline customers can benefit from the addition of LogiKal as they now have greater choice when deciding which software to use. Sheerline has a dedicated department to support customers who want to get the most from any of their supported software packages, which includes PST for roof customers.

Software development director for Sheerline, Adrian Girling, said: “If you are in the aluminium sector and require a software application that can cope with the complex products, designs, and requirements that can often challenge your existing software, LogiKal is the best option currently available.”

He added: “For those customers currently employing, or with plans to employ, automatic machinery on the shop-floor (CNC routers, saws, etc), LogiKal also benefits from a pre-existing, comprehensive library of machine links, featuring most popular machinery-brands.

Really easing its introduction into modern production environments” www.sheerline.com

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TRADE NEWS

WRA Welcomes

Launch Of RPS 291 Following extensive discussions with the Environment Agency on behalf of industry, the Wood Recyclers’ Association (WRA) last week (Thursday, November 2nd) welcomed the launch of a new regulatory position statement for waste wood which it says will make it more practical to meet regulatory requirements while still ensuring compliance.

RPS 291 allows, in the short term, for potentially hazardous ‘amber’ waste wood items* removed from domestic premises, demolition sites or other buildings to be stored and processed as non-hazardous provided the material is tested at least quarterly and the results are shared with the WRA.

This means that producers still need to test amber material, but will no longer have to test every item or consign them as hazardous in order to achieve compliance.

Importantly, those who do not share their test results with the WRA and receive a submission report will not be compliant under the RPS. Furthermore, the RPS is short term and if testing does not happen, it could be removed at any time, says the WRA. Other conditions of the RPS, says the WRA, include that material must be destined for Chapter IV biomass plants or panel board manufacture and must be moved under a waste

38 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

transfer note.

The RPS will expire on 1 October 2024 and could be withdrawn before then if sampling and testing is not forthcoming.

According to the WRA, whilst the other UK environmental regulators have not published new positions, they are supporting all of the WRA guidance, so the same principles will apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The development of the RPS, driven by the WRA, follows concerns raised over the last few weeks by the WRA of ongoing confusion over the removal of RPS 250 and what it means for those handling waste wood from household refurbishments.

In particular, some housing associations, roofers and window installers have not been able to access wood skips due

TRADE NEWS

to the requirement to test or consign as hazardous every amber item.

“We welcome the launch of RPS 291 which is the result of us raising concerns about those collecting waste wood from households and some very long discussions with the Environment Agency on behalf of industry”, commented Vicki Hughes, technical lead on the WRA board.

Shelforce

Featured In King Charles III

Commemorative Album

“Testing still needs to happen but this short term RPS will mean it is less onerous and ensure that waste wood can continue to be processed with minimal disruption and cost.”

“We would like to thank the Environment Agency for listening to us and for building the requirement for testing into the regulatory framework.

However, we need to stress that this has only been agreed for a short period on the basis that testing continues and that the results are shared with us.”

“We also need the other trade bodies impacted to engage with their members and encourage testing to ensure that everyone is ready for when the RPS is withdrawn next year.”

To help industry understand the new RPS, the WRA have produced a new video and updated its Frequently Asked Questions document to explain the changes.

These will be available on the WRA website as part of its updated Toolkit on the withdrawal of RPS 250, which contains a number of resources to help operators ensure they are compliant. This includes detailed guidance on how to take samples of amber wood items and send them for testing.

For more information, please visit: https://woodrecyclers.org

Window and door manufacturer Shelforce has been featured in a special 75th birthday commemorative album for King Charles III. Earlier this year, the Birmingham-based Shelforce was presented with The King’s Award for Enterprise in Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility).

The business is now set to feature in the new book King Charles III: The Leadership and Vision of a Modern Monarch, which will be launched at Claridge’s in central London on His Majesty’s 75th birthday – 14 November.

Published by St James’s House and royal biographer Robert Jobson, the book charts Charles’s life, from his

role and responsibilities as the Prince of Wales, to his accession and coronation as king. It also highlights examples of achievement and progress across social, cultural, technological and commercial spheres.

Howard Trotter, Shelforce’s business manager, met King Charles III at a royal reception hosted by His Majesty The King at Buckingham Palace for all Kings Award for Enterprise winners, commented: “It is an unbelievable honour for Shelforce to feature in such an important and historic book in the year of the King’s coronation. We are delighted to represent not only our local community but also the industry.” www.shelforce.com

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 39

TRADE NEWS

Debar Pledges To Prioritise Mental Health At Bradford Headquarters Bi-fold hardware manufacturer and supplier Debar is pledging a commitment to prioritise mental health within the workplace.

With shocking statistics highlighting that the construction industry witnesses more than three times the national average in suicides1, the Bradford-based firm has pledged to support and prioritise the mental health of its dedicated team.

To tackle this issue head on Debar has joined forces with men’s suicide prevention charity, Andy’s Man Club, to help end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and to highlight how support is available within the workplace.

As well as inviting members of the Andy’s Man Club to its headquarters in Bradford, to meet with the team and deliver bespoke training sessions, Debar has also

donated £1,000 to this national charity.

Rachel Mortimer, HR Manager at Debar, said: “It’s shocking to learn that so many people working within the construction industry experience mental ill-health and so we want to do what we can to reassure our team that support is available whenever they need it.

“Ultimately, the mental health of our staff is a number one priority, and we hope that by adding provisions in our workplace we’ll be helping to beat the negative stigma surrounding mental health.

“We’ve chosen to partner with Andy’s Man Club for this initiative because we believe the work they do across the country is incredible.

Not only do we want to continue working closely with their team, but we also want to donate to this amazing cause when we can.”

40 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Debar staff supporting mental health and Andy’s Man Club

Following on from the sessions that Andy’s Man Club has delivered, Debar has also been training a selection of its own staff to become mental health first aiders. This means, specific team members will have the knowledge and skills to identify people experiencing poor mental health and have the confidence to start conversations and signpost to additional support.

“Prioritising mental health in the workplace is incredibly important to us and introducing our own mental health first aiders seemed like the natural next step on this journey,” adds Rachel.

“We believe much more could be done within the construction industry to break down the perception of mental health and this is part of the reason why we want to do what we can to support our team. We want them to feel confident that if ever they needed assistance, reassurance or wanted to talk they know who to approach.” www.debarhardware.com

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TRADE NEWS

SGM Windows

Joins Sheerline As

Stuart Bull of SGM Windows (left) and Tony Basile of Sheerline (right)

A Fabricator Partner

with 12 stock colours to choose from, and fabricators don’t have to wait long for custom colour orders either as all powder coating is done in-house at Sheerline’s vertically integrated manufacturing site in Derbyshire.

Basildon-based SGM Window Manufacturing Ltd (SGM Windows) has been fabricating aluminium windows, doors, and sliding patio doors for around 15 years, however, the company has become a Sheerline fabricator partner after choosing the brand’s fully suited aluminium systems.

The overall performance of Sheerline’s products has also impressed SGM Windows. Both the brand’s ranges offer highperformance U-values, which are helping consumers to reduce their energy usage. In addition, every product is Part-L compliant as standard with double-glazing.

SGM Windows prides itself on carefully choosing suppliers that offer innovative, energy efficient, secure, and reliable products. One of the biggest advantages for SGM is the that between the two ranges available (Prestige and Classic), every aluminium product the

company requires is available.

This includes windows, doors, and the recently launched Prestige lift & slide patio door, which completes the Prestige door range. Every product Sheerline has developed seamlessly matches and integrates, creating a consistent aesthetic and ensuring the products are fitter-friendly, says the company.

Other factors that are said to have influenced SGM Windows’ decision include Sheerline’s reliability and agile service. Short lead times are offered as standard,

42 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Sheerline says its products offer an aesthetic in-line with industry and homeowner trends. Super slim sightlines enable homeowners to create bright, open, airy spaces, while the choice of colours available (including dual colours) helps customers to create a

TRADE NEWS unique, yet stylish look for their homes.

In addition, it offers lots of styling options; Sheerline’s signature stepped look, flush stepped, contemporary, and flush contemporary. Plus, versatile threshold options for all the door options, including bi-folds and the new patio door, including a concealed ‘zero’ threshold suitable for sheltered installations.

All these factors, coupled with the company’s reliable, UK based supply chain and Sheerline CEO Roger Hartshorn’s proven track record within the fenestration industry for innovative and highquality products, are said to have strengthened the relationship between Sheerline and SGM Windows.

Stuart Bull, sales director at SGM Windows, said: “When we’re choosing our supply partners, we have to think about our customers.

We know they want a simple, streamlined process, as well as products that are easy to fit and attractive to homeowners. With Sheerline, we get that and more – it really is a superb range of products.”

“We’ve recently opened a new showroom, which enables us to showcase the full product range and all the styling options available.

We invite our customers to get in touch directly if they’d like to see first-hand what Sheerline has to offer ,” he added.

Sheerline CEO, Roger Hartshorn, commented: “It’s brilliant that SGM Windows have become a fabricator partner. The fact our ethos and core values are aligned makes perfect business sense, as it means we have the same goal for our customers, which is a streamlined, consistent, resilient supply chain and products that exceed their expectations.” www.sheerline.com www.sgmwindows.co.uk

Leka Systems:

“We’re Continuing To See Rapid Growth…”

Leka Systems show site at the award-winning National Self Build and Renovation Centre in Swindon. Rhys said: “Our show site opened in September 2023. We’re already seeing great success with our training centre and increased enquiry levels from developers, self-builders and renovators.”

Leka Systems’ reputation as a manufacturer of innovative home improvement solutions continues to grow, as its most recent figures show. Rhys Hoddinott, managing director of Leka Systems, said: “We’re continuing to see rapid growth as more and more people see the benefits our products bring to fabricators, installers and homeowners.”

The numbers Leka has released are impressive across the board. In the last 12 months, the company has received 24 new fabricator enquiries with several joining the network. There are over 80 installation companies that install Leka products regularly and a total of over 350 installation companies that buy Leka products. This positive trajectory is expected to continue as evidence by the substantial increase in installer enquiries totalling over 280 in the last 12 months.

Interest is growing from homeowners too, says the company – in the past 10 months, Leka has received over 1,000 enquiries direct from homeowners.

This number looks set to increase still further with the recent opening of the

Rhys commented: “We have a robust strategic sales and marketing strategy in place to raise awareness with fabricators, installers and homeowners. But the truth is that our products sell themselves because they are innovative solutions backed with impressive business support that make a real difference to fabricators’ and installers’ bottom lines and homeowners’ lifestyles.”

Leka has four core systems.

According to the company, the Leka Xi provides a warm, sustainable alternative to a traditional block/brick-built conservatory base/wall.

The Leka Warm Roof can replace most glass, fibreglass and polycarbonate roofing systems, all without the need for additional bracing. The Leka Orangery Roof replaces existing fibreglass, traditional build, glass or polycarbonate roofing system with a lightweight, thermally efficient, structural Orangery roof replacement system.

The Leka Carport & Canopy provides a durable, lightweight and rapid construction alternative over more traditional carport systems. www.lekasystems.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 43

TRADE NEWS Emplas operates a 14-vehicle fleet. This includes 10 HGVs which exclusively use low emission Euro 6 engines. This includes delivery of two brand new Volvo FM Rigid 18-tonne trucks at the end of August.

This has contributed to a 15% fuel reduction in the last year while Emplas is working to build-in a further 10-20% reduction in emissions through the introduction of new route planning software.

Emplas Drives Forward With Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme Approval Emplas has become one of only a handful of window and door companies to become Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) accredited, having successfully completed a rigorous assessment of its fleet management processes.

FORS is a voluntary scheme which helps leading businesses across sectors, to improve operator safety, fuel efficiency and to lower fleet emissions.

Having gone through a detailed assessment, Emplas has achieved FORS Bronze, the first, but a significant step forward on its journey to FORS Gold status.

This, it is claimed, delivers a direct advantage to Emplas customers by increasing safety – but also specifically to Emplas’ customers working in

the commercial space, as Emily Earl, Emplas Transport Manager, explained.

“To achieve FORS, we’re inspected against every part of our operation from recruitment, driver health and safety and well-being; complaints; how we deal, record and learn from any infringements. It’s about policies, processes and risk assessments”, she said.

“The advantage that it delivers is that it makes us better at what we do which benefits all of our customers. For some of the customers we work with who operate in the commercial sector, it’s an added advantage as it clears us for delivery to certain sites that we wouldn’t be able to access otherwise.

“It makes us tighter and better at what we do.”

44 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Emily continued: “A lot of the things that we’re assessed against like working to lower and monitor fuel consumption we’re doing anyway.

“What FORS gives you is a recognised framework in which to operate, from how you develop vehicle lists, how you deal with infringements, training and support, how you communicate across the team, as well as setting timeframes for review.

“We’ve also appointed internal champions for different areas of the scheme, for example emissions, health and safety, and security and operations to drive further improvements.

“Our customers know that we are doing everything as a business that we can to get product to them on time and safely.”

Jody Vincent, sales director at Emplas added: “The FORS assessment brings together a lot of the things that we were doing but gives us an additional accreditation which directly benefits customers working on new build sites where FORS accreditation is a requirement.

“Maximising efficiencies within our fleet, while upholding the highest standards of safety, is a benefit to everyone.” www.emplas.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

NBP’s Delivery

Service Keeps Problem

Vans Off The Road

Northern Building Plastics says its ‘class-leading delivery service has never been more beneficial’.

Figures released by Direct Line business insurance last month confirmed there are nearly 4.5 million vans on British roads, a record high since data started being collected in 1994 and representing a 37 percent increase in the last decade. With those vans responsible for the fastest growing source of CO₂ emitted from transport in Europe, we need to see a swift, significant move towards zero emission vans to meet Europe’s climate neutrality objective by 2050.

These statistics, coming from Europe’s leading clean transport

campaign group Transport & Energy are no shock to Northern Building Plastics, and the £1 million-stocked Super Depots are giving their trade customers even more reason to ditch the driving and utilise NBP’s impressive delivery fleet for a fast, planetfriendlier service instead.

“Our customers are as ecoconscious as we all need to be in 2023, but they also need to get the job done, sometimes to tight deadlines,” explains Stephen Jones, sales director of Northern Building Plastics.

“That’s why our large fleet and next day delivery service has proven to be so valuable to our customers, who no longer add to the pollution

46 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

problem by sitting in traffic for large portions of their days.”

NBP’s delivery fleet of 65 vehicles across four Super Depots – based in Birtley, Hinckley, Bolton and Leeds – include specially extended vehicles that can transport up to six metre lengths. This means its £1 million of building products per Super Depot can be simply ordered online, any time up to 10pm, and delivered direct-to-site the next day. The service is free, with no minimum order value, and means NBP’s customers save valuable time navigating traffic to get the materials they need, while also saving money on costly fuel and city transport schemes.

It’s no wonder vans are hitting headlines as a thorn in the side of the global initiative to go green, emitting almost twice the nitrogen oxides of the average car, and NBP’s large fleet is keeping them off the road for unnecessary trips every day.

“We now have 65 vehicles across our four Super Depots, allowing us to provide customers with a

TRADE NEWS

Kubu Strengthens

Its Intellectual PropertyPortfolio

With Granted Patent For Coil Sensing Technology

Stephen Jones

rapid and reliable service,” explains Steve.

“This means our customers don’t have to venture out in their van, as they can get their products delivered directly to site, which not only saves them time, but also helps cut down on emissions and saves on fuel.

“We’ve also invested in some specially extended vehicles, which means we can securely transport up to six metre lengths.”

After opening its first depot in 2010, NBP has successfully rolled out its Super Depot model, strategically placed to cover the whole of the North and the Midlands.

“As well as the number of delivery vehicles we have, our rapid service is also down to the high levels of stock we keep at our four depots, each holding at least £1 million of products. We don’t have to order anything in before we ship because everything is already on the shelves, ready to be loaded onto our delivery trucks.

“You can place an order on our website until 10pm, and because we have a team of warehouse staff who work through the night, we can ensure that customers get products delivered direct, the very next working day, for free. This is what sets us apart and helps our customers complete projects on schedule.” www.nbp.co.uk

Hot on the heels of its recent “clip-in” window sensor patent – a mechanism that allows sensors to be ‘effortlessly’ clipped on and off a mounting bracket affixed to the window frame’s interior – Kubu has announced another significant addition to their portfolio of intellectual property, with the granting of a patent for its innovative wire coil sensing technology.

This latest patent specifically covers the use of wire coils enclosed in a plastic housing, enabling a sensor to accurately report the opening, closing, locking and venting mode of a window or door, says the company.

Ryan Bromley, co-founder of Kubu, remarked, “Each patent we secure is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to genuine innovation in the smart security space. Our wire coil technology is another feather in our cap, reinforcing Kubu’s leadership in the Smart Security industry.”

The fenestration industry is rapidly evolving, with fabricators and installers on the lookout

for genuine, reliable Smart solutions. Kubu says the fenestration market, however, is witnessing many new products – from rebrands of imported tech to genuine certified innovative products – making it ever more difficult for industry professionals to know who they can trust.

Mark Bromley, CEO at Kubu, stated, “It’s imperative for fabricators and installers to choose tech from a manufacturer, rather than a distributor, and that the manufacturer can evidence that they own the IP for the products they are selling.”

Ryan continued, “Our position in the market has been further reinforced, as we now have two very distinct patents relating to window sensors.”

“One that covers a sensor being clipped to a bracket and now this one that covers metal detection on a window. Both are very unique and narrow in their scope, giving us very strong protection on this type of smart sensing product.” getkubu.com

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 47

TRADE NEWS

Everest Unveils New Window

And Door System With 0.80 U-Value Everest, the renowned home improvement brand with over five decades of experience, has unveiled a pioneering addition to its product line – an innovative uPVC window and door system that’s been created in collaboration with systems company, Veka.

Over recent months Everest has invested heavily in a complete redesign of their core window and door range with each component part selected for its leading specifications, including a 44mm triple glazed unit and profile system developed with new partners Veka. The result is an impressive U-value of 0.80.

Paula Chambers, CEO of Everest, highlights, “We

recognise that consumers place particular importance on security, comfort, aesthetics, environmental responsibility, and affordability. Our new window and door system delivers on all these fronts, a particularly crucial offering in a time when both environmental impact and budget concerns weigh heavily on everyone’s minds.”

She continues, “In a world where escalating energy costs and the undeniable effects of global warming have heightened awareness, energy efficiency and environmental stewardship now take precedence for consumers, businesses, and policymakers alike. The Future Homes Standard, slated

48 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

to guide the fenestration industry towards reducing the UK’s carbon emissions by 2025, emphasises the role of windows and doors. While the specific requirements are yet to be confirmed, preliminary guidelines suggest a U-value of 0.80 for new homes. While the regulations for replacement windows and doors are expected to be less stringent, we are proud to be able to offer our customers a range which meets this benchmark.”

She further explains, “At Everest, we wholeheartedly embrace the UK Government’s vision of achieving net zero emissions which goes hand-inhand with our customers’ desire to invest in quality products which will save on their energy bills. This is why we’ve set an ambitious U-value target of 0.80 for our window performance.

This commitment has spurred us to develop a range of products perfectly aligned with the proposed Future Homes Standards.

“These innovations empower homeowners to enhance the insulation performance of their existing homes, making a substantial contribution to a more sustainable future.

Our A++ energy-saving tripleglazed window, complemented by our 44mm glazing unit, not only meets but surpasses the replacement sector’s standards.

Furthermore, we offer a wide array of glass types, each providing unique advantages, including solar control and superior acoustic performance.”

According to Everest the response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, and the company eagerly anticipates delivering more high-performing products to the industry in the months and years ahead. www.everest.co.uk

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VIEWPOINT

The Business Pilot Barometer offers a monthly analysis of the key trends defining window and door retail. It draws on real industry data collated by Business Pilot, the cloud-based business management tool.To find out more see www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer

The Business Pilot Barometer Unexpected rebound?

By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot At a glance, the Business Pilot Barometer figures look promising for October 2023: average leads were up 16.5% to 115.9, and average sales jumped 18.9% to 56.6. And compared to the same period last year, they are up 23.8% and 28.9% respectively.

It is worth remembering that this time last year, the market was still reeling from Liz Truss’s and Kwasi Kwarteng’s disastrous mini budget on September 23, 2022, when sterling fell in value against the US dollar, and inflation jumped to over 10%.

This time last year homeowners were facing the prospect of a winter with unusually high energy costs, while the war raged on in Ukraine, which fuelled further uncertainty.

Not ideal conditions for home buying/selling or, indeed, home refurbishment.

In fact, house prices have been falling slightly, and Nationwide building society reported at the beginning of October 2023 that they are 3.3% 50 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

VIEWPOINT lower than they were a year ago. The good news, however, is that there was a month-onmonth increase of 0.9% to October 2023, which added £1,600 to the cost of the typical property.

Economists had been predicting a continued fall in house prices, so this increase has come as a surprise to many.

But context is everything. It is unlikely that October’s small increase in house prices will signal the start of a house boom – especially this side of Christmas – and mortgage rates are still on the high side, especially for those homeowners who have got used to historically low interest rates.

When the Bank of England kept interest rate rises the same at the start of November 2023, it said that we shouldn’t expect any changes until Q3 2024. While this is obviously not set in stone, those thinking about moving house may also decide to bring forward plans if mortgage rates are unlikely to fall dramatically in the next 12 months.

Could we see a positive end to a tricky year? www.businesspilot.co.uk

We in the glass and glazing industry are also looking at the market through our own lens, and the recent collapse of both UK Window & Door Group and Safestyle will leave many of us cautious, especially as we have seen leads and sales struggle over the course of the year.

I think that we will need to view Q4 in its entirety to get a true picture of how the market is behaving as we head towards 2024 – one swallow doesn’t make a spring.

But the fact that we are seeing leads up, sales up, the average order value drop 18.7% to £3,140, and the average conversion rate fall back slightly to 43.5%, suggests that the volume end of the market is starting to pick up again, hinting at a return to confidence.

Going back to the surprise increase in house prices this month, the simple driver for this is that demand is outstripping supply. And if this is the start of a slow upward trend, then homeowners who have been delaying a decision to move may want to get the ball moving if they think the market has already bottomed out.

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 51

VIEWPOINT

Open Letter:

In Defence Of The

White Casement Window Ryan Johnson, Group Managing Director, Emplas explains why any business failure is bad for the industry.

The failure of any big window business inevitably draws comment. Safestyle and UKWG are two examples. Analysis has highlighted size, scale, and product offering. Safestyle, in particular, has drawn criticism from some for having too great a focus on ‘standard white PVC-U’.

They argue that this ‘narrow focus’ directly contributed to its downfall, a glaring failure on the part of the retail giant to recognise a shift in home improvement trends away from white product to foils, flush and aluminium – a failure of the volume model.

Ryan Johnson

to colour and aluminium. They do it because they have a direct commercial interest – as we do.

“White PVC-U windows remain central to our offer.”

Emplas manufactures white PVC-U windows at volume. We also manufacture and supply flush windows, foiled products, and aluminium.

This analysis is far too simplistic. Yes, UKWG and Safestyle were volume businesses. To attribute their failure to the decline of the mass-produced white window? For me it doesn’t resonate.

We started by manufacturing white PVC-U windows – and we grew by manufacturing white PVC-U windows. We’ve expanded and adapted our product offer along the way, but white PVC-U windows remain central to our offer.

Sectors of the industry are pushing a narrative that home improvement is moving away from white PVC-U

Why? It’s because of demand. White casement windows are the backbone of this industry. They are

52 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

VIEWPOINT packed with technology, including a new generation of smart products.

Flush, foils and aluminium are an important part of Emplas’ offer and the retail mix, but not everyone wants or can afford them. White casements are its foundation, and we should be proud of that, not talk down a technically advanced product.

“Volume fabricators are drivers of innovation.”

The narrative that volume manufacture and white casements are the cause of Safestyle and UKWG’s demise is false. Venture capital and management failure play a far bigger part.

The loss of Safestyle is damaging. It’s been suggested that the gap that its left will lead to a cascade of leads to smaller independent retailers. There may be some short-term gains long-term, however, it will cost the industry.

Safestyle was an innovator. It built awareness and it generated leads through its spend on marketing.

Safestyle reached people thinking about buying windows and people who didn’t even know that they were thinking about buying windows.

These leads used to filter down to independent installers. We know, we saw it in our own retail businesses.

I’m not suggesting Safestyle was a retail lead generation service for the rest of the industry, but it did create retail demand. Independent retailers are going to have to fill that void by increasing their own marketing spend.

I also want to push back on some of the comments about the volume model. Volume fabricators are drivers of innovation. We work in partnership with our suppliers to develop new products and we set new standards for service and support.

Emplas’ partnerships with Kubu and Avantis have been instrumental in bringing new innovations to market. We also work closely with Epwin to drive positive change in our industry.

The work that we have done on 24/7 ordering, or tracking, two-hour delivery slots and 20-minute notifications on arrival, have driven a shift in expectations of service. We have more exciting developments to come in 2024, which will move the industry even further forward.

That innovation has been built on demand for the white casement window and will continue to be built on it. We would be wise to remember it. www.emplas.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 53

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VIEWPOINT

Collaboration Is Key To Innovation Collaboration is key to the development of the glass and glazing industry in the next decade, because closer integration of products and services will help drive innovation, improve efficiency and create a better user experience.

This is one of the key findings of a roundtable debate hosted by Business Pilot and VBH in October, which promises to be the first in a series of events designed to explore and promote innovation in the fenestration sector.

it now plays in the design, manufacture and supply of windows and doors. Present were Elton Boocock (Business Pilot); Simon Monks (VBH); Greg Beachim (First Degree Systems/ Cyncly); Ryan Breslin (Cherwell Windows/Business Pilot); Jay Patel (Everglade Windows); Darren Pusey (Winmac); Marc Henson (Kubu Smart); Ryan Schofield (Thames Valley Windows/ Business Pilot); Sophie Stevens (Total Installer/Total Fabricator); and Nathan Bushell (Lasco PR & Marketing).

This inaugural gathering brought together representatives from leading companies to discuss digital innovation, and the role

“The glazing industry has made significant progress over the last few years, in terms of digitising the way we work,” co-organiser

54 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Elton Boocock

Elton Boocock said. “From design and quoting tools, to cloud-based business management systems, manufacturing automation to smart home technology, digital innovation is playing a key role in the way we work.

“As an innovative leader in the industry, we wanted to bring together other leaders to discover how they introduce new technology and digital initiatives.

We also wanted to discover how the whole industry could benefit from this exciting revolution.”

In a wide-ranging debate, the delegates shared their views on how digital innovation is shaping new products, developing efficient manufacture, and improving data analysis.

On the manufacturing side, Cyncly’s Greg Beachim and Winmac’s Darren Pusey explained

VIEWPOINT possible if all parts can work together seamlessly.

“I remember a time when window fabricators were reluctant to let other people into their factories,” he said. “But true innovation comes from machines and software working closely together, as well as with the rest of the manufacturing and supply chain companies. Collaborating is key for real quality growth – you need to get all pieces to mesh together.”

how creating efficiencies can lead to fewer errors as well as closer collaboration with other companies in the supply chain, which leads to new opportunities and improved profits.

“We need an environment where every part of the manufacturing process can work together seamlessly,” Greg said. “And having systemised processes is key to this.

“We are modernising Window Designer so that it is easy to use, not only for fabricators, but also through to the retailer. For example, our SQL databases will give users greater clarity and allow them to share data. We will stifle innovation if we don’t give people the tools to do that, and we want to help them be the best they can be.”

Darren said the move to greater automation reduces waste, increases output and improves profitability. And this is only truly

“Integration is key,” he said.

“Talking and listening to other companies and their customers is key to collecting and understanding the data that will drive future innovation. We are already talking to VBH about new products.”

The importance of data was picked up by Cherwell Windows’ Ryan Breslin, who also co-designed the Business Pilot CRM software for installers.

