Windows Active - February 2026 Issue

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february 2026 | contents | 1

CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2026

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH

GETTING IN CONTACT

32

“Looking ahead to the next 12 months, I’m optimistic. Demand is continuing to increase, and while the market isn’t without its uncertainties, we’re well positioned to grow..”

EDITORIAL John Cowie Editor - Head of Online Content E: john.cowie@windowsactive.co.uk

Dom Francis Managing Director The Trade Window Centre

Jennie Shoglen - Graphic Designer Emma McCormack - Sub-Editor ADVERTISING SALES Steve Gravestock Sales Director Tel: 07990 671901 E: steve.gravestock@windowsactive.co.uk

ALUMINIUM ACTIVE SPECIAL

Our in-bound exclusive supplement focuses on the alumnium sector. This edition features major industry names including Aluk, Seniors, Reynaers, Stellar and Garnalex and Duration.

Donna Crockatt Publishing & Sales Executive Tel: 07919 448809 E: donna@windowsactive.co.uk PRODUCTION AND CIRCULATION Tel: 07919 448809 E: production@windowsactive.co.uk WINDOWS ACTIVE is published by: Active Magazines Limited PO Box 627 Rickmansworth Herts, WD3 0BQ

GGF SEEKS CLARITY ON WINDOW AND DOOR SCOPE UNDER WARM HOMES PLAN

4

The Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) has welcomed the publication of the Government’s Warm Homes Plan but is calling for urgent clarification from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) on how building fabric improvements – including windows and doors – will be supported under the scheme. The GGF it is seeking greater clarity on where fabric-first improvements sit within the overall framework.

GLAZED EXTENSIONS FEATURE

THE BIG INTERVIEWS: EDITOR 40 JOHN COWIE SITS DOWN WITH NEW GGF CEO TIM SIMMONS The Glass and Glazing Federation’s new chief executive has launched a sweeping transformation programme aimed at modernising the organisation, warning that years of chronic underinvestment have left it ill-equipped to meet the changing demands of its members.

65

The feature focses on the glazed extension sector and kicks off with: Solid roof market ‘must move on from outdated assumptions’, says Luca Muspratt, Business Director at Warmer Roof.

BLINDS AND SHADING FEATURE Online at: www.windowactive.com X: @windowsactive Instagram: windowsactive ISSN No: 1746-6663

73

49

In this unique look at shading products for windows, doors and glazed extensions, Editor John Cowie talks to experienced industry figure Martin James as he launches a simplified shading solution for installers seeking a competitive edge.

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100 Years

of Machinery Excellence

1946

1936

Since 1926, Haffner has shaped the future of machinery innovation.

1926

What began with precision hand tools in Germany has evolved into a world-leading manufacturer of PVC-U and aluminium fabrication technology.

1945

Production relocated to Ötisheim

1926

Haffner was founded in Pforzheim, Germany by Gotthold Haffner

For a century, this engineering expertise has helped transform the way windows and doors are made – driving productivity, quality and efficiency for fabricators around the globe.

Built in Germany.

Trusted Worldwide.

1988

CNC profile-processing introduced Each decade has brought new breakthroughs with smarter processes, stronger performance and technology that empowers fabricators to work faster, safer and more efficiently.

1990

Haffner Ltd UK operation established

1976

50 years of Haffner

Expansion into PVC-U window machinery

1980s

Development of CNC-controlled profile processors

1986

1970s

1976

1966

1956

As materials, markets and manufacturing needs changed, so did Haffner – expanding expertise, pioneering new solutions and earning a reputation for exceptional engineering.

Haffner’s story began in 1926 when Gotthold Haffner crafted precision woodworking hand machines in the town of Pforzheim. A century later, that same spirit of innovation continues to define our approach, shaping every machine we design, build and deliver.

A Century of Firsts.

2000

From early woodworking equipment to today’s advanced CNC and fully automated fabrication lines, Haffner has consistently pushed the industry forward.

The company launched their SBA Cutting and Working Centre

HAFFNER

DPS

8/16/06

9:29 AM

Page 1

WINNER

2005

SBA Machinin g Centre Interesting 4m x 4m conserva facts: tory less than 20 cut and prepped in minutes • operator to french doors manufacture three per hour • cut and prepped in one working day

Allows one

Glassex

150 windows

Man v Machine Would

you to save £30 like ,00 per annum * 0 ?

With a Haffner Cutting and Machinery there really centre is more money in your pocket. because the cutting and Why machine centre produce up can to 750 frames per week utilising ONE member of staff. just

2022

G Award Winners

KEY BENEFITS : • Solves labour shortage problems work of five - does the plus people • Increases quality of finished • Dramatic product ally improves

manufacturing • Perfect quality efficiencies every time • Improved product accuracy • Produces up to 750 frames per week with member of staff one • FREE Manufac turing Consulta * The saving ncy service of £30,000

Visit us at Glassex 2006 on Stand C70.

If you sign up at the show you will get an additio nal 5% discou nt.

CALL DAVE

Unit 13/14

1998

Haffner GB was formed. Since launching our UK operation in 1998, we’ve grown into one of the industry’s largest and most trusted machinery partners. From our purpose-built Stafford HQ, our team delivers machinery, technical expertise and aftersales support that help fabricators scale with confidence.

THOMAS

Emerald Way,

NOW FOR

is based on less deposit a machining of 10% centre cost are approximate minus profile savings, of £198K, plus finance.All and figures quoted per week manufacturemay vary slightly.

Figure based r. on 150 windows

Trust Ha££n save you moer to ney

FURTH

ER INFORM Stone Business ATION Park, Stone, Staffordshire, T: 01785 814032 ST15 0SR F: 01785 814034

2023

2011

G Award Winners

UK team moves to new Stafford premises

Our legacy is innovation. Our commitment remains the same: precision, performance and partnership.

As we mark 100 years of Haffner, we remain fully committed to supporting UK fabricators with the machinery, expertise and long-term partnership they need to grow.

Our next century begins with the same promise we started with: machine innovation that drives your business forward.

Tel 01785 222421 | www.haffnerltd.com The Accolade Building, Common Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 3EQ

2026

2016

2006

1996

2013

Matt joins the company

W 2 | editors comment | february 2026

EDITOR’S COMMENT FRUSTRATION OVER STRATEGY EXCLUSION

T

he UK’s fenestration industry has expressed deep disappointment over its perceived exclusion from the government’s latest energy efficiency strategy, which it believes is overly focused on heat pumps while neglecting crucial building fabric improvements. Senior figures have criticised the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) for not prioritising measures to retain heat in the UK’s ageing housing stock, described as the worst in Europe.

The sector argues that installing low-energy heating systems in poorly insulated buildings is illogical and that a “fabric first” approach, starting with windows and doors, is essential for genuine energy security.

Industry representatives feel their long-standing efforts to engage with government have been largely ignored, leading to significant frustration. Despite presenting logical, evidencebased arguments for over 15 years, there is a sentiment that the sector is still not trusted by policymakers. One prominent voice questioned whether the government still views the double-glazing industry as “dodgy”, a perception they believe is outdated. The lack of specific funding or inclusion for glazing in recent policy documents has amplified these concerns, prompting questions about the effectiveness of current lobbying efforts and whether a more aggressive approach is now required.

In response, industry bodies acknowledge the frustration but highlight the complex and often disjointed nature of governmental departments. While engagement with bodies like the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Building Safety Regulator is reportedly productive, DESNZ operates differently. The department has seen recent leadership changes, with Ben Rimmington replaced as Director General and Martin McCluskey taking over as Minister for Energy Consumers. At a recent All-Party Parliamentary Group meeting, the minister acknowledged the sector’s concerns and encouraged stakeholders to “keep pushing, keep engaging”, a message met with scepticism by some who feel years of pushing have yielded few results.

The government’s strategy, detailed in the warm homes plan, prioritises energy security through electrification, with a strong emphasis on heat pumps, solar PV, and battery storage. This aligns with manifesto commitments to tackle fuel poverty and deliver new homes, which remain central to the current administration’s agenda. There is a target to install 750,000 heat pumps annually, though current progress is reportedly at only 10% of that goal. The focus on clean, electric energy sources appears to be outweighing arguments for fabricbased insulation measures. This is also against a backdrop of concerns surround ensuring energy security at a time of global instability in oil and gas supply.

www.windowsactive.com

A key challenge identified is the lack of joined-up thinking across government departments and the influence of powerful lobby groups from other energy sectors. Industry leaders speculate that the government’s advisors may lack specific industry knowledge or are being swayed by other interests.

To bolster its political engagement, the industry is adopting a more targeted approach to lobbying. One current campaign focuses on the Energy Intensive Industries (EII) scheme, which provides exemptions for high energy users but does not include glass processing. By identifying companies in key political constituencies and engaging their local MPs, the industry hopes to build a cross-party coalition to challenge this exclusion.

Despite the overarching disappointment, some avenues for funding do exist. The Warm Homes Plan local grant scheme, backed by £500m of government money, includes provisions for double and triple glazing. This funding is targeted at fuel-poor households, with eligibility based on income and a property’s EPC rating being below C. The scheme, administered by local authorities, allows for grants of up to £15K per property, although the amount specifically for windows and doors is capped.

While Westminster’s focus remains on heat generation, other parts of the UK and Ireland are adopting a different stance.

The Republic of Ireland recently launched a new grant scheme offering up to €4K for windows in a detached house, placing fabric improvements at the forefront of its strategy.

Similarly, devolved governments in Scotland and Wales are reportedly more receptive to engagement on building standards and energy efficiency. Industry representatives believe these regional successes could eventually influence policy in England, as Westminster may feel pressure to adopt measures proven effective elsewhere.

Looking ahead, the sector plans to increase its communication and media outreach to ensure its message is heard more consistently, both by policymakers and the wider industry.

There is a consensus that key information, such as the availability of local authority grants, needs to be repeated frequently to reach installers and their customers. By working more closely with trade media and providing regular updates on behind-the-scenes lobbying activities, industry bodies hope to present a united front, ensuring there are “no surprises” when future consultations, such as a potential major change to Part Q of the Building Regulations concerning security glazing, are launched.

John Cowie Editor E: john.cowie@windowsactive.co.uk

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4 | news | february 2026

GGF seeks clarity on window and door scope under Warm Homes Plan

T

he Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) has welcomed the publication of the Government’s Warm Homes Plan but is calling for urgent clarification from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) on how building fabric improvements – including windows and doors – will be supported under the scheme.

The Warm Homes Plan has been described by the government as “the largest home upgrade programme in British history”, providing significant investment in insulation, low-carbon heating and renewables - including universal zero, or low-interest, loan-style support for measures such as batteries, heat pumps and solar panels.

While the GGF supports actions that help households cut energy bills and carbon emissions, it is seeking greater clarity on where fabric-first improvements sit within the overall framework.

At present, references to windows and doors within the policy document are limited to local authority-led and social housing funding routes. What remains unclear is whether funding will support meaningful retrofit upgrades to existing homes, including the replacement of ageing and inefficient double glazing with modern high-performance double or triple glazing.

The GGF has contacted the Director at Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Jessica Skillback, within the last 24 hours to request urgent clarification on how fabric improvements will be treated under the Warm Homes Plan, and whether future guidance will enable homeowners and social housing providers alike to upgrade existing glazing as part of a whole-house

retrofit approach.

Chris Beedel, Head of Government Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations at GGF, said: “While we recognise the Government’s focus on electrification and renewables, we believe that energy efficiency must start with the building fabric. Windows and doors play a critical role in reducing heat loss and ensuring that low-carbon technologies such as heat pumps can operate effectively.

We are seeking clarity from Government on how these essential measures will be supported.”

The GGF is cautiously optimistic that opportunities will be presented for the glass and glazing sector, particularly within the social housing and local authorityled retrofit programmes. However, the Federation stresses that further detail is needed to understand the scale and scope of these opportunities.

The GGF looks forward to further engagement with DESNZ and to the additional detail promised in forthcoming policy updates. The Federation remains committed to working constructively with Government to ensure the Warm Homes Plan delivers practical, effective and inclusive energy efficiency solutions that fully recognise the value of fabric-first improvements.

John Fredericks Plastics extends Veka partnership for another decade

V

eka plc is proud to announce that John Fredericks Plastics has extended its long-standing partnership, signing a new 10-year supply agreement that reaffirms Veka as its chosen PVC-U systems house. The renewed agreement builds on a relationship that began in 1992, marking more than three decades of collaboration between the two businesses.

This latest commitment highlights the shared values of trust, reliability, and longterm partnership, and reflects their confidence in Veka’s ability to deliver a strong, consistent, and dependable supply chain.

In a market where continuity and consistency are increasingly critical, the extended contract provides long-term stability for both businesses and ensures the ongoing supply of high-quality, proven Veka profile systems.

Mark Dicconson, MD at John Fredericks Plastics, commented: “This renewed agreement with Veka is fundamentally about security of supply and long-term stability for both businesses. In today’s market, consistency and dependability are essential, and Veka has a strong track record in maintaining continuity of profile supply, which is a core requirement for us as a

fabricator.

“By extending our partnership, we can plan ahead with confidence, ensuring our production, investment, and customer service remain uninterrupted. It means our customers know exactly what they’re getting, and we can continue to focus on delivering products that we, and our customers, trust – manufactured using systems we know inside out and that are

established and proven.”

The agreement also reinforces John Fredericks Plastics’ commitment to supporting its installer customers with a profile system that is trusted, familiar, and reliable, helping them operate with confidence in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Tim Taylor, Commercial Director at Veka, added: “We’d like to thank Mark and the team at John Fredericks Plastics for their continued trust, commitment, and loyalty to Veka. Partnerships like this are built over time, and the fact that John Fredericks Plastics has chosen to extend their agreement for another 10 years speaks volumes about the strength of our relationship.

“We look forward to supporting them on the next stage of their journey, working closely together over the coming decade to ensure continued quality, consistency, and success.”

With this renewed 10-year agreement in place, both Veka and John Fredericks Plastics are well positioned to move forward with confidence, underpinned by a shared commitment to quality, reliability, and longterm partnership.

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6 | news | february 2026

Maco technical division eyes expansion through innovation and partnerships

A

s we approach the 40th anniversary of MACO UK, Jemma Brookes, Head of Product Management shares that the Technical Department is entering one of its most ambitious and exciting growth phases to date. Inspired by recent industry insights and the evolving needs of our customers, Jemma is proud to share a snapshot of our current progress and our vision for the future ahead of this incredible milestone for the business.

“Our test facility continues to see a steady stream of bookings from partners across the sector. This growing demand reflects the confidence customers place in MACO as a trusted technical authority. We’re also driving forward with new technical solutions to meet the evolving needs of the fenestration sector, strengthening partnerships with new customers, and supporting them every step of the way.

Our commitment to industry collaboration is stronger than ever, and as new members of Timber Development UK

and Women in Timber, we are excited to contribute to and learn from initiatives that

support sustainable building practices and promote diverse voices across the sector.

We are also honoured to take part in the recent Women in Fenestration Network launch, an inspiring event that will bring together passionate professionals committed to building a more inclusive and connected industry. We’re excited for the upcoming opportunities to engage further and continue helping to amplify the incredible talent within our sector.

A special highlight goes to the newest members of our PSI Team, Pavan Dhillon and Ahmed Abubakir, who have quickly exceeded expectations. They are already independently supporting onsite training and customer visits, building strong relationships, and becoming trusted points of contact across the MACO customer base.

We continue to listen closely to the market and to our customers, ensuring we can continue to deliver the high standards MACO is known for whilst helping to shape industry progress.”

Haffner strengthens future strategy with majority shareholding transition

M

achinery innovators Haffner has announced a strategic step to future-proof the business, with Managing Director Matt Thomas becoming the company’s majority shareholder.

The move reinforces Haffner’s longterm commitment to stability, growth and continued investment in people, products and customer support. Working alongside their well-established leadership team, Matt will continue to move the business forward, building on Haffner’s strong market position and reputation for machinery excellence.

Founder Dave Thomas remains Chief Executive Officer, providing continuity and strategic oversight as the business enters its next phase of development. His ongoing role reflects a considered transition that supports both continuity and long-term resilience.

Dave Thomas said: “This transition is about securing the future of the business for our customers, our partners and our team.

Matt has been instrumental in Haffner’s growth over many years and his increased shareholding reflects both his commitment and his vision. It’s a positive step that ensures the business is well placed for the years ahead.”

Matt Thomas added: “Haffner has always been built on long-term thinking, strong relationships and delivering real value to fabricators. Becoming majority shareholder allows us to strengthen that

approach, continue investing in machinery innovation and ensure the business is perfectly positioned for the future. With the strength of our team, this is very much about continuity as well as progression.”

Haffner is a multi-award-winning supplier of PVC-U and aluminium fabrication machinery and is widely recognised as the home of automation for the fenestration industry. Representing Haffner, Graf Synergy and Fom Industrie machinery, the company offers a comprehensive and highly complementary portfolio spanning cutting, machining, welding and advanced automation

solutions. Its Graf V-Perfect seamless welding technology continues to set the benchmark for finish quality and competitive advantage. Supported by in-house technical expertise, training and aftersales support, Haffner works in close partnership with fabricators to improve productivity, quality and long-term competitiveness.

The announcement underlines Haffner’s focus on sustainable growth, customer confidence and ongoing investment as the business continues to evolve in an increasingly competitive and automated market.

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8 | news | february 2026

Record-breaking demand for Anglian as homeowners prioritise energy efficiency

A

nglian Home Improvements, has reported an unprecedented surge in customer enquiries since the start of January – seeing an uplift of 15% compared to the same period as last year. This record-breaking level of interest reflects a significant shift in homeowners’ priorities, partly driven by recent extreme weather conditions and a growing urgency to improve energy efficiency within the home.Anglian has reported January enquiry volumes are already at record highs in the aftermath of Storm Goretti and plummeting temperatures that swept across the country.

For many homeowners, the wintery conditions have exposed their existing windows and doors are no longer sufficient in keeping out the cold.

Beyond the immediate impact of the weather, economic and environmental factors are also playing a crucial role in decision-making. As energy bills remain a concern, homeowners are looking to invest in energy efficient windows and doors to help mitigate rising costs. By taking steps to replace older double glazing with modern standards, it’s estimated that homeowners could reduce heat loss by 50% and save between £395 and £467 on energy bills, according to data from the Glass and Glazing Federation .

Rachael Munby, Chief Marketing Officer at Anglian Home Improvements, says: “January has historically been a peak month for customers planning home upgrades as it symbolises at time of fresh starts for the year ahead. However, the current surge in volume of enquiries we are experiencing suggests a perfect storm of motivational reasons rather than simply seasonal trends,

including rising energy bills and recent weather events.

“This surge reflects homeowners racing to future proof their homes against rising costs and climate challenges. As the nation’s favourite, Anglian has protected British homes for the last 60 years and as a result is perfectly positioned and ready to help homeowners looking to make improvements now.”

As the UK works towards the government’s Net Zero 2050 targets, the Glass and Glazing Federation also reports that 80 million windows in the UK are underperforming and need replacing to meet current energy efficiency standards.1 It suggests that 98% of existing windows

fail to meet today’s building regulations, and even many installed post-2002 with an energy efficiency C-rating fall short of the current B-rated requirements that came into effect in 2022 across England and Wales.

As the nation’s most trusted provider of windows and doors, Anglian Home Improvements takes pride in its commitment to British manufacturing, ensuring that products are not only high-quality but also support the local economy. For homeowners who are looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency, Anglian’s ISO 14001 certification, sustainability credentials and long-term guarantees provide added peace of mind for customers.

Purplex Business Growth webinar draws more than 300 industry leaders

M

ore than 300 business leaders and experts joined Andrew Scott, Managing Director of Purplex Marketing, for his first ‘Business Growth Webinar’. The session explored current market trends and offered clear, practical strategies for turning challenges into growth.

Andrew drew on his experience acquiring, building and exiting more than 15 companies to share the methods that have helped him and hundreds of industry leaders achieve sustainable success.

He explained how his own purpose-planexecute strategy drives long-term growth, and how brand, customer relationships and disciplined decision-making can open new markets and attract high-value clients.

Andrew also discussed his ‘four strategies for growth’ model and how to avoid big

mistakes when growing a business.

Andrew also highlighted the role of AI in generating revenue around the clock and

the risks of relying on purely transactional business post-Covid.

For a personalised deeper dive into the strategies discussed, attendees were offered a complimentary two-hour growth workshop at Purplex Marketing’s offices, and many have already booked their sessions. Following strong demand, Andrew will host another online event on Wednesday 25 February at 11.00am.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Attendee Dharmendra Prajapati said: “The frameworks make growth feel structured, not theoretical. A clear, decisive approach to opportunity.”

Andrew commented: “There has never been a better time to build, scale and create real value. I am thrilled by the response and look forward to welcoming more industry leaders in February.”

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12 | news | february 2026

Purplex Marketing MD visits No 10 to discuss business, technology and AI

A

ndrew Scott, managing director of Purplex Marketing, visited 10 Downing Street recently at the invitation of the MP for Westonsuper-Mare, Daniel Aldridge. The visit offered a close view of the offices where some of the country’s most important decisions are made.

During his time at No 10, Andrew toured the Cabinet Room, the State Room and other historic spaces. He sat in the Prime Minister’s chair in the Cabinet Room and reflected on the momentous events that have shaped the nation.

“It was both humbling and inspiring,” Andrew said. “Walking these halls reminded me that no matter where we come from, our past does not determine our future. The future is ours to create and shape.”

The visit included discussions with Mr Aldridge on business, technology and AI.

Andrew emphasised SME leaders’ role in engaging with politics. “Sixty per cent of private sector jobs are in SMEs, representing almost 17 million people,” he said, “and it’s important that business voices are heard and influence policy.”

For Andrew, this trip to Downing Street reinforced the value of ambition and action, and the opportunities still present in the UK for those willing to seize them. He is now hoping to engage with Government ministers on these subjects in a bid to help shape policies for the future.

Andrew Scott is founder and Managing Director of Purplex Marketing a full service-marketing agency that works with businesses across marketing, technology and media to help them grow and adapt in a changing world. www.purplexmarketing.com

Unique ranked amongst top 200 fastest growing UK manufacturers

U

nique Window Systems’ continuing growth has earned it a place in a respected cross-industry league table. The Leicester-based fabricator of windows, doors and curtain walling for trade, commercial, industrial, new homes, BTR and PBSA sectors ranked 63rd in the Top 200 Manufacturing Growth Index 2025.