From a fabricator’s perspective, Everglade Windows’ Jay Patel said embracing technology in the workplace will give you more time to invest in other areas of the business, but it is the connection with the end user that will create the real benefits.

“Innovation has given business owners the tools to understand how their companies are run,” he said. “Business Pilot has allowed us to confidently grow the business because we can see at a glance what works and what doesn’t.

“Innovation will create an improved consumer experience, which will allow them to interact with our products in a more meaningful way,” Jay said. “I think this is a mentality our industry needs to adopt because it shifts the narrative away from one simply based on cost – in fact, competing on price will undervalue this.

“Without Business Pilot, I’ve seen people make decisions based on emotion and gut feeling rather than data, and they could have missed out on opportunities.”

“Ultimately, if you create this desire, thanks to innovation, then homeowners will ask for your products, which means you don’t have to work as hard selling them.”

Simon Monks and Marc Henson explained how VBH and Kubu adopted this mindset when they developed their smart security partnership.

“We could have spent years conducting our own research, but after talking to Kubu we realised we had a great opportunity to work with the industry leaders in smart hardware technology,” Simon said. “Plus, they had access to our networks and industry knowledge.”

Marc said this approach to collaborative thinking helped Kubu stay one step ahead of market demands.

Ryan’s Business Pilot partner, and owner of Thames Valley Windows Ryan Schofield, agreed.

“Business Pilot gives you clarity,” he said. “And we are definitely seeing people talking and sharing ideas more than they were 15 years ago. When this happens, the total is often greater than the sum of the separate parts.”

Concluding, Elton thanked the delegates for attending and confirmed there would be future events.

“Openness is key to helping us to drive the industry forward,” he said. “How are we truly going to innovate if people operate behind closed doors and in their separate ecosystems?

“Today has been extremely informative, and so we need to make sure discussions like this are ongoing.” www.businesspilot.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 55

VIEWPOINT are particularly vulnerable because their overheads are greater.

The question isn’t about scale.

It is about how businesses are run. Larger scale fabricators can negotiate harder, they have resource to innovate. If they’re investment-led, they can pull the rest of the industry up with them.

Bigger isn’t, however, always better by default. If margin is sacrificed for volume, it doesn’t serve anyone in the industry, systems companies, fabricators, or installers because it drives instability and business failures.

Rob McGlennon

Do The Figures Still Add Up For Volume

Fabricators?

By Rob McGlennon, managing director of Deceuninck,

terminal and in that, there is a warning for all of us.

It’s been a stormy end to summer and start to autumn.

Profit warnings from Safestyle were followed by the collapse of Duraflex and now, UK Windows and Doors Group.

There is a phrase that springs to mind: ‘top line is vanity; bottom line is sanity; but cash flow is reality’.

Routes to market for each may be very different but what they share is a volume model. Safestyle and UKWG are massive fabrication businesses – and both have fallen on harder times as trading conditions have become more challenging.

Safestyle, for the moment continues to fight on. The management team there have a plan and while Safestyle may not be at the top of everyone’s Christmas card list, I wish them well.

For UKWG things have been

Deceuninck isn’t the cheapest profile on the market, neither are we the most expensive.

We have grown on the strength of investment, the proven stability that we bring to systems supply, and on the flexibility of our colour offer.

That carries through to Deceuninck customers. They sell more colour than anyone else, their customers do the same.

Colour delivers higher margin opportunities for fabricators and installers – and that means more margin.

There is a reason why the Duraflex/UKWG model didn’t work. They may have been ‘manufacturing 10,000 frames and 15,000 glass units a week’ but they weren’t making enough money and fundamentally didn’t have enough cash in the bank.

As we have said before, not everyone is feeling the impact of inflation in the same way. The people who are buying colour tend to be more insulated from the squeeze on household incomes, and it’s a sector of the market that alongside flush, continues to perform strongly.

Are they alone? If I was a betting man, I’d say not. There are some other very big fabricators out there who will also be feeling the pinch of inflationary overheads and toughening market conditions.

This is where for my money we should be moving as an industry.

Upselling and delivering a better product to the end-user. They get a better product and we get a fair price.

I never want to see any business fail but I do believe we’re in for a period of reckoning. Cashflow will be tested and volume fabricators

Is that the direction that I think the industry will move in? I hope so.

56 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

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VIEWPOINT

The Future Starts Today As this interview with Ian Cocken – aluplast’s director of sales and marketing – takes place, a handful of high-profile large fabricators have either called in the administrators, or are rumoured to be struggling.

It also coincides with news from the Office for National Statistics that insolvencies (across the board) are at their highest since the financial crisis of 2009, which underlines the concern that volume in the window and door industry is down.

“We’ve heard anecdotally that leads have been reducing in number for about the last year,” Cocken says. “And we have seen

that feed through to our orders to some extent. But they are not at the levels that some people are reporting.

“Yes, cash isn’t as readily available as it was in the months following the series of lockdowns in 2020 and 2021, but there is still significant activity.”

Cocken makes the point that larger fabricators are typically well-known because of their size, which creates a distorted view of the market.

“Size really doesn’t matter,” Cocken says. “A well-run business is a well-run business, and we work with our customers to make

58 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

the most of the opportunities that are available. And to provide a secure supply of profile to help them create a stronger brand.

“This creates a virtuous circle, since as supplier, we can then invest in our own infrastructure to provide an even better service and product range.

“It’s a strategy carefully designed by aluplast, and it is currently paying off.”

At the heart of aluplast’s strategy is a significant investment in its new extrusion and distribution facility in Poland.

Built at a cost of more than 50 million euros, the plant sits on a 15-hectare site. Fifty high-speed extrusion lines are currently being installed, alongside a mixing plant, R&D facilities and foiling lines.

Cocken points out that since aluplast is still a family-run business, this decision to invest in infrastructure was made five years ago – before the pandemic.

VIEWPOINT

“aluplast isn’t managed by investors,” he says. “Decisions made at board level are made for the long-term health of the business, and for the benefit of our customers.

“We are also improving our facilities here in the UK. Again, this isn’t to meet current demand, but future requirements, especially as we welcome new customers and extend our product ranges.”

Bereco MD States Industry Must Prepare For Increase In Triple

Glazing, At Glazing Summit “It was a very interesting and wide-ranging debate,” she said, “and we looked at pricing, consumer demand and the impact of technology. Triple glazing offers a good solution for homeowners in terms of sustainability and keeping fuel bills to a minimum – especially when combined with the sustainable timber windows we supply.

Cocken says that aluplast won a significant amount of new business in the wake of the covid pandemic as it was able to continue supplying product as others struggled, and again more recently as suppliers have withdrawn from the market.

“Right now, the focus is on a secure supply of high value products,” he says. “And we are seeing this translate into higher sales for our flush casement window and doors, which are compatible with our Ideal 70 and Ideal 4000 profiles, along with a wide colour choice on short lead times.

“Customers are also showing increased interest in our flushfit, 76mm Ideal neo window, and our Smart-Slide neo sliding door system, both of which offer industry leading levels of thermal performance, and which can open new opportunities as we approach a low-carbon future.”

Cocken is keen to stress that aluplast is not positioning itself simply as a profile supplier, but as a partner.

“We’ve seen how businesses struggle if they simply compete on price,” he says.

“Unfortunately, as a strategy, that doesn’t have legs. We are much more interested in investing in the future, today, and taking our customers on that journey with us.” www.aluplast.co.uk

Nicola Harrison, MD, Bereco

A lively debate around the future of triple glazing was spearheaded by Bereco MD Nicola Harrison at an industry gathering in Birmingham. Nicola was a panellist on the Installer debate at the 2023 Glazing Summit held on October 12 at Edgbaston Stadium.

During the debate, which centred on the challenges impacting the industry in the face of rising costs and market slowdown, conversation turned to triple glazing and whether it is an effective solution.

Several panellists argued that triple glazing is a hinderance, barely benefitting householders but Nicola disagreed. Instead, Nicola highlighted how triple glazing is undeniably beneficial to homeowners. In fact, she believes as the industry edges closer towards the Future Homes Standard, demand for triple glazing will increase significantly.

“Both the Future Homes Standard and further changes to the UK building regulations is likely to impact the demand for triple glazed windows and ultimately cause major problems with supply chains. This is because glass companies are still not set up to supply this product in high quantities. So, as an industry we need to start preparing for this increase in demand.

“At Bereco, we’ve worked with triple glazing for many years and we’ve seen fantastic results time and time again. Plus, when contained within our timber frames, it can return a U-value of 0.8W/m²K which is significantly better than the new 2022 Part L Building Regulations allow for.

“Speaking to our customers who’ve had triple glazing installed, we’ve been told that their investment was worth every penny in terms of warmer homes, lower bills and contribution to overall sustainability generally.” www.bereco.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 59

VIEWPOINT

Andy Royle

Opportunities For Installers Still There Despite Prediction

Of Tough Year Ahead, Says Leads2Trade With the message from the Glazing Summit that the industry can expect a tough year ahead, installers will need to make sure they are doing all they can to stay ahead – because there will be opportunities for them, says Andy Royle, co-founder and director of Leads2Trade.

On the face of it, the prediction that came out of this year’s Glazing Summit of a tough next 12 months for the industry is worrying, and installers could be forgiven for fearing the worst.

Of course, we’d all like the buoyant market from the few years after the pandemic, but there have always been peaks and troughs in demand for home improvements from consumers.

The cost-of-living crisis is leading to low consumer confidence and with many fixed-rate mortgages converting to variable, consumers

disposable income is likely to be squeezed even more.

And as the market has slowed, installers will have found it much tougher to get enquiries and win business through their own, selfgenerated, efforts.

But the leads and enquiries are out there for installers, and installers who put plans in place when it comes to lead generation will continue to fill up their order books.

As a leading provider of double qualified window, door and conservatory sales leads for companies in the home improvement industry, we are still seeing a huge number of enquiries through our comparison service and our online assets and it’s no surprise that we have strengthened our network and are helping more installers generate

60 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

the leads they need to mitigate the market slowdown.

Installers can reach consumers on-line who they wouldn’t necessarily be able to reach with their own branded advertising and SEO campaigns as we market ourselves as a comparison service for consumers, which is what more and more consumers want when it comes to their home improvements, particularly when times are tough. There could also be a shift to local business, so consumers will be looking for the right installer in their area.

Insight Data’s ‘State of the Industry Report’ at the Glazing Summit also revealed that the number of installation firms has steadily declined since 2017, going from 13,281 to 11,840, which is a 10 percent drop across that period. Less installers means less competition, so there will be chances to increase market share.

Installers will have to work harder to convert leads into business moving forward this year, but with a clear lead generation plan they can not only weather the storm but thrive. https://bit.ly/3ut9YBO

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VIEWPOINT

Two Years On With Force 8

Employee-Owned Trust It has now been two years since Force 8 pioneered the EmployeeOwned Trust (EOT), and now they can reflect on the strategic decision, which has proven to be an outstanding success.

In an industry where staff and skill shortages are starting to bite, Force 8 has found what it believes is a unique and long-lasting solution to part of the problem, particularly staff retention. In the last two years, other companies within the industry have also followed Force 8’s lead, by instigating similar

schemes.

The industry is currently grappling with a significant challenge: a notable shortage of skilled staff. As the demand for windows and doors continues, finding qualified staff with the expertise and retaining them has become increasingly difficult.

This shortage not only poses operational challenges for companies within the window and door market, but also puts pressure on meeting the growing consumer demand for energyefficient and durable window

62 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

and door solutions. Addressing this shortage is crucial for sustaining growth, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring customer satisfaction within a the competitive a market.

“An EOT (Employee-Owned company) is one where 51% or over of the shares are in a trust for the benefit of all employees,” comments Lisa Mottershead operations director for Force 8.

“The trust, which oversees the management of the company, includes shop floor representative and one non-working independent person. The trustee board must meet certain legal requirements and ensure that the company is always acting in the best interest of all the employees.

Alongside this, a Forum is made up from staff and directors with the aim of improving the company and discussing new ideas.

“Companies embracing employee ownership frequently witness heightened productivity,

VIEWPOINT decreased absenteeism, augmented revenue streams, and enhanced profitability. These positive outcomes tend to persist over the long term, fuelled by the sustained motivation of the workforce. In the case of Force 8, it was decided that the full 100% of the shares should be within the trust. Every eligible staff member, having been employed over 12 months, can receive a tax-free amount of up to £3600 within the fiscal year. This was recently manifested in a £500 tax-free bonus for the Easter holidays, mirroring a similar pay-out preceding Christmas.

The workforce expresses genuine satisfaction in reaping the rewards of the company’s success, acknowledging the tangible recognition for their dedicated time and effort.

array of sections is consistently available, which would be almost impossible with multiple profile brands and sections.

“The decisions to undertake these initiatives was a collaborative effort, involving the entire company. Prior to making these changes, thorough discussions were conducted, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity, and ensuring that every team member feels not only informed but also genuinely valued. Adopting this transparent and participatory approach to company operations has fostered a sense of unity and shared ownership among our team”.

Force 8 were the first to implement an EOT within the industry, and others have now followed suit. While it may not be the sole remedy for the current skills shortage prevalent in the market, Force 8 sees it as a pivotal piece of the puzzle that has been successfully addressed. The positive impact of the EOT is reflected in the team’s longevity and unwavering support, showcasing a workforce that is not only staying, but thriving within the company.

“The EOT has totally altered the company dynamics and created the perfect team spirit within the workforce, everyone has become a quality control expert making sure every product is perfect and delivered on time. When Dennis Sumner, our MD first explained the EOT to the workforce, not everyone within the company was on board with the scheme, so Dennis took the decision to put the plan on hold until everyone was happy to proceed.

“As you could imagine, there were a lot of questions as to how it would all work. But with the help from JMW Solicitors LLP, and Clarke Nicklin accountants everyone was eventually satisfied with the plan, and the EOT went ahead in October 2021. It was Dennis who decided to go with the full 100% rather than the normal 51%. His view was if you are going to do this, you need to fully commit to it, which also helped to convince the staff that this was the way forward for the company.

“In the past two years, we’ve implemented several enhancements, including the

establishment of our in-house paint facility. This tactical move empowers us with comprehensive quality control throughout the entire composite door manufacturing process.

We also took the decision to specialise in just two profiles for the bending process, Veka and Halo, which has enabled us to make investments in specific software and state-of-the-art CNC machinery. The choice of these profiles has stemmed from its versatility, offering a wide array of sections that make it the ideal choice for bending profiles for various installations in either windows or doors. We can also ensure that a wide

Dennis Sumner, the founder of Force 8, reflects on the Employee Ownership Trust decision, stating, “Opting for the EOT was among the best choices we’ve made. I only regret not making it sooner.

While it involves a complex process with substantial paperwork, the outcome more than justifies the effort invested.

If you are contemplating the EOT route for the future and would like some insights, I’m open to a conversation. I’d be glad to share my experience and offer assistance where possible.”

For more information visit www.force8.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 63

VIEWPOINT CAB have been pioneering for some time with their own ‘Closed Loop Recycling Scheme’ where members report their recycling within the scheme.

Chalcots Estate, Camden.

Recycling Aluminium

Profiles Of Today

By Phil Slinger – CAB CEO Since aluminium’s commercialisation in the 1880’s with the advent of the HallHéroult process, aluminium’s recyclability has been well documented. In fact, it has always been encouraged as the material is valued highly with its ability to be virtually 100% recycled. With the advent of portable handheld XRF analysers (X-Ray Fluorescence) the ability outside the laboratory to identify the various aluminium alloys now allows easier recycling of various alloys back into their original grades.

There are currently eight ‘series’ of ‘grades’ used to identify the different types of aluminium alloy available. An alloy is created by mixing other types of materials into the pure aluminium to offer desirable features such

as greater strength or a higher melting temperature. These ‘mixes’ are recognised as ‘series’ or ‘grades’ of aluminium that offer different properties, each having a specific application and use. Grades are identified using four-digit numbers with the first number denoting the ‘series’ or ‘grade’ which also indicates the primary alloying elements. This grading system is known as the International ‘Alloy Designation System’. Extrusion grade aluminium used in fenestration is normally a 6061 or 6063 grade of alloy both of which use magnesium and silicon as the alloying elements to create magnesium silicide.

Quickly identifying the alloy enables a closed loop recycling opportunity where there is no loss of quality through cross contamination with other alloys.

This has been something that

64 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

One CAB recycler member, Alutrade in the Midlands, has perfected a separation process for aluminium fenestration products where thermal breaks and hardware are removed, resulting in a ‘clean’ aluminium alloy presented in a chipped form for easy handling and transport.

This chipped alloy is then shipped directly to a re-melter where the recycled aluminium is formed back into billet or logs for the extrusion process.

So, from aluminium extruded windows back into 6061 or 6063 extrusions which are very likely to be window profiles once again.

Main contractors, their clients and specifiers of fenestration systems are now becoming aware of this short, economic, closed loop recycling ability of aluminium fenestration known as a ‘cradle to cradle’ approach. Aluminium is a valuable commodity, so to adopt a remove, recycle and reuse approach realising its value can significantly contribute to the cost of a replacement facade.

A couple of years ago, Camden Council awarded McLaren Construction a £100m contract to re-clad four towers on Camden’s Chalcots Estate.

Re-clad in 2008, the high-rise estate located in Swiss Cottage was one of the the first projects to be found fitted with defective cladding following the Grenfell disaster. The work to remove the cladding and windows is currently underway at this time.

As the defective cladding is removed the aluminium windows located within the cladding are also de-glazed, gaskets removed and placed into skips for transport to Midlands

VIEWPOINT based Alutrade where they are separated and processed using XRF analysers, then sent onto Hydro for recasting into billet or logs. This operation is a two stage shred process, whilst the aluminium is XRF analysed on arrival at Alutrade, the final chipped material is also further XRF analysed to ensure zinc levels, which is a residue material from fitted hardware, are below 0.03%. The ease of XRF analysis is therefore crucial to the recycling process.

The Camden project in total consists of four tower blocks containing approximately 3,500 windows and once processed the chipped aluminium is being shipped to Hydro at Deeside for recasting into low-carbon Circal billet for Hydro Building Systems.

All scrap metal from the process, zinc and stainless steel items

are sent for recycling. Residue from resin thermal breaks in older windows is sent away for incineration. In more modern windows, as on the Camden project, expensive engineering plastics such as polyamide, also known as ‘PA6’ or ‘Nylon 6’, is used to form high strength thermal insulation within the aluminium profile. The recycling process also collects this material in the form of chip material. These chips can be used as a filler in other areas of construction or infrastructure projects, or sent for incineration, a process which is known as ‘energy recovery’ or ‘thermal recycling’. As more polyamide thermal breaks are now entering the recycling arena, work is now underway to recycle this material back into product or back into its constituent parts by the manufacturers.

With more recycling companies dismantling fenestration systems and separating them into various materials for recycling, the specification of aluminium in various construction projects, commercial and residential will continue to grow. A specification of aluminium today, offers a good residual value in the future when the facade is to be replaced.

Our cities now become material resources or ‘urban mines’ where we are able to recycle much of the material that already exists.

Should you wish to learn more about the use of aluminium used in construction, please contact CAB directly, or why not consider joining the Association and be recognised as being involved in supporting your Industry and helping to shape its future.

More information on our website at c-a-b.org.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 65

VIEWPOINT

A People

-First Approach Thermoseal Group has invested heavily in machinery and infrastructure in recent years, but it is the people that make it work, argues managing director Gwain Paterson.

The Future Homes Standard, expected to become legislation in 2025, could bring U-values for windows into newbuild properties down to 0.8W/m2K. While there is still some uncertainty around the details, most people are preparing for an increase in demand for triple glazing to meet this change.

Consequently, Thermoseal Group are installing new lines and storage facilities to manufacture and distribute larger quantities of Thermobar in 12mm, 14mm and 16mm widths to meet this uptick in demand, alongside increased quantities of its flexible spacer bar Thermoflex.

The company is also talking to customers about making the necessary changes to their operations.

However, all of these investments

66 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

would be immaterial if the same time and money had not been applied to its workforce, according to Thermoseal Group’s managing director Gwain Paterson.

“We are the leading component supplier in the IGU industry,” Gwain says, “but alongside our investment in machinery and wider infrastructure, we have a highly dedicated team testing those products, manufacturing those components, and packing orders for delivery.

“We ensure that all our staff are highly trained, motivated and informed about the business and commitment to quality.

“It’s well-known that we have a skills crisis in our industry, but we have the best chance of enticing more people into the sector if we empower our staff through upskilling and training, to create a really motivated and loyal

VIEWPOINT empowering the staff to suggest new processes and highlight any areas where efficiencies could be made.

“A lot of the equipment and processes we use are bespoke, so we really rely on the operators giving us feedback on the changes we make and also taking suggestions from them on how we can improve,” Gwain says.

This year, Thermoseal Group posted an increase in sales of 11%, at a time when the market was widely considered to be slowing, and its innovation of quality products continues to grow.

Gwain says developments for next year will involve new energy efficient products, and further investment in machinery and infrastructure.

workforce,” Gwain says. “And, ultimately, it is our customers who benefit.”

Undertaking a project to install new lines and storage facilities to manufacture and distribute larger quantities of Thermobar is not Thermoseal’s only preparation for the increase in demand for triple glazing. The company has recently invested in a third twin-strand

extruder for its Thermobar line, which can produce all thicknesses including 4.8mm, 6.3mm and 7.3mm, and air spaces up to 28mm in twin strand.

As well as its range of bars, Thermoseal Group also supplies a range of other products required for the manufacture of sealed units, including corner keys, desiccant, primary and secondary sealant, and cloth tape. All components are tested at the company’s laboratory before distribution, guaranteeing that they all work together effectively for a long-lasting sealed unit.

“A company is only as good as its workforce.” says Gwain, “Last year we supplied over 50 million metres of spacer bar – it has to be right all the time. Everybody understands that we have the right specifications, but what’s crucial is that our staff are on board in terms of quality, ensuring that we continue to be industry leaders, and that we continue to meet demand.” www.thermosealgroup.com

Thermoseal has invested heavily in training. The firm employs 150 people over its three sites in Wigan and Birmingham, all of whom are given the opportunity to take part in both internal and external training seminars, and to tour the shop floor with their management teams to gain a wider insight into the activities of the business.

Having been awarded the ‘Developed’ level of performance by the Investors of People group, Thermoseal’s staff were all shown to be “committed to the values of the business and [are] striving to provide high-quality products and excellent service to the Company’s customers”, according to the report’s author Gordon Stopani.

According to Gwain, part of this commitment to high-quality is WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 67

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Increasing Manager Awareness

of Recruitment-Focused

Marketing Amid Skills Shortage

By Natasha Erskine, marketing director, UK Doors Online Throughout the last 30 years, there has been a steady but notable decline in the manufacturing sector’s contribution to the UK economy, with the current shortage of nearly 74,000 factory staff costing around £6.5 billion. None of this is news, obviously; this topic has dominated our industry for quite some time. However, I have noticed one glaring omission in the conversations regarding how this shortage can be solved: marketing.

The solution to the problem is people. It’s that simple. Trends have progressed and society’s habits have evolved massively since the 1980s, when the decline

began, so why haven’t our methods of recruitment?

The recruitment and retention tricks that used to appeal no longer do, and in the wake of the Pandemic, the workforce’s priorities have seen a massive shift. Now, job seekers are looking to social media as well as typical job sites to find employment, and they’re prioritising more than just salaries when considering a new employer; they want assurance that they will be valued, treated as individuals, and provided with clear routes to progression. There are no shortcuts for employers to achieve this total restructuring of their recruitment strategy, but there are simple measures that can be implemented immediately, and

68 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

the impact marketing can have is bigger than you might think.

While measures such as leave entitlement, progression, and training are usually implemented by HR and management, marketing can play an important role in boosting morale, giving recognition to deserving employees, and creating a more inviting workplace.

These are now equally important when trying to increase recruitment and retention. As a marketing director, it’s important for me to find the positives in things, ensuring they align with the brand, and shout them from the rooftops.

What is often misunderstood, however, is that these things don’t have to be limited to products and services.

In the digital age, your company’s reputation and image are readily accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Your brand’s reputation is a critical factor in attracting top talent. One way to enhance your image is by nominating staff for awards and recognising their accomplishments.

Highlighting the achievements of your employees not only motivates them and provides incentives for them to stay with

VIEWPOINT your company, but also showcases your commitment to professional growth.

is also a place where people come together to experience that allimportant social interaction.

Social media has become the epicentre of our digital lives, and companies must recognise its potential in shaping their brand’s image. Posting about your workplace and the experiences of your employees on platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram is an effective way to market your company to potential recruits.

Talent today has more choice than ever before. A varied job market means they can afford to be selective. Marketing your company doesn’t just make you visible; it sets you apart from the competition. When potential recruits see your organisation actively promoting its culture and values, they are more likely to consider you as an employer of choice. Considering the current skills crisis that continues to challenge our industry, making your company and this sector appealing to job hunters is more important than ever before.

Social media is a window into your company culture and values.

Regularly sharing non-brandrelated content, such as posts about national days, employee award nominations, pet photos, and birthday celebrations, humanises your brand and shows prospective employees the values at your organisation. It demonstrates that your workplace isn’t just about the daily grind but

In conclusion, the line between marketing and HR is blurring.

Companies that recognise the importance of marketing their brand as a workplace, in addition

to their products or services, gain a distinct advantage in the talent marketplace. Attracting and retaining top talent is not solely an HR function; it’s a collective effort that encompasses branding, culture, inclusivity, and storytelling. By actively marketing your company, you can shape a reputation that resonates with the talent you want to recruit and keep.

Impressive product ranges and decades-long legacies can only get companies so far now. Share your achievements, celebrate your staff for the individuals they are, and demonstrate how much you value them with consistent training opportunities. The industry is at a crucial point in its recruitment and retention strategy, and the old tricks are just no longer effective. It’s time to prioritise using tried and tested Marketing techniques to tackle a problem that isn’t going away. www.ukdoorsonline.co.uk

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A Commitment

To Excellence Empowered people – whether employees or customers – are central to the success of a business, according to Wayne Shaw, the owner of The Window Company. We report.

Manchester-based The Window Company has built an enviable reputation, which is built on a commitment to excellence.

This helps to attract the best

employees while keeping loyal customers, according to Wayne Shaw, the owner of The Window Company.

“At The Window Company, we owe our success to people – our dedicated employees and loyal customers,” Wayne Shaw, the owner of The Window Company, said.

70 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

“In addition to our exceptional people, we also prioritise growth and development within our team. We believe in investing in our team’s skills and knowledge to deliver the best possible service to our customers.”

The Window Company actively supports apprenticeships, addressing the industry’s skills shortage while investing in further training for their administrative team. This commitment to talent development ensures a high level of expertise in their workforce.

Despite completing over 1,000 installations in a single year, The Window Company maintains control over quality by employing

VIEWPOINT initiative bridges the gap between their charitable endeavours and environmental responsibility.

Financial flexibility is offered to customers with options like buy now, pay later, and interest-bearing loans, with FCA registration providing assurance of regulatory compliance. Their dedication to transparency is underscored by their open approach; they showcase their team and share their work on their website, building trust with their customers.

Customer satisfaction is paramount, with 95% of Trustpilot reviews being five stars.

Customers consistently praise the knowledge and patience of their sales staff, highlighting their ability to address concerns and provide valuable guidance.

Sustainability is at the core of The Window Company’s values.

They also run a recycling program for UPVC products, generating funds to support local community causes and projects. This

“Listers’ customer service team stepped up – they answered calls, offered assistance, and remained transparent throughout. They didn’t shy away from the difficulties; they supported us during stressful times.”

Why Listers?

People, products and service

“To stay ahead in the industry, we have built a strong personal relationship with Listers,” Wayne said.

Wayne firmly believes that people drive business success, and he sees this principle in action at Listers.

“Their commitment to transparency and their excellent customer service aligns with our own values. We appreciate their willingness to listen to our feedback and actively work with us on marketing strategies and product development.

“Good, genuine people make a massive difference in business,” he said. “Listers embodies this, and it shows in their commitment to customer service.”

“The decision to partner with Listers was an easy one. We’d always seen Listers as a strong brand in the industry, with a great reputation for doing things right.” in-house fitting teams and salespeople, eliminating the use of subcontractors. This hands-on approach ensures high-quality workmanship.

“Listers are visible, transparent, and proactive,” he said. “During the COVID-19 lockdown, Roy created a WhatsApp group for key customers like us to keep us updated. That level of communication builds trust.

The choice to collaborate with Listers solidified when Roy took the helm at Listers.

Despite limited prior business relationship, the company’s stellar reputation made them a natural supplier choice, according to Wayne.

“Roy had just taken over, and I visited Listers to see their products and meet him,” he said.

“It was clear that Listers was the right partner for us. Dealing with them has been fantastic.”

Customer service Wayne highlights transparency and open communication as Listers’ key strengths.

The Window Company offers a wide range of Listers’ products, including aluminium flush windows, timeless flush windows, and Sheerline windows and doors. Having access to a comprehensive product range allows the company to meet diverse customer needs and stay competitive, according to Wayne.

“Roy’s background brings valuable insights,” he said.

“Listers actively collaborates with us on marketing, ensuring it aligns with our needs. This approach results in marketing materials tailored to our requirements, not generic ones.

It’s a significant advantage.

“It’s a testament to the power of shared commitment to making a meaningful difference,” Wayne concluded. www.listerwindows.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 71

VIEWPOINT from being scrapped, the company has developed a system where, similar to Thermobar’s metal stillages, they collect and reuse the bag, the box, and the reel.

Greener Distribution Thermoseal Group is demonstrating the way forward in product delivery and sustainability, dispatching all its products directly from its four British stock warehouses using its dedicated fleet of vehicles. Sales director Mark Hickox provides an introduction to their eco-conscious approach.

“We have complete control over our deliveries,” Thermoseal Group’s sales director says. “We don’t need to rely on an external company to arrive on time, and we don’t have to factor in the cost of couriers into our prices. We do it all with our own fleet, and that ensures that our customers get excellent service at an excellent price, each and every time.”

Thermoseal Group produces energy efficient products by energy efficient means, and its transport strategy is no different.

As well as the recent investment in automated production lines that have reduced energy usage in Thermobar’s manufacture by almost 40%, Thermoseal Group are also actively encouraging their

Thermobar customers to move to steel stillages as opposed to cardboard packaging.

The metal stillages undergo a cycle of re-use, and through opting into their use, the price of the spacer bar is reduced accordingly.

The customer does not then have the hassle of disposing of the cardboard boxes at their site: they simply set the stillages aside for Thermoseal Group to collect them on their next delivery. With a further £140K recently invested in a further 200 metal stillages, the strategy is a big success with customers, according to Mark.

“The stillages are easier for customers to handle,” he says.

“And I think in this day and age, our customers know the importance of sustainability and they can appreciate the fact that we are doing our bit to reduce waste.”

Thermoseal Group’s Thermoflex flexible spacer bar is supplied coiled onto plastic reels, in a plastic bag, inside a cardboard box. To prevent this packaging

72 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

This unique packaging method has successfully diverted 80% of packaging away from landfill and has kept the price point of Thermoflex lower for customers, Mark explains.

“We manufacture over 50 million metres of spacer bar a year,” he says. “Imagine how much packaging is required for that amount of product. But with our recycling process, we significantly cut the amount of packaging that we use, and we use everything until its lifespan is completely over, limiting the amount of waste we’re sending to landfill.”

As well as delivery efficiencies, the company recently installed a Solar PV System at its site in Wigan, which produces 420MW of electricity per year. This is used directly by the Thermobar and Thermoflex manufacturing processes, greatly reducing the company’s reliance on the grid and generating approximately 15% of the power used at Thermoseal Group.

Electric vehicle charging points have been installed at all sites so that employees and visitors can charge vehicles during working hours, as well as two electric forklift trucks, which also capitalise on the energy generated by the solar panels.

“At the end of the day, we’re manufacturing energy-saving products and we want to be an energy-saving company,” Mark says. “We recognise the importance in sustainability not only for our duty to the environment, but also to keep prices as low as we can for customers, without compromising on the quality for which we’re so well known.” www.thermosealgroup.com

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VIEWPOINT

Five Reasons

To Re-Think Aluminium Greg Beachim, sales manager at First Degree Systems, explains recent developments that deliver advantages for window fabricators. Here, he gives five reasons why expanding your choice of materials means you should rethink your choice of software.

The window and door market is being driven by highvalue products, which makes aluminium a serious contender for a genuine second profile source for fabricators.

Bi-folding doors were originally the biggest driver for aluminium sales, but since then, homeowners started looking at whole-house refurbishments, and systems companies responded by launching new product ranges

including windows and lanterns.

This has meant that small aluminium bi-folding sideline is now a complete second system alongside the original PVC-U line for many window fabricators. this isn’t managed the same way as the rest of the factory, it could end up costing you more than it should. Here are five reasons why I believe Window Designer is best for aluminium window design processing over alternatives.

Cross-sectional drawings Many PVC-U window fabricators believe they should use the software that is provided free with the aluminium system is because it can provide cross-sectional drawings. This is typically a CAD-based feature designed for

74 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

architects, and it has become a requirement for many customers buying aluminium products.

Window Designer can now provide cross-sectional drawings via a plug-in module. For those companies who started aluminium production to meet a small requirement in the domestic market, this new module could allow them to enhance their offering.

Configurator Window Designer’s key strength is that it is a configurator, so you can use it for processing PVC-U, aluminium or timber, and there’s no need to manage different software solutions for different product lines.

This approach to window design processing suits those fabricators working in the domestic market, because they don’t have account for architectural elements like wind loading and other façade interfaces. It’s been preconfigured to a business’s needs:

VIEWPOINT door. But with non-standard colours, trends change regularly – you could order Hulk Green today, but people will want Barbie Pink tomorrow. Why hold stock of those?

Window Designer’s Stock Assistant module not only manages stock holding according to demand, but additional modules can build in the cost of potential waste. So, with standard colours you want to make sure your prices are keen, and Window Designer will forecast the required lengths and keep enough stock to be reactive to demand.

With non-standard colours, the whole pack price can be considered when pricing orders. This means that window fabricators can confidently price jobs with unusual colours without worrying that any profits will be tied up in unused stock.

Greg Beachim

you select the product, you select the style, you select the size, and it will give you a price. If that meets your needs, you can then send it straight to manufacture.

The permutations, such as bead or colour options, are simple: just click and go. Whereas traditional aluminium processing can be much more cumbersome – swapping out parts can be time-consuming, and the actual processing might take you much longer. In fact, Window Designer is up to five times quicker than software specially designed for aluminium fabrication.

Easy upgrades The Window Designer subscription package was designed so that a fabricator can choose different tiers of functionality, without worrying about paying for unused functions. So, they may start out on a basic package that allows them to process window and

door designs, including complex shapes and requirements.

Once that is in place, that fabricator may choose to upgrade their subscription package to include other cost and timesaving modules, such as Profile Optimiser and Stock Assistant, which help to reduce waste, optimise pricing, and manage stock levels that keeps more cash in the business.

As fabricators face mounting cost pressures, managing waste and stock levels is vital for the long-term health of that business.

The Window Designer suite of software is designed exactly for that purpose.

Colour confidence Increased demand for aluminium – including foiled profile – can mean more money tied up in stock.

Standard colours are straightforward because you have a good idea of what requirements are going to come through the

Strength of Cyncly First Degree Systems is now part of Cyncly, the new international powerhouse behind a portfolio of software products including those developed for the window, door and glass industry in the UK. Cyncly’s brands in the fenestration space around the globe include, First Degree Systems, SoftTech, FeneTech, and ContractERP, and together we are transforming the way our customers do business enabling them to simplify complexity, grow sales, increase efficiency, and drive innovation.

Product development and innovation is happening right now, which will help simplify processes, improve efficiencies, and maximise margin. With more than 250 technical experts within the Windows, Doors & Glass team, we are constantly developing new solutions that will help make our customers more efficient and profitable. www.firstdegreesystems.com

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 75

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Rise In Aluminium Fabricators Shows

Material Is In Ascendancy Pioneering the industry’s latest trends and developments, Jeremy Phillips, group chairman of CDW Systems, highlights the increasing popularity of aluminum as a building material.

This insight comes as the ‘State of the Industry’ report from specialist data provider Insight Data indicates the growing number of aluminum fabricators in the market.

As specialists in aluminium fabrication, we have witnessed first-hand the rapid rise of aluminium and Insight Data’s most recent ‘State of the Industry’ report showing the number of aluminium fabricators increasing is no surprise.

According to the data, there are now 921 aluminium fabricators, which is up from 884 in 2021.

In fact, it continues an upward trend since 2017 and 801 fabricators, showing a steady rise every year since.

When you consider that, during the same period, there has been a continued decline in the number of PVCu fabricators, from 1,407 in 2017 to 1,177 today, it shows that there is no sign of the popularity of aluminium slowing down.

High End After the home improvement boom in the years that followed the pandemic, the market has slowed due in no small part to the economic outlook and the cost-of-living crisis. One thing that has not changed is the demand for aluminium.

Energy efficiency is a major concern in modern construction and fabrication and aluminium’s inherent thermal properties allow for the creation of thermally broken systems that significantly improve energy performance and help reduce heating costs, contributing to sustainability and energy savings.

Durable and highly resistant to rust and the corrosion caused by modern industrial pollutants, aluminium requires very little longterm maintenance too.

Sustainability in spotlight With the shift towards sustainable materials more significant than ever, aluminium will play an increasing role thanks to its sustainability and recyclable credentials.

CDW Systems’ group chairman, Jeremy Phillips.

Despite the economic downturn, homeowners with money will always still spend it and it’s no surprise that installers are looking to diversify and offer consumers high-end options such as aluminium bi-fold doors, sliding patio doors and heritage windows, so they can tap into that market.

Popular factors There are, of course, plenty of factors driving the popularity of aluminium, not least its sleek, and minimalist aesthetic appeal.

Whether it’s for windows, doors or curtain walling, aluminium offers an elegant and contemporary touch that never goes out of style while its adaptability to various finishes enables a wide range of colour and texture options. Its unique combination of lightweight properties and exceptional strength has led to its adoption in a wide range of industries, making it perfect for commercial projects.

76 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

It is arguably the most sustainable building material in the world and is almost endlessly recyclable, with the recycling process creating high quality aluminium which loses none of the physical properties of primary aluminium.

Recycling aluminium saves 95% of the energy required to produce aluminium from raw materials and, being light weight, aluminium is easy to handle which reduces the environmental impact and cost of transportation.

Aluminium’s remarkable longevity and resistance to corrosion mean it can endure harsh weather conditions for decades, ultimately reducing the need for frequent replacements and giving aluminium products a life span that can be measured in decades rather than years.

It’s no surprise that the number of aluminium fabricators is rising year-on-year, with the popularity of high-end aluminium products providing plenty of opportunities for installers in the UK, both commercially and residentially. www.cdwsystems.co.uk

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VIEWPOINT

What Is The Real Risk Of Fire From

Solar Panels?

With recent reports of a domestic solar panel exploding on a roof at a West London council house, is there a hidden danger lurking? How does this impact confidence and the growth of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels across both domestic and commercial sectors?

Richard Williams is foremost an engineer, as well as founder and managing director of Aztec Solar Energy Ltd, with over 30 years in the energy services sector. Here he shares his views on safety issues facing the sector.

Last year, primarily due to the energy price crisis and a sustainability drive, the solar power industry saw a significant jump in

solar PV installations. According to data from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) – the standards organisation for solar energy and heating – 130,596 solar panels were mounted on UK roof tops in 2022.

This figure represented growth in one year which was previously only experienced in the three years between 2019 to 2021 combined, with the exception of those years following subsidy changes. These figures include all solar PV systems with a generating capacity of up to 50 kilowatts and registered with the MCS, notably therefore the figure is likely to be even higher, with an increasing number of installations in the UK not registered at all.

78 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Richard Williams

It does mean there are over 1.3 million registered solar power installations across the country, two thirds on the ground and the remainder on residential and commercial roofs, generating at least 15GW of solar power in the UK. PV solar panels promise cost savings in terms of energy bills and are described as the clean and green electric energy. Seen in many a field and roof top, the

VIEWPOINT

growth of the solar PV panel has been significant and is changing the energy landscape.

But what controls are in place and who is monitoring safety?

Some may be shocked that PV installers are not legally bound to follow the guidelines or obtain accreditations from certifying organisations such as the MCS. The big issue is that anyone can install a solar panel in the UK. Yes, work must be cleared by the local council and the government ‘recommends’ use of a registered electrician, but it’s not a necessity by law.

As with all electrical installations, electrical incidents may happen, which is why all electricians are qualified and must undertake regular competency training and on-going refresher training. Arc faults and faulty wiring can cause solar panels to catch fire and the risk of a solar panel catching fire is very low, but it is not zero.

Solar panel fires can be caused

by improper installation or maintenance, and by damage from extreme weather events, such as hail or lightning. Higher voltages can be prone to arcing and is a known common cause of fires, but through the installation of micro inverters connected to the panel to convert the output to a safer level they considerably reduce the risks. As does using reputable and registered PV installers and, like maintaining your car, checks need to be done on all PV installations regularly. PV panels are often forgotten about and left to deteriorate and with those systems come risks, as with any neglected equipment.

It’s important to be up to date with the latest safety recommendations and regulations, and as with all things new, products evolve.

Technologies continue to develop and with that have come new solar panels that are more resilient and offer an even greater reduction in fire risks. Understanding these products and their installation comes from experience and working in an evolving sector and with experts who can recommend

the most appropriate panels and systems for installation.

The first step would simply be to ensure those installing your PV system and / or battery storage are registered with the MCS and has been installed in accordance with IET guidance. This will verify the competence of the installer and the installer is duty bound to use verified products, so ensuring safety and quality.

Anyone concerned about their PV systems should seek further advice and consider retrofitting a micro inverter AC system or module level optimisation. Look at the maintenance programme and ensure the system has been checked through periodic testing and by a professional. If at all worried and you suspect signs of overheating, isolate the supply, and call the installer.

As with all technologies that have been installed effectively and are maintained and managed, be assured solar PV panels will deliver clean, cost-effective power safely. www.aztecsolarenergy.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 79

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Glazpart

Shares Views From The Summit Glazpart once again sponsored and participated in the Glazing Summit at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham on 12 October and yet again it proved to be an ideal platform for Glazpart to share views and concerns on the changing regulations currently impacting and set to impact the glass and glazing industry.

The Future Homes Standard is a set of rules that will come into effect from 2025 to ensure new homes produce over 30% less carbon emissions than the new homes being built to current Building Regulations.

Following the June 2022 interim changes to Building Regulations, which impacted replacement and renovation (existing buildings), the legislative measures from the Future Homes Standard will see further changes in the regulations, particularly in the legislation around energy efficiency, security, ventilation and overheating for new build property.

As a leading designer and

manufacturer of plastic glazing accessories including trickle vents, Glazpart was invited to be a key contributor to the Glazing Summit’s first panel debate on the “Regulatory Minefield”.

Dean Bradley, Glazpart sales director was part of a panel of four experts on the “Regulatory Minefield” and commented, “It was great to take part in the panel discussion on the challenges the industry faces on existing and incoming regulations. I was pleased to share my concerns about the regulatory changes at this crucial time in the evolution of building regulations and environmental policy. In 18 months, the Future Homes Standard will be implemented and with the interim changes made to Building Regulations in June 2022 likely to continue, the industry needs to be thinking well in advance of any further changes to regulations.”

The Regulatory Minefield topics covered the probable changes to window u values (the heat transfer measurement used for assessing

80 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Dean Bradley

a window’s energy efficiency; the lower the U-Value, the better the insulation and energy efficiency.

The panel held the consensus that the U-Value for windows will in all likelihood shift from 1.6 w/m2 to 1.2 w/m2 for the replacement market and 0.8 w/m2 for new build which will in all probability stipulate that triple glazing has to be installed (depending on the semantics of the final document).

According to Glazpart, aligned to U-Values changing, window and door companies will also likely need to comply to meet the incoming regulations for security under Approved Document Q, which for new build will mean that for all accessible windows to comply they will have to have laminated (security) glass on the Continued on page 82

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VIEWPOINT Continued from page 80

outer pane and potentially steel reinforcement in frames and sashes. This will present major challenges due to the weight of the windows. Companies will have to use upgraded hardware and adjust for the protection, transportation, storage, lifting and installation of the units.

As well as the obvious issues that many in the industry may have with the regulations, Dean Bradley raised the following concerns about companies complying in time.

“The industry needs to be ready for any changes and the challenges they will present.

Companies should be gearing up to comply from day one of the implementation. In June 2022, when Approved Document F was enacted as an interim change to Building Regulations, very few companies in the industry were in position to comply with the new legislation. Within a few months, most of the more responsible companies were complying but it was fortunate Glazpart had stocks (about one million vents) of our Link Vent range pre-prepared to cope with the demand. Even now only about 70% of the industry are compliant with the Approved Document F regulations. For Future Homes, the industry needs to be ready to embrace, engage and comply with any changes that will impact them and not wait until the last minute.”

Following the Glazing Summit, Dean Bradley, summarised, “Once again it was a fantastic event and great to hear the attendance figures were the highest ever.

We were pleased to share our views, concerns and knowledge in the panel debate and enjoyed the multiple opportunities to network with key players in the industry. Overall, it proved to be an enjoyable and productive day for the Glazpart team.” www.glazpart.com

Do The Right

Thing Bristol-based The Window Hub was launched in 2020, and has quickly built up a reputation for supporting local business and causes, while focusing on the needs of the customer. We talk to managing director Danny Robb to find out more.

The Window Hub was set up to put the customer first and ‘do the right thing’, according to owner and managing director Danny Robb, which has resulted in a surprisingly successful business.

“We were set up as The Window

82 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Hub at the beginning of Covid, 2020, and our progress has been extraordinary, because we set out to do the right thing and put the customer first,” Danny says.

For many businesses, setting up an online operation was vital to maintain that connection with the customers, with lockdowns keeping people apart, but Danny says he wasn’t prepared to throw the baby out with the bath water.

“Virtual selling is fine, as is getting a brochure sent through via email, but people actually want

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to touch and feel the products they are looking at,” he says. “We discovered that they couldn’t differentiate between good products and average products without touching and feeling them first.”

Danny said he wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”, and in February 2022, the window company opened a showroom on the high street in Staple Hill in Bristol.

“This has been so successful that we have just opened a second showroom in Exeter,” Danny says.

The company is already on target to turn over £5m for this financial year – more than a 300% increase on 2022/23 – and 90% of reviews Hub on Trustpilot are for five stars. The Window Hub is also ranked 59 out of 6,300 on Fensa, putting it in the top 1% of Fensaregistered companies.

“We didn’t set out to be top 60 – we set out to just do a good job,” Danny says. “Sales begin and end

with treating customers properly.

Do all the right things, and the job is ours to lose.”

model by June 2024, then electric-only as leases come up for renewal from June 2025.

Buying local and having an eye on sustainability is also part of Danny’s aim to do the right things.

The Window Hub buys most of its windows from Bristol-based Deceuninck fabricator MB Frames (with Deceuninck extruding just along the M4 in Calne, Wiltshire), its glass units from Bristol-based Ashton Glass, and its patio sliders from Patios Southwest in Newton Abbot.

“If every SME makes a small difference, then you’re going to get a massive change across the whole industry,” Danny says.

“Sustainability is key, which is why we partner with Deceuninck,” Danny says. “Not only did they win Sustainability of the Year at the G-Awards last year, but they are local to us, as are MB Frames (Bristol) and Patios Southwest, and all companies recycle everything.”

“When it comes to products, customers want to have choice,” Danny says. “So, having 30+ colour ways from Deceuninck is essential. We don’t want to race to the bottom on a square plastic frame, we want to give the customer a product that suits and complements their home.

Continuing this sustainability promise, The Window Hub is planting a tree for every customer (up to 3,000) at a nearby wildlife park (Boyd Valley Lake), moving its fleet of vehicles to a hybrid

“It’s really easy to be amazing if you just do the right thing. And if you do that then you you’ve got a successful business, right?”

While partnering with Deceuninck fabricators made sense from a ‘buying local’ point of view, Danny explains that these relationships are helped by the fact that he can meet the new demands from modern homeowners.

www.deceuninck.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 83

PEOPLE

Board Appointment At Scotia Windows And Doors

Campbell, who spent 15 years in multi-site manufacturing and operations with Glass Solutions before moving over to SaintGobain’s’s timber kit division, Scotframe, adds an additional layer of expertise to the Scottish volume fabricator, which has built an enviable reputation supplying to the new build sector.

From its Kilmarnock campus, Scotia is also expanding its production of aluminium products and has laid solid foundations to address the requirements of the new Future Homes Standard, using to good advantage the strength of its Passivhaus design team.

Ayrshire-based Scotia Windows and Doors has made a key appointment to its board with Tony Campbell, formerly of SaintGobain, being installed as director

Tony Campbell

of operations after joining the group in February.

84 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Managing director Gavin Smith said, “Tony’s promotion reflects the positive impact made in the short space of time he’s been with the company. His experience with one of the world’s leading operators in the sustainable construction sector is already shaping Scotia for a new and challenging phase in the industry, and these improvements to our production and processes will help the group strengthen its position in the market, not only as it endures a sustained period of uncertainty, but also as we look further ahead to a recovery in the industry in the longer term.” scotiawindowsanddoors.co.uk

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PEOPLE

Whitesales Appoints

New Fenestration Team

Jason Scrivens In New Business

Development Role

At RegaLead Jason Scrivens joins RegaLead as Area Sales Manager, focusing on customer support and business development in a newly-created position to support the supplier’s large customer base in the South of England and South Wales across IG production and glass processing, as well as window and door fabricators.

Karl Grandfield

Piers White

Whitesales has had such a great response to its entry into the fenestration market that it has now appointed a dedicated sales team to look after fabricators and installers buying its range of rooflights and lanterns.

that customers also really value the fact that Whitesales doesn’t manufacture any other products apart from rooflights, so will never compete with its own customers on windows and doors.

Piers White and Karl Grandfield, familiar to FIT Show visitors as the double act assembling the SkyVu lantern on the Installer Stage, have both been appointed as sales managers for fenestration.

Jason comes with an impressive track record in the glazing industry.

His hands-on experience in aluminium and PVCu fabrication at both systems company and fabricator level, alongside his specialism in hardware, puts him in a great position to support customers.

Piers is looking after customers in the South and Karl is looking after customers in the Midlands and North, but they are very much a team, using their shared knowledge and experience to help customers make the most of Whitesales’ comprehensive product range and distinctive service offering.

RegaLead’s innovative product range means there’s always something new to be talking to customers about. Regalead says 2023 has been an exciting year for new products especially with the addition of the Urban Bar system, a clip applied astragal bar solution for the aluminium sector that’s designed to create the highly popular trend for the industrial heritage look. regalead.com

Piers, who has worked at Whitesales since 2012 in a variety of customer service and sales roles, says that fabricators particularly like the fact that Whitesales holds so many rooflight sizes in stock and offers fast delivery straight to site. Karl, who had 12 years as a carpenter fitting windows and doors before he joined Whitesales in 2015 as a contracts manager, says

86 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Both Piers and Karl have been talking directly to fabricators since Whitesales’ successful appearance at FIT, and several have already added Whitesales’ rooflights and lanterns to their offering. These fabricators are now getting the full Whitesales support package, which includes literature, product samples, a technical advice line, an online product configurator and a free quoting and drawing service for commercial projects.

Karl commented: “Piers and I are focused on building great relationships with fabricators, which we know we can back up with quality products which suit this market perfectly, impeccable service and impressive marketing support. We’re incredibly excited about the scale of this opportunity for our business and for all those fabricators who choose to partner with us.” And Piers added: “We know we can offer fabricators a better way to buy their rooflights, saving them time and hassle, and helping them make more money.” www.whitesales.co.uk/fabricator

PEOPLE

Paul Greenaway Back On

The Team At AluK

Paul Greenaway, an experienced figure in the industry, has rejoined AluK as an area sales manager, teaming up once again with managing director Russell Yates.

Paul says he’s delighted to be back and to be part of Russell’s new chapter at AluK. He explained: “There’s real excitement around Russell’s return amongst staff and customers and, having worked with him here from 2016 until I left in 2020, this feels like a great time to be back on the team.”

Paul Greenaway has spent more than 35 years in the window and door market and worked in variety of sales, production, technical and indicative testing roles. He has been an installer and a fabricator, as well a systems company sales manager so understands all the pressures and challenges that customers face. uk.aluk.com

He will be looking after customers in east and southeast England, helping them make the most of current market opportunities and providing access to AluK’s extensive training, marketing and technical support.

New Group Role For

Emmegi (UK)’S Business Manager Giulia Furgeri, very familiar to customers as the business manager at Emmegi (UK), is leaving the day to day running of the business to take up a new Group HR role with parent company Voilap in Italy.

Debar Appoints New Technical will continue to support Sales Manager Giulia Emmegi (UK) and the other sales hubs from an HR For South East global perspective, working to strengthen

Bi-fold door systems and hardware manufacturer Debar has appointed a technical sales manager to boost customer relations in the South East of England.

Mike Sillwood has joined Debar to help the Bradford-based firm continue to support both its existing customers and partners in the region.

Mike has more than 25 years’ experience within a sales and account management environment across different sectors and in his new role he will be responsible for liaising with customers and building relationships to develop the South East market. www.debarhardware.com

relationships, increase productivity and improve retention.

She explained more about her new role: “In recent years, Voilap has adopted a One Company approach, harmonising HR and other processes around the group, which now includes Emmegi, Elumatec, Tekna, Keraglass and Someco, as well as several digital brands.

“I will be working on the ongoing One Company transformation, supporting the whole of the sales network to deliver new harmonised and simplified HR and talent processes. Of course, I’ll still be in regular touch with the UK team and making regular trips from

my new base at the Voilap HQ in Limidi di Soliera.”

Giulia added: “After 8 years here, I’ll miss the UK and the team here in Coventry very much, but I’ll be staying closely involved as we implement our SAP SuccessFactors programme and other new initiatives to support Voilap’s ambitious growth plans.”

Giulia is reporting directly to Valerio Floriani, Voilap’s chief people and technology officer. www.voilapholding.com/en/home

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 87

PEOPLE to sales executives, Doorco Appoints Andy Grogan promotions the appointment of Neil Webb the Fire Protection industry As New Regional Sales Manager from as regional sales manager and

now the final piece of the puzzle, Andy, who will be working on accounts throughout the UK. Andy brings with him years of industry experience and a real passion for our products. His knowledge regarding composite doors is brilliant and he’s already got a real zest for DoorCo and what makes us different.”

DoorCo, manufacturer of composite doors, has announced the addition of industry-renowned Andy Grogan to their team.

Discussing the new appointment, sales and customer services manager at DoorCo, Michelle Kirkham explains: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have Andy

joining us in the sales team. As a well-known industry name, we’re excited to welcome him back into the world of fenestration and help him get back into the swing of doing what he does best.

“We’ve invested heavily in our sales team recently with the addition of two internal

Window Supply Company Announces Chief Operating Officer Scotland based uPVC windows and doors manufacturer Window Supply Company (WSC) has announced the appointment of Martin Linden as chief operating officer, a new post designed to oversee the responsibility of the company’s UK wide operations.

Prior to his promotion, Martin was operations director, responsible for manufacturing operations and most recently relocating the company’s head office and manufacturing to a new 105,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Whitburn, West Lothian.

Transforming WSC’s new company headquarters from a semi derelict building to the modern facility that exists today, manufacturing 1500 frames per week and employing over 170 people.