Compiled by Grant Thornton UK - a leading UK firm that provides audit, tax, and advisory services - the Top 200 Manufacturing Growth Index 2025 celebrates the fastest growing, privately owned manufacturing businesses across Great Britain.

It offers an insight into the performance of these companies and the impact they are having on innovation and the wider economy.

Manufacturers have been selected based not only on their private ownership but also the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of their EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortisation) for 2023 and 2024.

They were also required to have a minimum EBITDA of £1 million in the latest accounting period, with publicly available accounts for the two years in question.

Manufacturing (excluding food and drink) had to be their primary activity, with headquarters in the UK. Unique’s listing comes as the business continues on a remarkable growth trajectory. Since 2020, the company has seen its turnover more than double, surging from £20.8 million to over £45 million.

During that same period, the company’s headcount has also grown by 50%, increasing from 200 to 300 people.

Unique puts these remarkable achievements down to a combination of factors. This includes a commitment to offering high quality products backed by equally high levels of service, the levels of responsiveness it can offer as a business that remains proudly family owned, and its genuinely entrepreneurial and can-do approach.

Commenting on the Top 200 Manufacturing Growth Index 2025 listing, Atul Patel, joint-Managing Director, at Unique said: “Unique’s exceptional growth results from careful governance and management, a desire for excellence in everything we do, and a genuine appreciation of our customers, our team and

our supply partners.

“We are delighted to rank amongst the fastest growing 200 manufacturers across Great Britain and this recognition is especially poignant coming in our twentieth anniversary year. It highlights our track record to date and makes a clear statement about our future ambitions.

Nick Gillott, Head of Manufacturing and Industrials at Grant Thornton UK, added: “British manufacturing continues to be a beacon of best practice on a global stage.

Despite significant market challenges, the sector has shown resilience, agility and adaptability.”

“It continues to contribute billions of pounds to the UK economy and support over two million jobs. It’s been a privilege to be involved in creating an index that celebrates those achievements,” he concluded.

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14 | news | february 2026

Endurance® Doors makes further investment in production facilities

E

ndurance® Doors has made a further investment in its production operations, commissioning a new state-of-the-art paint facility following the September 2025 launch of its remodelled door assembly line, which incorporates best-practice techniques from the automotive and aerospace sectors.

Garry Brewin, managing director at Endurance® Doors, says: “Having invested over a £1/4 million into our updated assembly line which now delivers even greater levels of efficiency and order accuracy, we wanted to ensure the same exceptional standards were maintained across other areas of the production process.

“The latest investment into our new paint shop contributes to that. It maximises both health and safety for our team and product quality for our installer partners and their customers.”

Located at Endurance’s factory in Brigg, the new paint facility features spraying equipment and ventilation and safety systems, including specialist PPE, that enables the manufacturer to use 2k paint in compliance with all relevant guidance and legislation such as ATEX, REACH and the regulations set out by HSE (Health & Safety Executive).

The new facility and the specific type of

2k paint now being employed by Endurance enables the manufacturer to produce doors with an even more durable painted finish and to achieve a superior colour match between door skins, glazing cassettes and door frames.

The new facility also benefits from its own dedicated drying oven. This enables Endurance to paint and dry door components in under an hour.

Garry adds: “Endurance® Doors has

a highly active programme of inward investment and we continue to reinvest a significant proportion of our profits back into our business, enhancing its capabilities, its efficiency and its use of cutting edge technology.

“Not only does this contribute to our competitiveness and continued success, but it also ensures our customers benefit from products of the very highest quality and that embrace the latest technological advances.”

Veka Recycling supports installers through FENSA Recycling Scheme

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eka Recycling, Veka plc’s dedicated recycling facility based in Wellingborough, has been confirmed as a key partner in the FENSA Recycling Scheme, supporting installers and fabricators with compliant, professional PVC-U recycling routes.

Under the scheme, installers across the UK can access compliant PVC-U window recycling through Veka Recycling.

Those located within 50 miles of Veka Recycling’s Wellingborough facility benefit from convenient collections using Veka’s dedicated fleet of vehicles, with free local collection available. PVC-U frames can be collected glazed or deglazed, allowing installers to hand over units exactly as they are removed from the property.

The partnership has been designed to simplify waste handling while supporting installers in meeting their legal Duty of Care obligations. Every collection is accompanied by a compliant Waste Transfer Note, with installers also receiving an annual recycling certificate outlining the volume of material recycled and diverted from landfill. This provides clear, auditable evidence of responsible waste disposal.

The collaboration comes as the industry

highlights risks of using unlicensed waste collectors. Installers remain legally responsible for their waste, and failure to use licensed, compliant services can expose businesses to fines, reputational damage, and liability for fly-tipping. By providing a clear, professional recycling route, the Veka Recycling and FENSA partnership offers installers a trusted alternative.

Kate Riley, Commercial Manager at Veka Recycling, commented: “Installers and fabricators need recycling solutions that are practical, compliant and easy to trust. Our partnership with FENSA removes unnecessary steps from the process and gives installers confidence that their waste

is being handled responsibly, with the right documentation in place.”

Veka Recycling supports the fenestration industry’s move towards a circular economy by collecting and recycling end-of-life PVC-U windows, with material reintroduced into the supply chain where suitable, helping to reduce landfill and preserve valuable raw materials.

Sam Davies, Commercial Manager at FENSA, commented: “Illegal waste carriers pose a real problem for industry and society, with fines and prosecutions falling on the original owners of traceable waste. Installers must dispose of waste responsibly through licensed carriers. That’s why we’re pleased to re-launch our strengthened recycling scheme, enabling FENSA-registered businesses to access free material waste collections—saving costs, supporting the environment, and avoiding the serious consequences of illegal disposal.”

For installers and fabricators facing increasing scrutiny around sustainability and compliance, the partnership reinforces that responsible waste disposal is an increasingly important part of professional installation and long-term business resilience.

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16 | news | february 2026

UAP celebrates a year of growth, innovation and industry recognition

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AP Group Limited (UAP), the Burybased door hardware specialist, is marking a transformative year defined by strategic growth, product innovation and industry recognition, following its acquisition in August by leading global security products and solutions provider Allegion plc.

The acquisition represents a significant milestone in UAP’s journey. UAP will report into the Allegion International segment, strengthening Allegion’s presence in the region, complementing Allegion UK’s nonresidential portfolio there and expanding solutions offered to the companies’ combined customers.

Alongside this, UAP continued to invest in product innovation throughout 2025, launching several new products, including a door closer range for residential, commercial and public environments, the Bullet Door Chain, and Kinetica Freezeguard 3-star euro cylinder range, the industry’s first to achieve BSI Kitemark TS007 1:2024 certification and PAS24:2022+A1:2024 and Secured by Design accreditation.

UAP’s commitment to innovation, culture and performance was recognised across the industry in 2025, including a double win at the National Fenestration Awards for Best Use of Video and New Product of the Year for Kinetica Freezeguard.

The business also picked up a double win at the Locksmith Awards, where the company

was named Hardware Company of the Year and Marketing Director Kamila Kasperowicz received - Director of the Year.

Throughout the year, UAP also strengthened its team across the board, with a focus on strengthening its senior leadership, technical functions as well as sales team positions.

David Jennings,CEO of UAP Ltd, said:“2025 has been a defining year for UAP and our people’s dedication and expertise have been central to this success. Joining Allegion gives us the scale to accelerate

growth, but our focus remains the same investing in our people, developing gamechanging products and driving progress for our customers and the industry.”

Founded in 1996, UAP holds nearly 200 patents, trademarks and registered designs and continues to invest heavily in research, development and innovation. As part of Allegion, the business enters 2026 with a strengthened platform to continue delivering high-quality door hardware solutions that improve safety, security and performance across the built environment.

Veka achieves CCPI conformance for its windows product information

V

eka plc has set a new benchmark for construction product information after becoming the first UK systems house to achieve conformance with the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) for its windows product set.

The independent assessment confirms that Veka’s product information for its windows product set meets the Code’s rigorous requirements for accuracy, clarity and governance.

Veka’s CCPI conformance follows a rigorous independent assessment of the product information management processes, governance and supporting culture relating specifically to its windows product set. The assessment confirms that product information for these systems meets the requirements of the Code and aligns with recognised industry best practice.

For customers, specifiers and supply chain partners, this provides greater confidence that Veka’s windows product set product information, can be greater

relied upon at every stage - from specification and procurement through to installation and ongoing use. It also demonstrates Veka’s ongoing commitment to transparency, consistency and responsible practice within the construction sector.

This milestone comes as Veka marks its 40th anniversary, reflecting four decades of continued investment in systems, processes and support for the UK market, and highlighting how the business continues to evolve in line with changing industry expectations.

Paul Kennington, Technical Director at Veka plc, said: “Our industry, alongside the wider construction sector, has faced longstanding challenges around the quality and consistency of product information. The aim of the CCPI is to raise standards across product information, including leadership and culture, to provide greater confidence that product information is clear, accurate, accessible, up to date and unambiguous.

Achieving conformance with the Code for our windows product information reinforces our commitment to supporting the supply chain with accurate and reliable information and, we hope, encourages wider adoption of these standards across the sector.”

Achieving CCPI conformance reinforces Veka’s role in supporting higher standards of construction product information and contributing to positive culture change across the industry. www.veka.co.uk

february 2026 | news | 17

Glazing contractor cautiously explores AI while protecting customer trust

A

leading commercial glazing installer is weighing a cautious but determined approach to artificial intelligence as it seeks to balance efficiency gains with customer trust and service quality.

The Window Company (Contracts), a multi-million-pound contractor and recent recipient of the glass and glazing industry’s 2025 Customer Care Award, says it is actively exploring how AI could be deployed within its operations while remaining mindful of ethical, reputational and workforce concerns.

Speaking about the company’s direction, chair David Thornton described the business as “forward thinking” and “customer focused”, underpinned by a long-standing commitment to technology investment. The installer has already developed a bespoke interactive property database containing more than 58,000 records and designed its own installation app to replace paper job sheets used by surveyors and fitters.

Caller ID is also linked directly to the database, allowing staff to immediately access resident information when calls are received.

That history of digital innovation is now pushing the company towards AI, but Thornton cautioned that the trajectory of the technology remains uncertain. While

AI tools are often associated with content generation or meeting administration, he said the company was examining applications that go further, particularly those that could improve operational efficiency.

At the same time, Thornton acknowledged growing unease among some consumers about AI, particularly around data security, ethics, potential misuse and its impact on jobs. He questioned whether public trust in the technology would grow or diminish, especially in light of high-profile controversies and scandals.

A central concern, he said, was the risk that AI could be seen to undermine the personal customer service that clients and residents value. One potential use case under consideration is automating routine calls to residents to confirm upcoming installations, with alerts passed to the administration team if follow-up or changes are required, enabling staff to intervene with a personal call where necessary.

However, Thornton stressed the importance of transparency, raising questions about how clearly businesses should disclose their use of AI to customers and how such disclosure should be handled.

The company remains committed to embracing AI and maximising its benefits, but Thornton warned against rushing into

implementation without resolving these issues. He added that hearing from other installers about their experiences and customer responses would be critical as the sector navigates the next phase of digital adoption.

UKO Glass enhances production with new Schiavo arising machine

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KO Glass has announced a significant upgrade to its production capabilities with the installation of a new Schiavo Cross Belt arising machine. Based at their toughening plant and supplied by P.A.L Machinery, this new machine is part of the organisations commitment to investing in quality, efficiency, and customer service.

Installed at the end of 2025, the new machine introduces major improvements to the production process, delivering a consistently high-quality edge finish across

all glass products. This enhanced precision helps to reduce breakages, improving both the reliability and the overall efficiency of the toughening process.

The investment also plays a key role in supporting UKO Glass’s move toward a five-day lead time for toughened insulated glass units (IGUs). With greater consistency and speed throughout the arising and toughening stages, customers can expect even more dependable turnaround times and product uniformity.

“We’re really excited about this upgrade,” said Tony McAspurn, Production Manager, UKO Glass. “The new Schiavo machine reinforces our commitment to continuous improvement and ensures we can deliver exceptional quality with even greater consistency.

This step forward supports our customers with faster lead times and more reliable results.”

The installation marks the latest phase in UKO Glass’s wider programme of investment aimed at enhancing manufacturing

capabilities and strengthening service levels across its product range.

18 | news | february 2026

Labour shortages and costs push manufacturers to invest in machinery

A

necdotes from the factory floor are rarely short of colour, but one recounted by Ian Latimer, managing director of Emmegi (UK), neatly captures the recruitment strains facing parts of British manufacturing.

Just before Christmas, a customer described hiring two young operators for shopfloor roles. One failed to arrive at all.

The other left mid-morning on his first day after being reprimanded for arriving 40 minutes late, prompting a follow-up call from his mother asking whether he might be given another chance.

While an extreme case, Latimer argues it underlines a wider and persistent problem.

Despite UK unemployment edging above 5 per cent, and joblessness among 16- to 24-year-olds hovering closer to 16 per cent, manufacturers across the UK and Ireland continue to struggle not only for skilled labour but also for entry-level staff.

The reasons, he suggests, are structural and long-standing. They pre-date Brexit and have resisted multiple policy interventions by successive governments. For employers, the result is a recruitment market that remains tight even as broader economic indicators soften.

At the same time, the cost of employing those workers who can be found continues to rise. Annual wage growth of 4.7 per cent is being compounded by higher employer National Insurance contributions and above-inflation increases in the minimum and living wage due in April. In that context, Latimer says, many manufacturers are

reassessing their growth strategies.

Rather than expanding headcount, companies are increasingly looking to optimise the productivity of existing teams. That shift, he argues, is accelerating investment in automation and advanced machinery capable of delivering measurable returns while reducing reliance on labour.

Even relatively modest equipment upgrades can have a material impact on production output, reducing the number of operators required per shift while improving consistency. More advanced multi-axis CNC systems allow parallel processing and faster changeovers, further compressing cycle times and improving overall throughput.

At the top end, fully integrated machining platforms can replace multiple fabrication stages, reducing cumulative tolerances and delivering higher levels of precision at scale. The commercial case, Latimer notes, is increasingly compelling.

Payback periods for such investments vary, but can be as short as 12 to 24 months once labour savings, improved material usage and higher output are taken into account.

For manufacturers facing chronic recruitment challenges, machinery investment is no longer simply about efficiency, but about sustaining growth in a constrained labour market.

Eurocell and Biffa expand successful PVC-U recycling partnership

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urocell, the UK’s leading manufacturer and recycler of PVC-U windows and doors, has announced the expansion of its successful recycling partnership with Biffa, following a highly effective trial designed to help the trade recycle more post-consumer PVC-U waste than ever before. The initiative, which has already diverted over 85 tonnes of domestic PVC-U from landfill, will be extended to additional regions and locations throughout 2026.

Joy Naylor, Manufacturing & Recycling Director, said: “Our partnership with Biffa has had a tremendous impact on our sustainability efforts, allowing us to divert large volumes of post-consumer PVC-U from landfill. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to a closed-loop recycling process, reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable future for both our customers and the environment.”

A significant volume of PVC-U from

window and door replacements still ends up in landfill, despite the material being highly recyclable. Smaller installers and sole traders, who undertake much of this work, have historically had limited access to practical recycling options, with PVC-U often being bulky, awkward to store, and

ultimately treated as general waste.

To address this, Eurocell set out to make products more sustainable by reducing virgin plastic content, while offering customers a simple, accessible recycling route for post-consumer material.

Working with Biffa, Eurocell launched a domestic and small-load PVC-U collection trial in February 2023. Operating within a 30-mile radius of NE28 (North Tyneside), the service allowed installers to request collections via branches or phone, with Biffa’s reactive fleet picking up material directly from homes, depots, and small trade sites.

Biffa consolidated the material at three regional transfer stations, soon to increase to 10 under the expanded partnership, before sending it to Eurocell’s specialist recycling facilities. The system was designed to handle everything from small domestic loads to bulk skips, opening up recycling access to traders of all sizes for the first time.

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Stellar Aluminium offers a complete whole-house window and door solution, allowing fabricators and installers to cover every elevation with a single, consistent system. From heritage casement and flush windows to sliding, bifold and residential doors, Stellar simplifies specification, fabrication and installation reducing complexity while delivering a cohesive, premium finish across the entire project.

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22 | news | february 2026

Window Supply Company adds online division as growth continues

W

est Lothian-based Window Supply Company, one of Scotland’s fastest-growing manufacturers of PVC-U windows and doors, has now expanded with new branches in Inverness, Lincoln and Manchester, won more work in the public and energy sectors, and launched its own digital application.

Since its founding in 2019, Window Supply Company has evolved into a national brand with 12 trade counters across the UK, a reputation for quality, service and reliability and a portfolio of clients which includes nationally renowned brands like B&Q. Since 2019 the company has grown its headcount from 26 to 212 employees – an increase of 715% - and raised revenue by 608%.

As part of its growth strategy, the new online division expands the company’s service offering, allowing additional markets to be reached and customers to log their orders at a time convenient to them. In practical terms, this digital presence speeds up the time between order and delivery.

Due to demand, the business has also launched an installation service for the public and energy sectors, with Window Supply Company’s investment in cutting-edge manufacturing and innovation meaning it can now meet these evolving needs. The team is currently onsite working for major contractors in the new build and retrofit market in Scotland, which includes social and affordable housing.

The company’s success follows a multi-million-pound investment from BGF, the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor, in 2020.

The business recently launched a new product, Zero90, designed to achieve indus-

try-leading thermal performance. Zero90 helps landlords dramatically improve the energy efficiency of their housing stock by cutting carbon emissions and reducing fuel consumption for tenants at a time when energy costs remain high.

Window Supply Company has also expanded its senior team by welcoming Colin Joyce as Business Development Manager, strengthening its position in the public sector.

Duncan Murray, CEO of Window Supply Company, said: “The rapid expansion of our business is a testament to the high-quality service and innovative manufacturing we offer our customers, as well as the hard work of our team.

“The huge demand we’ve seen has spurred the transition of Window Supply Company into new business areas, each with their own compelling offering. Our new public and energy sector branch allows us

to address important concerns in these key areas - such as in the new build or affordable housing markets - and our online platform enables us to tap into new markets and enhance the accessibility of our services.

“Despite a tough operating environment, we’re really proud of how far we’ve come since our beginnings in 2019, and BGF’s support has been invaluable. There’s a lot more to come as we enter the next phase of our growth strategy and continue to identify opportunities on the horizon.”

Graham Clarke, Regional Portfolio Partner at BGF, said: “BGF has supported Window Supply Company since 2020, and we’re pleased to see the business achieving these important milestones as part of its ongoing growth strategy.

“The team has broadened the business model in response to the level of demand from existing and new customers, setting up a strong platform for future growth.”

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24 | news | february 2026

PVC-U market share drops to 39% in London

P

VC-U remains the cornerstone of the UK window and-U door market, but new Tommy Trinder data reveals a growing regional divide.

Analysis of more than one million items quoted by over 700 of the UK’s leading installers that use Tommy Trinder for their quoting, shows that 79% of installed items in the UK are PVC-U, with 61% of the market by value still held by the material.

However, the headline story is the growing regional divide.

Nowhere is this clearer than in the capital: PVC-U’s market share in London has dropped to 39%, down from 48% in 2022, as aluminium continues to dominate higher-end urban and architectural projects.

Outside London and the Home Counties, PVC-U remains dominant, reaching as high as 90% market share in some regions.

At the premium end, market share for flush casements has been declining in value terms as price pressures start to bite. Founder and CEO of Tommy Trinder Chris Brunsdon, explains; “As more installers began offering flush, competition increased, and we saw prices starting to drop,” says Chris. “While the volume of flush sash quoted has remained stable, their overall share in terms of value has dipped - from 21% in 2022 to 16% now. Basically, flush casements have moved from being a high-margin niche, to becoming part of an installers staple offering. ” The report also highlights continued demand for colour, with 35% of PVC-U windows now foiled, and 63% of flush products specified in foiled finishes.

Demand for Tommy Trinder’s software remains strong, meanwhile; more than 230 installation firms switched to using the platform for their quoting in 2025. Says Chris; “The ability to present complex products ranges quickly and easily has never been more important, and with growing diversity of materials the ability combine PVC-U, aluminium, timber and steel from multiple fabricators in one seamless presentation has become pretty much vital” www.tommytrinder.com

february 2026 | news | 25

Keystone launches latest Consumer Fenestration Trends Report

K

eystone Market Research is pleased to announce the launch of its latest UK Consumer Fenestration Trends Report, delivering fresh insight into homeowner preferences, priorities and spending intentions - with a special focus on consumers actively in the market for windows, doors and roof-glazing products.

This edition places particular emphasis on understanding how decision-making changes at point of purchase, comparing overall homeowner attitudes with those currently planning projects. The findings provide valuable guidance on where demand is most resilient, how budgets are shifting and which products are best positioned to convert in 2026, despite ongoing economic uncertainty.

The report has once again been made possible through the continued support of last year’s sponsors - Endurance Doors, Epwin Window Systems, the GGF, Liniar, and VEKA - and Keystone is delighted to welcome Business Pilot as an additional sponsor for this year’s research programme. Their collective backing enables Keystone to make this research freely available to sponsor customers, ensuring actionable consumer insight reaches businesses across the

fenestration supply chain.

Charlotte Hawkes, Director of Keystone Market Research, commented: “We’re forecasting that the year ahead is likely to be another tough one for fenestration, but with definite areas of opportunity. This latest report gives the industry a clear picture of what really matters to homeowners who are ready to buy now - not just those browsing or planning for the future. We’re extremely grateful to our returning sponsors and to Business Pilot for joining us this year, as their support allows us to continue delivering independent, consumerfocused insight at a time when clarity and confidence for the market are crucial.”

Alongside the report launch, Keystone has announced a new webinar update series, exclusive to sponsors, sponsor’s customers and annual subscribers. Each webinar will walk attendees through the key findings from the latest report, explore what they mean for the market and provide an opportunity for live questions and feedback to help shape the future development of the research. The webinar for this latest report will take place at 10am on 11th March.

If you aren’t a customer of one of the

report sponsors, annual subscriptions are now open for purchase, providing access to all consumer reports released throughout the year.

With demand for windows and doors proving more resilient than many competing home improvement categories and budgets continuing to rise for premium products delivering on quality, the latest Consumer Fenestration Trends Report offers timely insight to support strategic planning, marketing and product development across the industry.

For more information on the latest Consumer Fenestration Trends Report, webinar access, sponsorship opportunities, or annual subscriptions, visit www. keystonemr.co.uk.