Duncan Murray, WSC’s chief

Speaking on his new role, Andy says: “I’m so pleased to have joined the leading composite door supplier in the industry. After many years in the fenestration industry, I’m excited for a new challenge and with so much innovation coming out of the DoorCo factory at the moment, this feels like the perfect time to have come onboard.” www.door-co.com to transition to the next level in operational excellence. Martin will be responsible for the day-today operations of the business allowing me to focus more on strategic initiatives.”

Martin has more than 25 years’ leadership experience with a strong track record in UK manufacturing. He has scaled and led large diverse teams, driving growth through technology and innovation and places the voice of customer at the forefront of products and services.

executive officer says: “Firstly I would like to congratulate Martin on his new role as COO. Since the business started, we have tracked phenomenal growth. Martin has been pivotal in continuing to strategically adapt how we operate, and his promotion to chief operations officer is a natural move. His impressive background in operations and forward-thinking vision will enable the company

88 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Martin Linden says: “I am delighted to be appointed chief operating officer at Window Supply Company. I am incredibly proud of the team’s achievements to date and would like to thank them all for their hard work and dedication. I will continue to build on our strong foundations and drive operations to the next level to enhance our position within UK fenestration.” windowsupplycompany.co.uk

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PEOPLE

New Sales Director For Schüco Aluminium and steel systems company Schüco has announced the appointment of Dan Gleeson as UK Sales Director.

A façade engineer by training, Dan has been working in the sector for over 25 years. The company says he will bring to Schüco a profound understanding of the technical performance of all types of façade systems with a particular focus on large-scale commercial projects.

With a CV that includes spells with façade companies, specialist sub-contractors, warranty providers and software systems for the sector, Schüco says Dan’s all-round understanding of this complex industry will add breadth

to the expertise of the Schüco UK team.

Dan concedes that he is joining this ambitious company during a challenging period for the

construction sector, and clearly is ready to push forwards: “The construction sector faces a unique set of challenges all at once. We need to embrace new legislation relating to Building Safety and focus on the sustainability of our operations: all within a market that is facing economic headwinds. In this challenging period it is great to be joining an organisation with the technical expertise, commitment to quality and forward-looking innovation that is the hallmark of the Schüco brand.”

Dan takes up the role of Sales Director on 30 October 2023 and will be based in the Schüco UK Head Office in Milton Keynes.

very excited to welcome KallKwik Appoints New Business “We’re Andy to the KallKwik team. His

industry experience Development Manager To Fuel Growth deep-rooted on the fabrication side means he understands, and will have experienced, some of the challenges facing fabricators.

“Applying his hands-on experience in tandem with KallKwik’s three core strengths; refurbished machinery, new machinery and complete maintenance plans, will only further strengthen the solutions we can deliver for fabricators,” says Josh Goodwin, KallKwik’s operations director.

Andy Worroll has joined machinery company KallKwik as its new Business Development Manager, bringing 16 years of experience in senior manufacturing and operations roles in the glazing sector.

With most of his career spanning the fabrication side,

Andy’s industry expertise will be the driving force behind KallKwik’s on-the-road support and sales. Which, says the company, combined with KallKwik’s business offering, is set to give fabricators unique insight into choosing the best machinery, optimising equipment performance and future planning.

90 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Andy adds: “I’m excited to be joining the KallKwik team and to be a part of the journey going forward. I thrive on personal interactions, forming partnerships, and truly understanding the unique needs of businesses which aligns with KallKwik’s drive to make a difference to businesses through expert knowledge, the best window machinery and market-leading service.” kallkwik.uk.com

PEOPLE “Our overall product rejection rate is extremely low, but it is even lower on the specialist unit line,” Dan said. “Which means there is a lot for Heidi to live up to. But she has taken to it like a duck to water, and Dave has been a great tutor.”

Cornwall Group is prepared to take a chance on apprentices because the glass company has a track record of developing those young people who have gone on to be a genuine asset to the business.

The processor’s

Apprentice Heidi Boyce is a 20-year-old apprentice working at the Highbridge factory of Cornwall Glass Manufacturing, while completing a Level 2 NVQ in Glass Processing.

So confident are Cornwall Glass Manufacturing in Heidi’s abilities as a glass processing professional, that Dan has given her the responsibility for specialist orders on the sealed unit line.

Heidi is one of 10 apprentices who started working for the Cornwall Group in the last year, taking the total up to 20 employed by the whole of the group, which also includes Cornwall Glass & Glazing and Mackenzie Glass.

“About 60%-70% of sealed unit orders here at Highbridge are fully automated, which means there is little human contact between the toughener and stacking for dispatch at the end of the line,” Dan said. “But some specialist jobs require manual hand application, such as those needing Georgian bar and decorative lead.

“Heidi has worked extremely hard over the course of this year, and she is a really good example of how successful the apprenticeship programme can be,” general manager Dan Payton said.

“She is ahead of schedule – a L2 qualification should take up to 12 months, and she should be done in nine. What’s more, the NVQ Assessor had nothing but good things to say about her progress, which is down to her commitment to completing her coursework at home, even after a hard work here on the shop floor!”

“These also tend to be higher value, so we monitor the success rate very closely!”

Heidi was partnered with Dave ‘Doc’ Morris, who has worked on the line for seven years – and has a further 10 years’ experience under his belt. According to Dan, despite the fact that Dave has got extremely high standards, the relationship between him and Heidi is very productive.

“In Heidi’s cohort for 2023, we have installers, glass operatives, trade counter apprentices, engineers and sales office apprentices,” Cornwall Group’s HR and marketing manager Emma Harris said. “And we are nominating some truly outstanding apprentices for the upcoming Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards from all departments, including engineering, sales, glass processing, IT, finance, administration and marketing.

“We are keen to celebrate their achievements because they contribute so much to the group.

In fact, 20% of all our colleagues joined the company via the apprenticeship programme, 95% of which have been with us for 5+ years.

“And they’ve gone on to build careers at all levels,” Emma continued. “Our apprentices have gone on to become supervisors, technical representative, senior IT technicians, project leaders, assistant managers, and even a managing director.”

Meanwhile, Heidi is keeping her options open.

“I’m so fortunate to be able to learn while working,” she said. “It is so different to being a student in a classroom. Cornwall Glass Manufacturing have given me loads of responsibility, and it is nice to feel valued and part of the team.” www.cornwallglass.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 91

PEOPLE

Warwick North West

Appoints New Executive

Marketing Assistant

Glazpart

Appoints New Finance Director Glazpart has announced the appointment of Andy Denness as finance director, taking responsibility for the senior financial management of the Glazpart Group.

A qualified chartered accountant, Andy has over 25 years post qualification experience in several industries including logistics, food production equipment and communications. His experience stretches from management accountancy to financial controller and finance directorships for SMEs and Blue-Chip companies.

On his appointment, Andy commented “I am delighted to be part of Glazpart’s senior management team during this time of strong growth and with great potential ahead.”

Dean Bradley, sales director added, “I have no doubt that Andy with his acumen and strategic planning skills will be a great asset to the Glazpart Group management team and going forward instrumental to our continued success.” www.glazpart.com

UPVC and aluminium trade fabricator Warwick North West has appointed a new executive marketing assistant in order to boost business growth.

Liverpool Hope University graduate Emily Hill joins the Bootle-based company with a degree in business management, and has taken on the role of collaborating with the sales, marketing and product development teams, as well as liaising with external stakeholders.

“What drew me to Warwick North West was not just a commitment to product quality and customer service, but a unique commitment to giving back to the local community through partnerships with workforce development organisations and charity initiatives,” Emily said.

“The team at Warwick has made me feel so welcome, and I very much look forward to getting involved in different aspects of the business, ensuring increased visibility of the Warwick brand, as well as contributing to its overall continued growth.”

As a strategic partner of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, the company has a commitment to job creation in the local area, having partnered with Nobody Left Behind, an organisation that provides industry-specific training to young people, and Inside Connections, a community interest company committed to supporting prison leavers

92 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

and young people at risk of offending.

Warwick has also partnered with children’s charity Ykids and Alder Hey Children’s Charity in an effort to help better the lives of vulnerable children.

Director Greg Johnson comments: “We are thrilled to have Emily join our team as Executive Marketing Assistant.

Her qualifications combined with her enthusiasm make her an excellent fit for our company.

We are confident that she will contribute greatly to our marketing efforts and help boost overall business growth.” www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk

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DOORS

of 1.4W/m2K, making New Aluminium Entrance Door From U-value it Part L-compliant for existing

Sternfenster Promises

New Opportunities

Sternfenster has launched a new aluminium entrance door, which promises to open-up new opportunities for window companies targeting aspirational homeowners.

“Our Signature range of entrance doors brings the desirable aesthetics of high-end aluminium doors down to an affordable price point,” Sternfenster’s sales

director Nathan Court announced.

“Plus they don’t warp, twist or bow, which means they are a true fit-and-forget product. This alone puts money in installers’ pockets as they don’t have to return to site to adjust hinges and locks.”

The 60mmm Signature aluminium door achieves a

94 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

homes and new homes, as well as existing and new commercial, says Sternfenster.

“Our Signature doors come in 11 modern designs and a wide range of colours,” Nathan said.

“These are complemented by an attractive range of handles and hardware, available in a choice of up to five marinegrade finishes. They come with industry-leading locks which make them PAS24 compliant.”

The doors also suite perfectly with Sternfenster’s range of aluminium windows, bi-folding doors and sliding patio doors.

Installation is claimed to be a breeze, thanks to the three fully adjustable butt-hinges, which can also be colour-matched to the frame or the slab. They can also be opened out, as well as in, which gives homeowners even greater flexibility.

“Doors can often make or break or sale,” Nathan said, “which means it is vital to have access to a wide range of styles and price points. Our new Signature aluminium door offers high-end kerb appeal, with the promise of low maintenance and top-level security.

“Thanks to the Signature aluminium door, we are creating

real opportunities for our customers to sell a premium product and a desirable price.”

As with all Sternfenster’s products, customers can order the Signature aluminium door via the EasyAdmin software, which the trade fabricator developed to put more control in their customers’ hands.

EasyAdmin allows businesses to produce professional quotes very quickly for homeowners. It also allows window installation companies to have complete oversight of their profit and loss.

This information is updated daily and allows business owners to see the health of their accounts in

real time.

“More than 50% of our orders now come to us via EasyAdmin, and we are upgrading the software so that will integrate more closely with our other IT services,” Nathan said, “as well as giving them more control over their operations, saving money in the process.”

EasyAdmin works with SF+, which improves communication with customers and gives them greater insight into the fabricator’s manufacturing capacity, and the new virtual showroom, which was completed earlier this year. www.sternfenster.com

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 95

DOORS

Two New Slabs From

DoorCo For 2024

Composite door manufacturers, DoorCo, launched their first Innovation Week to announce a full portfolio of new launches, kick-starting with one of their biggest announcements to date – the arrival of the new Eaton blank and the modification of the ¾ lite blank. We caught up with technical and sales manager, Ian Glenister and marketing manager, Ellie Pool, to discuss.

Introducing Eaton Ian Glenister tells us about the brand new slab, Eaton: “The Eaton slab has been designed to be the perfect hybrid between traditional and modern styles, as well as a real dream product for distribution customers.

“A one-of-a-kind entry to the market, Eaton will be available in our tallest, widest size ever (950mm x 2100mm) with equal trimability at both the top and bottom of the slab, allowing the slab to be rotated 180 degrees and used both ways. This means from one slab, you can

create multiple designs like the hero of the collection, the Eaton which has the square moulding at the top and the Knightsbridge with the twin verticals at the top. Furthermore, by cutting the twin vertical mouldings into a half-glazed aperture, we then create the Tatton.”

Ellie Pool adds: “The Eaton door range really is one of our greatest launches yet. Not only does this single blank allow us to create a full range of new prepped doors, we’ve also redesigned the woodgrain finish to create a totally new and stunning affect. The new pointed moulding design also adds such a premium feel to the slab.” ¾ Lite blank receives new modifications Alongside the launch of Eaton is a modified version of the classic ¾ lite door. Ian tells us more: “After receiving feedback from customers and our own experiences of prepping the existing DoorCo ¾ lite blank, we decided it was time to modify

96 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

and modernise this classic door style to make it more adaptable.

“We’ve simplified the mouldings to maximise the number of designs that can be made from the single blank. We have also updated the grain to an etched line detailing to give not only add more styles to the Eaton collection, but to give this product a more superior finish.

Bringing together these two slabs creates a full new range of designs, which is also a great concept for our distribution customers.”

Ellie continues: “The new flush ¾ lite blank has lots of new design options that are inspired by traditional styles, but with a modern edge. We now get Gleneagles, Gleneagles Grid, Oulton, Kings and Grove from these simple yet essential modifications.

Available from January Ellie continues: “The full range will be debuted in our new ‘Original’ brochure in January, however, imagery of all blanks and complete door sets is now available for our customers to access on request. We will soon be sharing further communication with our customers on how and when they can order the products and will be supporting them with adding the new products to their marketing collateral. We anticipate that the industry will be as excited by this launch as we are, so we welcome enquiries from any businesses who don’t yet work with DoorCo, if this product is something they’d be keen to learn more about.”

The new additions to DoorCo’s ‘Original’ foam-filled composite door range can be viewed in a new mini brochure which is available upon request by contacting marketing@door-co.com www.door-co.com

NEW DESIGNER COLLECTION

Stunning new door styles, glasses and hardware have now been added to our leading composite door range.

Discover them for yourself today by downloading the brochure or visit hurstdoors.co.uk.

DOORS

Maximising Composite Door Sales

Hayley Barker, head of marketing at Hurst Doors explains how it’s helping its customers to win and convert more business despite tougher trading conditions.

Retail leads may have dropped in 2023 but those that exist are better quality and the homeowners who are making them are serious about spending.

According to industry figures, installers are converting almost 44% of enquiries (Business Pilot Barometer August), its simply that there are fewer of them.

With the current economic headwinds likely to be with us for some time to come, this appears

to set the scene for the run into the close of this year, and the first half of 2024, at the very least – fewer leads but higher quality ones.

Hayley Barker

differently. It’s a design choice, they’re doing more research and have a new expectation of the sales process.

“Things are a little sluggish out there”, says Hayley Barker, head of marketing at Hurst Doors. “Inflation is falling but still high, and the “People want to be able to express housing market has slowed. a far more individual style. They don’t want to be sold to. They “Many homeowners are feeling the want the tools at their disposal to pinch and we’re fishing in a smaller help make an informed decision pool – at least for the time being. about choosing the right door The flip side is people who are still for them and their property, a enquiring are largely insulated from sales experience that guides and the effects of inflation and serious provides all the information they about purchasing. need rather than a cold hard sell.

“The difference is that they’re approaching that purchase

98 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

“That’s what we’re working to help our customers to deliver.”

DOORS

end-user.

It’s built around the ‘You’re Home With Hurst’ composite door brochure. This is in a sense what you would expect – a wellstructured brochure, which walks homeowners through the technical performance, colour and finish options available in the Hurst Composite Door Collection.

Cue Hurst’s new composite door retail sales support package.

While Hurst may have built its reputation on PVC-U panel supply, it manufacturers and ships 500 composite doors each week alongside 3,500 door panels, and has big ambitions for the future.

To power its growth, Hurst is not only investing in new machinery and equipment but also a nextgeneration customer support package.

This includes the launch of its new collection, which integrates ‘traditional’ printed literature with video – and ultimately new digital tools, opening up a completely new level of dialogue with the

What makes it stand out in the first instance is image quality. The product of major investment and an 18-month programme, Hurst has invested big in high-end and highly aspirational lifestyle imagery.

“We wanted to create content which really helps the end-user to imagine what their home could look like, giving them design inspiration, not only technical detail”, explains Hayley.

Hurst takes this to a new dimension with its integration of professionally created product presenter videos. Key sections within the brochure feature QR codes. Homeowners scan them with their phone camera and it links through to a video.

With high production quality, the

films take retail prospects through options and considerations in more detail, including design, colour, hardware and glass choices, from Hurst’s expansive glass offer.

“It’s about helping the end-user to make a design choice that reflects their personal taste and which complements their home”, Hayley explains.

“Using video in addition to the brochure brings an added dimension to the sales process, helping to inform and educate and help people understand what they’re buying from a technical perspective but also depth of choice available to them.

“It’s a little bit like having an additional salesperson in your team. The professional presenters explain in very clear terms the options available to homeowners and walk them through the sales process.”

Hurst also has plans to expand on this offer further with the launch of a new cutting-edge augmented reality digital sales tool, scheduled for later this year.

Continued on page 100

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 99

DOORS price point.

It features four different styles, including solid and glazed options, which Hurst has paired with a contemporary and carefully selected colour palette, maximising design reach, with a choice of flat colour finishes in greys and black, plus Hurst’s wider colour offer.

“The range emulates aluminium finishes”, Hayley explains.

“We’re also matching it with a contemporary range of glass options, for example minimalist etched finishes, which contribute to a very clean simple and ultimately contemporary aesthetic, creating an opportunity to up-sell a complete offer to the end-user.”

To underpin its growth strategy Hurst announced significant investment in its composite door manufacturing capability in the summer, with the addition of a new beam saw and two edge-banders to its state-of-the-art facility.

The new beam saw moves door cutting-to-size to a dedicated process, freeing up capacity across Hurst’s three pre-existing CNCs, also reducing wear and tear on parts.

Continued from page 99

The two new automated edgebanders, further improve quality and support product development including the addition of the SFS Dynamic 2D-C Hinge, to Hurst’s composite door ranges.

Hurst’s composite door range includes four distinct collections.

The Hurst Classic Collection, is the mainstay of its offer. “Offering numerous traditional styles it now includes the new Composite Two Thirds” Hayley explains. “With its large glazed panel, it allows lots of natural light and Hurst are expecting this new door style to prove extremely popular”.

The Hurst Cottage Collection is designed to replicate traditional timber installations with a more rustic tongue-and-groove appearance. Homeowners looking for a more modern finish can choose from either the Contemporary Collection or the new Designer Collection.

“We’re building for growth. We have a great manufacturing facility, lots of expertise and a core cultural understanding of what people want from their trade composite or panel manufacturer”, says Hayley.

Developed to emulate the appearance of aluminium the Designer Collection has been carefully curated by Hurst to support its customers in tapping into the demand for the aluminium aesthetic, but at a more accessible

100 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

“Building on this heritage, we’re providing an even more extensive customer support package, to make sure that Hurst installers have the tools and resources that they need to maximise conversions.” www.hurstdoors.co.uk

DOORS

Vista Celebrates New County Collection Range Composite door manufacturer Vista Panels has announced the success of its new County Collection, the latest addition to its XtremeDoor brand of composite doors.

traditional British architecture.

The overwhelmingly positive response we’ve received from our customers to the range is an amazing achievement for Vista, and is a testament to our commitment to delivering door solutions that resonate with the needs and preferences of homeowners across the country.

The bespoke range, born from a collaborative effort with glazing suppliers, introduces a heritageinspired line of door cassettes.

The County Collection incorporates XtremeDoor’s signature features, such as a robust five-hook lock, a tripleseal outer frame, fully adjustable hinges, and a three-star security package with a £3,000 moneyback guarantee in partnership with Ingenious Locks and Hardware.

Ian Smith, Vista’s sales and marketing manager, comments: “With the launch of the new County Collection, we’ve encapsulated the rich heritage and timeless elegance of

“This new range pays homage to traditional British architecture – we’re delighted to see it finding a place in homes nationwide, and we look forward to continuing to provide our customers with innovative, high-quality door solutions that stand out in an increasingly competitive market.” www.xtremedoor.co.uk

Universal Trade Frames

launches UniDoor Longstanding Epwin Window Systems’ fabricator Universal Trade Frames has launched its new UniDoor composite door range. Manufactured from Epwin Window Systems’ CD70 universal composite door outer frame and a 44mm thick solid foam core slab, the new UniDoor has been designed to deliver superb energy efficiency and ‘outstanding product durability.’

Duncan Saunders, general manager at Universal Trade Frames, said: ”The new UniDoor is manufactured from a robust 44mm thick solid foam slab that’s protected with 2mm GRP skins which are 10% thicker than comparative composite doors. Each door is then encased within the outer frame to create the perfect fit. This manufacturing method provides superior door strength and product longevity.”

Available in six individual designs, UniDoors are customisable with a choice of twelve colour options and seven complementary outer frame colours for ‘exceptional’ kerb appeal. A range of glass and furniture options is also available.

Duncan said: “The visual impact of a front door is crucial in elevating the overall aesthetic of a property. Our UniDoor range of styles and customisable features empowers installers to meet the specific preferences of all door projects.”

The doors are fitted with Yale high security hardware as standard, and a Secured by Design Upgrade is also available upon request.

According to the company, thanks to the door’s robust credentials, it is energy efficient by design and achieves a u-Value between 1.4 W/m²K and 1.1 W/m²K,

depending on which style of door has been selected.

UniDoor is the latest innovative addition to Universal Trade Frames’ extensive product portfolio and represents a significant advancement to its door range. All its products are manufactured in the company’s manufacturing plant in Shropshire.

Duncan concludes: “We are delighted to launch our new UniDoor range and it’s a further example of how we continue to develop the products our customers require”.

For more information email sales@utfl.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 101

DOORS occupied residential buildings over 11m to carry out annual inspections on all flat entrance doors, and quarterly checks on fire doors within communal areas and which cross corridors.

On paper, this requires a relatively simple check to establish whether the door is in good working order. However, for owners and managers of larger residential portfolios, particularly social landlords, this process is difficult to navigate.

To deliver the large numbers of checks required, housing providers will need people on the ground to deliver them.

And as this process unfolds across hundreds of doors, the likelihood of finding more serious faults increases, driving the need for more thorough inspections as well as specialist skills and knowledge.

To make sure a fire door is safe and futureproofed, both sides must be inspected, and sourcing the manufacturer’s primary test evidence is strongly recommended. In line with the ‘golden thread’ policy postGrenfell, this will confirm if the correct components have been installed and have not been substituted or changed.

Nicola John

Taking Fire Door Inspections To The Next Level

Nicola John, director of Fire Door Maintenance (FDM), and Andrew Tyas, managing director of Contactless Check Solutions (CCS) explain the growing need for more thorough fire door inspections, why the ‘responsible person’ may soon find themselves out of their depth, and what can be done to overcome the challenges.

Following the Hackitt Report’s recommendations, the legal landscape relating to fire safety is changing rapidly, presenting many challenges for those responsible for owning or managing buildings.

The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 require the ‘responsible person’ for multi-

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From 1 October 2023, the responsible person will also have to navigate Section 156 of the Building Safety Act - a new piece of legislation set to have a huge impact on the industry.

This requires all fire door inspections in residential blocks over 18m to be documented in written form, including proof of the action that has been taken.

Combined, these changes will put a huge amount of pressure on the responsible person who is unlikely to have the time, skills and resources needed to meet the legislative requirements.

To tackle these challenges,

DOORS features a fire data pin, which is installed into the hinged side of the door blade. The pin holds all the digital data needed for traceability and can be scanned for inspection using any compatible smartphone, without the need for additional hardware.

The fire door must be opened for the pin to be scanned, meaning false reports can’t be submitted. Unlike a label or QR code, the pin can’t be peeled off or damaged, and will still work if painted over.

To address the people challenge, pools of operatives are being trained by specialists to deliver fire door inspections at scale, and to a higher standard. These operatives can work alongside software providers and have the skills to identify and fix issues on numerous different types of fire door.

Before any work begins, details of the manufacturers of fire doors within a building are sourced. This information is provided to the operatives as part of the bespoke training process, enabling them to know exactly what to look out for during the inspection and ensuring they are aware of any potential risks.

Andrew Tyas

many local authorities are faced with the prospect of training people inhouse to deliver more thorough fire door inspections.

However, this can be an expensive and lengthy process, delaying potential compliance with the law.

As well as people on the ground, new systems will also be required to assist with scheduling, monitoring and reporting the inspections. This is likely to see manual processes replaced with digital solutions offering more efficiency and accuracy.

Rising to the challenge

A holistic approach

In response to these hurdles, specialist companies are stepping up to help local authorities. Software providers are offering a range of technology to help the responsible person manage, inspect and maintain fire doors in accordance with UK fire door regulations.

With new fire safety regulations now firmly in place and more legislation coming down the line, there is an urgent need for local authorities to develop a robust fire door inspection system. By working with specialist partners, housing providers will benefit from an integrated service on the ground and ‘in the cloud’ ensuring fire doors are inspected by a skilled team and to the highest safety standards.

Cloud-based software, incorporating a mobile App and desktop dashboard, provides an efficient, cost-effective solution.

More advanced technology

https://fdmltd.co.uk/

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 103

DOORS Panel/4 Panel Combination door, 4 Panel Pre App, Eaton, Farmhouse Solid, Monza II Solid, and our new flush side lites.

As for FLiP, the following cassettes will all be available in both Slate and Agate: Twin Vertical, Twin Square to Round, Twin Eyebrow, Twin Top, Mid Panel, Half Glazed, 4 Lite Half Glazed, 9 Lite Half Glazed, Half Glazed Round Top, 11 Lite Half Glazed Round Top, Augusta Long (Flat Grain), Square (Standard and Flat Grain), Augusta (Flat Grain), Oakmont (Flat Grain), Merion and 4 Lite Merion.

DoorCo Launch Slate and Agate as

Standard Colours For ORiGINAL and FLiP Designs

In their latest Innovation Week launch, DoorCo tell customers of the popular ORiGINAL and FLiP designs that will be available in Slate and Agate as standard colours from January 2024.

Now responsible for PAiNT within the business, newly appointed supply chain manager Ian Donohue tells us about the new additions.

“After reviewing the data of the most popular colours over the last 12-18 months, it was clear to see that outside of our current standard shades, Slate and Agate were the best-sellers by a mile.

At present, these shades are considered a premium shade and come under our usual paint charge. However, as of January, we will be releasing some of the most popular designs within FLiP and ORiGINAL in Slate and Agate as standard colours, therefore no longer being applicable to the paint charge.”

Within the ORiGINAL range, we will be releasing the following in Slate: 6 Panel/4 Panel Combination, Flush Solid, 6 Panel/4 Panel Combination door, 4 Panel Pre App, Eaton, Farmhouse Solid, Monza II Solid, and our new flush side lites. The following will also be available in Agate: 6

104 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Continuing on the reasons for the change, Ian tells us “Our end goal as a business is to always make everything as accessible as possible for our customers, so they can do the same for theirs.

By making the most popular styles of ORiGINAL and FLiP available as standard in two of our best-selling colours and therefore removing the additional cost, not only have we made it more affordable to offer these best-sellers to homeowners, we have also reduced the lead times on the prepping of these two popular colours by moving them from our painted lead time of 9 days to our standard lead time of 7 days delivered.”

“Alongside this, the benefits of this change, along with our other innovations, is also done for the benefit of our distribution customer base. By being able to remove the paint charge from Slate and Agate’s best-selling designs, we give our distribution customers the opportunity to review their offering and ensure they’re giving their customer base the best value possible too.” www.door-co.com

DOORS

Smart Launches Alitherm Heritage 60 Door System

Smart Architectural Aluminium has announced the launch of its new Alitherm 60 door system, the latest addition to the company’s Alitherm Heritage portfolio. Fully compliant with Document L of the Building Regulations, this new range of high-quality, high performance single and double doors provides an elegant solution for both new build and refurbishment projects, says the company.

The doors’ distinctive slim

sightlines perfectly complement the existing Smart Alitherm window ranges, which together mimic the appearance of traditional steel window and door systems – while delivering all the performance benefits of a modern aluminium system.

With a range including single and double doors, as well open-in and open-out options, Alitherm 60 provides a ready replacement for steel doors on heritage applications, such as

building renovations or apartment conversions, or for sensitive conservation areas, where planning regulations require a like-for-like product replacement.