Warwick North West announces senior leadership restructure

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24-Award Fabricator of the Year Warwick North West has announced a significant leadership restructure, with current Managing Director Greg Johnson stepping into the newly created role of Chief Executive Officer.

At the same time, long-serving Operations Manager Phil McDonald will become Managing Director.

The strategic move aims to position the Liverpool-based manufacturer for its next phase of growth, following a remarkable period that has seen annual revenues more than double from £5 million to over £12 million since Greg took the helm in 2021.

“This restructure represents a natural evolution for Warwick North West,” explains Greg Johnson. “As CEO, I’ll focus on the strategic vision and long-term growth opportunities, while ensuring we have the right operational leadership to execute our ambitious plans day-to-day. After investing more than £1 million in manufacturing capacity in the last couple of years, I felt we needed to look at our leadership structure and make sure it really suited what we are aiming to do.”

Having started on Warwick’s factory floor in 1999 and progressing through various positions, Phil brings huge industry experience. His 26-year journey with the company gives him a comprehensive insight into all aspects of the business.

“Phil’s appointment as Managing Director recognises his exceptional knowledge and dedication,” Greg continues. “His technical understanding of our products is second to none - I often joke that he’s forgotten more about windows and doors than I’ve ever known! Having someone with that level of expertise overseeing our daily operations is a no-brainer.”

Phil commented, “I’m honoured to step into this role after 26 years with Warwick.

I’ve seen this company evolve from a small local fabricator to an award-winning manufacturer with national reach. I’m excited to continue that momentum.”

Johnson finished by saying, “With my focus on strategic opportunities and Phil ensuring our day-to-day operations remain best-in-class, I truly believe that we are creating a leadership team that can deliver for our customers, our community, and our

120-strong workforce for years to come.

With our junior management team also now established and flourishing, Warwick’s future looks promising.”

For more information on Warwick North West, visit www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk or call 0151 933 3030.

26 | news | february 2026

Endurance® Doors strengthens sales team with new appointment

T

o ensure new and potential customers can reap the full benefits of its continually evolving offer, Endurance® Doors has strengthened its sales function.

The manufacturer of premium composite doors for the discerning homeowner has appointed Thomas Stockton as a new business development manager.

Thomas joins Endurance with extensive sales and account manager experience. He has previously worked for leading and global companies operating across a number of industries and markets including the automotive sector, commercial catering and audio branding. He has proven expertise in commercial development, product specification and relationship management.

Thomas will be responsible for a territory covering northern England. His remit will entail supporting and growing Endurance’s installer partner network within this region. He will ensure customers are aware of and can easily access Endurance’s comprehensive portfolio of products and extensive support package, which includes assistance with marketing, lead generation,

showroom materials and product training.

Commenting on his new role, Thomas said: “The chance to join Endurance® Doors was a genuinely exciting opportunity, especially given the brand’s standing in the market and the quality of its product range.

“I am looking forward to building on these achievements and to delivering added value to installers within my area, helping

them to grow and succeed.”

Nicola Clark, national sales manager at Endurance® Doors, added: “On behalf of everyone at Endurance, I would like to welcome Thomas to the team.

“His unique mix of skills and experience will ensure he’s a real asset - both to our business and those of the customers we work with.”

Emerald adopts PST’s vsHome to transform customer visualisation

P

roduction Software Technology’s vsHome software is designed to help home improvement retailers improve the way they design, visualise and present projects to customers. By combining realistic 3D visuals, clear reporting and an easy to use interface, vsHome enables sales teams to communicate designs and expectations from the first appointment.

Emerald Home Improvements, a wellestablished installer operating across Derby, Leicester and Belfast, adopted vsHome to overcome challenges they faced with customer visualisation. Prior to using the software, the team relied on static templates created using Paint and Word, which made it difficult to show customers what finished projects such as conservatories would look like. The process was time consuming and limited flexibility during appointments.

Emerald was introduced to PST through a supplier already using one of PST’s other software platforms, VS. After exploring vsHome, they quickly saw its potential to improve both their sales process and overall customer experience with the onboarding and setup process being described as “really smooth and informative”. The free 14-day trial gave Emerald confidence in using vsHome and PST’s support team were readily available to provide guidance and answer questions.

A key benefit of using vsHome for Emerald has been the ability to produce realistic 3D visuals and create reports.

Reflecting on the impact of the software, Nick Marsden at Emerald commented that vsHome has “very much” changed the way the business operates. He went on to explain: “Being able to show and edit jobs whilst with a customer means both myself and the customer know exactly what to expect”. Emerald also utilises VisiRoom

which further enhances engagement and confidence in a customers purchasing decisions. vsHome’s ease of use, combined with PST’s responsive customer support has also contributed to Emerald’s positive experience. Any issues are resolved quickly and as familiarity with the software has grown, the need for ongoing support has naturally reduced allowing the team to focus more on their customers.

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30 | news | february 2026

How Winkhaus services are giving customers a competitive edge

B

eyond innovative and award winning hardware, Winkhaus is helping UK fabricators and installers achieve faster routes to market, more efficient production, and stronger sales through a comprehensive range of customer focused services. For Winkhaus UK, success isn’t just about producing high performance locking systems, it’s about ensuring every customer thrives. From technical support and marketing collaboration to operational accuracy and training, the company’s entire approach is built around one principle: guaranteeing customer success.

“How we differentiate ourselves in the UK is through the added value services and solutions we provide that others can’t,” Andrew Wilkins of Winkhaus UK explained. “Our aim is to deliver measurable benefits, whether that’s speeding up product development, improving efficiency, or helping customers present their offer more effectively.”

Technical expertise that delivers confidence - The Technical Services team plays a vital role in supporting customers as they adopt new products. From specifying and setting up production lines to ensuring precision in door and lock alignment, to in house training, Winkhaus’s experts provide hands on assistance that reduces errors and boosts efficiency. In critical areas such as fire doorset testing, multiple Winkhaus team members often attend tests to ensure customers achieve the best possible outcomes and supporting their compliance journey. “Accuracy and alignment are key,” Andrew continued. “Our team ensures that doors operate correctly right from the factory floor, minimising on site adjustments and helping customers maintain quality and efficiency.”

“It’s a big investment from our side,” Andrew added, “but it’s one that ultimately guarantees our customers’ success, and that’s exactly what our role should be.”

Marketing and communication that go further - Winkhaus also invests heavily

in customer specific marketing, helping customers not only understand products but promote them. The company regularly creates adaptable marketing materials, technical content, and educational resources that fabricators can re-use across their own networks, and their target customers. “We don’t just tell our own product story,” Winkhaus said. “We help our customers tell theirs, to their installer networks and even to end users. That shared approach adds real value.”

With industry standards evolving, Winkhaus also produces content that helps customers explain regulatory changes to their audiences. This keeps sales teams, installers, and consumers informed while strengthening trust and brand reputation throughout the supply chain.

Operational precision and reliability - Behind the scenes, Winkhaus’s operational teams are measured on the same customer success standards. From accurate order picking and processing to efficient logistics, the company’s internal systems are designed to reduce lead times and increase reliability, ensuring customers receive exactly what they need, when they need it.

“Every department is aligned around delivering success for our customers,” Andrew noted. “That’s what drives our innovation, our service levels, and our relationships.”

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Technology that delivers real benefits - A perfect example is the launch of the Winkhaus Portal, a revolutionary digital plat forma that provides direct access to our systems, putting everything you need at your fingertips 24/7. One place for all your transactions, payment information and invoicing, ready to use media assets, and the full product catalogue, means you get to run your business your way. We can help you get fully set up and integrated with the portal and have training modules and support on hand to get you started.

A complete partnership approach By combining deep technical knowledge, proactive support, and reliable operations, Winkhaus delivers a rounded partnership that helps customers stay competitive in a challenging market. “Ultimately, our role is to make sure our customers succeed,”. “If we can make their journey to market faster, smoother, and more effective, then we’ve achieved what we set out to do.”

Snippet / Summary / Social sentiment: Winkhaus UK is redefining partnership in the fenestration industry with customer focused services that go beyond premium hardware. Through technical support, marketing collaboration, and operational precision, the company helps fabricators and installers boost efficiency, adapt to change, and guarantee their own success.

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february 2026 | news | 31

The Door & Hardware Federation welcomes door standard reform

T

he Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has welcomed its involvement in shaping a new generation of construction product standards for doors and hardware, following the introduction of a revised Construction Products Regulation (CPR) in the European Union.

Since the early 1990s, construction products in the UK and across Europe have been governed by a shared regulatory framework designed to support a single market. These rules, distinct from national building regulations, introduced the principle of CE marking, allowing compliant products to be placed on the market across the European Economic Community.

In practice, however, progress was slow.

CE marking could only be applied once harmonised standards were in place, and many product categories did not see widespread adoption until the late 1990s. In the UK, CE marking was never mandated in national law, although it became established for products such as door closers and emergency exit devices.

The regulatory landscape shifted in 2011, when the original directive was replaced by a regulation that removed uncertainty over the compulsory nature of CE marking. Even then, the pace of standard development remained problematic. Large numbers of draft standards were rejected, and questions over responsibility for technical content intensified after court rulings confirmed that harmonised standards formed part of EU law.

These challenges provided the backdrop to the publication of a new Construction Products Regulation in 2024. The revised framework aims to accelerate and streamline the development of standards, while strengthening oversight. It also places

greater emphasis on sustainability and on the use of digital information in product marketing and, where relevant, product use.

Under the new system, standardisation will follow a revised process and structure, with a defined order of priority. Thirtyfour product families have been identified, with doors and windows, including hardware, ranked fourth in priority. Work is already under way, and a formal request to begin developing the new standards is expected shortly. UK legislation has been updated so that CE marking under the revised EU regulation will continue to be recognised domestically, meaning doors and hardware are expected to be among the first products to align with the new standards.

Michael Skelding, general manager of DHF, said the federation was “delighted” to be contributing to the process. While the UK is no longer a member of the EU, he noted that British Standards Institution remains a full member of CEN, ensuring continued UK participation in European standards development. This, he said, would help ensure the resulting standards are “practical, robust and supportive of quality and safety across the sector”.

Alongside developments at European level, British Standards Institution is preparing to publish a revised edition of BS 8214, a standard long associated with timber fire doors. The new edition, BS 8214:2026, will replace the 2016 version and extend its scope to fire-resisting doors of all materials,

reflecting contemporary design, supply and installation practices across the construction sector.

The revised standard represents a significant shift in approach. Rather than focusing narrowly on fire door assemblies, it treats fire doors as complete, coordinated systems, whether supplied as assemblies, doorsets or kits. For the first time, it applies equally to timber, steel, aluminium and composite fire doors, supported by new annexes offering material-specific guidance. A formal code of practice for metal and composite fire doors has also been introduced, addressing a longstanding gap in industry guidance.

Technical updates include clearer explanations of fire door classifications and the evidence required to demonstrate compliance, alongside clarified installation requirements intended to reduce the risk of non-compliance on site. Smoke control guidance has been updated to align with recent changes to BS 9991, and improved advice is provided on sealing between door frames and surrounding structures.

DHF has been closely involved throughout the revision of BS 8214, contributing sector experience to ensure the guidance is clearer, more consistent and better aligned with real-world practice.

Together, the revised British standard and the new European regulatory framework signal a period of significant change for doors and hardware, with implications for manufacturers, specifiers and duty holders across the construction industry.

Logikal MES roll out continues

F

orterro has completed the installation of its Logikal MES production tracking system at Kingfisher Windows in Leeds, as the trade, retail and commercial fabricator continues to invest in its digital infrastructure to achieve tangible improvements in customer service.

The team from Forterro spent a week at Kingfisher’s factory installing the system, which includes barcode scanning terminals at key machinery and fabrication stations so that aluminium frames can now be tracked in the same way as PVC-U frames for the first time.

The MES system has scan points at every production step within the factory ensuring that every process and operation is automatically reported, giving the operational and management team realtime visibility of progress.

Ash Ellis, Kingfisher’s General Manager,

says they are already very impressed: “We signed up for Logikal MES after we saw the demo at the FIT Show last year, because we

felt it would give us new levels of insight into our operation that would help us enhance our efficiency and reduce the potential for errors and manufacturing deviations.

“We’re already seeing those benefits. We can see the status of every order at the touch of the button and analyse any delays or issues much more quickly than before. We have also been able to eliminate paperwork in the factory which is a real step forward and we can also report almost instantly to customers on the progress of their order.

“We now have access to consistently accurate information on every job and that is having a positive impact on internal as well as external communication. As we continue to interrogate and work with the MES system, we’re confident that we will see further payback in terms of increased throughput and potentially reduced lead times.”

32 | director of the month | february 2026

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH In this month’s director of the month feature, we talk to Dom Francis, Managing Director of The Trade Window Centre

O

ver the last 12 months, trading has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. Challenging, not only due to the state of the current economy but within our business we have made so many changes to increase our capacities for future growth by implementing new processes and investing in new machinery and systems, we have had to adapt quickly and I am proud of how far we have come this year and to see that as the year draws to a close we will have achieved around 55-56% growth year on year, I think that is truly remarkable and great credit to the whole team.

Despite ongoing economic pressures and a more cautious consumer mindset, the market remains active, with customers prioritising value, reliability and service over short-term price alone. In response, Trade Window Centre continues to plan new product introductions focused on energy efficiency, durability and ease of installation, ensuring our range evolves in line with both regulatory requirements and installer needs.

Moving into our new 26,000ft² manufacturing facility was a major milestone for the business and one that has already delivered significant benefits.

The increased space has allowed us to redesign our entire workflow, creating a more efficient, streamlined production environment. With dedicated areas for each stage of manufacturing, our quality control processes are stronger and more consistent than ever. The new layout also supports better communication between teams, helping us respond faster to customer needs. Overall, the facility has boosted our output, improved reliability, and given us the foundation we need to continue growing and meeting higher demand with confidence.

Alongside the new facility, we have introduced a new digital tracking system,

WORKING LOCATION I like to be amongst my team and involved in all areas of the operation, staying close to the day-to-day activity. We have recently moved into a brand-new 26,000ft² manufacturing facility with modern offices upstairs, giving us the space and structure to work more efficiently. Even when I’m not physically in the building, I stay fully connected. Because I’m on the road so often visiting clients, suppliers, and sites, I rely heavily on my phone and laptop to manage projects, communicate with the team, review schedules, and ensure everything continues running smoothly no matter where I am.

Evolution by BM, that allows us to transform the way we manage production and delivery of all products. With full order tracking through barcode scan points at every stage of production, we can now ensure greater accuracy, efficiency, and transparency across the manufacturing process.

Looking ahead to the next 12 months, I’m optimistic. Demand is continuing to increase, and while the market isn’t without its uncertainties, we’re well positioned to grow. My expectation is that customers will continue prioritising high-quality, energy-efficient products, and we’re preparing for that by refining our processes, expanding our range, and remaining agile.

General market conditions are shifting.

Homeowners are more informed than ever, and many are looking for products that not only look good but also deliver long-term performance and energy savings. Installers

want suppliers who can guarantee consistency and support them from order to delivery. In response, we’re planning several new product additions aimed at enhancing thermal efficiency, improving aesthetics, and offering customers more choice. Innovation is going to be key to staying competitive.

Customer feedback consistently highlights our dependable lead times, product quality and approachable support team as key strengths, reinforcing the importance of strong aftersales service in a competitive market. This feedback continues to be a major driver of our development. Customers regularly tell us they value our communication, the reliability of our lead times, and the quality of our products. They also appreciate that we listen, many of our refinements come directly from customer suggestions. This

FACTS & FIGURES

First job: B&Q Sales Advisor When did you join or set up current company: - 2022 Most useful/favourite gadget: - Portable second screen for my laptop!

Favourite/most useful website: - Zoho CRM Favourite restaurant for business: - Costa Coffee Shops!

Businessperson you admire: - Mark Cuban What lesson have you learnt about business over the last 12 months: - I have always understood the value of having a great team around you but even more so over this past 12 months, no business or business leader is anything without a good strong team around them.

Best business decision: - Staying in touch with but not being directly responsible for the day to day operations within various departments, which is very difficult once you become accustomed to it but recognising that I had become a bottle neck within my own business was one of the best things I have done.

february 2026 | director of the month | 33 dialogue helps us ensure we’re not only meeting expectations but staying ahead of them.

Our most successful campaign to date has been the launch of our new uPVC range, Ultima. Many customers have commented on the marketing collateral around it, saying its appealing, easy to understand and some of the best uPVC collateral they have seen.

This positivity has followed into customers receiving the product, with many commenting on how it exceeds expectations in both build quality and visual finish, offering a premium feel that stands out from other systems on the market.

To fabricators and installers, my advice is simple: focus on service and communication and invest in product knowledge and supplier relationships. In my experience as a business owner and as an ex-fitter, the market is competitive, and customers remember the companies that keep their promises. Investing in digital tools, streamlining operations, and building strong supplier relationships will help businesses stay resilient.

There are several lessons the market has taught us recently. The biggest is the importance of adaptability and how resilience comes from adaptability. Conditions can change quickly, materials, labour, demand, so businesses need systems that allow them to react without compromising quality. Another lesson is that transparency builds loyalty. Being open about challenges and solutions earns long-term trust. The final major lesson is about operational efficiency. Over the past year, we’ve learned that streamlining processes, reducing waste, and optimising resource allocation are not just cost-saving measures but essential for maintaining competitiveness. From improving supply chain coordination to adopting digital tools for faster quoting and order management, operational efficiency has become a cornerstone of how we deliver value to customers while safeguarding margins.

This focus has allowed us to respond more quickly to market demands and position ourselves for sustainable growth.

With these challenges come opportunities. Looking ahead, opportunities exist in premium, energy-efficient solutions, smarter product differentiation and closer collaboration across the supply chain to deliver better outcomes for both trade customers and homeowners.

As for my own goals and aims, I’m focused on continuing to scale the business sustainably. I want Trade Window Centre to be known not just for excellent products, but for exceptional service and a culture that values people. I want to invest further in our team, our facility, and our technology so we can remain ahead of the curve. Personally, I aim to be out meeting customers regularly, understanding their challenges, and making sure we evolve in the right direction.

The biggest business decisions and challenges over the past year have revolved around growth, when to expand, how much to invest, and how to ensure we scale without losing the standards we’re known for. Moving into a much larger facility was a significant decision, but one that has already proved its worth.

The ongoing challenge is balancing rapid growth with operational control, and that’s something I stay very close to day-to-day.

Overall, the last 12 months have strengthened us, and the next 12 offer even greater potential. With the right focus, innovation, and commitment to service, I’m confident we can continue moving the business forward. www.tradewindowcentre.co.uk

WORKING DAY A typical day for me begins with a walkthrough of the production floor, checking on manufacturing schedules and ensuring quality standards are met. I sit in the office with all my team members, so I normally check in with them, review workflows and workloads, troubleshoot any operational issues, and plan accordingly.

Throughout the day, I oversee logistics, coordinating delivery timelines and ensuring installations are on track. I regularly connect with key clients, providing updates, discussing requirements, and maintaining strong relationships. Much of my time is spent monitoring overall performance and identifying improvements across the business. My afternoons are normally spent strategic planning, from resource allocation to new product development. This then leads into reviewing KPIs, forecasting demand, and ensuring the entire operation, from production to delivery, runs smoothly and efficiently.

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34 | news dashboard | february 2026

Start of 2026 presents a solid but cautious picture

Dean Hodges explains the workings of the rebrand from BM Group to Forterro

B A

January rebound in enquiries has offered cautious encouragement to the UK’s fenestration market, according to the latest Business Pilot Barometer, even as economic uncertainty continues to temper consumer decision-making. Neil Cooper-Smith, senior analyst at Business Pilot, describes the opening month of 2026 as a “month of reset”, with installers returning from the festive break and households re-engaging with home improvement plans. The data suggest a market that is steady rather than buoyant, characterised by resilient underlying demand but a slower, more deliberate buying journey.

Lead volumes almost doubled compared with December, rising by 98.3 per cent, a rebound that Cooper-Smith says is consistent with long-established seasonal patterns.

January has historically marked a sharp recovery in enquiries after the year-end lull, and this year was no exception. However, a comparison with January 2025 shows a modest year-on-year softening of around 4 per cent, pointing to a more cautious consumer mood than at the same point last year, despite enquiry levels remaining relatively high.Sales volumes tell a similar story of recovery without exuberance.

Orders climbed 41 per cent from December and were broadly in line with January 2025 levels, an outcome Cooper-Smith characterises as notable for a month that is often disrupted by delayed decisions and elongated sales cycles.

One area that may initially concern installers is conversion. The rate slipped from 42.8 per cent in December to 38.4 per cent in January, a decline of around 10 per cent.

In isolation, this might suggest weakening buyer intent, but the Barometer places it firmly within a familiar seasonal context.

January 2025 recorded a comparable fall, reinforcing the view that early-year softness reflects sales pipelines resetting rather than any structural deterioration in demand.

More encouraging for margins is the behaviour of those customers who do proceed.

Average order values rose by 6.8 per cent month on month, from £3,710 in December to £3,962 in January, and were marginally stronger than the same period last year. This points to a selective consumer mindset: while many households remain hesitant, those committing to projects are opting for larger, more considered installations.

The broader economic backdrop remains uncertain. The GfK Consumer Confidence Index rose by just one point to minus 16 in January, marking a decade in negative territory. Households feel marginally more optimistic about their own finances, but views on the wider economy remain pessimistic.

This tension between caution and selective spending is mirrored in demographic trends. Analysis by the BBC suggests younger consumers are benefiting from falling interest rates, improving their ability to plan major purchases such as home improvements. Older consumers, by contrast, are reportedly holding high levels of savings and spending conservatively, weighing on overall growth. For installers, the message is clear. In a market defined by polarised behaviour and elongated decision-making, understanding buyer intent is critical.

Cooper-Smith argues that data-driven tools can help businesses distinguish high-value opportunities from tentative enquiries, allowing them to prioritise follow-up, sharpen quoting and improve conversion efficiency.

Those that do so, he says, will be best placed to capture value from a quarter that offers opportunity, albeit without the certainty of a full-throated recovery.

usiness Micros, a stalwart of the UK fenestration software sector for over four decades, has completed its transition to the Forterro brand, marking the end of an era for the domestic windows and doors industry.

The rebrand follows Forterro’s acquisition of both BM Group and Germany-based Logikal developer Orgadata last year, consolidating operations under a single identity across the UK, Europe and the US. Dean Hodges, sales director at Forterro, said the move represents “the start of an exciting new chapter” for the business. “Together, we form the Forterro windows and doors business with shared resources and a clear combined vision,” he explained.

Despite the name change, Hodges emphasised continuity for UK customers.

“Day to day, customers won’t notice any immediate changes. All their existing relationships and support structures remain in place,” he said. Products including Logikal, MES, Evolution and EvoNet will continue under the Forterro prefix.

The consolidation aims to deliver operational efficiencies through backend service integration whilst leveraging synergies within the wider Forterro group. UK customers stand to benefit from closer collaboration with Orgadata’s German programming team and access to Forterro’s broader suite of applications spanning planning, costing, analytics and enterprise resource planning.

Hodges highlighted Forterro’s investments in cloud technologies and artificial intelligence as key advantages of the new structure. “Being part of Forterro means we can offer customers best-inclass add-on applications,” he noted.

The company’s flagship TOUCH platform remains central to its strategy, with continued product development and a major update planned for 2026 featuring a new name and enhanced functionality.

The rebrand represents a significant consolidation in the UK fenestration software market, bringing together decades of domestic expertise with international technological capabilities.

february 2026 | news dashboard | 35

20 years of certification leadership from Certass

Experience and knowledge underpin new building market intelligence agency

C

ertass is marking 20 years as a government licensed Competent Person Scheme, celebrating two decades of supporting installers to self certify Building Regulations compliance and deliver high standards in domestic window and door replacement work.

Licensed in 2006, Certass has grown into one of the most recognised and influential certification bodies in the sector, standing for technical credibility, installer competence and public trust.

Over the past twenty years, Certass has not only provided a compliance framework for installers, but has also helped build what is now glazing’s largest installer community and the most relevant glazing trade association in government discussions on standards and competence.

Jon Vanstone, Chair of Certass, said: “Certass has always been about helping good installers demonstrate that they do things properly. As expectations around competence, evidence and accountability continue to rise, the role of trusted schemes has never been more important.

Our focus is on keeping compliance practical, defensible, and genuinely supportive of the SME installer community.”

The anniversary comes at a pivotal moment for the home improvement sector, where consumer confidence and regulatory scrutiny are higher than ever.

Through its consumer facing platform, Certified Competent, Certass has built the glazing industry’s largest verified homeowner feedback system. To date, more than 127,000 homeowners have submitted reviews following certificate download, with 97% saying they would recommend their

M Certass installer. High nine scores across workmanship, reliability and customer service reflect the quality of work being delivered daily by Certass members.

Certass has also played a leading role in shaping the future of competence regulation in glazing. As government and regulators move toward stronger frameworks for assurance and accountability, Certass has been at the forefront of ensuring new expectations remain practical, proportionate and grounded in real installer practice.

As the scheme enters its third decade, Certass will continue investing in clearer technical resources, enhanced member support through its Members Area, and further initiatives designed to strengthen installer reputation and consumer trust.

Certass will be marking the anniversary throughout 2026 with member recognition programmes and a renewed focus on championing installers as the driving force behind higher standards in UK home improvement.

New corporate structure

for TAKA-WPR Group

The TAKA-WPR Group, an Italian company with over 60 years of experience in the production of industrial adhesives and machines for wrapping profiles and panels, announces an important step in its corporate evolution. Following the sale of shares held by long-standing partner Mr. Remo Baldassin, TAKA S.r.l. and WPR S.r.l. are now entirely controlled by Mr. Giorgio Costenaro, marking a strategic transition perfectly aligned with the Group’s long-term development plan. This transaction represents a natural and planned step in the growth path undertaken in recent years, with the goal of further increasing the international presence and innovative capacity of both companies.

“This change confirms our vision of a unified group that is solid, dynamic, and strongly future-oriented,” declares Giorgio Costenaro, President of the Group. “I would like to thank Mr. Remo Baldassin for the valuable contribution he has made throughout his long collaboration: his commitment has been instrumental in building the foundations upon which our growth path continues today.”

Consequently, the visual identity of the TAKA-WPR Group has also been updated: the new logo emphasizes how TAKA integrates and enhances WPR within a unified and shared vision. The new structure guarantees complete continuity in commercial and operational relationships, confirming the Group’s commitment to remaining a reliable partner for customers and suppliers.

RA Building Market Reports (MRA Reports) was set up last year by two leading researchers in building markets intelligence, Anna Eriksson and Mike Rigby. The new agency aims to provide companies in the building materials supply chain, advisors and investors with a better understanding of the rapidly changing structure and dynamics of building product markets.

Anna Eriksson gained an extensive knowledge and understanding of building product markets during ten years at a well-known building market reports agency. She also spent three years with MRA in research before working independently. Mike Rigby, MD of MRA Research, her partner in MRA Reports, set up and runs the BMBI (Builders Merchant Building Index) which is used widely in and outside the industry as a reliable measure of activity. Insightful explanations of trends and issues are delivered by leading building product brands, the BMBI Experts. It also features in the Government’s Monthly Construction Update.

Mike Rigby of MRA Reports explains: “Before we researched the builders’ merchants’ market we were struck, as others are, by the very big differences in market sizes quoted by different companies and organisations. That directly affects the value you attribute to an investment, acquisition or market share. The building materials supply chain is extremely complicated, and we think that’s part of the reason for the differences in market sizes being quoted. It’s fragmented, and the supply chain varies from product to product.

“In addition, the size and value of the market depend on how you define it and at what level you measure. There are big and obvious differences between manufacturers’ selling prices, merchants’ sales to builders, and builders’ sales to their customers. It’s further complicated by buying groups, and by how much passes through builders’ merchants in the overall supply chain. That varies by market, and the assumptions you make and how you define and calculate the market are all important. If you are planning to invest millions in additional capacity, in entering a market, or acquiring or merging businesses you want to be sure of the factual foundations, and what is coming down the track and likely to change.”

E: anna@mra-reports.co.uk.

36 | active voices | february 2026

ACTIVE VOICES Kamila Kasperowicz, Marketing Director at UAP : Kamila explores why door hardware deserves more recognition in building design, and how smarter marketing can help reposition it from a commodity to a key contributor to building success

D

oor hardware is often one of the most overlooked aspects of building design, yet its role in safety, compliance, and performance is critical.

As the construction and design sector evolves, there is a growing need to rethink how these products are perceived, specified, and communicated. As we move into 2026, now is the time to recognise door hardware as a strategic contributor to building success rather than a functional afterthought.

Why door hardware matters Door hardware has traditionally been treated as a background detail, chosen late in the building design and construction process and valued mainly for basic function.

Yet the category has moved on and ongoing innovation in materials, testing and design means hardware now carries far greater influence over how a building performs day-to-day. Recognising that shift is key to understanding why door hardware matters.

Modern hardware does more than simply secure a building. Cylinders, locks and associated components now play a critical role in security, durability and day-to-day performance. High-security products such as Kinetica Freezeguard, certified to PAS24:2022+A1:2024, provide protection against increasingly sophisticated forced-entry methods, including snapping, drilling, bumping, gluing and freezing. Products that anticipate these threats demonstrate that compliance alone is no longer enough; performance, reliability and resilience must also be clearly evidenced and communicated.

Even seemingly simple components illustrate how thoughtful design can enhance security and usability. The bullet door chain, for example, combines safety, aesthetics and durability through fewer, stronger links, a compact footprint and a magnetic park system that suits modern door frames.

Designed to withstand both everyday wear and extreme forces, it meets TS003 testing for abuse and attack modes, proving that small hardware elements can still have a significant impact on security and user experience.

Innovative applications are also extending the role of door hardware beyond traditional notions of function and security.

Anti-microbial and anti-viral coatings are a

clear example of how hardware can directly influence occupant safety. Armasmart, launched in 2024, has been independently tested to eliminate over 99% of viruses, including COVID-19, on high-touch surfaces. Initially developed for door hardware, the technology has since expanded into ventilation grilles and ceramics, delivering enhanced hygiene and durability across high-traffic environments. In healthcare, education and social housing, coatings like this are increasingly expected, supporting safer, more resilient spaces.

The case for strategic marketing Despite these advances, door hardware is often marketed in technical terms that fail to connect with decision-makers or end users. Highlighting measurable benefits such as resilience, compliance, hygiene, and design flexibility can make it easier for specifiers to recognise the value of high-quality hardware. Tangible examples like Kinetica Freezeguard and Armasmart serve as proof points of how innovation can create both functional and perceptible value in buildings.

Marketing should focus on education and context. By explaining how hardware solves real-world problems, enhancing security, hygiene, and occupant confidence, these products are repositioned from a traditional, functional commodity to carrying strate-

gic significance. The conversation shifts from price and appearance to impact and functionality, providing clarity for everyone involved in the specification and construction process.

Looking ahead The future of door hardware lies in visibility, integration and intelligent design.

Products must combine mechanical reliability with durability, adaptability to evolving standards and, where required, enhanced hygiene. Increasingly, decision-makers expect more than compliance; they want clear, evidence-based assurance that hardware will perform reliably throughout its lifecycle.

At the same time, marketing and communication must evolve. Clear, relatable narratives around performance, design quality and safety outcomes help decision-makers understand why door hardware is essential rather than optional. When communicated effectively, its contribution to building quality, safety and occupant confidence becomes far more visible.

Door hardware is more than a commodity; it is a vital contributor to building safety, resilience and user experience. To be recognised as such, it must be positioned strategically, pairing ongoing innovation with benefits-led communication that clearly demonstrates real-world value. Done well, this shift can elevate door hardware from afterthought to strategic asset, helping deliver buildings that are safer, smarter and better suited to the demands of 2026.

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38 | exhibition news | february 2026

Framing what’s next for fenestration

F

Framing innovation with confidence, Fensterbau Frontale 2026 signals bold thinking for windows, doors and façades worldwide

ensterbau Frontale will return to Nuremberg from 24 to 27 March 2026, positioning itself as a focal point for an industry facing mounting pressure to deliver more efficient, resilient and sustainable buildings. The organisers say the world’s leading trade fair for windows, doors and façades is already seeing a “positive response”, with exhibition space planned on a similar scale to the 2024 edition, reinforcing expectations of a strong turnout and a busy marketplace for products, ideas and contacts.

Opening daily at 10am, the event will once again run alongside Holz-Handwerk, with both trade fairs accessible via a single ticket.

The format reflects a broader push towards joined-up thinking in construction, where envelope, materials and building systems increasingly need to be considered together.

An online exhibitor and product overview will be updated continuously in the run-up to the show.

Sustainability in action Organisers are framing this year’s agenda around some of the most pressing issues in construction and architecture: energy-efficient renovation, serial and modular construction, recycling and the circular economy, safety, and climate-proof construction methods. The stated aim is to move beyond broad ambition and towards practical solutions that can be applied in day-to-day project delivery.

Elke Harreiß, Executive Director at Fensterbau Frontale, said the early market response underlines the event’s continued relevance.

“It is not only a platform for products and innovations, but also for personal dialogue and networking,” she said, emphasising the fair’s role as a convening space at a time when decision-makers across the sector are being asked to rethink established approaches.

Innovation, insight, and networking A key feature of 2026 is an expanded supporting programme designed to complement the exhibition halls with more structured knowledge-sharing. At the centre of this is the new Fensterbau Frontale Stage, presented as an international platform for innovation and exchange. It will highlight current market trends, provide a launch point for guided tours, and host the Innovation Award for the first time.

Alongside the stage programme, the Fensterbau Frontale Forum will focus on practical industry content and will also host award presentations, including ‘Window Manufacturer of the Year 2026’ and the ‘MeisterAward’. Another programme strand, Focus Interior Doors, will be organised jointly with Holz-Handwerk, in cooperation with trade magazine BM, placing modern interior door solutions firmly on the agenda.

One of the week’s set-piece events is the Architecture– Windows–Facades forum, scheduled for 26 March 2026 in NCC East. The free forum requires registration and will be delivered in collaboration with AIT-Dialog. Under the guiding principle ‘Balance – Building in Equilibrium’, speakers will address future-facing themes including modular construction and efficiency, circular construction, and climate resilience.

Special exhibitions will add further depth, with ‘klima.sicher. bauen’ (climate.safe.building) presented in cooperation with ift Rosenheim, and ‘Metallbautreff ’ (metal construction meeting) powered by metall-markt.net, offering dedicated spaces for targeted exchange.

Chiara Sträßner, Director Exhibition at Fensterbau Frontale, described the supporting programme as central to the show’s value proposition. “It offers trade visitors the opportunity to obtain comprehensive information, gain new perspectives and exchange ideas with experts,” she said, adding that the objective is to create “a place where knowledge and practice come together”.

The fair will also arrive with a refreshed brand identity and a new slogan: “Framing what’s next”—a signal, organisers argue, of intent around progress and sustainability. Conceptual sponsors include the trade association Glass, Window, Facade Baden-Württemberg and the state guild association of the Bavarian glazier trade, with ift Rosenheim named as cooperation partner.

In 2024, the combined Fensterbau Frontale and Holz-Handwerk, events attracted around 75,000 visitorsand 973 exhibitors from window, door and façade construction and woodworking.

With 2026 shaping up on a similar footprint, the organisers’ message is clear: Nuremberg is once again being positioned as the industry’s key gathering point—focused not just on showcasing innovation, but on translating it into practical, scalable solutions for a rapidly changing built environment.

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40 | the big interview | february 2026

THE BIG INTERVIEW

T

John Cowie sits down with the Glass and Glazing Federation’s new CEO Tim Simmons to discuss his planned transformation programme for the Federation

he Glass and Glazing Federation’s new chief executive has launched a sweeping transformation programme aimed at modernising the organisation, warning that years of chronic underinvestment have left it ill-equipped to meet the changing demands of its members.

Tim Simmons, who joined the federation in November, says the board has approved a two-to-three-year reform plan designed to tackle fragmented IT systems, duplicated costs and the underuse of data across the organisation. The strategy includes a structural reevaluation intended to make the GGF more agile, more cost-focused and better able to deliver tangible value as it approaches its 50th anniversary next year.

Simmons arrives from outside the trade association world, following more than three decades in senior leadership roles across manufacturing, utilities and construction, as well as a period advising private equity firms on acquisitions in the builtenvironment sector. He accepts the move was unconventional.

“A membership organisation wasn’t really my background at all,” he says. “But when I looked more closely, it was clear that the GGF needed to modernise. It has important heritage, which we must protect, but it also has to be ready for the challenges the industry is facing now.”

Those challenges, he argues, are materially different from those of a decade ago. While previous leadership teams had spoken about reform, Simmons says the economic climate, regulatory pressures and expectations of members have shifted significantly. “Change is a good thing,” he says, “but only if you have an organisation that is agile enough to respond. At the moment, we don’t.”

Duplication of cost and missed opportunities At the centre of his critique is what he describes as historic underinvestment in IT systems, processes and people development.

The federation operates through five subsidiary businesses which, Simmons says, have become increasingly siloed, leading to duplication of cost and missed opportunities to operate as a joinedup group. “There’s a lot of compartmentalised thinking,” he says.

“That makes it harder to harness the benefits across the organisation and means we’re not getting the return we should from our scale.”

Management structure is another sensitive area. Simmons believes the GGF has accumulated too many layers of management for a membership organisation — a view that has raised eyebrows among long-standing members who recall previous restructures that reached similar conclusions. Simmons acknowledges the scepticism but insists the difference now must be execution rather than diagnosis. “We have to provide real value to members,” he says.

“If we don’t do that, we become less relevant.”

That question of value sits at the heart of his reform agenda. The federation represents a diverse membership, from small installers seeking technical advice on site to large manufacturers looking for market intelligence, training and regulatory guidance. Some members, Simmons says, “fully utilise their membership fees and derive real benefit”. Others “pay and we never hear from them again”.

His response is to revisit how membership itself is structured.

Simmons wants to explore lower-cost entry membership, supported by more clearly defined paid-for services, arguing that the current model lacks transparency and fails to reflect how members actually use the organisation. Early internal data appears to support the case for change. “For every £1 of membership,” he says, “our members are taking around £9 of additional services from us.” These range from

insurance products to installation cover, fencing and resale support. Yet, he argues, the commercial logic behind those offerings has never been fully articulated.

Procurement is another area he believes has been overlooked. Despite representing what he estimates to be around 60% of the glass industry collectively, the GGF currently offers no procurement support. “That’s a missed opportunity,” he says. “I’m sure we can do procurement in a way that delivers real value.”

Data, however, may prove the most significant battleground.

Participants in recent discussions have criticised the quality, accessibility and timeliness of industry data, describing it as fragmented and overly reliant on retrospective reporting. Simmons agrees. The federation, he says, holds extensive technical data that is poorly organised and difficult for members to access.

Technical and market data accessible “The information is there,” he says, “but trying to find it is very, very difficult.” His ambition is to make technical and market data accessible through member log-ins and, over time, to build more sophisticated services around it. Ideas raised include automating routine technical queries to free specialists to focus on more complex cases — an approach Simmons describes as practical rather than radical.

To support the programme, the board has approved a formal transformation covering IT systems, processes, procedures and staff capability. The federation has strengthened its IT function and appointed a head of business transformation. The work will be phased. “We have to prioritise,” Simmons says. “It’s a big job.”

Financially, the federation is stable, giving it room to invest.

Simmons argues that reserves should be deployed more deliberately in support of member services rather than allowed to sit idle.

“If you’ve got money in the bank, it’s not doing much,” he says.

“Reinvesting it back into the organisation ultimately strengthens the value we can offer.”

Asked why members should believe this round of reform will succeed where others have faltered, Simmons points to accountability. “What hasn’t happened before is accountability,” he says. “That’s what will be different this time.”

As the GGF approaches its 50th year, the test will be whether a programme long discussed across the sector can finally be delivered in a way that members — whether they want technical support, data, representation or all three — can clearly see and measure.

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42 | general feature | february 2026

Inspecting cold weather challenges

Moisture often appears on cold windows first, experts stress, signalling humidity issues rather than window failure during winter conditions

E

very winter, installers experiences a familiar spike in complaints. As temperatures drop, phones start ringing with reports of draughts, condensation, water ingress and “faulty” windows. But what may appear to be product failure can be something far more complex – and far more likely to escalate into a payment dispute if handled poorly.

Cold weather does not create problems in windows and doors – it reveals them. Greater thermal contrast, driving rain and increased indoor humidity place installations under stresses that simply don’t exist in summer. Small gaps that were previously undetectable can produce draughts, condensation can appear alarming, and tolerances that were acceptable months earlier may now be questioned.

For installers, this seasonal shift often means that technical performance comes under closer scrutiny, even where the installation itself has not changed.

Condensation is a good example. As RISA frequently highlights, condensation is rarely caused by the window alone. Changes in occupancy, reduced ventilation, drying clothes indoors and increased heating all play a significant role.

“Very often, the window is simply the coldest surface in the room, so that’s where moisture shows itself first,” explains Lee Galley, Inspection Manager at RISA. “That doesn’t mean the window has failed.”

The same applies to draughts and water ingress.

These can originate from surrounding structure, installation interfaces or detailing, rather than from the frame or glazing unit itself. Without clear explanation, however, homeowners often assume the window is at fault – and that assumption can quickly shape the conversation.

This is where winter complaints can start to drift into disputes. Once uncertainty creeps in, trust can erode, payments may be delayed, and what began as a technical query risks becoming contractual.

“A lot of the disputes we see aren’t about poor workmanship,” Lee says. “They’re about expectation, misunderstanding, or a lack of independent evidence to explain what’s actually going on.”

Independent inspection plays a vital role in restoring balance at this stage. By assessing installations against relevant standards, specifications and environmental factors, an independent expert can establish what is – and just as importantly, what is not – wrong. That clarity often prevents issues from escalating unnecessarily.

RISA’s inspection services are designed to do exactly that. Its inspectors come from operational backgrounds as fitters, surveyors and technical managers, so reports are rooted in real-world understanding rather than theory.

“Our job isn’t to take sides,” Lee explains. “It’s to remove emotion from the process and focus purely on the facts.”

In many cases, a RISA Condition Report confirms that an installation is acceptable and compliant, providing installers with the independent reassurance needed to move discussions forward and unlock payment.

Where issues are identified, reports set out proportionate, practical remedial actions – avoiding the tendency for problems to be overstated or written off entirely.

Winter is also the point at which acting early makes the biggest difference.

“Once positions harden, everything becomes more difficult and more expensive,” Lee notes. “Bringing in independent inspection at the right time can save months of back-and-forth and significant legal costs.”

For more entrenched disputes, Expert Determination offers installers a structured alternative to litigation. The process delivers a binding, technically-led decision based on evidence rather than legal argument, typically resolving disputes in weeks rather than years.

“It’s faster, more focused and far more cost-effective than court,” Lee says. “And it protects everyone’s time, money and reputation.”

Ultimately, RISA’s role is to provide clarity at moments when uncertainty is highest. As winter exposes issues that might otherwise remain hidden, the value of independent assessment becomes more pronounced.

Installers who take a proactive approach – addressing concerns with evidence rather than assumption – are far better placed to maintain trust, protect margins and keep projects moving.

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44 | general feature | february 2026

Secure access without compromise

High-security commercial projects demand door hardware that balances access control, life safety compliance and certified security performance

H

igh-profile commercial projects place unique demands on door hardware. Security expectations are elevated, operational requirements are complex, and compliance with life-safety standards is non-negotiable. For fabricators, installers and specifiers, delivering a solution that balances all three can be challenging - particularly where access control and emergency escape must coexist.

This was precisely the brief for a VIP area within a high-security zone of a high-profile project. The doors installed in this area required controlled access from the outside, while also functioning as emergency escape routes between internal areas of the venue. In addition, the doors were tested to RC4 in accordance with EN 1627 prior to installation, reflecting the elevated security requirements associated with a prestigious public venue.

To meet these demands, FUHR’s autosafe 837P automatic multipoint locking system was specified and installed, a product launched in 2025 and designed specifically for applications where security, access control, fire safety and emergency escape need to be delivered within a single, integrated solution.

A modern locking platform for complex environments The autosafe 837P is part of FUHR’s electromechanical locking range, combining automatic multipoint locking with access control integration and panic/emergency escape functionality.

For this project, four autosafe 837P locks were fitted to doors serving executive suites within a high-security VIP lounge area at a prestigious venue.

The locks were integrated with the building’s access control system and monitored via the Building Management System (BMS).

This enabled both short-time open and permanent release modes to be used, depending on how the space was being operated at any given time.

Crucially, the system also delivers EN 179 compliance, with internal handle operation ensuring safe and intuitive escape in an emergency. This allowed the doors to meet life-safety requirements without compromising on external security or access control.