The new doors also feature an enhanced polyamide break to provide excellent thermal performance, in compliance with Document L of the Building Regulations, claims the company.

A full range of complementary hardware, including stainless steel, heritage and Art Deco fittings, is also available together with Smart’s extensive colour palette to provide complete design flexibility.

Commenting on the Alitherm 60 launch, Smart’s CEO, Eddie Robinson, said: “This new range is a great addition to our existing suite of Alitherm Heritage systems, which have proved to be exceptionally popular in projects across the UK. “Integrating seamlessly with these existing systems, and fully compliant with the new Document L requirements, the elegant lines and outstanding performance of Alitherm 60 make it the perfect solution for architects, developers, installers and fabricators.” www.smartsystems.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 105

DOORS

Everglade Windows’

New Product Range Continues

To Grow With aïr 900 Bi-Fold Door

Everglade Windows has added the aïr 900 Bi-fold Door to its already-impressive product range, offering its trade customers one of the slimmest bi-fold doors on the market,

says the company.

In response to growing homeowner demands for natural light and a seamless connection to outdoor spaces,

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the aïr 900 Bi-fold Door claims to deliver an on-trend, modern glazing system. Plus, with large expanses of glass up to 14 panels wide and super slim sightlines of 107mm, it’s one of the slimmest bi-fold doors available.

Alongside a whole range of new products, the Everglade Windows team has put in months of research and development to produce a high performance and

DOORS

ultra-modern bi-folding door.

Bhavik Dabasia, Everglade Windows technical director, says of the addition: “We’ve had quite a few product launches over the past couple of months, but the aïr 900 Bi-fold Door is a real standout system. To be able to offer our trade customers one of the slimmest bi-fold doors possible, coupled with fantastic technical performance, is just another example of our

abilities, as a manufacturer, to produce products that bridge the gap between exceptional performance and on-trend aesthetics.

“We’ve been manufacturing windows and doors for over 43 years, so we know what homeowners want and what installers need when it comes to delivering first-class glazing solutions, and the aïr 900 Bi-fold Door is just another example of

that.”

According to Everglade, whether it’s security, performance or energy efficiency, the aïr 900 Bi-fold Door leaves no element compromised. Not only does it come with PAS 24 certification as standard, but it also achieves U-values from 1.0 W/m2k, sash sizes up to 1.2m x 3m, and a weight limit of 120kg per panel. www.evergladetrade.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 107

DOORS

Unique Adds Cortizo Products To Portfolio Unique Window Systems is set to expand its product offer from November 1st 2023. The business, which works with trade installers on a supply only basis and large commercial clients looking for a complete supply and fit solution, will offer a number of products from Cortizo.

A vertically integrated

Spanish manufacturer with nine production facilities and operations in over 31 countries, Cortizo is respected around the world for the premium quality and aesthetic appeal of its range, says Unique.

Three Cortizo products will initially be available from Unique, all of which the company says are ideally suited to both

108 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

residential and commercial applications.

This includes the Cortizo 4700 sliding door system and the Cortizo bi-fold plus doors.

Unique will also fabricate Cortizo casement windows.

Speaking of the introduction of the Cortizo products, Mir Patel, senior manager at Unique, said: “Unique already offers our trade installer partners and commercial clients a comprehensive choice of PVCu and aluminium fenestration products.

“Far from seeing this as a cause for complacency however and in line with our focus on ‘Building

DOORS

TCR Systems’ Customers Help Drive New Partnership With AluK

TCR Systems is now fabricating the BSF70 (pictured) and the F82 bifold doors from AluK

When established conservatory roof specialist TCR Systems decided to add aluminium bifolds to its product portfolio, it asked its existing trade customers which product and system they liked the best.

on Success’, we continue to look at how we can expand our offer with systems that deliver performance and benefits that meet current and future needs, tastes, and standards.

“The addition of Cortizo products to our range reflects that. We are looking forward to working with this internationally respected manufacturer and to showing our customers the impressive possibilities of #ArtistryinAluminium.”

To support its launch of the three Cortizo systems, Unique has created a new promotional video. This can be viewed at https://bit.ly/cortizofromunique

The most popular response was AluK and, largely as a result, TCR Systems is now fabricating and supplying both AluK’s BSF70 HI and F82 Plus bifolds.

Caroline Thompson, TCR’s marketing manager explained: “Installers told us they liked the quality of the AluK products, the strength of the brand in the retail market and the ease of installation.

They felt that AluK had a distinctive offering, different from many of the other aluminium systems companies, and offered good value for money.

“We met with the AluK team and were impressed with the technical, sales and marketing support available. We particularly liked the fact that there are two Part L compliant options in the range, which means we can offer doors at different price points to appeal to

different sectors of our market.

“TCR Systems has been a one stop shop supplier for Ultraframe conservatory roofs, lanterns and rooflights for more than 13 years and the AluK brand sits very comfortably alongside that, with a similar reputation for proven quality and innovative design.

“Our customers can now access quality roofs and bifolds from TCR at the same time, all backed by the same friendly and efficient service.”

TCR Systems, based in Coleshill, Birmingham, plans to use the move into bifolds to expand what is already a very successful business. Caroline added: “We see bifolds as the natural add-on to our roofs for customers who are installing conservatories, orangeries and extensions.

“We plan to increase our volumes and make sure our customers right across the South and Midlands don’t want to go anywhere else.” uk.aluk.com/en-gb/products www.tcrsystemsltd.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 109

DOORS

Bask In The

Glow With Tuffx With continued pressure to innovate our way to more energy efficient, sustainable homes, TuffX has risen to the challenge with the official launch of its long-awaited electrically heated glass product, Glow. For bifold doors in the first instance the glass offers homeowners a revolutionary new way to heat their homes.

“With traditional heaters and gas boilers being recognised as inefficient, there is an urgent

need for effective and affordable alternatives,” explains Paul Higgins, commercial director of TuffX. “Glow offers a solution that is like underfloor heating in that it doesn’t require wall space but is also not prohibitively expensive.

Utilising infrared technology, it is thermostat controlled like existing familiar heating systems.

The product offers fabricators a completely unique solution to a growing problem.

“We understand that with

110 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

such revolutionary ideas, our fabricators and their installer customers need additional support. TuffX is offering full training on Glow’s features and benefits, and correct installation

DOORS methods to our approved trade partner fabricator customer base, which they can then disseminate to their installers.

“The system comprises of a sealed unit that is layered with intelligent conductive coatings to emit radiant heat into the home,” continues Paul. “With this advanced technology it can be utilised as a primary heating source with temperatures reaching 35-40°C and has the added benefit of eliminating unsightly condensation. And speaking of aesthetics, we are pleased to bring this product to market with no visible trace of a heating system inside.

The coatings we have used are completely undetectable. From a homeowner’s perspective the glass will look the same as that found in any other bi-fold door.

“The Glow heated glass system is fully compliant too, conforming to EN12150 and EN1279 Parts 1-4 and is a fantastic solution for the upcoming Future Homes Standard as it’s a direct replacement for the soon to be obsolete gas heating systems.

It also boasts a 1.2W/m2K U-Value for optimum energy efficiency all year round. Glow heated glass for bi-fold doors will be open to applications for approved trade partners from December, allowing fabricators and installers to benefit from this unique innovative product in their portfolio.

Paul concludes: “Consumers need alternative sustainable heating methods that are realistic and don’t cost the earth. We are proud that the TuffX development team have cultivated such a fantastic solution for the end user, but that is also easy for fabricators and installers to add to their offering. The product with its radiant technology really is a game changer and we’re excited to see its impact in the market.” http://www.tuffxglass.co.uk/ WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 111

PRODUCT NEWS is always a danger that they will swing back or dislodge in blustery weather. With the more ‘Advanced’ Mila Magnets, you get optimum connection as soon as the magnets come within reach of each other and that guarantees a more secure hold.

“They also feature top quality N52 neodymium magnets inside which have a high strength to size ratio, so they are just 20mm wide and visually neat and discreet.”

Mila Delivers Major Advance On Bi-Fold Door Magnets

Advance Bi-fold door Magnets are the first products in hardware specialist Mila’s new ‘designed for aluminium’ range.

The Magnets, designed to hold open both traffic and intermediate bi-fold doors, feature self-aligning pivot technology on both sections.

This allows them to move up to 30° from side to side so that they always achieve 100% face-to-face contact for a more secure and reliable hold, claims

the company.

Mila’s design team have developed the free-moving pivot technology in house and a patent is pending on the selfaligning element.

Product design director Paul Pearson explained: “With the fixed bi-fold door magnets that have gone before, you only get an optimum connection when the doors are consciously opened fully by the user, so there

112 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

The new Mila Advance Magnets are available in two variants – for traffic doors and intermediate panels, and in six of the most popular suited finishes – anthracite grey, black, white, polished chrome, polished gold PVC and satin nickel.

A clear, durable anti-scratch shield protects the surface from scratching when the magnets are moving.

Mila’s managing director Richard Gyde commented: “When we announced the Advance initiative last month, we promised precision engineered products with clever design features which would solve the kinds of hardware problems regularly encountered by aluminium fabricators.

“That’s exactly what we’ve delivered with the new Advance Magnets. They represent real progress in terms of performance and, at the same time are quick and easy to fit. As a result, we’re already partnering with some of the UK’s leading aluminium systems companies to supply these Magnets with their bi-folds.”

The Mila Advance Magnets have been successfully tested to BSEN 1670 for weather resistance and are backed with a 10-year surface finish and mechanical operation warranty. www.mila.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

UAP Broadens Choice Of Duo Handles and mirrored polish.

With a 243mm long backplate, UAP’s Duo door handles are designed to maximise aesthetics and quality. The tube-shaped handle ensures a comfortable grip for the operator and complies with the requirements of the Equality Act (formerly the Disability Discrimination Act).

Barry Halpin, national sales director at UAP said: “Our Duo door handle is highly versatile and has been manufactured to offer a more attractive appearance than many others currently available on the market.

“As well as ensuring a door is easily accessible for the disabled, fabricators and locksmiths can stock just one handle for several types of application.”

UAP has extended its range of Duo door handles.

Fabricators can now choose from a granite finish, which adds to a further five colour options including satin stainless steel, white, black, gold,

Optimising reliability, UAP’s Duo door handle range has been salt spray tested for 2,000 hours to meet the ASTM B117 standard. Each handle is made from high-grade stainless steel and comes with a lifetime coating guarantee. www.uapcorporate.com

greenteQ Adds New

Locking System To Its Range

Hardware manufacturer VBH has announced a further addition to its greenteQ range of window locking systems.

The Securitas Offset twin cam security espagnolette has been designed for use on slim aluminium casement window systems.

It has a 16mm wide U-rail faceplate, so is ideal for systems

with no Eurogroove, says VBH. Pairs of bi-directional adjustable mushroom headed cams provide compression and security when in the locked position. The cam pairs locate into both sides of a greenteQ night vent striker plate to provide a strong connection.

Securitas Offset is available in nine sizes up to 1300mm and has up to four pairs of cams depending on the length to

ensure even locking down the whole sash.

Dan Powell, head of brand at VBH, says, “We already offer a comprehensive range of greenteQ locking systems for Eurogroove profiles. Securitas Offset will satisfy those fabricators who wish to benefit from greenteQ hardware on their non-Eurogroove systems but have been unable to until now.”

As well as being very quick to fit, VBH advise that Securitas Offset is approved for use on Q-secure ‘Premium’ installations, offering consumers the peace of mind that the popular hardware security guarantee brings.

The stainless steel U-channel and mushroom cams are claimed by the company to be very durable, and are covered by the greenteQ 10 year performance guarantee. www.vbhgb.com

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 113

PRODUCT NEWS

Weather-Beating Tilt &

Turn Hardware From VBH

Hardware specialist, VBH, has reported a surge in the popularity of the ArTech tilt & turn system from respected Italian hardware manufacturer, AGB.

VBH advise that ArTech is treated with Activeage ‘Hi-Protection’ coating that enables the hardware to withstand over 2000 hours of testing in a neutral salt spray environment, says the company.

Activeage is a 3-stage finish, incorporating layers of zinc, chromic passivation with silica Nano particles, and finally an organic mineral protection coating.

performance as a major reason why so many fabricators are switching to ArTech. Security spec windows have been tested to forces of 5.5KN, nearly double the forces specified in PAS24.

Gary Gleeson, marketing manager at VBH, says “ArTech is incredibly resistant to attack, achieving almost double the required performance under PAS24.

ArTech is available in surface fit, jigless, rebated, and concealed hinge variants, all with standard level and PAS24 security level options. Upgrading between the two is reportedly easy, with only minimal hardware changes.

VBH cites the system’s security

“It is built to withstand harsh and varied climates, such as ours in the UK, where so many windows are positioned not that far from windy, salt water environments or near busy roads. 2000 hours salt spray performance is extremely impressive when you consider that the top grade of BS EN 1670 is 240 hours, which is classed as ‘very high resistance’. vbhgb.com

Enhanced Variation Of Federal’s Iron Guard 3*

Cylinder Launched By Carl F Groupco feature will reduce stock holding requirements.

Carl F Groupco has just added an enhanced variation of the Iron Guard 3* Cylinder manufactured

by Federal to its portfolio. John Crittenden, managing director at Carl F Groupco, comments: “The Iron Guard 3* Cylinder has all the qualities you would expect from a 3* accredited cylinder, plus additional benefits. I’m delighted to be stocking an enhanced variation that offers our customers more functionality and adds even more value.”

Advanced features include a patented firing pin mechanism which engages if the cylinder is snapped. The cam will lock itself down, preventing unauthorised

access via the cam and providing an extra layer of security.

Additionally, a unique trap pin feature further enhances security.

In the event of attempted picking or bumping, the trap pin is fired into the plug chamber locking the plug and preventing access. In both scenarios, the cylinder can be safely operated from the inside.

Another benefit of this variant is that it’s non-handed; the sacrificial cut features on both the internal and external sides of the cylinder meaning that no matter which direction the cylinder is fitted, there will be the same anti-snap protection. In addition, for locksmiths and repairers, the

114 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

A horizontal keyway for the secure dimple cut key provides visual security to ward off intruders, as does the Kitemark that’s visible on the face of the cylinder. It comes with five keys and a keycard so keys can be registered and reordered securely. The cylinder has a nickel finish with brass barrel and is available as double, single and thumb turn options as well as keyed-alike pairs.

Carl F Groupco’s enhanced Iron Guard 3* Cylinder is a TS007 3 star kitemarked cylinder that is Sold Secure Diamond certified and Secured by Design accredited.

Carl F Groupco distributes nationally, serving customers across the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands from its distribution centers in Peterborough and Cumbernauld. https://bit.ly/3sxoXud

NEW

ADVANCE™ Bi-fold door magnets

self-aligning pivot technology patent pending & powerful N52 magnetic strength FOR 100% face-to-face contact & a secure hold

Progressive Hardware. Forward-Thinking Technology. for the Aluminium sector

mila.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Bohle’s Juna

Shower Hinge Now Available For Saunas Bohle’s Juna shower hinge is now available for use on sauna doors up to 800mm x 2,000mm, creating opportunities for installation companies working on high-value projects.

Developed and designed by Bohle, the new Juna hinge for glass shower doors boasts minimum gap dimensions. Tested to 20,000 cycles, the hinges have a load capacity of 32kg, claims the company, and are available in two versions: glass to glass, and glass

to wall. Both of these are available in three finishes: Shiny Chrome, Stainless Steel and Black.

“Our Juna hinge has been popular with customers working on bathrooms in the upper end of the market since it was launched two years ago,” Bohle’s managing director Dave Broxton said.

“Not only is it clearly a quality product, which gives a ‘wow’ factor, but it means companies are unlikely to be called back to

116 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

jobs because of problems, which means they keep customers, win recommendations, and improve their bottom line.

“It made sense that this option was extended from bathrooms to saunas, where a focus on quality is even more evident, and we have seen work from the luxury end of the market increase during 2023 as volume work slowed slightly.

“It’s also important to maintain a quality product offering, especially as we start to see evidence of companies competing solely on price. There will always be part of the market where cost is secondary to quality, and those companies that can meet this demand will be rewarded with higher margins.”

The Juna shower door hinge was also designed with the installer

PRODUCT NEWS

UAP Launches New Key Wind Lock

For Pull Handles

in mind. For example, the zeroposition adjusting screw is easily accessible and enables convenient adjustment: the clamping screws and the zero-position fixing screw have uniform screw heads, which can be tightened with just one tool, reducing clutter and inconvenience on site.

Furthermore, the centred mounting plate is designed to perfectly locate the cover cap, which guarantees a firm and precise fit, says the company.

“In keeping with the attitude to improvements elsewhere in the home, we are seeing people gravitate towards higher value installations, which includes saunas,” Dave said. “This means there is no better time for installers to have the Juna Shower Door Hinge in their product portfolio.” www.bohle.com

UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has launched a new key wind lock, designed specifically for doors with fixed handles such as pull handles.

Suitable for composite and timber doors, the Fullex Key Wind lock uses a key or thumb turn to engage and retract the bolts and latch. Once the door is closed, the latch can’t be operated without the key.

Julian Roberts, technical services director at UAP said: “The Fullex Key Wind Lock is ideal for use with pull handles on the doors of residential properties, enabling homeowners to benefit from security, reliability, and functionality.

“If, for example, an intruder tried to open the door just after someone had entered the house with their shopping, they wouldn’t be able to get in as the latch would hold the door shut.

“A further benefit is the lock’s simplicity. Other key wind locks on the market require the key to be turned between 360 and 720 degrees. The Fullex Key Wind Lock enables the user to enter the door swiftly and easily”.

To operate the lock, it takes half a turn to withdraw the bolts, is then returned to original position, then turned again to retract the latch.

In addition, the comapny have developed a matching escutcheon, providing the option of a full, cost-effective system, including a pull handle, Key Wind Lock, high security escutcheon and 1 Star cylinder.

The design of the Fullex Key Wind Lock is based on the Fullex Crimebeater lock, which is engineered to provide long-term reliability and security. Widely specified, Fullex Crimebeater has been fitted to doors throughout the UK. uapcorporate.com

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 117

PRODUCT NEWS The Link Vent follows a clever design that is simple and user friendly for both opening and closing – the innovative closing action allows the closure plate to be positioned so that it reduces draughts by directing air away from occupants.

The Link Vent 4000 and 5000 closure plate is split to allow for partial (50%) opening and greater ease of opening of the ventilator.

Delivering To Market Demands

Dean Bradley

Richard Bryant

Window Ware offers a wide range of over 5000 products and deliver to companies of all sizes across the country. And it takes the long-term support of leading supply partners and manufacturers like Glazpart to ensure dependable deliveries and excellent customer service.

in a choice of 3 sizes: 5000 EQA, 4000 EQA and 2500 EQA. Equivalent Area or EQA is used instead of free area to specify the sizing of trickle ventilators as it is a better measure of air flow performance, says Glazpart.

One of the most popular products in Window Ware’s Glazpart range is the Link Vent series of trickle vents, available

The vents are designed to fully comply with building regulations, Approved document F1 (means of ventilation).

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The flexibility of the Link Vent also has rounded ends of the vent to allow for installation on timber windows and it is available in either screw or clip in fixing types – the design eliminates the need for end caps whilst the clip fix design (Pawl’s) allows for a fast, easy vent installation.

Richard Bryant, Window Ware’s commercial director commented, “The Link Vent range is a strong addition to our product portfolio. It offers our fabricators exactly the kind of versatility they need in terms of colours and finishes, so they can meet their consumers’ need for choice and to keep up with market trends.”

Dean Bradley, sales director at Glazpart added, “We are delighted that Window Ware not only stock and distribute our award-winning Link Vent range, but have also become Glazpartners. The Link Vent is one of the top ventilation choices for window and door fabricators and installers across the UK. Not only does it help companies comply with the latest building regulations and provide a slick ventilation solution for modern homes, but it can complement the appearance of any door and window, no matter the style, colour or finish!” www.glazpart.co.uk www.windowware.co.uk

Iron Guard 3* Cylinder

Scan to View the Iron Guard 3* Cylinder Range T: 01733 393330 (Peterborough) T: 01236 721557 (Cumbernauld) E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk @carl_f_groupco Carl F Groupco Carl F Groupco

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Kestrel Aluminium Launches 75Mm Window System Kestrel Aluminium Systems has launched a high-performance 75mm aluminium window system.

The new window is designed to meet the strict performance requirements of both commercial and domestic applications such as homes, schools, offices, healthcare and leisure facilities.

Options can be selected between modular thermal levels to enable compliance with project and regulatory requirements, with

the benefits of value engineering achieving U values as low as 1.2W/ m2K based on standard regulatory window configuration and using double glazed units.

Variants include open outside hung & top hung casements, open in tilt before turn, tilt only & turn only and fixed lights. Glazing options at launch include IGU and infill panels 24 – 32mm thick.

The 75mm system continues Kestrel’s popular method of corner

120 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

jointing, using mechanical cleats in all corners of each profile to ensure stability and durability. Mechanical jointing is also present on the transoms and mullions.

The window system has been successfully tested to the latest PAS24:2022 standard utilising an innovative bead foot design, enabling internal and external glazing of fixed lights whilst maintaining enhanced security.

Other tested highlights include up to 1350pa watertightness for an open in window.

Kestrel’s new 75mm window system is compatible with existing Kestrel products. It can be used in conjunction with the Kestrel curtain walling and thermal framing

PRODUCT NEWS

systems to offer a complete glazing solution.

learning more about the benefits of working with Kestrel.

The 75mm window system can be manufactured with either single or dual-colour powder-coated profiles and may also be supplied in mill and anodised finishes. Kestrel has an in-house powder-coating facility and can offer a wide variety of RAL and BS colours to suit any building design.

Andrew Cross, Kestrel’s marketing manager, said: “We were delighted with the launch of our 75mm Window System, and with the positive feedback we received from the fabricators and installers who attended. It’s always a pleasure to welcome our customers to visit our Head Office and factory to find out more about the benefits we can offer to their businesses.

On 11 October 2023, Kestrel held an open day at its head office in Birmingham, where aluminium window fabricators and installers were able to visit and learn more about the new 75mm Window System, as well as enjoying a tour of Kestrel’s state-of-the-art powder-coating facilities and

“Our 75mm system meets the strict performance requirements that our customers tell us they need their systems to achieve, and we have no doubt that this new system will make it easier than ever for them to meet their customers’

performance demands.”

An endless cycle of recycling All of Kestrel’s aluminium systems are manufactured using lowcarbon recycled aluminium to reduce the environmental impact of its products and processes.

Kestel says unlike many of the other raw materials fenestration systems can be made from, aluminium can be recycled infinitely without loss of quality, making it a truly sustainable choice. And, thanks to its low melting point, very little energy is required to transform the material into another product. www.kestrelaluminium.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 121

PRODUCT NEWS

Epwin Window Systems Achieves Pas24:2022

Across Its Pvc-U Systems Epwin Window Systems has confirmed all its PVC-U window and door systems have achieved PAS24:2022 signalling a commitment to staying at the forefront of industry standards.

Adrian Crutchley, product accreditations manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to be amongst the first systems companies to be able to confirm that our multiple PVC-U window and door systems have all achieved PAS24:2022 certification. This achievement further demonstrates our commitment to adopting and meeting the latest industry standards to deliver secure and reliable solutions for our customers”.

PAS 24:2022 sets out enhanced security standards for doorsets and windows, indicating the certified products have undergone testing and meet specific criteria for resisting physical attack. The new accreditation, which officially came into effect in September 2022, phasing out the earlier PAS 24:2016 standard, helps specifiers meet Building Regulations and the requirements of the police’s Secured by Design scheme.

It applies to all new windows and doorsets as manufactured and prior to installation. The accreditation promotes security and denotes enhanced security performance intended to resist the type of attack normally associated with casual or

122 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

opportunistic burglars.

The PAS 24:2022 accreditation covers Epwin Window Systems’ entire PVC-U system range which includes the Spectus Elite window & door system, Optima window & door system, Flush Tilt & Turn window system, Fully Reversible window system, Flush Casement window system, Vertical Sliding Sash window wystem and the PatioMaster Inline Sliding Door system.

According to Epwin Window Systems, as well as the PAS 24:2022 accreditations, the company has the industry’s largest choice of Part L-compliant window and door systems.

Its customers also benefit from support in complying with regulations. Its free thermal efficiency calculator U-Comply N, which is part of its Connect digital platform, provides reports that are approved by the British Standards Institute and can be used to prove a product’s compliance with Part L of Building Regulations. www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS innovative design feature that blends vertical and pitched glass with glass-to-glass joints, opening up a world of possibilities for architectural glazing projects.

The company also specialises in bespoke glass structures for installation or home improvement projects, including glass window seats, full height oriel windows, balcony enclosures, sliding windows and wrap around balconies.

Elevate Your Space with Glass Box Extensions from Direct Trade Windows

AJ concludes: “The investment in glass box extensions has been extremely worthwhile, giving both our architect and trade installer customers a unique opportunity to enhance their projects with contemporary architectural designs while providing their customers with beautiful living spaces filled with natural light.

The structures are designed to completely transform living spaces, offering endless possibilities for architects and installers.

“At Direct Trade Windows, we have an ongoing commitment to helping our valued customers stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market, and with our unique and bespoke glass box extension offerings, we’re providing not only a stunning architectural feature, but a way to maintain that vital competitive edge.”

Aluminium trade fabricator Direct Trade Windows has expanded its product portfolio with glass box extensions.

“Our range of glass box extensions is customisable and available in various shapes and sizes, and can incorporate winter gardens, atriums, glass facades, balcony enclosures and glass window seats – and with minimal

frames that prioritise thermal efficiency, they flood living spaces with abundant natural light,” says Direct Trade Windows director, AJ Hassanali.

Glass box extensions are crafted from durable aluminium frames that ensure longevity and strength, claims the company, and can be paired with Direct Trade Windows’ range of steel-look aluminium bi-fold and sliding doors for a seamless aesthetic appeal.

In addition to standard offerings, Direct Trade Windows also supplies horizon roofs, an

124 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

www.directtradewindows.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Universal Load-Bearing Window

Product Becomes Industry Bestseller Window Widgets has announced one of its universal load-bearing window products as an industry bestseller with fabricators and installers.

The manufacturer in glazing solutions for the fenestration industry, Window Widgets manufactures what is claimed to be the largest range of ‘reliable universal ancillaries’ for fabricators and installers across the UK, with Window Widgets’ Jacks proving popular with more than four million sales to date.

Recently shortlisted in the Window Component of the Year category in this year’s National

Fenestration Awards, the Jacks are manufactured in-house in Britain with a universal approach, making the product suitable for all windows, including those fitted in new-builds. In 2023 alone, almost 50,000 Jacks have been manufactured by Window Widgets.

“Functionality is at the heart of our designs, and we’re proud to say our Jacks are installer friendly, delivering great functionality for our customers, without compromising on sleek design or reliability,” says the company.

According to Window Widgets, independently, the CE Marked Jacks have been tested up to nine tonnes without failure and are guaranteed with a load up to two tonnes, making them compliant for load bearing capacity EN1993-1 and BBA report 260.

Window Widgets has also manufactured 58 specially shaped capstans to suit the pole required for correct and secure installation. windowwidgets.co.uk/jacks

AT Precision Introduces Recycled Thermal

Reinforcement Bars To Product Portfolio Hardware supplier AT Precision has introduced Recycled Thermal Reinforcement (RTR) bars to its product portfolio.

Made from 100% recycled uPVC, the RTR bars add strength and increased thermal performance to windows, are quick and easy to install, and boast a minimum lifespan of 35 years, says the company.

The addition follows the recent launch of the Durham-based company’s own in-house recycling scheme, complete with a factory expansion and £370K investment in a new extrusion machine.

The scheme sees AT Precision picking up unused or unwanted uPVC materials from its customers, and processing these for use in manufacturing its range of RTR bars.