Paul Balfe, Business Development Manager at FUHR UK, explains: “The autosafe 837P was developed to address exactly these kinds of challenges. With fail-safe operation as standard, it allows access control, automatic locking and compliant emergency escape to be delivered through one modular system, rather than relying on multiple products or workarounds.”

Security without compromise Given the security profile of the project, careful consideration was given to how the doors should perform in all scenarios. Testing to RC4 EN 1627 provided reassurance that the door and hardware combination could withstand significant attack resistance, while the autosafe 837P’s automatic locking ensured the door was always secured once closed.

As with many secure environments, the balance between fail-secure operation and life safety was also key. FUHR’s electromechanical locking systems can be configured to suit both requirements, allowing specifiers to protect high-value areas while maintaining safe escape routes, a critical factor in achieving approval on complex commercial projects.

Collaboration on site The installation was carried out by Bennett Architectural

Aluminium Solutions Ltd, who worked closely with FUHR, the main contractor and the access control provider to ensure correct configuration and smooth sign-off.

Dave Wilshaw, Contracts Manager at Bennett Architectural Aluminium Solutions Ltd, commented: “We received excellent technical support from FUHR throughout the project. Paul worked closely with us to ensure the locks were correctly configured to interface with the access control system, which was essential to getting the installation signed off.”

What this means for the wider market High-profile projects like this highlight a wider shift in the market. Doors are no longer simply about locking and unlocking; they are now a critical part of a building’s overall security, safety and operational strategy.

For fabricators and installers, FUHR’s modular approach means the same core locking platform can be adapted for access control, panic and emergency escape, fail-safe or fail-secure operation, depending on the application. For specifiers, it demonstrates the value of early engagement with door hardware manufacturers to reduce risk and avoid late-stage changes.

With over 165 years of experience designing and manufacturing door locking solutions, FUHR offers more than hardware alone. The company provides technical consultation at the specification stage, support with compliance and certification, guidance on access control integration, and on-site assistance where required.

As smart locking and access control continue to shape commercial and public buildings, FUHR’s autosafe 837P and wider electromechanical range demonstrate how flexibility, performance and practical support can come together, delivering confidence for everyone involved, from design through to installation.

For further information please contact Paul Balfe, pbalfe@fuhr. co.uk Product information: https://www.fuhr.de/en/products/ multipoint-locking-systems/panic/autosafe-837p/

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46 | general feature | february 2026

Proven performance for residential doors

In a tighter, more accountable market, on-site performance is under scrutiny, and dependable specification is now a commercial priority

C

hris Burrows, Managing Director at Vista Panels, reflects on the UK Residential Doors Market insight, highlighting how accountability and consistency are reshaping installer expectations and driving higher performance standards.

Reading Barbour ABI’s UK Residential Doors Market 2025–2029 report in the 2025 November/December issue of Windows Active, one observation stood out more clearly than any chart or statistic. The view that the market is being reshaped by economic pressure and tighter regulation reflects exactly what we’re seeing on the ground.

Working closely with installers and specifiers every day, that shift is already well underway. What’s changing is not design preference or product category, but tolerance for uncertainty. Performance claims are being questioned more closely, compliance is being examined in greater detail, and the gap between what products promise and what they deliver on site is becoming harder to ignore.

The residential doors market is no longer rewarding promised performance. It is rewarding proven performance.

Where theory meets site reality The Barbour ABI report highlights that composite doors continue

to lead value growth in the residential sector, even as overall housing activity remains subdued. That is not accidental. Composite doors have earned their position by delivering consistency across insulation, durability and security. But not all composite doors are created equal, and this is where the conversation often needs to go deeper.

Performance figures alone are no longer enough – how those figures are achieved matters just as much. Independent testing, realistic tolerances and weather protection designed for genuine UK conditions all play a role in determining whether a product performs reliably over time.

Compliance is also evolving from a box-ticking exercise into a broader measure of credibility. PAS 24, Secured by Design and thermal efficiency standards are no longer differentiators in isolation. What installers increasingly value is evidence that these standards have been considered as part of a wider system, from materials and construction through to hardware, sealing and after-sales support.

Installation experience is critical here. Many issues that lead to dissatisfaction do not stem from major product failures, but from small inconsistencies, unclear fitting guidance or a lack of technical support when it matters.

Where proven performance changes the conversation At Vista Panels, we see this shift clearly through our XtremeDoor customers. Installers are not asking for more complexity. They want fewer variables, predictable lead times, clear, proven specifications and products that arrive ready to fit and perform first time. Just as importantly, they want support that is practical and focused on preventing issues rather than reacting to them.

That’s why manufacturing consistency, independent testing and installer-first thinking sit at the centre of how we operate at Vista Panels. In practical terms, that means robust construction, repeatable performance and dependable delivery, including lead times of five days for our standard doors, and seven days in any RAL colour, which allows installers to plan work with confidence.

What’s also becoming clearer is that product performance does not exist in isolation. It’s shaped by how well installers are supported once a door reaches the site. Clear fitting guidance, accessible technical advice, such as our “toolbox talks” and practical on-site resources, reduces guesswork and prevents small issues from becoming costly callbacks. Increasingly, installers value suppliers who back their products with meaningful, real-world support.

That thinking has influenced how our XtremeDoor composite doors are supported as much as how they are manufactured. QRlinked fitting videos, toolbox talks and direct access to technical expertise help installers work efficiently, reduce return visits and protect their reputation for quality. It’s not about adding layers of process but about giving installers the confidence to get it right first time.

The suppliers that will continue to gain ground are those who understand this shift. Performance needs to be proven, not promised. Compliance needs to be clear, not assumed. And specification confidence needs to extend beyond the factory floor and into the reality of installation, use and long-term ownership.

For more information on XtremeDoor composite doors, please visit: www.vistapanels.co.uk

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48 | fabricator focus | february 2026

The value of human customer service

As AI chatbots and self-service portals proliferate, Glazerite prioritises human connection, strengthening partnerships across UK sector

I

n an era where more and more businesses are relying on AI chatbots and self-service portals, customer service can feel increasingly impersonal. At Glazerite, human connection remains at the core of its customer care, helping the fabricator build stronger, more successful partnerships across the UK window and door sector.

As one of the UK’s leading fabricators, Glazerite supplies PVC-U and aluminium products from its network of manufacturing facilities to customers across the UK. Alongside its scale and product capability, the fabricator has continued to operate a customer service model centred on direct human contact; an approach that contrasts with the increasingly automated service structures that many businesses are turning to.

Its philosophy is motivated by a simple principle: that technology should support, rather than replace, relationships.

Digital systems are used to streamline ordering and administration, but customers are still able to speak directly with a dedicated contact within the customer service team if, and when, they require any additional support.

“If our customers have an urgent enquiry or need specification help, they don’t want to talk to a screen,” says Rob Brearley, Group Managing Director of Glazerite. “They want to speak to someone who already understands their operation, their deadlines and the pressures they’re working under.

“That’s why every customer has a dedicated point of contact. It saves our customers time, and means conversations can focus on solving the issue, not re-explaining the background.”

This emphasis on accessibility is reflected in the internal structure of the business. Account management, technical support and operations are closely aligned, allowing issues to be identified and addressed earlier in the process.

This approach is supported by a broader operational culture that links production standards directly to customer outcomes.

“Internally, we use the phrase ‘there’s a customer attached to every frame’ a lot,” says Rob. “It’s a reminder that every product we manufacture ultimately affects installers and homeowners further down the chain.

“That’s why, while there is certainly a place for AI and automation, complex jobs and unexpected challenges still need human judgement and flexibility. Experience matters when you’re dealing with real people and real projects.”

That emphasis on experience extends beyond day-to-day customer service. In addition to support from the customer care team, Glazerite customers also have access to expert technical guidance, documentation and wider business resources, including marketing support, website creation and training.

As digital transformation continues across the window and door industry, the role of customer service is evolving. Automation is expected to play an increasing role in routine processes, but many fabricators and installers are still seeking reassurance that knowledgeable support will be available when projects fall outside of standard parameters.

“In our world, people still value a conversation,” Rob concludes.

“They want to know that in those critical moments where they really need help, there’s someone ready to listen, understand and act: not a system telling them to submit a ticket.”

For fabricators navigating the balance between efficiency and service, Glazerite’s approach offers a reminder that while technology may change how businesses operate, strong partnerships are still built on human relationships.

Tel: 01933 443222 E: sales@glazerite.net

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february 2026 | blinds & shading | 49

Experienced industry figure Martin James launches simplified shading solution for installers seeking a competitive edge

Simplified shading solution for installers A simple and cost-effective blind system is positioning itself to address one of the sector’s persistent challenges: providing cost-effective shading solutions without compromising installer margins or customer satisfaction.

Bloom Blinds, is being promoted by Martin James, a respected figure in the window and door industry known for his experience in the fabrication, aluminium and hardware segments. The company offers a simplified blinds system designed specifically for modern domestic glazing applications, including the popular bi-fold door configurations that have become ubiquitous in UK home extensions. The blinds have a proven track record, with over 40,000 units being sold annually via e-commerce.

Addressing margin pressures The company’s core proposition centres on simplicity and cost-effectiveness, two attributes that resonate strongly with installers and fabricators facing compressed margins in an increasingly competitive market. The system allows fenestration professionals to offer integrated shading solutions without the premium price points traditionally associated with such products, potentially capturing revenue that might otherwise be lost to third-party blind specialists. Martin adds: “The blinds represent a simple and effect way for installers to offer shading solutions to customers. The beauty being the simplicity in fitting but also the potential extra revenue and profit. The

cost-effective nature of the pricing allows installers to make a good return on each fitted blind.”

Installation efficiency represents a key differentiator. The blinds utilise a clip-in mechanism that slots directly into window and door apertures, eliminating the need for complex fitting procedures or additional hardware. This approach reduces both installation time and the risk of damage to newly fitted glazing units—a particular concern when working with high-value bi-fold door installations that can represent significant customer investment.

Technical specifications The product range encompasses three functional categories: standard shading, solar shading, and blackout options, providing installers with flexibility to match customer requirements across different room applications. The system is compatible with contemporary fenestration products including bi-fold doors, where traditional blind solutions often create operational conflicts as door leaves fold and unfold. The maximum width for a single blind is 1,400m with a maximum height of 2,200mm.

Delivery lead times of 10 days for madeto-measure units manufactured in Manchester enable installers to coordinate blind supply with project timelines without extending overall completion schedules. This logistical efficiency addresses a common

pain point in the sector, where delayed accessory deliveries can compromise customer satisfaction and delay final payments.

Market positioning Martin brings considerable credibility to the venture, with 35 years of industry experience. Most recently, he spent 20 years owning and running an aluminium trade fabricator, having previously worked in aluminium extrusions and the supply of premium door and window hardware. His industry connections and deep understanding of installer requirements have directly informed Bloom Blinds’ trade-focused business model.

The company has begun building a partner network, recently completing showroom installations for Northwich Glass in Cheshire as part of its expansion strategy.

By positioning the product as a profit-protection tool—”Every window and door you install will need shading. Stop losing profits”—the company is framing blinds not as an optional accessory but as an essential revenue stream for installation businesses.

For fenestration professionals seeking to maintain competitive pricing while protecting margins, Bloom Blinds represents an attempt to recalibrate the economics of integrated shading solutions in an sector where every percentage point matters.

E: sales@bloomblinds.co.uk

50 | blinds & shading | february 2026

Specialist blinds manufacturer, Sona, is celebrating a successful start to the year following the expansion of its SonaApex range

Motorised blinds for bespoke shaped windows

F

eaturing a unique patented system and high-quality British-made components, the SonaApex range of motorised blinds has been specifically engineered for bespoke shaped windows such as gable end and apex windows.

Suitable for both residential and commercial properties, SonaApex provides the perfect solution for modern architectural glazing and significantly enhances any space – with the new larger ‘Pro’ system catering for windows with up to five-metre drops. Designed to sit flush with any ceiling and remain completely hidden when not in use, these blinds offer a seamless blend of style and functionality. An optional concealed pocket system creates a flawless appearance, whilst Sona’s exclusive patent offers a minimal joint gap where two blinds would usually sit apart.

In addition, Sona’s thermally efficient, performance engineered blackout and dimout fabrics are designed to provide both discretion and thermal control throughout the seasons. Whilst the dimout fabric offers privacy and helps diffuse the amount of light, the honeycomb design of the blackout fabric reflects the sun’s rays and keeps rooms cool throughout the warmer months,

with the cellular structure helping retain warmth by trapping air and creating an insulation blanket during the winter.

All SonaApex blinds can be operated via a handheld remote or mobile app with offline capabilities – enabling continuous use even without an internet or data connection – and can be integrated into home automation systems such as Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Control4 and Lutron, with the addition of a compatible hub.

Sona’s specially developed app also allows customers to check and verify measurements live on-site with its easy-to-use blind measuring tool, saving both time and money on revisits and ensuring a well-fitted product for every customer.

Henry Barker, Marketing Manager at Sona, commented: “We are proud to be the UK’s leading supplier of bespoke smart blinds, trusted by architects, designers and developers across the globe. Our growing SonaApex range has been created specifically for unique window shapes like gable ends

and apex designs and combines patented engineering with high-quality components.

As with the rest of the range, our newly launched Pro system can be tailored to integrate seamlessly into any residential or commercial project – enhancing aesthetics, functionality and user experience.

“Unlike the traditional gloss finishes commonly used by other brands, Sona offers a premium fine texture coating on all our hardware, available in white, grey, anthracite and black, with the added option for a bespoke powder coat to match any chosen RAL colour. In addition to SonaApex, our SonaSky and SonaCell ranges are made in Britain using premium-quality materials, combining exceptional craftsmanship with cutting-edge automation technology. We’re super excited about the growth and success of SonaApex and can’t wait to see what 2026 brings for the rest of the business.”

Since it was established in 2020, Sona has experienced impressive growth, with plans in place to continue expanding its team and product offering in 2026, including the launch of a cord-free blind system for skylight glazing this spring. https://sonashades.com/

DARKNESS ON DEMAND PLEATED BLACKOUT INTEGRAL BLINDS: The Uni-Blinds® pleated blackout system is the ideal solution for situations where complete darkness is necessary. Whether it’s for a restful night’s sleep, movie enjoyment, or any room where even the slightest light is a nuisance, the blackout system completely eliminates light transmission.

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52 | blinds & shading | february 2026

The new motorised version of the slimline ScreenLine® SL16 integral blind from Morley Glass is perfect for 24mm IGUs

Motorised integral blinds offer effortless control

T

he increasingly popular ScreenLine® SL16 slim integral blind system, which is perfect for 24mm IGUs and exclusively available in the UK from Morley Glass within its Uni-Blinds® range, is now available in a motorised version for effortless control and integration into smart home systems.

The SL16MB Venetian integral blind uses the same next-generation brushless motor technology incorporated into the standard MB System to offer a slimmer format integral blind with ultra-smooth functionality and long term reliability. The motor’s design ensures the blind moves almost silently and with precision, and when integrated into doors and windows featuring multiple IGUs, such as bi-fold doors, the blinds in each window can be programmed to move in sequence.

All raising, lowering and tilting of the slats is controlled in one of three ways to suit homeowner or end-user preferences. It can be specified with wall-mounted controls or an elegantly-designed remote control handset, with a third option being to link the system to leading home automation systems, including Loxone, to allow the blind to be operated via a smartphone app.

The versatility of the SL16 is being increasingly recognised across the market given its compatibility with IGUs with a 16mm cavity, unlike the 20mm cavity needed for most standard integral blind systems. That makes it an option for many homeowners who are looking to retain the frames of their existing windows and doors and simply replace the IGU with an integral blind unit.

The SL16MB’s ease of operation is perfect

for contemporary, technology-centred living, but its appeal is enhanced further through the system’s colour range which complements the latest décor trends. As with the manually controlled versions of this slimline system, the slats are available in nine colours, including the most in-demand colours such as Agate Grey (S120), Black (B160) and Beige (S125).

Ian Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass said: “The SL16MB adds another dimension to this slimline integral blind system’s appeal, giving installers a system with excellent sales potential to meet the needs of an increasingly tech-savvy market.

The system’s creation is the result of an extensive research, development and testing

programme by ScreenLine® systems manufacturer Pellini S.p.A., who continue to the be the global leader in integral blinds, and we are delighted to be able to bring this to the UK market on an exclusive basis.

“The demand for home improvement products with integrated technology is strong, as we have seen with the growth in popularity of smart locks for doors, video doorbells and window sensors. And the great thing about the SL16MB is that it offers a home automation solution for homeowners who are looking to retrofit by upgrading the IGU rather than replacing the complete windows and doors – smart technology integration whilst keeping their existing frames.”

The Venetian blind within the MB System for both the slim and standard variants features an internal motor within the blind head-rail, which also incorporates a micro-control unit plus encoder. This is the technology that allows the simultaneous, synchronised movements of groups of blinds, aided further by specially designed sliders to ensure virtually vibration-free movement.

With the SL16MB, the motor and mechanical components are contained within a system that is slightly thinner than the standard MB System, without compromise.

That means the slats are reduced in width from 12mm to 10mm, a minor difference with major benefits when it comes to being able to incorporate a state-of-the-art premium integral blind into 24mm IGUs. www.morleyglass.co.uk

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54 | blinds & shading | february 2026

As the Government unveils its Warm Homes Plan, Caribbean Blinds MD Stuart Dantzic argues solar shading must be central to energy policy

Warm Homes Plan’s overheating blind spot T hose of us in the UK’s solar shading industry have long been used to governments of various stripes promising to tackle the effects of a changing climate on domestic and commercial buildings – and delivering with equally variable results. The cycle often swings from ‘Great idea!’ to ‘Waste of money!’ even within the lifetime of a Parliament, so it’s hardly surprising that we observers treat any new initiative with a degree of scepticism.

That said, the Government’s newly published Warm Homes Plan is an important and welcome statement of intent.

A £15 billion commitment to tackling fuel poverty, decarbonising homes and reducing long term energy bills is not to be dismissed lightly. The emphasis on solar panels, heat pumps and batteries reflects a desire to reduce our reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Those aims are broadly right. But the plan reveals a persistent blind spot that risks undermining its own objectives: the failure to take overheating seriously, and with it the failure to treat external solar shading as essential infrastructure rather than an optional extra.

Designed to keep heat in The basic problem is that for decades, British housing policy has been shaped by a single obsession: keeping heat in. Thick insulation, superior double and triple glazing and ever more powerful heating systems have been treated as markers of progress. This approach made sense in a colder, more predictable climate. It makes far less sense now.

However, buried within the Warm Homes detail is an acknowledgement that properties must stay cool in summer as well as warm in winter. The plan even namechecks shading alongside shutters and reflective films as low cost interventions. Yet there is little clarity on delivery or funding. In practice, shading feels like an afterthought, while capital and policy attention flow towards complex technologies with higher costs, longer payback periods and significant demands on the electricity grid.

This matters because overheating is no longer a niche concern. UK summers are getting hotter and longer, and many homes are ill equipped to cope. Research cited by the Government itself shows some flats reaching internal temperatures of more than 47 degrees during relatively modest

heat events. This is nothing less than a serious health risk, particularly for older people, young children and those with existing conditions. It also places avoidable strain on the NHS. The underlying problem is solar gain.

Modern homes, with bigger areas of glazing, sliding doors and rooflights, invite the sun in and then struggle to get the heat back out. Once shortwave solar radiation passes through glass, it is trapped as longwave heat.

Insulation that retains warmth in winter becomes part of the problem in summer.

Stopping heat before it enters External solar shading tackles this at source. By stopping the sun before it reaches the glass, it significantly reduces heat buildup inside the home. Independent studies consistently show reductions in internal temperatures of more than 10 degrees, and in some cases closer to 20. The Camden monitoring project referenced in the Government’s plan is particularly striking.

External shading combined with night time ventilation eliminated overheating risk entirely. Internal blinds helped, but external systems were markedly more effective. In a nutshell, this is passive cooling in its purest form.

Our own white paper at Caribbean Blinds, published last year, reinforces this evidence. We found that while concern

about overheating is rising, understanding remains low. Many homeowners still see it as an unavoidable side effect of modern living, or something to be solved later with air conditioning. Yet when the benefits of shading are explained clearly, appetite for adoption increases sharply. People want solutions that are visible, understandable and that work immediately.

None of this is to argue against heat pumps or solar panels. But they should sit within a hierarchy of measures that starts with reducing demand in the first place. It is easier and cheaper to stop heat getting into a building than to remove it once it is there.

If the Warm Homes Plan is to live up to its promise, shading needs to move from the margins to the mainstream. That means clearer guidance, proper inclusion in funding schemes and a stronger signal to designers, developers and homeowners that managing solar gain is a basic requirement of a modern home.

A warm home should indeed be a basic guarantee – and so should a cool one.

External solar shading is a simple, proven and immediately deployable answer to a growing problem. Treating it as optional is a mistake we can no longer afford to make.

The Caribbean Blinds white paper can be downloaded here: https://cbsolarshading.plx.mk/ whitepaper

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56 | glazing & igus | february 2026

Saint Gobain Glass unveils Planitherm Neo, a confident leap forward for performance double and triple glazing

An advanced thermal insulation glass S aint-Gobain Glass is launching Planitherm® NEO, an advanced thermal insulation glass, designed to meet the evolving performance, aesthetic and sustainability requirements of the UK window and door market.

Designed for use in both doubleglazed and triple-glazed units, Planitherm® NEO combines outstanding thermal performance with a neutral appearance, lower reflection and high light transmission. The result is a single low-emissivity solution that supports fabricators and installers in delivering high performance windows and doors across residential new build, renovation and mixed-use applications.

Optimised solar gain Planitherm® NEO achieves a centrepane U-value of 1.0 W/m²K in a doubleglazed unit* and as low as 0.5 W/m²K in a triple-glazed unit**. Its optimised solar gain helps improve Window Energy Ratings and Door Energy Ratings, with a g-value of 54%* in double glazing and 42%** in triple glazing. High light transmission ensures interiors benefit from maximum natural daylight while maintaining excellent thermal insulation.

Mike Butterick, Marketing Director at Saint-Gobain Glass said; “Due to launch in March 2026, Planitherm® NEO’s advanced surface coating delivers a more neutral colour, reduced reflection and improved optical clarity, which is particularly important in triple-glazed configurations.”

Single stock product Planitherm® NEO has been developed as a single stock product for both double and triple-glazing and can be used in annealed or toughened form, with the coating retaining the same technical and aesthetic characteristics after toughening to BS EN 12150. This simplifies stockholding and production planning for glass processors, while improved durability and ease of processing help ensure consistently highquality finished units.