10,000 square feet, but has also solidified our commitment to sustainability.

Sales director Michael Hewitt comments: “In the face of a pressing climate crisis, the fenestration sector is directing more effort towards sustainability – at AT Precision, we are dedicated to playing our role in the preservation of our planet, and we firmly believe that our recent investments in a new recycling scheme as well as our new RTR bars have been truly worthwhile.

“Our innovative recycling scheme has not only expanded our manufacturing facility by an extra

“Meanwhile, the new RTR system delivers a multitude of benefits for both the environment and for our customers, including enhanced thermal efficiency, quick and easy installation, and an impressive minimum lifespan of 35 years.”

With a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Durham, AT Precision manufactures the Everglide range of bi-fold components such as rollers, guides and hinges, as well as the Everseal range of high-quality gaskets.

The company also specialises in security hardware, PVC infill extrusions, and aluminium profile for bi-folds. www.atprecision.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 125

PRODUCT NEWS

Are You Proactive

Or Reactive?

Your Choice Of Balustrade May Give You Away, Says Bohle There is a danger that if price becomes the only point of differentiation between you and your competitors, then you in effect narrow your horizon, according to Paul Miller, Bohle’s national sales manager.

“Price is critical – whether the price at which you buy, or the price at which you sell – I get it,” Paul says.

“At the end of the day, we all need to make a profit, and cutting your top line and winning sales are both key to that.

126 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Paul Miller

“But I would argue that if managing cost is the only way you are running your business, then you are by definition being reactive, and not proactively

PRODUCT NEWS A case in point, Paul argues, is Bohle’s easy-fit VetroMount balustrade system, which is now available with a 1.5kN line-loading.

This, Paul says, makes it suitable for the growing retail, hospitality and commercial market, as well as for domestic use.

VetroMount is available in a standard face or floor fixing option; a flush-finish; and a third, ‘Y’ shaped channel, which tapers down to the face of the substrate, to create a clean minimalist finish.

Each minimises fixings, while making installation simple using Bohle’s patented zip-fix technology and cradle to hold the glass firmly in the channel. This also makes alignment easy, with simple adjustment.

Available in standard 2.5m and 5m lengths, VetroMount accommodates glass thickness of up to 21.5mm. It’s also counterbored, which means it’s suitable for use with standard, rather than more expensive counter-fix fixings.

looking at opportunities.”

Paul argues that there will always be a market that is driven by price, but the real opportunities lie outside of this – in sectors where quality and choice are valued more highly than price.

“If you are looking to improve your profit margin, then there are many ways of doing this without cutting your overheads while still winning sales,” Paul says.

“Bohle has been in business for 100 years this year, and part of its success is down to its ability to take advantage of opportunities, and not simply react to market forces.”

“VetroMount may not have the lowest price point on the market, but it offers a significant opportunity to build in more margin, which means you get to walk away with more cash in your pocket at the end of the day,” Paul says.

“For example, VetroMount allows window fitters to cross sell on projects. For example, someone replacing their windows may also have a requirement for balustrading, which could otherwise go to another contractor.

“And with VetroMount, we’ve simplified the balustrade installation, so there’s no need to carry specialist tools, which reduces fixing costs and protects margin.

“Also, balustrading for domestic use only requires a 0.74kN line loading, and VetroMount

VetroMount base fix

can achieve this with 17.5mm PVB laminated glass, which is 30% cheaper than the 21.5mm alternative.

“But, by using additional glass carriers and 21.5mm PVB laminated glass, the system can be upgraded to a 1.5kN system. This means the product can confidently be installed in commercial areas open to the public such as footways, pavements, retail spaces, bars, restaurants and vehicular areas, including stairs and landings.”

VetroMount was independently tested in August 2023 to BS6180:2011 for a 1.5kN line load.

Paul points out that many of Bohle’s longest serving customers have continued to trade with the glass consumables supplier – in some cases for decades – because they have been able to rely on unchallenged quality.

“There is an assumption that higher prices limit your available market, but the opposite is literally true,” Paul says. “If you have to return to a project to replace a shower screen because of faulty hardware, you’ve not only lost money on that job, but you could lose that customer as well.” www.bohle.com

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 127

PRODUCT NEWS

Creating A Stylish Viewpoint

With Juliette And Paris Balconies

Paris balcony

Juliet Balcony

In urban and rural dwellings, the trend for balconies that fill interiors with natural light and make the most of views externally is on the rise. Juliette and Paris balconies are a particularly popular option where space is at a premium.

new buildings and added to existing dwellings, for practical and decorative purposes, Juliette balconies provide a safety barrier by means of the balustrades or railings.

Increasingly being specified for

Available in a brushed or polished finish, the CRL Juliette

Balcony System is made from 316 stainless steel for durability and strength. Designed for use with 12mm toughened glass or 13.52mm toughened laminated glass, the top and bottom rail provide reassurance and safety should the glass fail, says the company.

Creating a streamlined finish with its frameless design and offering an uninterrupted view from a balcony, the CRL Paris Balcony system is designed to be used with 13.52mm, 17.52mm & 21,52mm toughened laminated glass.

The 1200mm long profiles can be face fixed or reveal fixed to brickwork, concrete or steel and can be chosen in a grey or white finish. A top cap rail is not required as the toughened laminated glass offers extra protection if one single pane fails, claims the company.

Both the CRL Paris and Juliette Balcony Systems are tested to comply with building and safety regulations, including BS6180:2011. www.crlaurence.co.uk

Distinction Doors Launches New Glass Designs Distinction Doors has introduced two new decorative glass designs, Chatsworth and Wentworth.

privacy without compromising on light. The composition of each glazed unit – laminated, low-E and double glazed – means they both offer excellent thermal performance particularly when fitted into a thermally efficient Distinction door, claims the company.

Both styles combine satin glass with clear detailing. Wentworth features a 25mm wide clear border around a satin centre, while Chatsworth has a 7mm clear pencil border inset 25mm from the satin edge.

The classic designs mean they complement many of the company’s popular door styles.

They are available in sizes to fit the complete nxt-gen range and Signature equivalents, and as long glass panels for the 6P contemporary door styles.

Chatsworth

The easy-clean satin finish obscures vision offering homeowners a high level of privacy while affording excellent light transmission so homeowners can enjoy their

128 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Commenting on the launch, marketing executive Emma Fowlds said: “Since launching the Distinction decorative glass range in 2016 customer demand has risen exponentially. Our glass is valued for its quality, the wide variety of designs, and its performance. www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Installer Interest

Soars For Leka Xi,

Says Modplan Trade fabricator Modplan is highlighting increased installer interest in the Leka Xi modular conservatory system. Heidi Sachs, managing director at Modplan, said: “We have an extensive pipeline of enquiries from installers asking about adding the Leka Xi to their portfolio. It’s easy to see why there’s such interest – the Leka Xi revolutionises the building market and provides homeowners with multiple benefits.”

sustainable alternative to a traditional block/brick-built conservatory base/wall, claims the company. The system is typically installed on concrete pads, which saves time, mess and stress when considering a new build conservatory or single storey extension. In fact, a new Leka Xi conservatory can be installed in days not weeks.

Heidi says: “The Leka Xi gives a homeowner a cost-effective, low maintenance home extension with minimal hassle.”

The Leka Xi provides a warm,

The building is incredibly

thermally efficient, meeting Building Regulations requirements with ease. The lightweight GRP is structurally sound and means no thermal bridging or moisture absorption.

The Leka Xi’s modular construction gives installers the reassurance that every part of the Xi has been factory tested before delivery. It also makes the building ideal for homes with limited or no rear property access, says the company.

To allow homeowners to personalise their installation, the Leka Xi is available in dwarf wall, full wall or combination variations. External GRP cladding skins come in a range of colours and offer a sustainable replication of brickwork, stone or timber.

Alternatively, external boards can be supplied ready for rendering. www.modplan.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 129

SOFTWARE had been ordered.

We started looking at different systems, such as CRMs and Excel spreadsheets, but everything was just so convoluted and segregated. We had things in Excel, Xero, Logical, and it was a mess. Nobody in the business could really tell you anything. We didn’t even know where we were going on some days.

Central Command

Remi Gruszka, national sales manager for Smart Vision Systems, explains how Business Pilot became central to their operations.

We are a nationwide commercial fabricator and installer of aluminium windows and doors.

We started small but grew very quickly as our reputation spread.

Then, at the FIT Show in 2021, we looked at all the serious CRM options on the market, and decided to go with Business Pilot.

Because of our previous experience, I’ve got to be honest and say that we weren’t very hopeful at the start, because it was another system to learn, and another set of things to do.

But, we jumped in with both feet and moved everything over to Business Pilot. We went from 0 to 60 in a matter of days, and before we knew where we were, we discovered we knew things! For example, not only did we know when the glass was arriving, we could also track it.

Then we discovered that we were overspending on glass. It was actually an admin error on the glass company’s side, but no one had been able to track it before.

So, all of a sudden, everyone in the business knew things. Anyone could type in a purchase order number and see it. We got in the habit of calling our suppliers and confirming orders. Before, we would be on site, waiting for an order to come and it would never come, because nobody’s confirmed it.

As we grew, took on more people, and carried out more jobs, the original systems we had in place quickly became obsolete. At one point, we sat down and realised that we didn’t have proper oversight of the business.

Remi Gruszka

Someone would ask us, ‘when’s the glass coming?’ and we would have to call the supplier.

Someone else would ask ‘when is this invoice being paid?’ and another phone call would have to

be made. It was a constant battle of information where nobody knew anything, things weren’t being chased, and sometimes we weren’t even sure if some things

130 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

We quickly found that Business Pilot worked around our needs, rather than the other way round, and we could add in the fields we required to make our business run more efficiently.

There are two specific elements that I personally really like about

SOFTWARE

Business Pilot. The first is a process that we never had before, and that’s a ‘lead to contract conversion’, where different processes are automatically activated as a lead progresses to a full contract. The right people are informed at the right time, certain emails get sent, certain tasks are automated, and nothing is left unattended.

Carl F Groupco Upgrades CRM Software

The second is the Schedule Board. Very recently we put a massive TV up on the wall in the office where people can see the live updates in real time. Everyone can see at a glance if leads are converted, and how contracts are progressing on site.

And let’s not forget the Fensa integration, which, with Business Pilot, you can easily do! Before, we had to pull in all the details, put it into the system, go into Fensa’s website, and register the installation. Now, it literally takes five seconds – click and confirm.

Before, we had to go back into the portal after Fensa had issued a registration number to take a physical note of it. Business Pilot does that for you – it’s already there.

Business Pilot is that critical central command that was missing from our operations.

If you look at any other industry around us, you’ll see that they are 100% automated. In this industry you’ve got software to do your quotes, you’ve got software to manage production, you’ve got software to co-ordinate transport.

And so on. We simply needed something to pull all those things together.

Business Pilot isn’t trying to be everything, but it is trying to be the central hub of everything. And that was a key reason why we chose Business Pilot at the FIT Show in 2021, and its completely changed the way we work. www.businesspilot.co.uk

Steve Lamb

Independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco, has just announced a £20,000 investment in upgraded customer relationship management software, ‘theCRM’.

Steve Lamb, IT manager at the company, said: “This upgrade reflects our dedication to being at the forefront of technology and using it to assist our teams in providing the best to our customers both in terms of product delivery and customer service.”

Steve commented: “theCRM will enhance our customer service by providing greater transparency of information. Our sales team stands to gain from additional sales forecasting and reporting capabilities. Furthermore, it incorporates business intelligence and analytics functionality, offering insights that will aid us in refining our business practices and approach for our customers.”

The system has been customdeveloped to meet Carl F Groupco’s demanding

requirements. It harnesses the power of automation to help drive increased productivity and efficiency, says the company. The system also integrates seamlessly with Carl F Groupco’s ERP product management software and its My CFG online customer portal to provide complete visibility across all platforms.

Data security has also been considered. Steve said: “Security was an important priority for us and theCRM uses a highly robust system and protocols to protect both our data and our customers’ information.”

Steve concluded: “We’ve extensively tested and trained theCRM throughout the company to ensure it adds value from day one. The team are excited about what it has to offer and are already using it to support our business and our customers.” www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 131

MACHINERY

The End Of The

Fabricator?

Absolutely not, says Sean Mackey of jade Engineering, who Window News spoke to at the recent Glazing Summit.

The recent Glazing Summit again impressed overall, with high quality presentations and standing room only for an impressive crosssection of the window and door industry’s great and good. Of the presentations made, one of the most thought provoking was Alex Tremlett’s, Insight Data’s Operations Manager, because it was a bald, stark analysis of the industry’s company stats: effectively the industry’s corporate births, deaths and marriages.

Alex’s first slide showed the decline overall in fabricators and installers operating in the window and door sector. A loss across the board of just over 1,500 companies since 2017 would suggest that our industry is in decline, whilst further data presented showed that the main casualties have been installation firms, losing 1,441 overall.

Within this is a drop of 64 firms that are no longer fabricating window and door frames. This represents the core customer base of Jade Engineering, which has the proud boast of supplying machine tools

132 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Sean Mackey

to every PVC-U frame maker in the UK and Ireland, and the majority of those churning out aluminium frames. Jade’s Sean Mackey, who runs the business with Adam Jones, is the firm’s numbers man, an accountant by training, Continued on page 134

MACHINERY Continued from page 132

and he offered his views on the statistics and how the decline in his customer base is affecting their trade: “The reduction in the number of fabricators might be taken as showing a decline in the window and door industry as we know it,” reflected Sean. “But the reality is that it is consolidation, with the business of the fabricators leaving the industry or going out of business, being absorbed by the remaining companies.

“It has been a very bumpy road since 2020, with the surge in orders during the early lockdowns, then levelling off to a manageable level. The 20 to 25% drop that delegates to the Glazing Summit appeared to agree on for the current period, with economist Ed Johnstone’s presentation forecasting that the UK economy is heading for bleaker times next year as large numbers of mortgages become due for renegotiation, must give everyone in our industry cause for concern.

“However, as the question was how do we view the decline in the number of PVC-U fabricators, the remaining companies have simply absorbed the business of those leaving the industry, which the presentation showed was just 18 in the past two years. Additionally, the number of fabricators producing frames in aluminium has increased in the same period from just 802 in 2014 to 921 in 2023, with a gain of 37 in the past two years. We have not seen the emergence of the ‘Super Fabricator’ that was widely forecast 15 years ago or so, but those companies serving the industry are far more professional, with few making frames without sophisticated, complex machinery including CNC controlled equipment. And that is our bread and butter,” said Sean.

Sean also explained that the demise of UK Window and Door Group (UKWDG), and in particular

the systems house Duraflex, has skewed Jade Engineering’s trading activities this year: “What we hope remains a rare occasion for the sake of the industry, Duraflex ceasing to trade created a surge of fabricators seeking a new systems supplier and having done so, a rush to retool. Jade provides tools for every PVC-U systems company operating in the UK and Ireland and the three months following the Duraflex announcement pushed our resources to the limit. We have now settled back into a more normal routine after considerable disruption.”

On a final note Sean offered a positive note, reflecting on the final

134 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

slide in Alex Tremlett’s presentation that summarised installers showing cautious optimism: “Considering the quite severe financial impact of energy costs and interest rates, for 71% of installers to respond that they expected their businesses to remain around the same or even grow slightly during the next year or two, is remarkable.

“From our point of view, demand for machine tools and sales of our specialist single purpose tools, remains very strong and that is our real-world experience, irrespective of what any poll shows. Let’s hope that continues.” www.jade-eng.co.uk

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MACHINERY

BWS Windows Elevates Production With Purchase Of SMR-4 Welder From Haffner The SMR-4 welder has been marketed as the fastest and most accurate welder on the market today. So, when BWS Windows needed to upgrade two ageing welders, they turned to Haffner.

Raj Jhall, Owner of BWS Windows, said: “We pride ourselves on manufacturing the highest quality windows and doors with competitive lead times. We needed to replace two current ageing welders and we understood the SMR-4 welder to be one of the best on the market today. Having looked at the marketing collateral, we were impressed by the

machine’s advanced self-profile alignment, so we had no hesitation in turning to Haffner.”

The SMR-4 welder is claimed to offer a wealth of benefits to fabricators. According to Haffner, it is up to four times faster than conventional welders and can carry out three square welding, which equates to one extra frame per cycle. As well as features to speed up production and reduce lead times, the SMR-4 is packed with features that improve product quality and cut waste. It is factory set each time and has automatic

136 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

transom fences, automatic corner fences and automatic transom and mullion alignment, the credentials that add impressive value to the fabrication process.

The machine is already having a positive impact at BWS with the Bedfordshire-based fabricator reporting an impressive 30% increase in production output as a result. Raj said: “The welder’s cutting-edge technology, especially the self-profile alignment, has exceeded our expectations. We are now producing more windows and doors with less machinery. It’s a very impressive machine.”

Raj continued: “The accuracy and speed of the SMR-4 has also allowed us to expand our product offer to include the manufacture of patio and flush doors. And due to the machine’s capabilities, we

MACHINERY

£15K Machinery

Investment Streamlines Processes

At Direct Trade Windows

can now fabricate larger windows and doors which is already proving popular with our customers.”

BWS Windows manufacture a large range of windows, doors and lantern roofs. The familyrun business offers “a quick and reliable” turnaround throughout Bedfordshire and London.

Bryan Dando, commercial director at Haffner, concludes: “We want fabricators to invest in machines that help their business and work with them to make sure they make the right investment. It’s an approach that builds trust and in the case of BWS Windows, has increased its manufacturing efficiencies to meet the needs of the business. We are delighted they are happy with their purchase.” www.haffnerltd.com

Aluminium trade supplier Direct Trade Windows has made a significant £15K investment in a new aluminium copy router machine from FOM Industrie.

The equipment has been installed at the company’s manufacturing facility just outside London, and is engineered to meet the specific demands of aluminium fabrication, providing precision and efficiency in order to streamline processes.

The addition follows a £50K investment earlier this year in an additional crimping machine and a double saw machine, adding to Direct Trade Windows’ existing CNC machining centre, cutting and crimping machinery, and a 180-degree angle cutting machine.

Director AJ Hassanali comments: “Investing in a new copy router machine from FOM Industrie

demonstrates our commitment to continuous improvement and manufacturing excellence – the strategic integration of this cutting-edge technology into our operations is aimed at enhancing our fabrication processes, optimising production efficiency, and reinforcing our reputation as a trusted and innovative aluminium trade supplier.

“The new machine is set to make a significant impact on our ability to meet our customers’ diverse requirements with unparalleled precision and quality, and is an investment backed by our extensive product range, streamlined manufacturing processes that minimise lead times, dedicated customer support and more than two decades of industry expertise.” www.directtradewindows.co.uk

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ON SITE

A Grand Design

best solution in terms of the quality and budget demanded by the client, claims the company.

Cross, marketing manager For Kestrel Aluminium Systems Andrew of Kestrel Aluminium Systems, says: “We are delighted that our

A complete window and door glazing solution from Kestrel Aluminium Systems was specified as part of a carbon-neutral, sustainable woodland house that featured on a recent episode of Grand Designs.

Designed by local architect Kate Kelly, the dwelling’s connection with nature was a key focus of the client’s brief. The house was specified with many windows and doors to let light flood into the property, reflecting the natural environment and providing the

best possible views of the rural landscape.

Local project manager Mike Hill was employed to deliver the project and, as part of his contract, to source materials and labour from the local area. Mike specified windows and doors from Kestrel Aluminium Systems to provide a complete glazing solution for the modern building. He chose Kestrel’s products based on previous experience working with the company, and the knowledge that the systems would offer the

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aluminium window and door systems were specified for use at Scawby Brook. The distinctive house sits high up in the treeline to maximise the rural views, and our windows were the perfect complement to the building’s modern, streamlined aesthetic.”

The windows used in the property are a mixture of fixed or opening vents, with multi-point espagnolette locking, PAS24compliant security to keep the occupants safe and secure. Used in conjunction with low U-value

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access to a private roof terrace.

Fully compatible with the full suite of Kestrel products, all units use the same profiles and hardware to ensure a seamless, common aesthetic throughout the building.

double-glazed units that achieve a low U-Value of 1.2W/m2K, they ensure the building is safe, secure and energy efficient, claims the company.

Part of the house is elevated on stilts so that it sits within the trees, with a bridge separating the living and sleeping quarters. This has been glazed with 2,200mm high units inset with top-hung casement windows to maximise light and give stunning views of the surrounding woodland. The adjacent rooms have matching tall, fixed corner windows that are an impressive feature of the design and let light flood into the building from every direction.

Installed on the first floor are double French doors which provide

All windows were powder coated in Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016) at Kestrel’s powder coating facility in Birmingham. The finish provides an enhanced colour fastness and coating stability, removing any risk that the profiles will peel, flake or fade. This ensures that the windows will retain an asinstalled appearance for years to come says the company. The installation scores highly in terms of sustainability – another key requirement from the client and part of the reason why Kestrel’s aluminium windows were chosen. Aluminium windows are highly recyclable and have a low environmental impact throughout their entire lifecycle.

From production to installation and eventual recycling, the window and door systems have a much smaller carbon footprint than alternative material options, , says the company.

The manufacture and installation of the systems were undertaken

by Fabrique Specialist Glazing Systems of Grimsby. Bespoke projects of this type are challenging as there are always time pressures to make sure the build can continue to progress at the expected rate to avoid setbacks and costly time penalties.

This project was no different, and Fabrique had a tight deadline to keep to as the installation of the glazing was what would make the house watertight and ready for the second-fix stage of the project to commence.

Fabrique offered bespoke solutions for the project, drawing on its experience in the fenestration industry to add details to the building that created a high-end finish. Steve Hilldrith, managing director of Fabrique, explains: “It is always wonderful working on such projects and seeing a prestigious build realised. I’m pleased we were able to offer our design expertise to help finish the project to the desired specification.” www.kestrelaluminium.co.uk

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ON SITE

Service with Style Starglaze – Sternfenster’s installation division – recently completed an installation at the newly purchased home of Mr and Mrs Prestwood, near Lincoln.

Purchased in January 2023, the couple knew that they had urgent renovations to embark upon; first and foremost was the replacement of all their windows and French doors.

“We originally wanted timber windows to suit the heritage of the property,” said Mr Prestwood, “but there was always that nagging doubt in the back of our mind about the maintenance of timber.

“So, we shopped around with various different companies who had various different products, but when we met with Starglaze, we knew that we’d found the company for us. I think they had the best product on the market for looks.”

“They knew their products inside

and out and rather than a ‘hard sell’, they listened to exactly what we wanted and offered us choices that they felt suited our requirements. There was no pressure – the choice was completely ours.”

The Prestwoods settled for a complete reinstallation of all their windows to a flush PVC-U casement, along with French doors, offering increased energy efficiency and durability without compromising on the classic style that they were after.

“Despite the rather decrepit central heating system that we had inherited in the new house, we noticed a significant improvement in the energy efficiency of the house as soon as the new windows were fitted,” said Mr Prestwood.

Sternfenster sales director, Nathan Court, said “Our service offering means that for installation teams, like in the case of Mr and Mrs

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Prestwood, the installer can not only demonstrate the products in real time, using the Virtual Showroom, but can then produce a quick quote to show to the homeowner in a professional and easy-to-understand format,” “Then if the quotation is converted into an order, EasyAdmin allows the installer to do this effortlessly, with the order tracking fully visible throughout the process.”

Once the order is placed with Sternfenster, a delivery tracking service allows customers to have greater visibility of their orders, and can even provide a delivery window, which reduces costly waiting times when teams could be out fitting.

“Time spent on site is expensive,” Nathan said. “If our customers know that we will be arriving on site in a two-hour window, it allows them to plan their day productively, either by scheduling time on another job, or by finishing on site early. Time spent unnecessarily waiting is wasted profit, so we are putting money directly in the pockets of our customers!” www.sternfenster.com

ON SITE

Eurocell First To Supply Triple-Glazing Windows

To Taylor Wimpey

Eurocell fabricator, Rapid PVCu has secured the first triple glazed site for Taylor Wimpey in Sunderland.

National housebuilder Taylor Wimpey will use Eurocell’s Modus windows system at its Herrington View residential scheme in Penshaw, Sunderland.

Doncaster-based Rapid PVCu is a new-build specialist and has worked with Eurocell for 14 years.

Eurocell’s ‘Future Homes Ready’ Modus window system is made from 50% average post-consumer recycled PVC-U and is manufactured using innovative dual material

extrusion technology (DMET), which Eurocell claims has a significantly lower carbon footprint than profiles made or recycled outside the UK. For the new homeowners that will move into the neighbourhood, with U-values as low as 0.86, the triple glazed windows will reduce carbon emissions, use less energy to heat and present higher levels of security.

Eurocell has been working closely with national housebuilders to enable them to achieve energy efficiency and carbon reduction targets that meet the Future Homes Standard.

Martin Benn, head of new build at Eurocell comments:

“Working collaboratively with housebuilders is something we really value at Eurocell, and this project is another example of the demand for our market-leading Future Homes Ready Modus system that ensures housebuilders meet the requirements that will be introduced in two years’ time.

We look forward to the scheme completing and for future projects with Taylor Wimpey.”

John Duggan at Rapid PVCu adds: “This has been a fantastic project to work on collaborating with both the Eurocell and Taylor Wimpey teams to provide innovative, triple glazing windows which are the highest quality of their kind. Triple glazing really is the best option for lowering energy consumption and the fact that the Modus window system is made with recycled PVC-U makes them incredibly attractive for housebuilders. The windows will look really smart once the homes are finished and will provide longevity and energy efficiency for the new owners.” https://www.eurocell.co.uk

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ON SITE

Senior’s SF62 System Gets To Work In Newcastle’s Landmark Office Development An aluminium curtain wall solution from Senior Architectural Systems has helped create a stunning façade for Bank House, a new state of the art office development in the heart of Newcastle.

At 12 storeys, Bank House is the tallest new build office building to have been constructed in the city in recent years and as such, required a robust solution to create the large expanses of floor to ceiling glazing deigned

by Ryder Architecture. Senior’s innovative SF62 aluminium curtain wall system was the ideal choice, achieving the desired slim sightlines with the added

reassurance of being able to accommodate greater structural movement, says the company.

Combining an attractive robust aluminium frame with a wider 62mm box, the increased rebate size of Senior’s SF62 system means that it is possible to provide either additional clearance between the section and infill, so that the system is able to allow the glass to move more, or greater edge cover for issues such as guarding. Benefitting from the inherent strength of its aluminium frame, the new SF62 curtain wall system can also support transom loads of up to 750kg and achieve

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longer glazing spans without the need for additional supporting steel to be used, claims the company.

Senior’s SF62 aluminium curtain wall system was fabricated and installed at Bank House by façade specialists Topside Group for main contractor Bowmer & Kirkland, who has constructed the new development to achieve a BREAAM rating of ‘excellent’. Like all of Senior’s aluminium fenestration products, the SF62 curtain wall system is manufactured from recycled aluminium and can be fully recycled at the end of the building’s life. The company says, while in situ, Senior’s SF62 aluminium curtain wall system provides exceptional thermal performance to ensure compliance with the latest Part L requirements and the slim sightlines help maximise the flow of natural light.

The glazed façade also provides

ON SITE

The Residence Collection Installs 250 R7 Windows At New-Build Development

Windows and door designer, The Residence Collection, has completed a new-build development in Hertfordshire with 250 Residence 7 system windows in the Grained White colourway.

In collaboration with installer, HBD Systems and fabricator Window Tech Trade, 20 homes and two apartment blocks were fitted with the Residence 7 range, which was crafted using the timberweld technique. Most of the windows were designed as double side-hung casements, featuring a floating mullion and astragal bars to complete the homes at the Melbourne Mews site, a Jarvis Homes development. the open-plan office interiors with spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding city, including many of the area’s most famous landmarks such as Tyne Bridge, river and Quayside quarter. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

In this project, the Residence 7 system was chosen as they, exceed the required U and G values, with 44mm glazing attaining U-Values of 0.79W/m²K and 1.2 for 28mm glazing. The windows are energy-efficient, certified with an A++ window energy rating for 44mm glazing

and A for 28mm glazing and feature side-hung casements with floating mullion and Georgian bars, claims the company.