Sustainability is built into Planitherm® NEO as up to 40% of the glass used in its manufacture comes from reclaimed and remanufactured pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled glass, with no impact on product quality, performance or appearance. This is enabled through Saint-Gobain’s Glass Forever circular economy programme which reduces raw

material extraction, energy consumption and embodied carbon, supported by published Life Cycle Assessment data and an Environmental Product Declaration.

Future Building Regulations Planitherm® NEO supports compliance with current and future Building Regulations across the UK and Ireland, helping a wide range of frame types achieve required whole window U-values.

Its balanced combination of thermal insulation and solar gain also contributes to reducing overheating and reliance on ventilation or air conditioning, an increasingly important consideration as homes transition towards low carbon heating systems such as heat pumps.

The glass is suitable for a wide range of applications including residential new build and replacement windows and doors, larger glazed elements such as sliding and bifold doors, and non-residential or

mixed-use buildings. It is available in laminated configurations for enhanced security, safety, acoustic performance and ultraviolet (UV) protection, and can be combined with other Saint-Gobain Glass products to deliver multi-functional glazing solutions.

Future ready solution Planitherm® NEO provides fabricators and installers with a future ready solution that combines advanced thermal performance, improved aesthetics and leading sustainability credentials. *4mm-16mm-4mm with 90% argon gas filling, Planitherm® NEO on face 3 **4mm-16mm-4mm-16mm-4mm with 90% argon gas filling, Planitherm® NEO on face 3 and 5 www.saint-gobain-glass.co.uk

february 2026 | glazing & igus | 57

UKO Glass gains next-generation IG capability with Bassra Machine Tools installing the UK’s first LIVA Argon Gas Press Line

Major step forward for UK IG manufacturing W hen genuine advances in insulated glass production arrive, they tend to be measured not in marketing claims but in engineering, performance, and results on the factory floor. The recent installation of the UK’s first LIVA Argon Gas Press Line at UKO Glass by Bassra Machine Tools is one such moment—an achievement that represents a meaningful step forward for British IG manufacturing.

This project is significant not only for UKO Glass, but also for Bassra Machine Tools as the exclusive UK distributor for LIVA Makina, one of Turkey’s leading manufacturers of insulated glass equipment. The successful delivery and commissioning of this advanced line demonstrates how proven international IG technology can be introduced, installed, and brought into full production seamlessly within the UK market.

Technology behind the milestone At the centre of this installation is the LIVA Argon Gas Press Line, a system purpose-built for speed, precision, and repeatability. The line integrates automated argon gas filling with a high-accuracy pressing section in one continuous, synchronised process. While gas filling and pressing are standard stages of IGU manufacture, the challenge for many processors has always been consistency— maintaining uniform pressure, squareness, and gas retention across high volumes of units.

The LIVA system addresses this challenge with a dual servo drive system operating eight lead screws within the press section.

This configuration ensures exceptionally accurate and even pressure distribution across the entire unit during the pressing cycle. The result is superior unit squareness, enhanced dimensional control, and a far more robust and mechanically stable press structure. Even at high operating speeds, the system maintains repeatable quality from unit to unit.

In practical terms, this translates into better argon gas retention, stronger and more consistent seals, tighter tolerances, and insulated glass units that reliably meet the highest performance standards required in today’s market.

From delivery through to commissioning, the LIVA Argon Gas Press Line achieved seamless installation and immediate production, running precisely to plan.

The line was installed without issue and transitioned smoothly into full operation— an outcome that reflects both the build quality of the LIVA equipment and the installation expertise provided by Bassra Machine Tools.

For UKO Glass, the changeover was not disruptive to operations; it represented a clear upgrade in manufacturing capability.

The system now runs at high speed, producing premium IG units with a level of consistency difficult to achieve using traditional pressing methods.

Feedback from the production floor has been overwhelmingly positive, with operators noting the stability and reliability of the press, and management recognising improvements in output quality and process control. The line is delivering exactly what it was designed to achieve: faster production with greater precision.

Why UKO Glass chose LIVA—and Bassra Investing in a gas press line of this specification is a considered decision.

UKO Glass required a solution that would not only increase capacity but elevate the quality benchmark of every unit leaving the factory.

The LIVA system, supplied and fully supported in the UK by Bassra Machine Tools, provided that assurance. With a strong IG manufacturing pedigree,

innovative press engineering not commonly seen in competing systems, and highspeed performance without compromising precision, the equipment offered a compelling technical advantage.

Equally important was the confidence in local support. From initial consultation through installation and aftercare, Bassra’s involvement ensured the project progressed smoothly and that UKO Glass had expert guidance at every stage. The result is a partnership that has delivered precisely as promised.

As the sole UK distributor for LIVA, this installation represents a major milestone for Bassra Machine Tools. It demonstrates the company’s capability not only to supply advanced IG equipment, but to integrate it successfully into demanding production environments.

Importantly, the project also establishes a live reference site within the UK. Fabricators interested in seeing this next-generation IG production technology in operation can now witness first-hand the benefits of the LIVA Argon Gas Press Line running in a real manufacturing setting. This achievement sets the foundation for further growth, opening the door for more UK processors to adopt higher-specification IG production solutions.

E: sanjeev@bassra.com

58 | window & door systems | february 2026

Deceuninck’s triple-track patio door helps Burbage Custom Windows deliver smoother, brighter, efficient performance.

Benefits abound with triple-track patio door

S

lider TT24 pioneer, Burbage Custom Windows (BCW), is reflecting on the benefits of the new triple-track patio door from Deceuninck, for fabricators and installers, 12 months on.

Hinckley-based BCW was among the first half dozen manufacturers to start fabricating the Slider TT24 triple-track, receiving strong support from Deceuninck along the way, as Operations Manager, Dan Richards, explained: “Our first Slider TT24 triple-track patio door was manufactured in September 2024, and in the first three months we produced more than 30 units,” Dan said.

“Deceuninck provided full tooling, comprehensive training, and marketing support and we also worked closely with them to create the installation guide for the Slider 24 range,” he added.

Reporting increasing demand for the Slider TT24 since the start of this year, BCW originally chose the product to keep up with the growing market for larger openings.

“We saw a gap for a product that could compete with aluminium bi-fold doors and when we heard about the Slider TT24

triple-track from Deceuninck, it ticked all the boxes,” said Dan. “The availability in 30 colourways was a major draw and being one of the first fabricators in the country to offer it, helped set us apart from our competitors.”

Building on Deceuninck’s leading Slider24 patio door, the Slider TT24 triple-track suites with Deceuninck’s 2800 system and delivers the reduced sightlines and premium feel popular with consumers, at a more affordable price point than aluminium.

“The standout benefit is the much wider, clear opening compared to a double track.

With two panes sliding behind the third, you can create an opening space of up to two-thirds. This allows for better opening configurations to suit the end-user,” added Dan. “When closed, the larger glazed panes compared to a bi-fold give it a sleeker, more attractive appearance. It’s a great addition to our portfolio, and we are really starting to reap the rewards of that now.”

Also available in kit form for installers working in hard-to-access areas, the Slider TT24 features high quality hardware and combines stylish aesthetics with smooth opening.

Certified to PAS24:2022 enhanced security for two, three, four and six panes, it can withstand heavy loads, and offers market-leading weather performance, air and water tightness.

With the system achieving an A+ DSER rating and U-values as low as 0.99, the Slider TT24 also delivers excellent energy performance.

Tel: 01249 816 969, E: deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com

Residence Collection windows and doors have been installed in a number of conservation areas and listed building projects across the UK. Offering excellent u-values as low as 0.74 w/m2K and superb acoustic performance. e perfect solution for timber alternative windows and doors for your customers.

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01452 345 822 residencecollectiontrade.co.uk journey@residencecollection.co.uk

60 | window & door systems | february 2026

Endurance reaffirms exclusivity, assuring customers its premium composites remain unique, protected, and confidently uncompromised

Assuring customers of continued exclusivity

E

ndurance® Doors, the manufacturer of high-end composite doors, is assuring customers of its commitment to ensuring the continued exclusivity of its products.

To protect the premium quality levels which are a cornerstone of its offer, the business is refusing to adopt an increasingly popular industry model of allowing its doors to be produced by third-party fabricators.

Scott Foster, Marketing Director at the Endurance Group, comments: “On face value, one composite door can seem fairly similar to another, which is why we’ve sought to set our products apart through aspects such as their raw material selection, technical innovation, production methods and performance.

“To safeguard this positioning and the unrivalled consumer perception it has created, we are understandably protective about how our doors are made.

“Unlike many composite door manufacturers, we don’t sell slabs to fabricators for them to then produce doors which are sold under our name.

“The reason for this is that it can lead to too many variances and result in a degradation in quality, in turn damaging customer

satisfaction and our brand.

“We ultimately want installers and homeowners alike to know that if a product carries the Endurance® Door’s logo, then it has been manufactured to one harmonised and incredibly high standard, enabling it offer certain assurances as a result.”

This uncompromising commitment to excellence gives Endurance such confidence in the quality of its products that it backs them with an industry-leading 10-year guarantee.

It has also continued to be a core message in Endurance’s consumer-focused marketing activity.

Endurance positions its doors not as a functional necessity, but as an investment aimed at the mid to higher end of the market and catering to the needs of the most discerning homeowner.

The manufacturer has been highly effective in delivering on this brand promise, enabling it to secure over 3200 reviews on Trustpilot, of which 88% award it a maximum five out of five stars. That’s more fivestar reviews than any other large composite door manufacturer.

In addition, and in keeping with its quality-centric approach, Endurance has also

made the conscious decision to not supply online retailers.

This prevents its doors from being listed with a ‘supply only’ price and avoids them becoming a commodity product where prospective buyers can shop around on the internet with the aim of finding the cheapest possible price.

As well as helping to maintain the exclusivity of Endurance doors, this protects the margins of the manufacturer’s installer partners.

“At Endurance® Doors, we take our responsibility towards our installer partners incredibly seriously. The premise of our offer centres on offering end-to-end quality - from the raw materials we use and how our doors are produced through to the way our doors are installed and handed over to the consumer.

“It would be remiss of us to expect exceptional standards from our installers and then to deviate from that as a manufacturer.

“Ultimately, our uncompromising approach may seem Draconian, but it’s about more than that. It’s about protecting quality levels for the sake of our brand, our business, our installer partners and the homeowner.”

62 | window & door systems | february 2026

Lignum timber casement sets new weather and security benchmark

I

ndependent laboratory testing confirms that Lignum Side and Top Swing Casement Windows deliver exceptional weather and security performance, placing them among the UK’s top-performing casement systems across all materials.

Led by Owen Dare, TJN’s Technical Director, Lignum – The Joinery Network’s timber window and door system – undergoes continuous development, testing, and enhancement. For all SBD audits and assessments, TJN works with ERC Testing and CenSolutions.

The first Lignum Side and Top Swing Casement Windows completed full BS 63751 weather testing alongside PAS24:2022 (2024) security assessment, while a new fixed sash option further enhances the Lignum range.

Proven performance under extreme conditions The Lignum Casement achieved major gains in all key categories: • Watertightness (EN BS 12207): Increased from 250Pa to 600Pa, hitting 9A — the highest classification with zero water ingress, equivalent to 70mph wind.

• Wind Resistance (EN BS 12208): Achieved Class C5, the highest-pressure rating.

• Air Permeability (EN BS 12210): Reached Class C4, the maximum possible.

The system also passed PAS24:2022 (2024) security testing, meeting enhanced security standards without compromising design or performance.

Lignum Conservation Casement The new Lignum Conservation Casement window, with traditional butt hinges, has also been tested to PAS24:2022 (2024) with both top- and side-hung sashes.

Impressively, no hinge bolts were required.

Lignum Double Doors Open Out The Lignum Double Doors Open Out also passed PAS24:2022, showing improved results in weather testing: • Air Permeability (BS EN 12207): 600Pa, Class 4 — the highest rating.

• Watertightness (BS EN 12208): 600Pa with zero leakage, 9A performance.

• Wind Resistance (BS EN 12210): 1200Pa, Class A3 — top-level performance.

A standout timber system “These results aren’t incremental improvements — they represent a step change for members,” said Owen Dare.

“The Lignum Casement sets a new benchmark, ranking at the very top of the

market, not just for timber but against high-performance PVC-U and aluminium systems.

“The Lignum Conservation Casement extends options for property owners seeking traditional design with the latest high security. It’s excellent news for The Joinery Network manufacturers.

“The re-testing on Lignum doors was very impressive, and I am extremely proud of the results.”

Further testing is underway to extend certification across the wider Lignum window and door range, supporting the growth of The Joinery Network of Lignum manufacturers.

Sternfenster launches ‘Timberline’ – a timber-authentic PVC-U flush window

S

ternfenster has expanded its premium PVC-U portfolio with the launch of Timberline, a next-generation flush sash system designed to deliver the warmth and authenticity of timber with the efficiency, practicality and consistency of modern manufacturing.

Developed to meet growing demand for high-end heritage and contemporary installations alike, Timberline replicates the refined proportions and subtle detailing of a traditional timber flush sash, but with a number of engineering innovations that set it apart in the market.

The most significant is its unique square-welded internal and external joints. While other manufacturers rely on a 45-degree internal mitre, Timberline achieves a clean, perfectly squared finish on both sides of the sash and frame. This not only enhances authenticity but creates a sharper, more architectural aesthetic that homeowners and designers increasingly favour.

“Timberline is a leap forward in timber-alternative design,” said Nathan

Court, Sternfenster’s Chief Sales Officer.

“Installers told us they wanted a flush sash that truly stood out – something with the craftsmanship and visual depth of timber but the efficiency and reliability of PVC-U. “Timberline delivers exactly that, and the square weld is a genuine USP that sets a new benchmark for the category.”

Available in an extensive palette of foiled finishes – including heritage woodgrains, contemporary matt textures and dualcolour options – Timberline can be specified

with a wide range of hardware choices to suit traditional or modern properties.

Performance has been engineered to match its aesthetics. Timberline achieves outstanding thermal efficiency, with U-values as low as 1.2 W/ m2K, and has been designed to meet the latest security requirements, including PAS 24 options.

Combined with Sternfenster’s advanced manufacturing capability, installers benefit from reliability, consistency and seamless integration with the company’s digital tools such as EasyAdmin+ and EasySales.

“Timberline gives our customers a product that is both beautiful and technically robust,” added Nathan. “It expands their ability to win work in the premium and heritage sectors while offering homeowners a window that combines authentic design with modern-day performance.”

For more information visit www. sternfenster.com, email sales@sternfenster. co.uk or call 01522 512525. Alternatively, join the conversation on LinkedIn: www. linkedin.com/company/sternfenster

february 2026 | window & door systems | 63

Hörmann Truedor website drives growth and customer engagement

H

örmann Truedor is celebrating the success of its updated website which was introduced in February 2025. Showcasing its complete range of composite doors, the site has delivered extraordinary growth in both visitor numbers and high-quality lead generation since going live, helping to reinforce the brand’s strong and growing presence within the residential door market.

Building on this momentum, the company is continuing to enhance the platform with additional consumer-focused resources. The latest addition is the new Door Knowledge Centre, designed to offer homeowners clear, authoritative guidance when choosing the right door for their property. The Knowledge Centre breaks down the key differences in materials, security features, energy ratings and cost considerations, enabling customers to make confident, well-informed decisions. This is complemented by an expanded News section, which delivers the most up-todate information on company activity and

product developments.

The website delivers a clean, modern aesthetic with vibrant imagery, which guides visitors through Hörmann Truedor’s extensive range. It offers an intuitive user journey that not only features the wide variety of styles and designs available but also introduces the Hörmann brand and its commitment to sustainability. The Hörmann Truedor collection features six

ranges, each named after a Welsh river to reflect the natural beauty and heritage surrounding our manufacturing base.

Together, they offer 43 distinctive door styles.

Specialist options such as the Clima-63 thermally efficient door, the Platinum 44 steel door and the Draig30 30-minute fire door are also highlighted, bringing the entire product portfolio together in one comprehensive online hub.

To further support homeowners during their selection process, the site features an easy-to-use door configurator that guides users step-by-step through the available choices, enabling them to design and visualise their ideal door with ease and confidence.

With additional developments already underway and more planned for later this year, 2026 is set to be an exciting and transformative period for the Hörmann Truedor brand as it continues to build on its strong growth trajectory in the composite door sector.

Sternfenster enhances EasyAdmin+ with Quote Follow Up Tool

S

ternfenster has released a brandnew Quote Follow Up Tool within its EasyAdmin+ platform, designed to help installers win more work by increasing conversion rates.

Developed as part of its ongoing investment in digital support for its trade customers, the new tool delivers professional, automated follow-up emails that help installers stay front of mind with homeowners – without adding to their workload.

Early results from Sternfenster’s own retail operation show the tool can improve conversion rates by up to 36%, demonstrating the tangible impact structured follow-up can have on sales performance.

“In a competitive market, winning the job isn’t just about producing a good quote – it’s about what happens next,” said Nathan Court, Chief Sales Officer at Sternfenster. “Too often, quotes go cold simply because installers don’t have the time to chase them properly.

This tool takes that pressure away and helps customers convert more opportunities into orders.”

The Quote Follow Up Tool automatically sends professionally written emails to customers at key intervals – 3, 7 and 14 days after a quote is issued – helping installers

maintain momentum without manual intervention. The emails are meticulously designed to look polished and clean, reinforcing professionalism and building confidence with end customers.

To make adoption as easy as possible, the tool is enabled by default for all EasyAdmin+ users. Email templates are pre-filled with proven, highperforming messaging, meaning installers don’t need to set anything up before benefiting from improved follow-up activity.

“For our customers, it’s about working smarter, not harder,” added Nathan.

“EasyAdmin+ already helps installers quote faster, reduce errors and manage orders more efficiently. The Quote Follow Up Tool goes one step further by actively helping them win more business.”

As an added incentive, Sternfenster is offering the Quote Follow Up Tool free of charge to all EasyAdmin+ users until the end of March, after which it will form part of the paid EasyAdmin+ package.

The launch further strengthens

EasyAdmin+ as a differentiator for Sternfenster customers, combining manufacturing reliability with digital tools that directly support sales growth.

“This is exactly the kind of added value installers should expect from a modern supply partner,” said Nathan. “It’s yet another reason why more and more businesses are choosing to work with Sternfenster.”

For more information about EasyAdmin+ or the new Quote Follow Up Tool, installers are encouraged to contact their Sternfenster sales representative or the customer service team by emailing sales@sternfenster. co.uk or calling 01522 512525.

64 | window & door systems | february 2026

Rehau expands its Slinova range with low-threshold sliding door

R

ehau has announced the launch of its new Slinova low-threshold sliding door, expanding its highly successful Slinova range and offering fabricators and installers a more accessible, solution. The new feature builds on the strong market performance of the existing Slinova system, which recently celebrated the end of its first year in production. During this time, over eight thousand doors have been manufactured in the UK – reaffirming its position as one of Rehau’s most in-demand products.

Slinova’s success is down to multiple factors, including its simplicity of fabrication and installation compared to other sliding door options. Its sleek aesthetic, streamlined profile, and customisable options, including 20 colour combinations, make Slinova a standout in the wider Rehau product portfolio.

Driven by growing customer demand, the low-threshold has been designed to support easier, more seamless access between indoor and outdoor spaces. The system is suitable for applications where accessibility is a priority, including for wheelchair users and individuals with reduced mobility.

Clare Higgins, Senior Product Manager at Rehau UK, said: “The Slinova range has already proven itself as a dependable, fabricator-friendly solution, and the new low-threshold option builds directly on that success. We developed it in response to clear market demand for accessible, sliding doors

that don’t compromise on performance or design. This addition gives fabricators even more flexibility, while helping specifiers meet the evolving needs of modern living environments.”

The new design incorporates an aluminium thermal break to maximise energy efficiency, while optional clip-on ramps and tread plates can be added where enhanced accessibility is needed. Fabricators will also benefit from the same straightforward manufacturing process that has contributed to Slinova’s success. The low-threshold version requires only straight cuts and end caps with no need for end milling, integrating seamlessly into the door assembly and ensuring efficient production without added complexity. As with the wider Slinova range, the low-threshold model is part of a broader system approach rather than a standalone product.

With customer appetite already strong, the product has launched to meet a clear

gap in the market for high-performing, accessibility-led sliding door solutions.

There is expected to be demand across a broader range of projects where its practicality and low-profile design offer aesthetic and functional benefits.

Consort strengthens security offering with Yale Fortify 3 Star Cylinder

L

eading window and door manufacturer Consort will introduce the Yale Fortify 3 Star Euro Profile Cylinder to its product range from January 2026 – further deepening a partnership built on shared values of quality and reliability.

For over four decades, Consort has been among the most trusted names for installers nationwide. From its dedicated UK manufacturing facility, the company produces more than 1,800 units per week across an extensive portfolio, including VEKA PVCu doors, the OMNIA Double Flush range, composite doors, and SMART Aluminium systems – all specially designed for smooth installs and a premium finish.

The Yale Fortify Cylinder brings worldclass security credentials to this portfolio.

Independently tested by BSI, it holds TS0071:2024 3 Star accreditation and Secured by Design approval. The cylinder is engineered to defend against both traditional and emerging attack methods, durability-tested

to EN1303, and available in key-key and thumbturn variants, with a wide range of sizes for retrofit and replacement.

In addition, it is backed by a 10-year mechanical guarantee and Yale’s Total Trust Guarantee, offering up to £3,000 compensation in the unlikely event of a breach.

Beverley Morgan, Commercial Director at Consort, comments: “We’re delighted to be adding the Yale Fortify Cylinder to our range. Yale’s heritage speaks for itself – over 180 years of securing the things that matter most to people. This gives our customers the added reassurance of a truly market-leading cylinder from a brand they know – and know they can trust.”

Nick Scott, Key Account Manager for Yale Door and Window Solutions, adds: “Consort has all the qualities we look for in a long-term partner – technical know-how,

dependable service, and a commitment to delivering the best experience for installers.

We’re pleased to be taking our relationship to the next level with this announcement.” www.consortwindows.com www.yaledws.co.uk

Conservatory Roof System

february 2026 | glazed extensions | 65

Solid roof market ‘must move on from outdated assumptions’, says Luca Muspratt, Business Director at Warmer Roof

Solid roof industry urged to evolve A senior figure in the home improvement industry has called for a more mature and evidence-led conversation around solid roof systems, warning that much of the current debate is still rooted in outdated thinking.

Luca Muspratt, Business Director at Warmer Roof, said the sector has evolved significantly in recent years but that many in the industry continue to judge products on oversimplified criteria. “The market has moved on, but much of the conversation around solid roofs hasn’t,” Mr Muspratt said.

“Looking at any one factor in isolation often leads to poor comparisons and, in turn, poor decisions.”

Solid roofs, typically used as replacements for polycarbonate conservatory roofs, were initially marketed as warmer, heavier, and more permanent alternatives. But Mr Muspratt argues that such comparisons now fail to reflect the complexity of modern systems.

“Today’s systems are far more complex,” he said. “Thermal performance is important, but it isn’t the full story. Structural design, condensation risk, junction detailing, and how a roof is manufactured and installed all influence long-term performance.”

He also highlighted the role of building control, often perceived as a hurdle, which he believes should be considered a fundamental part of system design. Well-engineered and documented systems, he said, typically meet compliance requirements without difficulty.

Problems arise, he added, when products are introduced to the market without suffi-

cient testing and validation, placing undue pressure on installers to manage compliance on site. The commercial landscape is also having an impact. Mr Muspratt noted that tighter margins and the cost of callbacks are prompting installers to prioritise systems that are not only competitively priced but also predictable and well-supported.

“Installers are becoming more selective, not just on price, but on predictability, technical backup, and how confidently a system can be installed without surprises.

That shift feels significant,” he said. He argued that the most reliable systems tend to be those designed as complete solutions rather than collections of loosely integrated components.

Mr Muspratt, who comes from a manufacturing and operations background, rather than a traditional industry commentary role, said his perspective has been shaped by direct involvement in how systems are specified, sold, and installed.“Being close to manufacturing gives you a clear view of where friction occurs and, more importantly, where it doesn’t,” he said.

Calling for greater clarity and accountability, he said the sector’s continued development depends on moving away from oversimplification. “The solid roof sector is maturing,” he said. “As it does, the industry conversation needs to mature with it by moving towards clarity, evidence, and accountability. From where I’m standing, that’s where the real progress will come from.”

66 | glazed extensions | february 2026

Ultraroof combines lightweight engineering, thermal efficiency and installer-friendly design with flexibility on specification options available

Reinforcing Ultraroof’s performance credentials

U

ltraframe’s Ultraroof tiled roof system reflects a broader shift in the conservatory and home-improvement market toward products that combine performance, compliance and visual restraint. Positioned as the lightest tiled conservatory roof currently available, Ultraroof is designed to answer both technical and commercial pressures facing installers and homeowners alike.

At its core is a focus on structural efficiency. The system delivers unsupported spans of up to four metres, allowing for larger, more ambitious designs without compromising strength. Each roof is precision engineered to the wind and snow load requirements of the installation postcode, reinforcing confidence around compliance and long-term durability. Thermal performance is equally central. With a Building Regulation compliant U-value of 0.15 as standard, and the ability to reduce this to 0.12 where specified, Ultraroof sits among the most thermally efficient warm roof systems on the market.

Installation has been engineered for speed and predictability. Components arrive labelled in sequence, tiles are pre-cut into manageable panels, and no cutting or

drilling is required on site. For installers, this reduces labour time and limits the risk of error. The inclusion of full-length glass panels provides a measured alternative to traditional rooflights, introducing natural light without undermining cost control or aesthetics.

Fire safety credentials further distinguish the system. The Ultraroof lightweight tiled roof has been independently and fully fire tested, achieving a B-roof rating to EN 135015:2016. Visually, authentic lightweight tiles in grey, brown or terracotta, complemented by an optional curved cornice, give the roof a refined, permanent appearance that aligns with contemporary expectations of quality, underscoring Ultraframe’s strategy of engineering-led differentiation.

Extending that engineering-led narrative, Dan Caldwell, Sales Director at Ultraframe, has sought to underline how Ultraroof’s technical credentials are matched by commercial flexibility. Speaking at the start of 2026, Dan noted that while market interest remains strong, familiar questions continue to surface around cost and specification.

His response has been to broaden choice without diluting performance. Alongside the established slate finish, Ultraroof is

now available with a shingle option priced around 20 per cent lower, while a newly introduced “naked” specification allows customers to source their own tiles or slate for savings of up to 30 per cent.

Installation efficiency, a recurring theme of the Ultraroof proposition, is also reflected in the shingle variant. Dan points to a proprietary fitting method that allows shingles to be installed directly onto OSB boards, removing the need for battens and simplifying site work. It is a detail that, he suggests, has converted sceptics from competing systems once its implications for speed and labour costs are understood.

Fire performance remains non-negotiable. Dan is clear that Ultraroof carries full roof fire certification across both tile and slate options, rather than relying solely on individual material ratings. For him, this sits alongside other oft-cited credentials, including 4m unsupported spans, BBA certification, a weight of just 36kg per square metre, and no additional charges for pelmets or soffits. With a series of roadshows planned, Dan appears intent on ensuring these messages are heard, repeatedly if necessary, as Ultraframe looks to maintain momentum in a competitive market.

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70 | glazed extensions | february 2026

Korniche by MFT continues to set itself apart, not just as a multi- award winning product brand, but as a complete, trade-focused system

Delivering a complete trade-focused system I n the home improvement sector where margins are tight and reputations are built project by project, a subtle shift is underway. Trade businesses are increasingly valuing not just what they buy, but the infrastructure supporting those purchases.

Korniche by Made for Trade, a UK-based aluminium glazing manufacturer, is positioning itself to capitalise on this trend by offering what it describes as a “complete, trade-focused system” rather than simply components.

The company’s pitch is straightforward: in a market where firms juggle multiple projects, installers stake their reputation on reliability, and retailers seek differentiation, success hinges on consistency. Made for Trade argues that this consistency extends beyond the physical product to encompass supply chain reliability, technical support, and marketing assistance.

The Korniche range centres on aluminium glazing products designed with what the company terms “system-led engineering.” The portfolio includes roof lanterns engineered for speed of installation, flat glass rooflights for contemporary extensions, bifold and sliding door systems, and a newly launched internal glass partition system. Each product is developed as an integrated system rather than a collection of parts, a distinction the company believes reduces on-site risk and ensures predictable outcomes.

Internal glazed partition system The internal glazed partition system represents Korniche’s response to evolving domestic and commercial space requirements.

Designed for open-plan homes, home offices, and mixed-use interiors, the system features slim aluminium profiles that allow spaces to be divided whilst maintaining light and visual connection. This addresses a post-pandemic shift in how residential and commercial properties are configured, with flexible zoning becoming a key selling point

for developers and homeowners alike.

Meanwhile, the company has refined its existing patio slider system following trade feedback, adding an external handle and lock option alongside new colour combinations. These seemingly incremental updates expand specification flexibility and address practical concerns around security and ease of access, making the product suitable for a broader range of residential applications.

Whilst product development provides the headline story, Made for Trade’s deeper value proposition lies in operational support. The company operates UK-based manufacturing and logistics, emphasising dependable lead times and repeatability—critical factors in a sector where supply chain disruptions can derail projects and erode profit margins.

The firm has invested in digital infrastructure specifically for trade customers.

Its KwikQuote system, a browser-based platform, streamlines quoting and ordering processes, helping partners reduce errors and save time. In a market where administrative efficiency can determine whether a business wins or loses work, such tools represent tangible operational value beyond the physical products themselves.

Made for Trade also provides marketing support, supplying partners with brand-led materials, product imagery, and consumer-facing content. This approach effectively shifts some of the demand generation burden from individual resellers and installers to the manufacturer, whilst building brand recognition that benefits the entire supply chain. The company’s after-sales and technical support department offers ongoing assistance, providing what Made for Trade describes as reassurance long after orders are placed.

Looking ahead to 2026, Korniche is pursuing an aggressive consumer-facing strategy designed to pull demand through to its trade partners. Under the “Korniche Live” banner, the brand will exhibit at major homebuilding and renovation shows, starting at the NEC in March before appearances in Glasgow, London, and Harrogate through October. By engaging directly with an estimated 60,000 homeowners across these events, the company aims to build consumer brand recognition that supports its trade partners’ sales efforts. For builders and installers, this creates a potentially valuable dynamic: they are not simply selling products but offering recognised brands that homeowners already trust.

Raising standards in existing frameworks For many trade businesses, adopting Korniche is not about wholesale operational change but about raising standards within existing frameworks. The combination of award-winning product designs, system-led engineering, ongoing development, and comprehensive support creates what the company positions as a differentiation opportunity for businesses seeking to stand out in a competitive market.

As construction and renovation activity continues to evolve, Made for Trade’s strategy reflects a broader industry trend: the shift from transactional component sales to longer-term partnerships built on operational support and shared success.

Whether this model proves sustainable will depend on execution, but the company’s focus on addressing how the trade actually works, rather than simply what it needs to buy, suggests a clear understanding of where value lies in today’s market.

flat skylight

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72 | glazed extensions | february 2026

Guardian Building Systems helps installers grow with new AI training

G

uardian Building Systems has announced the launch of a new training programme designed to help its Certified Installers and Builders use generative AI to grow and future-proof their businesses.

With many installers and builders focused on managing work on-site, marketing and general administration can often feel like an unwelcome distraction. Titled ‘Build the Future: AI for Installers and Builders’, the programme is designed to show installers how easily accessible generative AI tools can help them streamline their administration and marketing task list, saving them time and money whilst allowing them to grow their business and showcase their hard work.

Broken into in three digestible modules, the training has been developed in partnership with Quantum Rise Talent Group and will be delivered by Guardian’s Business Development Team.

Guardian Building Systems aims to inspire the next generation of installers and builders to grow their business by offering practical, easy-to-use methods that showcase their workmanship and commitment to quality, from creating professional-looking social media content to explaining their services more clearly online, all supported by generative AI technology.

Danny Hill, General Manager of Guardian Building Systems, expressed: “With Build the Future, Guardian Building Systems is reinforcing its commitment to supporting installers and builders beyond our systems. By giving them practical skills, confidence, and access to new technology, we’re helping them succeed in an increasingly competitive market.”

For more information about the programme or upcoming training sessions, please contact 0800 066 5832.

Planet Roofing invests in a third TT405 double mitre saw from Haffner

P

lanet Roofing has expanded its production capacity with the addition of a third TT405 double mitre saw from Haffner, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to manufacturing efficiency, accuracy and quality.

Paul Rickman, Director at Planet Roofing, said: “We have been using Haffner TT405 saws for a number of years now and the performance, reliability and accuracy have been consistently excellent. The decision to invest in a third TT405 was an easy one as it allows us to increase capacity while continuing to meet demand without compromising on quality.”

Bryan Dando, Commercial Director at Haffner, commented: “Planet Roofing has been a valued customer of Haffner for some time, so it is extremely rewarding to see them return for a third TT405 double mitre saw. Repeat investment of this kind demonstrates the confidence customers have in both the performance of the machinery and the support provided by the Haffner team. The TT405 continues to be a popular choice for manufacturers looking for accuracy, efficiency and long-term reliability.”

The Haffner TT405 Double Mitre Saw is designed for cutting PVC-U and aluminium profiles using 450mm saw blades.

Automatic positioning is controlled via the computerised control panel, ensuring consistent length and angle accuracy.

The saw heads automatically tilt to 45° and 90°, with intermediate angles

between 45° and 90° easily adjusted and securely fixed. The machine is capable of cutting wide profiles, as well as two 80mm profiles simultaneously, offering excellent flexibility across a wide range of production requirements.

Programming is straightforward, with item numbers, lengths, angular positions and quantities all entered via the control panel. The system can store up to 2,000 programs with 10 variations per dataset, and data can be transferred via USB or network connection to support efficient workflow integration.

Continued investment in machinery reflects Planet Roofing’s sustained growth and success. Based in Essex, the company manufactures a wide range of aluminium roof lanterns and skylights for trade customers throughout the UK and is well regarded for its product quality and customer service.

Repeat investment remains one of the strongest endorsements a machinery supplier can receive, and Planet Roofing’s decision to purchase a third TT405 double mitre saw highlights the strength of its ongoing relationship with Haffner.

FEBRUARY 2026

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february 2026 | aluminium active | 73

Windows Active looks at the G25 Product of the Year and explores what makes the AluK S67 slider stand out in a competitive market

AluK delivers another win-win for the industry A luK’s S67 sliding door was named Product of the Year at the G-25 Awards. AluK’s design team and some of the first customers to start fabricating it explained just what makes this new door so special.

Paul Booth, Technical Director, explained: “Aluminium might be the number one choice when it comes to bifolds, but in the fast growing slider market, PVC-U is still out in front. It won’t surprise anyone then to know that our aim in developing the new AluK S67 was to take on the leading PVC-U slider – and win.

“We set out to design a system which could justify the panel for panel price differential between aluminium and PVC through better performance and more stylish aesthetics, whilst also being so fast and efficient to fabricate and install that it still guaranteed strong margins for AluK customers. And, as the G-Awards judges recognised, that’s what we achieved.”

Mark Poynter, AluK’s R&D Manager, was the man who rose to the design challenge.

He said: “AluK’s group resources mean we sometimes collaborate with colleagues in Europe on large scale projects like this, and AluK in France had already demonstrated the viability of a new wraparound door system.

“We worked with them to make that innovation the focus of the S67, and it turned out to be a game changer. This is a design which is fundamentally different to every other door in our range because of the way the S67 is fabricated by assembling straight cut sashes directly around the glass.

There’s no pre-prep, no need for bonding or silicone lubricant and no requirement to cut glazing beads, so the door can be integrated into virtually any factory with only minimal investment and fabricated by just one person from start to finish in just 90 minutes. We’re confident that’s the fastest time for any sliding door in the UK and those savings on machinery and manpower are translating directly into better margins for fabricators.

“There are better margins available to installers as well. With a pre-glazed sash and a 67mm frame depth which means there’s no need to cut back plaster lines in replacements, the S67 can typically be installed by a two man team in just 15 minutes.”

If you factor in the contemporary aesthetics of the Part L compliant S67 – with its 107mm frame, 35mm interlock, dual and

triple track options, and impressive panel sizes of 270mm high x 3000mm wide, it’s easy to see why it has quickly become the best-selling slider in AluK’s range.

Within months of the S67 launch in the Autumn of 2024, big name fabricators including Alu-tec, Hazlemere Windows, Complete Aluminium, CWG Choices, Fentrade Aluminium, Riverside Bifolds, Tradeglaze and Window Warehouse had all started manufacturing the new door, and sales figures are now 300% above target.

Phil Bates, Alu-tec’s Managing Director said: “The S67 is another win-win product from AluK! It’s so fast to fabricate that we’ve been able to move labour from the door line to other areas of the factory to increase output. And our customers say it has shortened installation times significantly as well, because they don’t need to glaze on site.

“Homeowners really like the sleek look of the S67 compared to other sliding door products on the market, and the handle and locking mechanism is a winner with the end user too - with the ergonomic handle easier to use than the standard handle offering of other similar products.”

Jason Bradshaw, Installation Director at Hazlemere Window Company, agrees that the response from retail customers has been very positive: “Our clients choose these

doors for the stylish slim sightlines, but are then pleasantly surprised with how easy it is to operate them, even at the larger pane sizes. The feedback has also been excellent from our fitting teams who are all happy with the ease of installation and smooth operation once in-situ.” www.alukgb.com/s67

74 | aluminium active | february 2026

BDC Aluminium are offering customers a range of internal aluminium screening for use in both residential and commercial developments

The go-to solution for flexible interior layouts

I

nternal aluminium screening has become a popular inclusion in both residential and commercial developments, as designers and specifiers search for flexible systems that maintain bright, open environments while enabling the definition of zones throughout a property’s interior.

Driven by a change in design priorities and shifting client demand for modern, light-filled interiors, internal glazing has become a core feature of both new-build and refurbishment projects. Architects and developers are increasingly turning to solutions that offer slim sightlines, contemporary styling and long-term performance they can rely on.

Smart’s is leading the way Smart’s internal screening is leading the way. As an experienced fabricator of Smart’s AluSpace Internal Doors and Screens, Essex-based BDC Aluminium supports developers, installers and architects with high-quality aluminium systems engineered to deliver stunning aesthetics with out-

standing durability.

Manufactured from high-strength aluminium, the AluSpace system achieves visually pleasing slimline profiles without any bulky reinforcement, allowing for larger glazed panels and more subtle sightlines.

Modular profiles and intelligent fixing details also contribute to significantly reduced installation times compared with traditional partition systems.

Factory-accurate components Precision-manufactured, factory-accurate components ensure cleaner finishes, fewer on-site adjustments and minimal rework - enabling contractors to deliver on demanding timelines with consistent results.

The AluSpace range includes single and double internal doors, fixed screens and bespoke configurations to suit a range of interior needs. Suitable for both contemporary housing and commercial environments, the system enables the division of openplan layouts, the option to section off home

offices or the definition of meeting and collaboration spaces without compromising natural light intake or internal flow.

Scott Foster, Group Marketing Director at BDC Aluminium, commented: “Internal screening has moved beyond a design trend - it’s become fundamental to the way modern spaces are planned and used. AluSpace introduces structure and partition without sacrificing the openness modern interiors demand, while its engineered aluminium profiles allow us to offer a system that is visually refined and practical to install at scale.”

Supporting trade partners BDC Aluminium values good service, providing fast quotations and clear technical guidance to make specification and ordering straightforward. Combined with precision-engineered components and a streamlined installation process, they continue to support trade partners with a reliable supply chain, market-leading Smart systems and the expertise required to deliver consistently high-quality projects.

76 | aluminium active | february 2026

Sheerline signals ambition, elevating leaders to steer expansion, underpin resilience, and orchestrate future-ready growth, with clarity

Promotions to support strategic growth

A

fter another successful year for the team at Sheerline, they are delighted to announce several promotions within their senior leadership team.

Ross Hartshorn is broadening his role to become Managing Director, while Ben Hartshorn is formalising his current role as a key part of the product research and development team with a promotion to Technical and Design Director. Roger Hartshorn will remain the Managing Director of Garner Holdings and Emma Arrell the Group Finance Director.

Having been involved with Garnalex and Sheerline from the very beginning, Ross and Ben understand the core principles that form the foundation of the business and what is required to continue to achieve longterm sustainable success. This puts them in the ideal position to continue to drive the business forward.

When Ross joined Garnalex it was with a view to help with the development, design, and launch of Sheerline as he’d already been

working in the fenestration industry for 10 years at Liniar. In his current role he leads the production management team, and has driven ongoing efficiency improvements, including a world class OTIF of 99.4% for 2025.

While Ben was new to the fenestration industry when he joined Garnalex, he’s been putting his mechanical engineering experience to good use. As well as being instrumental in the development of the Classic Heritage Door and Sheerline’s new inline

patio, which launches at the end of Q1, he provides first class technical support while overseeing the technical team.

Roger Hartshorn, Managing Director of Garner Holdings, said: “Any good business owner knows the importance of succession planning. For me, it’s essential my focus and legacy are maintained. Hence this news won’t come as a surprise to many – it’s a process that has been years in the making and will ensure the next generation starts to take the operational lead under my guidance.”

“Our customers can rest assured that Garnalex will continue to operate just as efficiently as it does today. I’m looking forward to supporting the Group and team in a more strategic role, while continuing to champion the vision we’ve built together,” he added.

As well as having oversight of the business, Roger will be working closely with the relevant partners on the build of the new facility in 2026/2027.

Te: 01332 978 000 info@sheerline.com

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78 | aluminium active | february 2026

Slim-framed yet robust, aluminium glazing delivers thermal finesse, revitalising regeneration schemes with confidence and resilience

Senior backs Wakefield regeneration scheme

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he regeneration of a historic industrial building in Wakefield is anything but ‘run of the mill’ thanks to an inspired design by Hawkins/ Brown and a high-performance fenestration package supplied by Senior Architectural Systems. Part of the group of buildings formerly known as Rutland Mills, which are located close to The Hepworth art gallery, the once derelict property has been given a new lease of life and a new name, with Gradient Mill now providing five-storeys of modern commercial office space.

UK’s largest creative industries hub The new Gradient Mill office building in Wakefield is the latest addition to the ambitious Tileyard North regeneration scheme which has created the UK’s largest creative industries hub outside of London. The new building has been delivered by Morgan Sindall Construction, with Wakefield based specialist contractor Neu-Glass fabricating and installing Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall system, alongside the manufac-

turer’s patented PURe® aluminium windows and doors.

Combining a slim frame with strength and thermal efficiency, Senior’s popular SF52 aluminium curtain wall system has been installed to the ground floor level alongside robust PURe® Commercial Doors that provide safe and secure access to the building.

On the upper floors, large glazed openings have been created using Senior’s low U-value PURe® aluminium windows which help to

minimise heat loss and flood the offices with natural light to create a more comfortable interior space. Smaller window units have been installed to the top floor, which is open to the underside of the steel truss roof, echoing the character of the adjacent mill buildings and providing a dramatic, lightfilled workspace.

Complemented existing architecture The project team, led by Hawkins/Brown, has worked hard to repair and retain as much of the fabric of the original buildings as possible. It was vital that the new glazing units complemented the nineteenth century architecture and a provided an efficient interface with the existing structure.

As a Yorkshire based business, Senior was well placed to meet the demands of such a large and complex contract as all of the company’s products were manufactured in nearby Rotherham and Doncaster, for timely transportation to the site in Wakefield. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

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80 | aluminium active | february 2026

Subtle yet sophisticated, Feinstruktur brings aluminium texture to PVC-U profiles, redefining surface design with quiet confidence

Aluminium-style look within PVC-U systems A cross residential projects, contemporary matt finishes and darker, modern colour palettes are frequently referenced within specifications and design discussions. As these design preferences shape window and door choices, the challenge is to balance appearance with the practical requirements of manufacture, installation and long-term performance.

At Veka, that balance between design intent and dependable performance underpins product development.

Feinstruktur is a decorative foil engineered for PVC-U profiles that mirrors the finely textured appearance typically associated with powder-coated aluminium, while retaining the established benefits of PVC-U.

Meeting contemporary specifications with confidence For fabricators and installers, the challenge is rarely about aesthetics alone.

Modern specifications increasingly combine visual expectations with requirements around durability, consistency and ease of handling across the supply chain.

Feinstruktur supports this by delivering a finely textured, matt finish on a PVC-U system, allowing the trade to achieve a contemporary appearance without introducing new materials or unfamiliar processes. The foil is available across Veka systems, including OMNIA, enabling a coordinated approach to finish and design.

OMNIA’s double flush, double rebate configuration supports a clean, modern aesthetic both internally and externally.

When combined with Feinstruktur, frames and sashes can be closely matched, helping to achieve visual consistency across the complete window or door set without adding complexity on the factory floor or on site.