For the Melbourne Mews development, Grained White was chosen for both the external and internal windows frames, however the R7 system has 20 colour choices as well as a range of dual-colour options.

Harry Wallis, sales and marketing manager at Window Tech Trade explained: “The Residence 7 windows perfectly encapsulated the countryside properties at Melbourne Mews. These windows not only elevate the aesthetics but also bring exceptional durability and energy efficiency.

“Our team took great pride in joining this project to seamlessly integrate each window to perfection. We’re thrilled to have been part of this project with The Residence Collection windows with installer HBD Systems”. https://bit.ly/3MQpGxq

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ON SITE

Rehau

preserves Gothic aesthetic

of a Glasgow property

Quality Trade Windows, a family-owned window supplier, has transformed the energy performance of a historical luxury residential property in East Kilbride, Glasgow, while retaining its original gothic aesthetics. To meet the private owner’s expectations, bespoke Heritage Vertical Sliding windows were fabricated for the project.

Based in East Kilbridge, Scotland, Quality Trade Windows is a longestablished window fabricator.

In April 2022, the company was contacted regarding replacing 11 windows in a Victorian property in East Kilbride, where the original single glazing was causing the home to lose a significant amount of heat. While thermal efficiency was a key driver, the client was

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passionate about ensuring the new windows were as close to the original gothic variation as possible.

Founded in 1994, Quality Trade Windows has been exclusively manufacturing Rehau’s windows for almost 30 years. Stuart Carlin led this particular project from specification to installation. To solve the challenge, Stuart offered a traditional yet innovative solution to the owner and, in April 2023, all 11 windows were replaced with Rehau’s Heritage Vertical Sliding window system. The finished product was designed in white woodgrain and featured Georgian bar arches with run-through sash horns.

Reflecting on the project, Stuart said: “The job in East Kilbride was a tall order because of its unique

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gothic design requirements. Aside from aesthetics, there were other priorities to take into consideration including energy performance, security, dimensions and other window features. We were able to meet the client’s high expectations thanks to Rehau’s Heritage Vertical Sliding windows and first-class customer support team.”

The window profiles were foiled, delivered to Quality Trade Windows and fabricated by the glass supplier into the unique arched glazing style using Georgian bars.

Additionally, the Heritage Vertical Sliding Windows all achieved the highest BSI weathertightness ratings for wind, air and water, BSI KM 13358 - BS EN 12608 (BS7412), with U-values of 1.3 W/M2K. Alongside the improved performance and aesthetics, the new windows were designed

to also work with the building’s existing window shutters, a feature that the owner was keen to retain.

Samsara McDonald, commercial sales manager at Rehau’s Windows Division, oversaw Rehau’s involvement in the project.

Commenting on the success, she said: “When Quality Trade Windows briefed us on the East Kilbride period property, we knew the exact product for the job. It’s not often that we get the chance to work with gothic buildings, but we were able to meet all requirements

with the Heritage Vertical Sliding system.

“True collaboration with Quality Trade Windows ensured the project was finished on time and within budget, leaving the client to enjoy the windows in all their glory. Now they have better heat retention, higher energy efficiency, improved security, and all while preserving the original gothic features of the building’s exterior.”

To find out more about Rehau’s Heritage Vertical Sliding windows, click here: https://bit.ly/3usaujC

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ON SITE

Renson UK’s Louvres Help Revive Bristol’s Richmond

in aluminium and stainless steel, 431-RC2 louvres have a 33.3mm blade pitch, a 2.3 x 2.3mm 305 stainless steel insect mesh, 40.5% physical free area, and are mounted by means of 4.2 x 3mm A2 burglar resistance screws.

Ventilation louvre specialist Renson UK has contributed to the regeneration of Bristol’s Richmond Building, helping return the iconic structure to its important role as the city’s university’s student union in the affluent Clifton suburb.

Renson UK national sales manager Martin Daniels comments: “We’re very proud to have played a significant role in the restoration of Bristol’s Richmond Building, and to have contributed to the creation of a modern, environmentally efficient and architecturally significant piece.

Building To Its Former Glory

Built in 1965, the Richmond Building was built to meet the recreational and social needs of an expanding student population living away from home – but over the last 50 years, following a series of ad-hoc changes to the interior, had become cluttered and inflexible.

Architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios was tasked with transforming the building into a welcoming, accessible, inclusive, and environmentally efficient space, which involved leaving the existing concrete soffits

exposed to provide thermal mass to help regulate internal temperatures, and allowing a shift to natural ventilation by incorporating a new glazing design combined with a new layout.

The building’s transformation needed to be approached with care for not only its architectural significance as a modernist building, but also for the Georgian setting of the Clifton Conservation Area.

For this project, Renson UK supplied its 431-RC2 surfacemounted, burglar-resistant and barrier load tested louvres with intensive ventilation, known for their use in schools, student accommodation, and shops.

Entirely assembled of aluminium profiles with all connective pieces

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“Our 431-RC2 louvres have not only provided essential ventilation, but have also seamlessly blended with the building’s design, preserving its historical and aesthetic importance.

“We’re delighted to have been a part of this transformation that renews the Richmond Building’s legacy as the heart of the university’s student community in Clifton.” https://bit.ly/46SJU0O

ON SITE

Promat Systemglas Ligna Provides Fire Protection Solution For Rochdale Town Hall

users, as well as to protect the culturally important building itself, the architect and main contractor HH Smith & Son approached Promat UK for a solution.

Working in conjunction with fire safety consultants Jerry Quayle Associates, a design was agreed using the Promat Systemglas Ligna fire resistant glazing system to provide an EI60 integrity and insulation level of protection.

Installed adjacent to the gothic window, this separate timber framed window perfectly matches the shape of the original pointed arch to minimise its visual impact.

To ensure the window would provide assured protection, the Systemglas Ligna EI60 timber framing features Promaseal-PL graphite-based intumescent seals, and the glass is an external grade product offering additional UV protection. Promat UK and its approved installer Rated Solutions worked together closely to ensure the new window would match the gothic shape of the existing window, which involved multiple site visits to obtain accurate templates

A large gothic window of the Grade One listed Rochdale Town Hall has been given a 21st century fire protection upgrade using Promat Systemglas as part of a multi-million pound restoration project

converted from offices. The hall has been named after the Victorian philanthropist and Rochdale resident John Bright, a reforming politician who became famous for his campaigning work for free trade.

The window is a key feature of the newly created Bright Hall, a new community space on the second floor of the 19th century building designed to be used for smaller events such as weddings and functions, which has been

Architects Douglas Insall Associates wanted to ensure the window’s ornate stonework and glass would be effectively protected in the event of a fire.

Balancing aesthetics with the need to ensure safety for town hall

As Promat UK has full control of the raw material sourcing, manufacturing and installation work on every project of this kind, it is in a unique position to offer a 360-degree ‘wheel of assurance’ on the completed project. This provides a certificate of conformity to the client on project completion, in line with the golden thread, which confirms the fire rated glazing has been manufactured and installed in line with the specified design and best practice, for additional peace of mind.

Rated Solutions had to overcome a number of installation challenges on this complex site, not least accessibility to the window’s second floor position. The glass and frame had to be carefully winched into place to Continued on page 148

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ON SITE Continued from page 147

avoid damage, which required coordination with HH Smith & Son’s project manager, Chris Purkiss.

The fire consultant advising on the glazing installation was Jerry Quayle, who commented: “Given that national significance of Rochdale Town Hall, it was crucial that any measures taken to improve fire safety were handled sensitively to preserve the aesthetics and to ensure its original character and features were retained. In addition to this feature window, I am also working with the heritage doors on the building to remediate them sympathetically to provide the required fire resistance for a building of this type.”

“The solution developed by Promat here met the performance and design criteria extremely well, and is a key part of a passive fire protection strategy which works to maintain the safety of people should they need to evacuate the building in the event of a fire, and protect this unique building.

Rochdale Town Hall is a nationally significant building, widely regarded as one of the UK’s finest examples of Victorian gothic architecture. Designed by William Crossland and opened in 1871, it is seen as a symbol of the town’s industrial standing in the textiles trade, and today the local council aims to make it fully open and available for the use and enjoyment of all residents and visitors.

Having fallen into a poor state of repair in recent years, urgent action was necessary to reverse and prevent even further decline to the building. A two phase restoration and transformation project commenced in January 2021, with the Promat fire resistant glazing element being part of the second phase due for final completion late 2023. https://bit.ly/3SPcKvn

Framexpress

Supply Frames to New

59-Bed Care Home

Trade fabricator Framexpress, has completed the installation of a range of its products in a new luxury care home in Hagley, Warwickshire.

new building, which includes 59 bedrooms and 4 care suites, was built with strip foundations, brick and block masonry and a timber truss and cut roof.

Working alongside contractors, Stepnell Ltd, and architects, Harris Irwin Architects, Framexpress fitted its higher spec as standard range of Optima PVCu windows and doors in the new Cinnamon Care Home, located in Hagley. The

Following a value engineering exercise – which consists of looking at all elements of the project to see if there is a more cost-effective solutions that exists – PVCu glazing materials were chosen after successfully achieving the

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ON SITE

high aesthetic standards and regulations. With its 25 year track record of delivering accurately manufactured, high specification products, Framexpress was chosen as the fabricator and supplier for the project.

The products installed consisted of its Chamfered PVCu Windows, PVCu Double Doors and Single Leaf Doors. Each product not only offers a sleek and modern finish – with Anthracite Grey and White colour options being used externally and internally – but they also benefited from 4mm toughened outerpane glass, PAS 24 certification, Chrome key or level locking handles and a 18mm argon filled super spacer cavity.

Fire Exit Doors were also fitted, boasting concealed gearing, no external access and a push panic bar – providing top level of

protection for future occupants, claims the company.

Steve Hollins, project manager at Stepnell LTD, talked about the project and says: “Framexpress have been a pleasure to work with throughout the build of Cinnamon Care. They not only provided us with first class products, but the efficiency and workmanship were second to none. With more than 25 years in the industry, their experience really shone through as the whole team were professional and came to the site with a can-do attitude every day.

“We were so impressed with the service and products that we have put them forward for another project we have in the pipeline, which will see the construction of a new 71-bed care home, that’s also being built in Warwick. We’re

looking forward to working with the Framexpress team again soon, as well as using their topquality products.”

Sarah Price, Framexpress’ commercial sales manager, discussed working with Stepnell for the new care home build saying: “It’s fantastic to see the Cinnamon Care Home project come together. At Framexpress, we pride ourselves on supplying high-quality, high specification products as standard and to have our quality recognised for not one, but two projects is incredibly rewarding. The Stepnell Ltd team were a pleasure to work with and we are happy that we could provide a high-quality range of products and deliver them on time and without any issues.” www.framexpress.co.uk

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MARKETING & INTERNET

Endurance Doors Sales Initiative Celebrates First Anniversary

remain committed to not offering them high quality products but also the highest levels sales support.

“The opening of our showroom in 2022 demonstrates the strength of that commitment. It adds to a range of other sales tools we offer such as professionally produced literature and digital assets like videos and online case studies.”

Located in Brigg, North Lincolnshire close to its main manufacturing site, the Endurance Doors’ showroom allows homeowners to experience a full range of the brand’s doors, hardware and accessories firsthand.

EnduranceDoors is marking the first anniversary of the opening of its dedicated consumer focused showroom.

Since its opening 12 months ago, the innovative form of sales support has enabled numerous Endurance installer partners to enjoy a 100% success rate in converting homeowner enquiries

into actual orders, claims the company.

“Endurance Doors has always recognised that our relationship with our installer partners is symbiotic” explains Russell Hensman, group marketing manager at the business. “The better they do, the better we ultimately do and that’s why we

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Installers can either attend the showroom with prospective customers or they can advise customers to visit of their own accord. In this latter case, Endurance Doors’ dedicated showroom team can do the selling on the installer’s behalf before passing the sale back to them.

To ensure installers and their customers can benefit from the

MARKETING & INTERNET

showroom regardless of where they are located in the UK, Endurance Doors also offers virtual appointments. These are fully interactive and are conducted on a 1-2-1 basis by a showroom specialist using the very latest video conferencing technology.

Installers who have used the showroom to great effect include Savills Glass. Located in East Yorkshire, this business has been fitting windows, doors and conservatories for homeowners across the Yorkshire and Humber region for 35 years.

ISO Chemie

Opens Webshop

For UK customers

It has sent dozens of customers to the Endurance Doors showroom and every single one of these prospects has gone on to place an order.

Managing director, Julian Savill says: “In the past, if potential customers wanted to physically see a door before they placed an order, they would have to view whatever we had in stock waiting to be fitted.

“This meant they could only ever get a limited glimpse of the wide selection of Endurance Door styles, colours, hardware and accessories we offer. As an operational rather than retail focused site, our premises are also not wholly conducive to selling.

“In the year since its opening, the Endurance Doors’ showroom has proven to be a real asset. It has become a valuable, on-tap resource that’s like having our own showroom but without the associated costs of establishing, running and staffing one.”

Summing up, he adds: “Aside from ensuring an enhanced customer experience, the showroom has given our business a boost. Our team can now spend less time selling doors – and more time fitting them.” www.endurancedoors.co.uk

A new webshop has been opened by window and door frame sealant tape specialist ISO-Chemie to provide UK customers with rapid and easy access to products, installation information and orders 24/7.

Accessible via an office PC, laptop, tablet or mobile device, the webshop – available via ISO-Chemie’s web portal – enables customers to browse and place online orders and review their purchasing history.

It also opens up access to CAD file downloads as well as extensive application information and specification detail on the company’s range of foam tape sealants and associated products, including BIM services.

Products can be viewed and ordered at the touch of a button via an interactive display to save time and ensure selection accuracy. Associated

documents are also available for downloading and viewing while orders can be tracked.

In addition, ISO-Chemie offers planning, calculation and installation tools via its ISO-PORTAL. Specification documents, training videos and BIM-ready object data for products are also available to support designers and architects.

The ISO-Chemie webshop is part of a package of added value customer support services said UK sales and operations manager Andy Swift, who added: “With our digital service we offer our customers the best possible support in planning and implementing their construction projects. For us, this requires an efficient customer-focused ordering process.”

Register at www.iso-chemie.co.uk

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MARKETING & INTERNET

Deceuninck Launches Sustainability Lead Generation Toolkit Deceuninck has launched a new sustainability lead generation toolkit designed to help Deceuninck customers win business by capitalising on its and their own sustainability story.

Deceuninck has established a lead on sustainability based on its’ commitment to the Science Based Targets (SBTi) programme, with a headline pledge to cut the CO2 emissions from its own operations (Scope 1&2) by 60% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline. Cutting emissions by 21% last year puts

Deceuninck, which last year won the G-Award Sustainability Initiative category, already ahead of target, says the company.

With independent research commissioned by Deceuninck and conducted by YouGov demonstrating a link between sustainability and purchasing decisions, the systems leader has developed a marketing toolkit to help customers maximise opportunities.

Rob McGlennon, managing

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director, Deceuninck explained: “Our customers want to drive sustainability within their businesses and recognise that what we’re doing to lower our carbon footprint, recycle more and develop more energy efficient products, will support their future sales.

“Where we identified a gap, was how to help them to communicate how what we’re doing makes the products that they sell, either a s a fabricator or an installer more sustainable.

“The marketing toolkit that we have created gives them access to ready-to-go and dedicated business-to-business and business-to-consumer, marketing tools to support them in delivering that message – and making money from it.”

Available through the Deceuninck Customer Portal, for fabricators

MARKETING & INTERNET the Deceuninck Sustainability Marketing Toolkit includes headline positional statements drawing on Deceuninck’s commitments under Science Based Targets; an own-brandedprintable sustainability brochure; plug-and-play website content; e-shots; social media assets; presenter decks; and video content.

For installers Deceuninck has created the same assets but with distinct b2c messaging aimed at the homeowner. This has been supplemented with additional marketing collateral specific to installers including door-drop leaflets; sustainability logos; showroom pull-up banners, wall decals; and flyers “If you’re a fabricator or an installer and you did nothing but continue to buy Deceuninck windows and doors, you can

benefit from each of these assets because the work that we’re doing upstream as part of your supply chain, is making your business and the products that you sell more sustainable”, Rob said.

He continued: “That’s the starting point. We’re also making it easier for our customers to work out and lower the carbon footprints of their businesses, giving them an even more powerful point of differentiation.”

This includes the launch of the Deceuninck Carbon Calculator which makes it easy for fabricators and installers to work out their carbon footprint using the operational data that they already hold and includes tools to help them lower it.

It follows Deceuninck’s launch of its Energy Calculator in the

The Consultancy Delivers

For Kommerling USA BM Group company The Consultancy has created a bespoke website for Kömmerling USA in partnership with Iain McInnes from We Build Brands.

The new website reflects the fact that Kömmerling USA has a slightly different product focus to other Kömmerling regions, and incorporates an interactive product selector to help visitors select between PVC sheets, building products and windows and doors.

There is also a neat Find-ASupplier plug-in to help them find their nearest fabricator or stockist and a very clear call to action in the form of a ‘request a quote’ button.

Iain McInnes says what made

The Consultancy stand out from the start on this project was the impressive mix of creative flair and technical expertise they offered. He said: “The

spring. It’s been designed to generate retail leads by helping installers to demonstrate the energy savings that new windows and doors deliver.

Rob continued: “People won’t purchase windows and doors on the basis of how sustainable they are alone. It’s a combination of evergreen drivers – energy efficiency, security, appearance, and price.

“Sustainability is an additional element of that pitch. In taking a responsible approach to the environment, you’re saying so much more. You’re saying that you can be trusted.

“Trust is a foundation for any business relationship. If you can’t demonstrate that, then why would someone choose you?” www.deceuninck.co.uk Consultancy have designed a site which is still unmistakably ‘Kömmerling’ but at the same time successfully communicates the distinctive offering available from the US team. It has all the speed and functionality we needed in terms of plug-ins and, because it’s built on WordPress, is easy for us to keep updated with news, literature and project case studies.”

Brandon Moore, CEO of Kömmerling USA, added: “We’re delighted with what The Consultancy have created; it’s a step change from the website we had previously. The team clearly understood the online customer journey and what they’ve delivered is already getting great results in terms of visitors, page hits, time spent on the site and of course enquiries.”

More details at: https://bit.ly/3QQf7eT and www.kommerlingusa.com

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MARKETING & INTERNET

Comp Door and Global Windows Announce Composite Door Christmas Giveaway Staffordshire composite door manufacturer Comp Door, an innovator in the door and window industry, is approaching the one-year anniversary of their partnership with Global Windows, which began in January 2023.

To mark the milestone, the two companies are thrilled to be collaborating on a Christmas giveaway that will provide one winner a new composite door provided by Comp Door, and installed by Global Windows. The giveaway is open to all South Yorkshire homeowners, and is being held on Global Windows’s Facebook page.

In response to a growing prevalence of issues with conventional foam-filled composite doors in the market, Global Windows has forged a successful partnership with Comp Door. The decision to make Comp Door their new supplier stemmed from the impressive features of auto slam shut design and solid

timber cores, coupled with the provider’s attentive customer service. After a year of fruitful collaboration, the companies are commemorating their thriving alliance by extending a gesture of gratitude to the South Yorkshire community.

The exciting giveaway of a Comp Door door encourages people to nominate friends, family, or even themselves to receive a free door as a gesture of goodwill after what has been a tough year for many. This initiative seeks to demonstrate gratitude to the two companies’ customers, aligning with their shared values. To enter the giveaway, participants must visit Global Windows’s Facebook page, click on the giveaway post and fill out the relevant submission form. Entries will close on the 24th of November, with plans to install the lucky winner’s door in the first week of January.

Managing director of Global

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Windows Liam Hulme commented on the partnership with Comp Door and the Christmas giveaway, explaining “Global Windows’s core business values align seamlessly with Comp Door’s commitment to customer satisfaction. We focus on products that are simple for our customers to operate while providing the highest quality, ensuring ease of use and security.

This was provided with Comp Door’s auto-lock feature and the durable design of the door. The communication and support provided by Comp Door, from literature to showroom assistance, were huge factors in making the partnership decision, and that decision has absolutely paid off.

With Christmas coinciding with our partnership’s anniversary, a door giveaway seemed like the perfect way to celebrate and pay our goodwill forward to the people of South Yorkshire.”

Richard Diliberto, Comp Door’s sales director, also said of the collaboration, “The customer is always the highest priority for Comp Door and Global Windows, which is why our partnership has been so successful. As a familyrun business that has served South Yorkshire for more than two decades, Global Windows really cares about their community, and that’s something that strongly resonated with the Comp Door team, so we were on board with the Christmas giveaway instantly.

I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved so far, and I’m looking forward to what more we can accomplish in the future.”

To find out more about the exciting Christmas giveaway, you can go to Global Windows’s Facebook page where you will find the terms and conditions and additional information.

For more information about the fantastic range of products on offer at Comp Door, visit their website at https://www.compdoor.co.uk/, call them on 01782 340444, or email them at info@compdoor.co.uk.

MARKETING & INTERNET

JDUK Door Systems Supports The

Launch Of The Avanti Smart App

JDUK Door Systems, supplier of Avanti automation, has announced its support for the groundbreaking Avanti smart app, revolutionising garage door automation for homeowners and installers. This new addition to the Avanti range allows users to operate and even view their garage doors remotely from their connected devices.

Avanti automation has long been the trusted choice for those seeking reliable and convenient garage door solutions, says the company. With its extensive range of features and settings, it’s a versatile option for any garage door application. Some of the key features of Avanti automation include adjustable door opening and closing speeds, ensuring that each garage door operates at the perfect pace for homeowners’

connected devices. The second option includes an integrated camera, providing homeowners with the ability to not only operate but also view their garage doors on a live feed from anywhere.

needs, and automatic closing, which enhances both security and convenience by closing the garage door automatically after a set period.

The newest innovation from Avanti is the smart app, designed to cater to the demands of the modern market. It offers two exciting options. The first option allows homeowners to have complete control of their garage doors remotely via the app, using their

JDUK Door Systems supports this latest advancement from Avanti and is excited to include the new system in its range. With this innovation, Avanti offers a garage door automation system with WiFi and mobile network coverage capabilities. This caters to an evolving market, ensuring that customers not only benefit from the proven quality and reliability of Avanti automation but also enjoy the advanced security features of this newest innovation, claims the company. jdukltd.co.uk/side-hinged-doors

Upgraded Web Presence For BM Aluminium There’s also info on the new Simply Tag feature which allows users to add a QR code to their frames offering full product traceability for buyers, and the option to request remote support on this or any of the other BM Aluminium products.

Managing director Dean Hodges commented: “By definition, our customers are tech savvy, so they obviously want to be able to interact with us online, and access help and support quickly and easily on screen. This new website lets them do all that and also lets us share tips, news, and service updates to stay in touch.”

There’s a brand new online resource for users of BM Aluminium’s LogiKal software at: www.bmaluminium.co.uk The completely updated website

is packed with videos of LogiKal in action and guides to all the key features, as well as demos of how the software works with the available plug-ins, such as AutoCAD and Revit.

The new BM Aluminium website was created by the team at fellow BM Group company The Consultancy. www.bmaluminium.co.uk

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MARKETING & INTERNET

Sheerline Installation of the Month

Competition Open for Entries Sheerline has launched a new Installation of the Month competition to provide an opportunity for installers to showcase the quality of their work.

It is designed to be easy to enter to encourage businesses of all sizes to get involved, and get some free PR. The only requirements are to submit photos or videos each month of projects that use Sheerline products, either via email or on social media. Entrants are also encouraged to follow and tag Sheerline for increased post visibility.

Posts or emails should clearly state which products have been installed, where the project is based, and any other information that may be relevant, such as the colours chosen as well as the purpose of the project, for

example, an upgrade, replacement, or renovation.

Entries will be reviewed at the end of each month, with the winner announced across social media in the first week of each month.

Winners will receive a £100 Amazon voucher, along with their 15 minutes of fame! Installers and fabricators and can enter as many times as they’d like to each month.

There are no limitations on the types of products installed or the nature of the project. Sheerline welcomes entries that show anything from a whole-house makeover to a sleek modern S2 conservatory installation, a feature framing picture window, or a transformational Prestige Lift & Slide Patio.

Aside from showcasing Sheerline’s products, the aim of the

156 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

competition is to celebrate the breadth of work of installers around the UK. Any project–regardless of the size or budget–has the potential to completely change a living or work space for the better.

Dave Wigley, head of marketing, said: “We know that up and down the country, Sheerline products are being used to transform residential and commercial properties. But we don’t often get to see the end results. Our Installation of the Month competition is the perfect opportunity for installers to share their great work and for us to see how our products are being used.”

“We welcome photos and videos of the finished project, but we also love to see before and after photos–it really is amazing to see the difference new windows, doors, roof lanterns, and conservatories can make to a property. Especially when they are perfectly matched and meet the customers’ exact requirements,” he added.

To be in with a chance of winning, installers are invited to submit their entries either via social media or by emailing: info@sheerline.com You’ve got to be in it to win it! www.sheerline.com

MARKETING & INTERNET

New Designer Range

Aluminium Brochure

From Listers Prefix Launch 100%

Campaign

Listers has launched its Designer Range Aluminium brochure, designed to help its customers sell its Sheerline aluminium product range to homeowners.

“We’ve seen that homeowners are moving more towards high-value products, such as aluminium, and we’re trying to support our customers to access that part of the market,” Roy Frost, managing director, said.

Listers became the launch partner for Sheerline when it added the Sheerline Prestige Window to their product range, achieving U-values as low as 1.4W/m2k with a doubleglazed unit and 1.0W/m2k with a triple. Followed by the launch of the Sheerline Classic Window with a beaded option. The Sheerline Lift-and-Slide, due to be released later this month, achieves U-values as low as 1.0W/m2k triple-glazed and 1.4W/m2k double-glazed, making it fully Part L compliant.

It also makes Part F compliance a cinch, with a discrete overhead vent option, claims the company.

They have also launched the SheerVent, a modern ventilation system that works seamlessly with

the popular Sheerline S1 Lantern.

“As the home of Sheerline, it was only logical to compile all their products into a single brochure,” Roy said.

“Simplifying the process for our customers, allowing them to effectively display the array of available options and how well the range suits various homeowner needs.”

The brochure serves as a valuable resource for homeowners embarking on home improvement projects and helps customers promote the full range of Listers’ aluminium products.

“Listers’ easy marketing package, combined with our new Aluminium Designer Range brochure, has amplified our support to customers, providing them with a powerful tool to showcase Sheerline’s comprehensive product range,” Roy said.

The Aluminium Designer Range brochure is available for download on the Listers website at https://bit.ly/3R6daw3 www.listerwindows.co.uk

Prefix Systems has launched its 100% campaign that will run across print adverting, social media and through other marketing channels in a move to clearly communicate the company’s broad product range.

This includes the S2 glazed roof system, award-winning WARMroof platform and its broad range of outdoor living solutions, including the Verandah.

S2 is being widely promoted as a 100% modern glazed roofing system, with bold, square cappings, minimum number of components and based on a strong and proven chassis.

It’s also been designed to accommodate large openings with relative ease, thanks to the box section eaves beam and integrated bolster.

The 100% warm mantra also makes complete sense in that the Prefix WARMroof is designed to be just that, eliminating the issues that the company says some cold roofs are already beginning to suffer from. According to Prefix, tests have shown that a cold roof has a limited effect when it comes to addressing condensation, with the UK suffering from the buildup of condensation for three out of the four seasons on average (search: dew point in cold roof). www.prefixsystems.co.uk

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AWARDS

for Trade achieved Three Is The Magic Number For Made notable success at the

Made For Trade

National Fenestration Awards 2023, securing three industry accolades in October: Winner – Conservatory Product of the Year – Korniche Roof Lantern, Made for Trade Winner – Bi-Folding Door Manufacturer of the Year, Made for Trade Winner – Aluminium Fabricator of the Year, Made for Trade Despite a lack of luck at the Doncaster Racecourse on October 29th, Made for Trade’s significant wins not only showcase their business prowess but also emphasize their unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.

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Retaining the Aluminium Fabricator of the Year award for 2023 speaks to the consistent quality of Made for Trade’s services and products, particularly the Korniche brand, which continues to impress trade customers nationwide.

AWARDS Manufacturing and engineering development is pivotal at Made for Trade. Winning the Bi-Folding Door Manufacturer of the Year title reflects the company’s dedication to engineering and design innovation. The Korniche Bi-folding Door, featuring the innovative Speedbead, sets new industry standards for quick and effortless installation. It also enables swift adjustments and any necessary remedial work without causing any damage to the bead or the frame.

According to Made for Trade, with six years as the market leader for the Korniche Roof Lantern, winning Conservatory Product of the Year in 2023 reaffirms its excellence and established position in the fenestration landscape. The Korniche Lantern’s unparalleled construction speed and strength help to set new industry benchmarks.

The team from Made for Trade, including Ian Bousfield (Marketing Manager), Mike Robinson (Head of Sales Operations), and Kevin Bell (Senior Sales Associate), attended the NFA 2023 event.

The company received multiple nominations and shortlisting for awards, making the day a resounding success off the racecourse. Ian Bousfield expressed his appreciation for the National Fenestration Awards, highlighting how they provide an excellent platform for the industry. The nomination, shortlisting, and voting processes allow the entire industry to participate, allowing businesses to showcase their products and services and let the industry determine the deserving winners in each category.

“Congratulations to all the runners, riders, and winners of the NFAs in 2023,” said a spokesperson for Made for Trade. www.madefortrade.co

The Residence Collection

Wins Timber Alternative Company

Of The Year At The NFA 2023

Window and door designer, The Residence Collection is celebrating after winning Timber Alternative Company of the Year at this year’s National Fenestration Awards.

This marks the sixth time that The Residence Collection has secured the award since the inception of the National Fenestration Awards in 2013.

This achievement underscores their versatile range of styles offered throughout three collections: R9, R7, R², which blend conventional values with contemporary techniques to thoughtfully enhance various types of properties. Boasting a palette of 26 color options, including dual-color selections, alongside a bespoke hardware range, The Residence Collection’s designs align seamlessly with modern interior trends while accentuating the timeless aesthetics of period properties.

According to the company, these designs not only resonate with contemporary preferences but

also elevate the classic colour schemes and architectural designs typical of period properties.

Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection, said: “We are delighted to have won the award for a sixth time at such a reputable awards in a very prestigious category.

“We are dedicated to bringing a wide range of timber alternative windows and doors to the market for consumers, installers and fabricators.

“Our goal has always been to position ourselves as the premier choice for premium timber alternative windows and doors, particularly for listed buildings and properties within conservation areas.

Winning this award reinforces our commitment to this objective. The ceremony was a wonderful occasion, and it was an honor to celebrate our industry’s outstanding achievements alongside peers and professionals.” residencecollectiontrade.co.uk

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A Successful Day At The Races For VBH

mixed success.

When the awards winners were announced though, VBH had a better time, being successful in three categories.

The greenteQ iQ Security Window Espagnolette, which works with Kubu to link windows to smart home networks, was named as the Best Window Component of 2023.

The company also won the Digital Marketing Campaign category for its work in promoting the popular greenteQ Q-Smart fingerprint operated electronic door handle.

The VBH team’s final success came when media co-ordinator, Hayley Martin, was named as Social Networker of the Year.

Hardware manufacturer, VBH, had a successful day at Doncaster races on Saturday 28th October for the National Fenestration Awards presentation event.

Members of the VBH team from various departments enjoyed champagne upon arrival, followed by a sumptuous threecourse lunch and a full race card.

Those who had a flutter report

Samantha Hill and Terry Ledwith collect the award for Aluminium Systems Company of the Year on behalf of Reynaers Aluminium UK at the NFA awards.

Hayley said, “I’m still in shock, but thank you for this award. I work with the best team that makes all this possible.” www.vbhgb.com Over the past twelve months Reynaers has made significant strides in ensuring its customers receive the best service and product range. This has included a major expansion of its warehouse facilities to increase stock availability and reduce lead times; continually developing products to offer additional options such as motorisation and open corners, as well as continuing to provide top performance quality for air, wind, and water testing.

Reynaers Named Aluminium Systems In addition, the company

Company Of The Year At NFAs Reynaers Aluminium UK won the ‘Aluminium Systems Company of the Year’ award at this year’s National Fenestration Awards ceremony.

The accolade highlights Reynaers’ work in supplying premium

aluminium systems for doors, windows and facades to the UK fenestration industry. Decided by an open vote, the awards are based on industry recognition with all companies working within the UK fenestration trade eligible to take part and vote.

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has implemented a strong sustainability strategy in Reynaers Act. It manufactures nine systems that are cradleto-cradle certified and has developed products for the trade and retail sector that can achieve thermal efficiency ratings as low as 0.8W/mK² without compromising on slim sightlines. www.reynaers.co.uk

Sheerline Receives National Fenestration

Awards for People and Products

AWARDS outstanding leadership of CEO Roger Hartshorn as he was named MD/Director of the Year.

A fantastic result, particularly as 16 other, well regarded industry figures were also up for the title.

It’s an even better result considering Roger was awarded a lifetime achievement award last year for the positive impact, he’s had on the fenestration industry. To be recognised by his peers, fabricators and installers two years in a row is a significant achievement.

It reflects what Roger has shown time and time again; that with the right knowledge and investment in both people and equipment, beautiful products that work well, that are technically engineered and innovative, will succeed. There is clearly a demand for beautiful aluminium windows and doors that go above and beyond what everyone expects.

The team at Sheerline are celebrating after winning not one, but two awards at this year’s National Fenestration Awards, which took place on Saturday 28 October at Doncaster Racecourse. It was an extra special evening as the awards celebrated their ten-year anniversary.

First, Sheerline’s Prestige Lift & Slide Patio was awarded the title of New Product of the Year. This coveted award is particularly rewarding for Adrian Redshaw, Design Director, and the rest of the R&D team, as it completes the Prestige range for now, and has already become a firm favourite with Sheerline customers.

It’s also a great achievement because competition was fierce within this category – with ten other products competing.

For the latest addition to the Prestige range to have stood out is a testament to the work that goes into Sheerline’s R&D, product development, manufacture, and sales and marketing.

For instance, the Prestige Lift & Slide Patio has recently achieved Secured by Design accreditation helped by its in-built security features, which include high security interlocks designed to prevent unwanted intruders from entering the property.

All delivered with design options that give homeowners the ability to achieve consistency throughout their home. And all based on Sheerline’s patented corner assembly method, with Thermlock thermal breaks.

The second award Sheerline picked up recognised the

Roger Hartshorn, Sheerline CEO, said: “We’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to the team behind the NFAs–it’s been another tremendous success, and it truly is one of the highlights of the fenestration awards calendar.

To see Sheerline recognised and celebrated among our peers and friends is fantastic.

Of course, it’s also hugely rewarding to call another one of our products award-winning.”

“We deliberately work to ensure our products are the best, not just for homeowners, but for installers and fabricators too.

Last year it was a pleasant surprise to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award–it’s not something that happens every day–and being named Director of the Year is another great win for Sheerline and shows we still have more to give,” he added. sheerline.com/lift-and-slide-patio

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Endurance Named Composite Door Manufacturer Of The Year

Endurance Doors has enjoyed a double win at the recent National Fenestration Awards.

The manufacturer of composite doors was named Composite Door Manufacturer of the Year 2023.

The award for Young Person of the Year 2023 also went to Imogen Payne, digital marketing executive at the business.

The National Fenestration Awards, which celebrate their 10th anniversary this year, recognise the achievements of individuals and organisations from across the window and door industry.

There are 28 separate categories, covering different product types as well as wider business practices such as marketing, management and training.

The award for Composite Door Manufacturer of the Year comes after a busy and highly successful twelve months for Endurance

Doors.

During this period, the business has launched multiple new products and sales support initiatives – including the opening of a dedicated homeownerfocused, retail showroom.

It has also made significant investments into new manufacturing technology and into more sustainable ways of operating. This has included installing solar panels on the roof of its main production facility to help meet its own electricity needs using renewable energy.

In addition, the business has made several, new, senior appointments to help support and guide its ongoing growth.

Imogen meanwhile has made a significant contribution to the digital marketing efforts of

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Endurance Doors since joining its team in April 2022. Over the last 19 months she has helped to boost the online profile of the Endurance brand by taking a leading role in a range of activities including email marketing, social media marketing and search engine optimisation.

Speaking of the double award win, Scott Foster, sales and marketing director at Endurance Doors, said: “The entire team is delighted with our success at this year’s National Fenestration Awards. Imogen’s award is well deserved and fully reflects her commitment and contribution.

“Receiving Composite Door Manufacturer of the Year is also a real honour and especially in light of the level of competition for this award from other manufacturers.

We are especially proud given this is an industry award chosen by industry professionals.

“The polling system employed means we would have been deemed a worthy winner by the people who are best placed to judge our performance and approach. This includes our suppliers, our staff and, most importantly of all, our customers and installer partners.” www.endurancedoors.co.uk

Double Award

Win For UAP Beating stiff competition, including leading global brands, UAP was crowned Hardware Company of the Year at the National Fenestration Awards 2023. The business was set up in 1996

by CEO David Jennings who was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to the fenestration industry.

Launched in 2013, the National Fenestration Awards winners received their trophies at a ceremony held at Doncaster Racecourse on 28 October 2023.

Armed with just a computer, David launched UAP from his spare room. His idea was simply to manufacture installation-ready door knockers that were pre-drilled and finished. At the time, there was nothing comparable in the UK, marking the start of a journey which has seen UAP rapidly grow.

From humble beginnings, David has been instrumental in expanding UAP’s customer base and product portfolio both organically and through strategic acquisitions. Today, UAP stands as a £22 million business, boasting seven leading brands: UAP Locking Systems, UAP Fullex, UAP Intelligent Hardware, UAP Firemongery, UAP Trade Locks, UAP Security Hardware, and online specialist X-Fort.

Throughout his career, David has prioritised high-quality, market-driven products and championed innovation. As well as nurturing loyal partnerships with manufacturers across Asia, this strategy has seen investments in-house product development, including the recent launch of

AWARDS to local charities and community groups during the pandemic.

A leader beyond his business, David also serves as the vice president of The Encephalitis Society and is the co-owner of the Manchester Thunder netball team.

Speaking at the NFA Awards, Sarah Rogers, head of the NFA said: “This award celebrates the lifetime achievements of a man who has not only built a remarkable business empire, but left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals.

“David Jennings is a visionary, a humanitarian, and a true inspiration to us all. This Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to his unparalleled dedication, and we thank him for sharing his vision and passion with the world.”

David Jennings receiving one of his two awards

Ionic, an ultra-secure electronic lock.

David has also embraced new technology, investing in 3D printing to reduce waste during product development, demonstrating his vision for a more sustainable future.

As the UAP family has grown, so has David’s commitment to people. He has cultivated a culture of inclusivity through initiatives such as the UAP Training Academy and by developing talent and promoting internally. In 2019, he introduced a profit-sharing model, underlining his passion for treating people fairly and recognising their vital contributions to UAP’s success.

Beyond the boardroom, David has been a driving force behind the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility activities, from fundraising to build schools and a hospital in Nepal, to planting 50,000 trees, and donating PPE

Commenting on his award, David Jennings added: “I feel very honoured to be recognised for my achievements and exceptionally proud of everyone in the UAP team. Their skills, hard work and dedication have been pivotal to our success and achieving the coveted Hardware Company of the Year award.

“When I set up UAP, I didn’t expect to have a particularly long career in hardware. It wasn’t long though before I realised how dynamic the industry is. New legislation and evolving customer needs are delivering constant change and creating vast opportunities for innovation. This has translated into many new products and initiatives at UAP and why I’m so passionate about the business and the wider industry.

“To also be recognised for life outside work is very humbling. I’ve always wanted to try and make a positive impact that extends beyond the corporate world and feel incredibly grateful to be in a position to do that.” uapcorporate.com

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Kubu Double Award Win For

that an internet-connected device provides exceptional cyber-security.

It entails products and services being independently assessed across the 13 areas of the global consumer IoT security standard, ETSI EN 303 645, and far exceeds the three mandatory provisions currently required by the UK Government, says the company.

In addition to IASME Level 2 IoT Accreditation, Kubu technology enjoys full IoT and Secured

by Design Secure Connected Device certification.

Speaking of the recent NFA awards success, Ryan Bromley, co-founder of Kubu, said: “We are delighted with our latest award wins, and they join a number of other prestigious, industry accolades secured by Kubu since our launch.

Kubu – the designer and manufacturer of smart sensing technology for the fenestration industry – has received further, third-party recognition of the innovative nature of its products and their ability to contribute to a truly smart home.

At the recent National Fenestration Awards (NFA) 2023, the business won the Door Component of the Year category for its window and door smart sensors.

the window has been installed.

Kubu’s double award win acknowledges a fairly momentous year for the business.

During the last twelve months, it has extended its product range and secured a number of patents to protect the unique and proprietary nature of the technology employed in its sensors.

The award for Window Component of the Year also went to the ‘GreenteQ iQ ‘Works with Kubu’ window lock from VBH.

Kubu says it has also become the first manufacturer of smart sensors to have its devices and software awarded IASME Level 2 IoT Accreditation (the highest level possible).

This product is designed to be equipped with a Kubu sensor, either during the initial fabrication of the window or to be retrofitted with a sensor after

Perfectly complementing the PAS 24 approvals of the locks Kubu technology is commonly used alongside, IASME Level 2 IoT Accreditation demonstrates

164 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

“Our achievements at the National Fenestration Awards are particularly significant due to the way that winners are chosen. They are industry awards decided by industry professionals and so we are especially proud to have the quality and functionality of our products acknowledged by those individuals who supply and install them on a daily basis.

“Our two wins also demonstrate an important point of differentiation about our offer.

Specifically, that we can provide sensor technology for both windows and doors rather than just doors alone. This ensures we are better placed to help homeowners enjoy ‘Whole Home Smart Security’ and no other manufacturer is able to offer fabricators and installers such a well-rounded solution. As such, our message to our industry partners is simple. Be Smart.

Work with Kubu.” getkubu.com

AWARDS

Unique Named Leicestershire Business

Of The Year 2023

Unique Windows Systems has continued its run of award success.

Just eight days after being recognised with the LeicestershireLive Business Award for Growth 2023, the fabricator of PVCu and aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling, has received two more awards at the Leicestershire Business Awards.

Held this year on the 3rd of November 2023 at the Venue@ DMU (De Montford University), the Leicestershire Business Awards are staged by East Midlands Chamber.

three categories – Outstanding Growth, Environmental Impact, and Apprentice of the Year, in recognition of Kaustubh Vijaikumar who is a maintenance apprentice at the company.

Unique was announced as the winner of the Outstanding Growth Award due to its ongoing rapid and sustained growth. In the last two years, the business has seen its turnover almost double from £20.8 million to £39.2 million. During the same time period, Unique’s team has also grown by 50% – from 200 to 300 employees.

Their purpose is to acknowledge and celebrate world-class organisations from across the county. They regularly attract hundreds of entries from companies operating across a wide range of different and diverse sectors.

Unique attributes its success to a focus on reinvesting back into its people and its operations, a commitment to maintaining the highest levels of quality, and its ability – as a business that proudly remains family owned – to deliver responsive and personable levels of service.

Unique Window Systems was shortlisted as a finalist in

All of the winners of the thirteen separate award categories on

the night were subsequently considered for the overall main award of Leicestershire Business of the Year 2023.

Against strong competition, Unique was selected as the winner of this highly coveted title.

The double award win is the latest in a succession of accolades for Unique Window Systems. It has also been acknowledged with a ranking on the UK Top 100 Fabricator / Installer list and with a listing on the Top 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain (a league table compiled by the London Stock Exchange Group) for the last four consecutive years.

Speaking of Unique’s success, Sunil Patel, joint managing director at the business, said: “The team at Unique feels honoured, humbled and proud by our recent wins at the Leicestershire Business Awards. To be recognised not only with the Outstanding Growth Award but to be awarded The Business of the Year as well is a truly fantastic achievement.

“It serves as a real testament to the quality of our products, the quality of our service and, above all, to the quality of our people. It’s their commitment and contribution that is so instrumental in driving our exciting and ongoing journey.”

Unique Window Systems

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Brouha Marketing

Wins Silver At CIPR Awards

Brouha Marketing, the agency offering strategic marketing and PR for the built environment, is delighted to have walked away from this year’s Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide Awards with a Silver win in the ‘Best Long-term Client Care’ category. This hotly contested category had six finalists, narrowed down from an even more extensive number of entries. This didn’t stop the judges recognising the outstanding work carried out

by the team at Brouha on behalf of longstanding client and one of the UK’s largest privately owned property services companies, Ian Williams, as some of the very best the region had to offer.

Fiona Lund, managing director of Brouha comments: “Our core strategy has always been to build long-term relationships with clients because we know, within the specific B2B PR space we inhabit, this approach creates

the most successful outcomes.

Our relationship with Ian Williams dates back to 2006, so felt it was an ideal case study for this new CIPR category. We are valued as part of the in-house strategic communications team, offering an out of house perspective and diverse skillset, and it’s that mix that has obviously worked so well for us during some challenging times.

“We are fortunate at Brouha to be able to dip into a diverse skillset across the team. Although we have individuals responsible for the day-to-day client management, it really is a team effort when it comes to the work that goes on behind the scenes in order to get the best job done. Building longstanding relationships with clients is the ‘holy grail’ and being able to keep things fresh and interesting by a collaborative team effort is fundamental to that success. It goes without saying that I’m proud of what the Brouha team has achieved with Ian Williams over the years and look forward to continuing to deliver on all of their PR and marketing needs long into the future too.” www.brouhamarketing.com

at Freefoam, and part Freefoam Awarded Supply Chain officer of its dedicated Sustainability explains: “This Sustainability School Gold Status team, membership level shows

that we’ve demonstrated a significant increase in sustainability competence, and actively shared knowledge and experience with team members, our supply chain, and the wider public.”

Freefoam Building Products Ltd has been awarded Gold status by the Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS).

SCSS Gold status recognises Freefoam’s commitment to building sustainability and ESG skills and knowledge. The Supply Chain Sustainability School is a free online platform that provides training and learning content aiming to ‘inspire and enable’ the built environment sector to implement positive change. Topics can range from Energy and Carbon reduction, Waste and Resource Efficiency,

Sustainable Procurement, and Social Value.

Kevin Cronin, chief operating

166 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

Members of the school are required to complete an initial assessment, where their knowledge is benchmarked, and areas for improvement are identified. Members then receive customised learning resources to bridge any knowledge gaps. https://bit.ly/3ulKRkC www.freefoam.com

AWARDS

Unique Enjoys

Further Award Success

Unique Window Systems, the fabricator of aluminium and PVCu windows, doors and curtain walling, has added to its already impressive list of industry and business accolades.

The company, which works with trade installers on a supply only basis and with large commercial clients looking for a complete supply and fit service, won the Growth Award at the LeicestershireLive Business Awards held on October 26th 2023.

Unique’s award, which was sponsored by global software engineering company, Mindera, recognises the company’s phenomenal success and subsequent expansion. The business has seen its turnover surge from £20.8 million in 2020 to £39.2 million by December 2022.

It attributes this 100% growth to a focus on reinvesting back

into its team and its operations, a commitment to maintaining the highest levels of quality, and its ability – as a business that proudly remains family owned – to deliver responsive and personable levels of service.

Unique now operates from multiple sites in Leicester and works with customers across the UK. Its team of over 300 colleagues fabricate a full suite of fenestration products with its ever-evolving range consisting of both PVCu and aluminium systems.

The LeicestershireLive Business Awards are held annually and are staged in conjunction with the University of Leicester. Their purpose is to recognise those individuals and organisations from across the county whose achievements or positive impact on society can serve as an inspiration to others.

The award win is just the latest

Mir Patel, Senior Manager (left) and Neal Addison, Finance Director (right) from Unique with the company’s Growth Award.

in a succession of accolades for Unique Window Systems. It has also been recognised with a Leicestershire Business Award from the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, with a ranking on the UK Top 100 Fabricator / Installer list and with a listing on the Top 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain – a league table compiled by the London Stock Exchange Group.

Commenting, Sunil Patel, joint managing director at Unique Window Systems, said: “We are understandably proud and delighted to have received the LeicestershireLive Business Award for Growth.

“It serves as independent and impartial recognition of our dynamic approach and the dividends this has delivered. It’s also a real credit to our team and to the important role their passion, professionalism and dedication continues to play in our ongoing success.”

Unique Window Systems

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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Conservatory Outlet

Members of the Conservatory Outlet Network attending the first session of the expanded online Training Academy

Expands Its Training Academy With in these conditions.

A Further £100,000 Investment “It also gives us a great opportunity Conservatory Outlet has invested a further £100,000 into its successful Training Academy.

Launched last year, Conservatory Outlet’s pioneering programme helps equip professionals from across its retail network with a mixture of specialist product knowledge and hard & soft skills to support a wider recruitment and levelling up strategy.

Greg Kane, chief executive of Conservatory Outlet, commented: “Our unique retail network model is all about adding value to our customers and our unique Training Academy is a great example of this.

As part of the expansion, further courses have been created to focus on current market trends and conditions.

“This year has been one of change.

Interest rates have spiralled over the past twelve months, which has had a profound impact on the wider economy. Yet despite this, consumer demand across the Network remains high, with many homeowners still exploring the idea of improving their home.

At the time of writing, over 80 retail sales professionals from within the Network had enrolled in the fully funded courses. In total it is expected that over 100 people from across the UK will enrol on this three-month training programme.

“The market today is radically different to the market of last year. With this in mind, we have expanded our Training Academy to address the changing financial climate and ensure that salespeople have the tools, knowledge, and resources to work

168 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

to further evolve some existing sessions that focus on our core range of products and the enhancements that we’ve made to them in recent months.”

Bon Accord Glass, based in Aberdeen, will be one of the many Premium Retailers to benefit from the expanded Training Academy.

Martin Allan, a director of the company, said: “We’ve been working with Conservatory Outlet for five years now and we continue to be impressed by the team’s commitment to developing our staff and the wider business.

“I’m delighted that Bon Accord Glass will be able to take advantage of these extra training opportunities as they’ll benefit our staff members and ensure that we remain ahead of the competition.” www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Debar Expands Technical Services

Team To Deliver On-Site Training

Paul Owens and Kyle Bateman

Hardware manufacturer Debar, has expanded its technical services team in a bid to deliver more training and on-site assistance to its dedicated customers. The announcement forms part of the Bradford-based firms plans to perfect and refine the support it currently offers.

Paul Owens and Kyle Bateman form the technical services team and will utilise their Four members of staff from one of Siegenia’s key distribution partners, Abacus Agents, made the trip down from Scotland to take part in two days’ worth of refresher and new product training in September.

Led by Siegenia’s technical manager, Joe Ward, and assisted by members of technical, sales and marketing staff, Abacus management and technical colleagues were given a crash course on the German hardware company’s Titan tilt and turn window and HS Portal lift and slide door gearings as well as on KFV multipoint locks via a mix of classroom presentations and practical demonstrations and exercises. It was also a great opportunity for new members of staff old and new from both companies to get to know each other and to strengthen relationships.

expert knowledge and industry experience to guide fabricators wanting to learn how to efficiently build bi-folding door systems.

As a company which currently supports more than 200 companies across 12 countries, Debar’s customer service isn’t limited to the UK. In fact, the company has a comprehensive international strategy which will be implemented by the technical services team who will be responsible for delivering training

in places not yet exploring the bifold market.

Paul Owen, Debar service manager, said: “At Debar, we’re incredibly passionate about helping companies to achieve success in the bi-fold door market and so our technical services team offers a range of expert training and support to fabricators wanting to understand the process for building a bi-fold system.

“We’re driven to be the first point of call for anyone looking to break into the market no matter if they’re based in the UK or further afield.

We’ve got great relationships with companies in Canada, and we’ll be attending some key industry events in Atlanta and Dubai over the next few months.

“Expanding our technical services team will mean we can continue to deliver quality on-site assistance to our customers to guarantee they have the best chance to succeed with their bi-fold door venture.” https://bit.ly/3uoGnJY

Siegenia Provides Training

Support To Its Distribution Partners of training last Summer and saw the value of doing so once more this year. The training days have been introduced in order to keep up strong customer service levels between Siegenia, their partners and ultimately their fabricator customers.

Abacus Agents spent two days at Siegenia’s Coventry office undergoing product training

This training is part of a wider programme that Siegenia UK has been rolling out to its distributors over the last year, with around 75 hours’ worth of sessions having already taken place. Indeed, Abacus were one of the first companies to take up the offer

Training opportunities will be offered to the company’s main partners annually in order that skill and knowledge levels remain current and at the expected high level, new product innovations are communicated and so that partners feel confident selling the Siegenia and KFV ranges, which can sometimes be considered a niche product, says the company. www.siegenia.com

WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023 169

CHARITY to corporate social responsibility, and we believe it’s important to give something back to the local communities that are home to many of our team, our suppliers, and our customers.

“Our participation in the DIY SOS project at Treetops Hospice fully reflects this. We are delighted to support such an important and worthy venture.”

Unique Supports

Children In Need Project Unique Window Systems, fabricator of PVCu and aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling, has lent its support to this year’s DIY SOS The Big Build for Children in Need.

Every year, the hospice must raise more than £4.3 million to meet its running costs which equates to around £12,000 per day. 70% of

“Just like adults, children who have lost someone important can find themselves struggling with a powerful range of emotions which can affect their daily lives and relationships at home and school.

“Annually, we provide over 900 counselling sessions for local children, some as young as 7 years old, who are struggling after the death of a loved one.

The business donated aluminium double doors to help construct a new children’s counselling and therapy centre at Treetops Hospice in Risley, Derbyshire.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, Treetops Hospice supports individuals and their families from across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire who are affected by life-limiting illness.

This includes conditions such as cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, dementia, and Huntington’s Disease The services provided by Treetops Hospice, which include nursing care, emotional support, respite care and bereavement support, are all offered free of charge.

Jules Kirk, therapeutic services manager at Treetops Hospice, said: “We are absolutely over the moon to have the DIY SOS team come to Derbyshire to create a brand-new counselling and therapy centre within our grounds in Risley.

this sum comes from charitable donations and fundraising events.

The double doors donated by Unique offer Treetops Hospice a number of valuable benefits. This includes improved comfort and warmth, thanks to their high levels of heat retention and energy efficiency, as well as increased peace of mind due to their impressive security performance, which is Secured By Design accredited, says the company.

Speaking of the company’s involvement in this year’s DIY SOS The Big Build for Children in Need, Mir Patel, senior manager at Unique, said: “Unique Window Systems has a firm commitment

170 WINDOW NEWS | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2023

“Many of our young clients have experienced unexpected or traumatic bereavements including accidents, suicide, and murder.

Many children are also still feeling the effects of the pandemic, having a detrimental effect on their mental health and ability to cope after the death of a loved one.

“The DIY SOS The Big Build for Children in Need will make an immeasurable difference to hundreds of children and their families across our local area.”

The special episode of DIY SOS The Big Build for Children in Need airs on BBC One at 9pm on November 16th 2023 and will be available on catch up TV afterwards. https://www.uws.co.uk

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