Designed to support fabrication Feinstruktur has been developed with fabrication conditions in mind. The foil features a lacquered, hard-wearing surface that offers resistance to mechanical stress, helping to reduce the risk of surface damage during cutting, welding and handling. This can support consistent quality levels and reduce the potential for rework.

Thermal behaviour is another practical consideration. Feinstruktur incorporates infrared-reflecting pigments that reduce thermal absorption when compared with darker, high-gloss finishes. During

fabrication, this can help minimise unwanted visual effects around welds, such as gloss banding, supporting a more consistent finished appearance.

The foil is also resistant to standing water and to a range of commonly used chemicals, including many cleaning agents, alcohols and aliphatic petrols. These characteristics help maintain finish integrity throughout manufacture and storage, focusing on measurable performance rather than unqualified claims.

Practical benefits during installation Once products leave the factory, durability remains critical. Transportation and installation are recognised points where frames are most vulnerable to damage. The hard-wearing, finely textured surface of Feinstruktur helps protect against knocks and scratches during handling, reducing the likelihood of remedial work on site.

Reduced thermal absorption also contributes to dimensional stability in warmer conditions. By helping frames maintain their shape, Feinstruktur supports smoother installation and reliable operation over time, which is an important consideration for installers focused on minimising call-backs.

Importantly, Feinstruktur-finished profiles can be installed using standard methods. No specialist tools or additional fitting requirements are introduced, supporting efficiency and consistency across different projects and sites.

Availability and consistency for the trade Feinstruktur foil finishes are available exclusively through Veka systems, supporting a clearly defined and consistent specification route for fabricators and installers working within the Veka network.

Selected colours, including Feinstruktur Anthracite Grey and Feinstruktur Black, are now available as stocked options, helping to support shorter lead times and more responsive project planning.

For the trade, stocked availability can play an important role in maintaining workflow efficiency and responding to customer requirements without unnecessary delay, while continuing to specify within an established PVC-U system.

Sustainability, addressed responsibly Sustainability remains a key consideration across the fenestration sector. Feinstruktur is fully recyclable and compatible with closed-loop PVC-U recycling, supporting a responsible approach to product finishing.

With a curated palette of eight contemporary colours, Feinstruktur complements a wide range of architectural styles and façade materials. When specified alongside systems such as OMNIA, it enables fabricators and installers to deliver a consistent modern finish within established PVC-U solutions, focusing on performance, practicality and long-term reliability.

Explore Feinstruktur by visiting the website: www.veka.co.uk

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84 | aluminium active | february 2025

Heritage Trade Frames reports rising sales of Stellar Slimline Bifold Door

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rade fabricator Heritage Trade Frames is reporting sustained growth for its Stellar Slimline Bifold Door, with sales increasing by more than 55% over a three-year period. Lee Darcy, Sales and Marketing Manager at Heritage Trade Frames, said: “Sales of the Stellar Slimline Bifold Door have continued to grow throughout 2025. This sustained growth reflects the increasing interest in aluminium products, combined with the clear advantages of the Stellar Slimline Bifold Door itself.”

As Lee notes, aluminium continues to attract growing homeowner interest and the Stellar Slimline Bifold Door is ideally positioned to capitalise on this trend in 2026.

The door delivers elegant contemporary aesthetics, with slim 117mm meeting stiles that create clean, attractive sightlines for maximum consumer appeal. It also meets the latest Part L requirements for thermal efficiency, featuring standard 28mm double glazing and achieving U values as low as 1.0 W/m²K when triple glazed. Lee added: “The Stellar Slimline Bifold Door combines standout aesthetics with impressive performance, without compromise.”

Installation is another key advantage.

Thanks to Stellar’s trademark design features, the door can be installed up to 20 minutes per pane faster, helping installers complete jobs more efficiently. Patented pre-gasketed knock-in beads make glazing quicker and easier, while also delivering a neat, consistent gasket line that enhances

the finished appearance.

Beyond the product itself, installers working with Heritage Trade Frames benefit from the fabricator’s wider strengths.

All products are manufactured by timeserved industry specialists who take pride in their work, helping customers save both time and money. Installers also benefit from Heritage’s responsive customer service and technical expertise, alongside ongoing investment in staff training, machinery and IT systems to ensure installers remain at the

cutting edge of the industry.

This approach has seen Heritage Trade Frames grow into one of the North West’s leading fabricators of aluminium, PVC-U and composite fenestration products.

Lee concluded: “The continued growth of the Stellar Slimline Bifold Door underlines the value of offering products that perform for both installers and homeowners. It’s a product that fits well with where the market is heading, and one that we expect to remain a strong part of our portfolio going forward.”

Aluminium Shapes ushers in new era for aluminium sustainability

A

luminium Shapes, the UK specialist for bespoke aluminium extrusion, machining and finishing, has launched Ali4 - a new, greener aluminium billet that has a carbon footprint that’s more than three times smaller than the global average.

From January 2026, all aluminium supplied by Aluminium Shapes have been extruded using LCR4 Billet. It’s a low-carbon aluminium billet that is guaranteed to generate a maximum carbon footprint of 4KG CO2e per kilo of aluminium. That’s a 73% reduction compared to the average global carbon footprint of aluminium billet.

“The market is consistently pushing for greener products, as the entire planet is looking ahead to our shared Net Zero 2050 target,” says Spencer Melia, Sales Manager at Aluminium Shapes. “So, it’s crucial for businesses to consider the environmental impact of all of the products they use, right down to the raw materials.

“Our new Ali4 billet is a premium, recycled, low-carbon product that uses just 30%

prime raw materials, with the other 60% coming from recycled scrap material and post-consumer, end-of-life, scrap aluminium.

“The result is an incredible improvement on the carbon footprint of the billet, which is just 4KG CO2e per kilo of aluminium, hence our name ‘Ali4’. To put this into perspective, the world’s average is 14.8KG, with material from outside the EU being significantly higher than that.

“Our source of the new Ali4 material is based in the UK too, so we’re cutting further

emissions from transport.

“For businesses who use aluminium for any of their systems or componentry, Ali4 offers an easy way to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their products, without any sacrifice to quality, strength or longevity.”

Ali4 will be used for all of Aluminium Shapes’ extrusion from January 2026 and full certification and Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) reports are available on request. www.alishapes.co.uk

february 2026 | aluminium active | 85

Jet Black replaces Anthracite Grey as colour of the year for Sheerline

S

heerline can reveal that for the first time since the system was launched, Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016) was not the most popular colour of the year.

Instead, it has been replaced by Jet Black (RAL 9005).

For many in the industry, this will not come as a surprise as Jet Black was always going to have a successful year thanks to the popularity of heritage style products. At the same time, the popularity of Anthracite has been steadily decreasing year-on-year, accounting for 30% of Sheerline orders in 2025, down from 33% in 2024 and 38% in 2023 respectively.

The picture from 2025 is very similar to 2024 in that homeowners are increasingly opting for bespoke colours, especially shades of grey, green, and blue, which collectively account for over a third of all colour choices (37%). This includes 58 different shades of grey, with Anthracite, Agate Grey (RAL 7038), and Pebble Grey (RAL 7032) all making the top ten.

Sheerline’s Production Director, Eddy Webb, commented: “Year-on-year we’re seeing a consistent increase in the number of colours we’re spraying. In 2023 it was 45 colours, in 2024 there was a big jump to 115, and the figure has risen again in 2025 to 139.

This demonstrates that homeowners and specifiers are increasingly opting for unique colours and finishes.”

“Whether it’s a school refurbishment or home renovation project, what the figures from 2025 tell us is that people aren’t afraid to choose something a bit different – whether that’s a striking shade of yellow like Colza

Yellow (RAL 1021), Flame Red (RAL 3000), or Emerald Green (RAL 6001),” he added.

In addition, textured finishes have become much more desirable. From 2024 to 2025, there has been an increase of 155% in popularity of Jet Black Textured products.

This moved it from being the 18th most popular colour last year to 8th this year, driven by the increase in popularity of heritage style products such as the Classic Heritage Door. The reason Sheerline can provide a comprehensive overview of its colour stats is because everything is powder-coated in-house at its state-of-the-art paint facility.

This offers a number of benefits including

stringent quality control checks, which go above and beyond the requirements of the accreditations it holds with QUALICOAT and Axalta.

Powder-coating in-house enables Sheerline to offer an agile and responsive service, with standard paint colour combinations available on five-day lead times, an additional 64 colour combinations in 10 days, and specials powder coated at its QUALICOAT ‘Seaside’ approved paint plant in just 15 days, giving homeowners and specifiers greater choice.

E: info@sheerline.com

Fentrade adds AluK Iconik aluminium bi-fold door to its product portfolio

I

ndependent trade manufacturer Fentrade is adding the Iconik Bifold Door from AluK to its product portfolio, further strengthening its aluminium offer for installers seeking a high impact, competitively positioned bifold solution.

The Iconik Bifold Door has been designed to maximise visual appeal, featuring slimmer sightlines that deliver greater glass area and improved outlook. The system’s floating mullion has been designed out, resulting in a cleaner, more refined appearance and uninterrupted views when the doors are open.

Visual performance is complemented by a refined hardware suite, including slim, contemporary hinges and a stylish operating handle available in a choice of colours and locking options, allowing installers to tailor the door to individual project requirements.

Designed for larger apertures, Iconik features rollers developed to accommodate glass weights of up to 130kg. This enables

door heights of up to 3000mm when specified with optional shootbolt locking, making the bifold ideal for modern, light-filled spaces that demand a strong visual statement.

Thermal performance is equally impressive. The Iconik Bifold Door can achieve U-values of 1.3 W/m²K with double-glazed units, helping installers meet current efficiency expectations while delivering a premium aluminium solution.

Installation flexibility has also been enhanced through a new and expanded range

of integrated cills, providing greater choice and adaptability on site. These additions support smoother installations and help installers respond more effectively to varied project conditions.

Chris Reeks, MD at Fentrade, commented: “The Iconik Bifold Door offers strong homeowner appeal through its slim sightlines, larger glass areas and refined hardware, but it’s also been clearly designed with installers in mind. The ability to create larger doors, the removal of the floating mullion and the wider choice of integrated cills all contribute to a system that looks great and installs efficiently. As part of our ongoing business strategy, we are focused on introducing new product lines that give our customers an edge in a competitive marketplace while remaining commercially viable. Iconik fits that brief perfectly and we’re delighted to be bringing it to market in March.”

86 | aluminium active | february 2026

Steel-look aluminium windows ease pressures on listed buildings

R

eplacing original steel windows in listed buildings and conservation areas has long been a fraught exercise. Planning constraints, aesthetic scrutiny and the technical shortcomings of legacy systems often collide, leaving specifiers and homeowners with limited options.

The challenge is familiar: how to preserve historic character while meeting modern expectations for energy efficiency, security and cost.

The Royale Stepped Window, developed

by Duration, positions itself as a solution to that dilemma. Designed specifically as a steel replacement system, it aims to remove much of the complexity that has traditionally accompanied heritage fenestration projects.

Designed for Authenticity - At the centre of the system’s appeal is its visual accuracy. The Royale Stepped Window features a 32mm matching outer frame, delivering slim sightlines that closely replicate those of traditional steel windows. In listed properties and conservation areas, where even minor deviations can prompt objections from conservation officers, these proportions matter.

The emphasis on detail extends beyond the frame. Traditional hardware options— including period-style locking handles, peg and stay fittings and heritage hinges—allow replacements to sit comfortably alongside original architectural features. The result is a window that is, at first glance, difficult to distinguish from the steel frames it replaces.

Modern Performance, Discreetly Delivered - While appearance is critical, performance is where many historic systems fall short. Manufactured from high-performance aluminium, the Royale Stepped Window achieves an ‘A’ rated Window Energy Rating (WER), combining slim aesthetics with contemporary thermal standards.

Internally glazed 18mm double-glazed sealed units contribute both to energy efficiency and to improved security, supported by a high-security locking system as standard. Importantly for sensitive refurbishments, these gains are delivered without altering the external character of the building.

Cost and Practicality in Refurbishment - Cost has historically been another barrier to steel window replacement.

Traditional steel systems are expensive to manufacture and install, particularly where on-site alterations are required. By contrast, the Royale Stepped Window is positioned as a cost-effective alternative, offering significant savings without sacrificing visual or

technical performance.

Installation is designed to be straightforward. The slim frame allows units to be fitted directly into existing steel apertures, timber subframes or masonry openings, avoiding the need to cut back plaster, brickwork or surrounding finishes. For occupied buildings, this reduction in disruption can be as important as the financial savings.

Bespoke by Design - Each window is made to order, with a range of seven glass designs available, including square or diamond leaded patterns. Customers can specify butted or flat horizontal astragal bars, reinforcing the system’s flexibility across different architectural styles.

Finishes are equally adaptable, with more than 200 RAL colours available and options for single or dual-colour treatments.

A 10-year warranty underpins the product, reflecting its use of premium materials, modern manufacturing processes and established supply chains.

A Benchmark for Heritage Fenestration - The Royale Stepped Window has been on the market for more than a decade, during which time it has established itself as a reference point for aluminium steel-replacement systems. Its combination of authentic appearance, thermal efficiency, cost control and installer-friendly design addresses many of the long-standing frustrations associated with heritage window replacement.

For listed buildings, conservation areas and even new-build projects seeking a timeless aesthetic, it offers a pragmatic balance between preservation and progress—removing much of the planning headache without rewriting the architectural story.

Tel: 01268 681612 E: sales@duration.co.uk

88 | aluminium active | february 2023

Reynaers launches tool to simplify access control system specifications

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s part of Reynaers’ suite of digital solutions, the Access Control Configurator has been purposebuilt for fabricators, optimising their workflow and facilitating the accurate selection of access control components tailored to the precise requirements of each project.

Access control products from the aluminium systems manufacturer include automated locks, e-openers, keypad and fingerprint scanners and magnetic contacts – all of which are well suited to high-end commercial and residential projects.

Reynaers’ range of access control solutions allow building owners to decide who enters the building, check that doors are locked, and windows are closed, and unlock doors remotely. With a variety of solutions to suit a range of high-specification projects, Reynaers has developed the Access Control Configurator to simplify product selection.

Accessible via the Reynaers’ customer portal, the configurator tool enables fabricators to narrow down compatible access control systems and parts by entering project-specific information, automatically filtering options to provide a customised selection of essential and supplementary parts.

Importantly, the Access Control Configurator also offers integrated technical guidance, including a comprehensive installation manual with wiring diagrams, part numbers, and controller I/O details, as well as QR codes linking directly to Reynaers training resources.

John McComb, Technical Director at Reynaers Aluminium UK said: “The Access Control Configurator has been specifically developed for fabricators and is designed to work alongside Reynaers existing fabrication manuals for windows, doors, and our range of motorised sliding doors.

“When using the Access Control Configurator, fabricators benefit from intuitive prompts that streamline the process of identifying the most suitable solutions for their projects and enable a more efficient, simplified installation process. The tool also provides clear, up-todate wiring diagrams, ensuring fabricators

have the technical guidance required for accurate and reliable installation. In addition, integrated QR codes link directly to installation videos, giving fabricators immediate access to practical, step-by-step support.

“Reynaers’ ongoing development of digital solutions—including system and product enhancements—ensures fabricators have access to accurate, up-todate information, which is crucial for the successful execution of complex, highspecification projects.” www.reynaers.co.uk

SPW+ equals a great new addition to Senior’s window range

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eading aluminium fenestration solutions manufacturer Senior Architectural Systems has added further strength to its extensive product range with the launch of the new SPW+ Tilt & Turn Open In aluminium window system.

The new SPW+ aluminium window system has been developed to offer a convenient and cost-effective solution for projects where slim sightlines, thermal performance and speed of installation are all required.

Designed to provide a flexible solution where thermal targets may vary depending on the project, SPW+ can be installed with both double and triple glazing options to meet U-values of between 0.94 W/m2K and 1.3 W/m2K when calculated as a commercial CEN standard window. The new system has also been designed to work seamlessly with Senior’s aluminium Louvre Guard, without the need for any additional profile materials to keep costs and labour time on site to a

minimum.

Thanks to its thermal performance and slim profile design, the new SPW+ aluminium window offers customers a cost-effective option for a variety of projects from highrise residential accommodation to education and healthcare facilities. The 1500mm wide by 2400mm high window system also meets the security requirements of PAS24, and like all aluminium fenestration products manufactured by Senior, can be powder coated to virtually any colour at the company’s in-house facility.

Suitable to use in both residential and commercial projects, the new SPW+ aluminium window builds on the popularity of Senior’s established SPW600 aluminium window and its patented low U-value PURe® range to give fabricators, installers, contractors and architects even more choice. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

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90 | aluminium active | february 2026

Endurance® Aluminium launches new heritage-inspired sash window range

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ndurance® Aluminium has bolstered its already comprehensive product offering. With immediate effect, the fabricator’s commitment to offering well engineered, attractively designed fenestration solutions can now be enjoyed across a new range of sash windows.

The new windows have been introduced as a direct result of Endurance’s commitment to continued product development and join a portfolio that includes not only windows but also doors and internal screens.

Russell Hensman, group marketing manager at Endurance, comments: “Historically, homeowners looking for aluminium sash windows haven’t been spoilt for choice.

“This particular type of aluminium product hasn’t tended to be widely available and we’ve taken the decision to introduce our new range to help our installer partners maximise the opportunities presented by this gap in the market.

“In addition, the launch of the new range reflects our desire to provide homeowners with enormous design freedom and a wide choice of fenestration solutions to suit any individual taste or property style.”

Endurance’s new sash windows combine a heritage appearance with all the benefits offered by modern materials, design innovations and manufacturing techniques.

As well as the look of traditional timber but without any of timber’s associated maintenance requirements, the new Endurance sash windows deliver impressive

levels of security and are certified to PAS 24 standards.

They also offer good thermal performance and deliver a U-value that meets the requirements of Approved Document Part L for new build projects.

From an aesthetic perspective, Endurance’s new windows benefit from slim frames and can be supplied in an almost infinite range of colours.

Gloss white, jet black, and anthracite grey frames are all available as standard with other RAL colours available on request.

In addition, to complement the period styling of the new windows, homeowners

have the option to add decorative horns and mullions for a truly authentic look.

Russell adds: “Endurance Aluminium continues to launch new products and service initiatives as part of our belief in offering our installer partners a complete package.

“We want to give them all the tools and support they need to succeed and to reap the benefits of the growing popularity aluminium fenestration solutions. Doing so also allows us to build the mutually profitable partnerships that have become a trademark of all the Endurance group brands.”

Decorio adds fingerprint-resistant Textured Black to internal range

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ecorio, a range of steellook aluminium windows and doors from Affordable Windows Group, has released a new Textured Black finish for their internal range.

Responding to installer demand, Lancashire-based AWG has also shared that Textured Black will now become the standard finish across the entire Decorio Internal Collection of doors and screens.

The new finish addresses a common customer concern with traditional matte black frames: visible fingerprints and the need for frequent cleaning. The textured surface is significantly more resistant to marking, allowing homeowners to enjoy their internal doors and partition screens with minimal maintenance.

“We’ve listened carefully to feedback from our trade partners and their customers,” said Amelia Gaughan, Head

of Marketing for AWG. “While matte black remains hugely popular for its sleek appearance, the reality of daily use means fingerprints become an issue, particularly in high-traffic areas and family homes. Our Textured Black finish solves this problem whilst maintaining the sophisticated

steel-look aesthetic that makes these products so desirable.”

The change reflects Decorio’s focus on creating products designed for real-world use. Installers have noted that the textured surface is more forgiving in terms of maintenance, making it ideal for busy households or commercial environments where internal doors and screens see constant use.

Installers seeking the original Matte Black finish can still specify this finish, though a longer lead time may apply.

The Textured Black finish is available now across Decorio’s full range of internal hinged doors, sliding doors, and partition screens, with weekly deliveries across the UK. For more information about Decorio or to become an installer partner, please visit www.decorio-doors.com or email sales@ decorio-doors.com

february 2026 | aluminium active | 91

Bespoke versions of heritage and bi-fold configurator for installers

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s part of its commitment to its installer partners, Endurance® Aluminium has boosted its already comprehensive package of sales

support.

The business, which fabricates a wide range of aluminium windows, doors and internal screens, has begun offering customers bespoke versions of its heritage and bifold door configurators.

These configurators are now available to individual installers, free of charge and customised with their own logo and corporate colours.

The bespoke configurators can be either embedded within the installer’s online presence or hosted remotely by Endurance, with the installer site linking to it.

Endurance® Aluminium launched its bifold and heritage door configurators earlier this year.

Both versions allow homeowners to explore the different products within the

ranges and to see how these products would look in various colours and formats, as well as when combined with different hardware options.

Having created a design that perfectly suits their individual tastes and property style, homeowners can then submit full details of their desired product combination to obtain a quote and to receive further information.

The introduction of the new bespoke

branded configurators adds to the existing sales tools offered by Endurance® Aluminium, which include showroom materials, sales literature and social media templates.

Speaking of the new customisable configurators, Russell Hensman, group marketing manager at Endurance, said: “Since their launch, our heritage and bifold door configurators have proven to be highly successful lead generation tools.

“They are incredibly effective in engaging homeowners, helping them to visualise their potential new investment and encouraging them to take a step further in their buying journey.

“We’ve introduced our new customisable versions to help installers capitalise on these potent benefits and as part of our ethos of offering our installer partners unrivalled levels of support.

“As always, our focus remains on ensuring that ‘Together, we grow’.”

Stellar Aluminium achieves continued Qualicoat specification compliance

S

tellar Aluminium has successfully achieved continued compliance with Qualicoat specification, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to quality, consistency and surface finish excellence.

As part of the rigorous Qualicoat accreditation process, Stellar Aluminium’s in-house powder coating facility is subject to two unannounced inspections each year. These comprehensive audits assess every aspect of the coating operation, from pretreatment and application through to curing, testing and quality control procedures. Following successful completion of these inspections, certification is issued annually.

The most recent inspection confirmed Stellar Aluminium continues to meet all Qualicoat requirements, including Seaside specification standards, demonstrating the quality of its processes and the effectiveness of its in-house controls.

By retaining a fully integrated, Qualicoataccredited powder coating plant, Stellar Aluminium maintains complete control over quality at every stage of production.

Profiles are painted and rolled in-house, eliminating risks associated with third-party coating and ensuring a consistent, durable and high-quality finish across the entire product range. It is also worth noting that the polyamide thermal break is rolled post powder coating. This process removes any risk of paint delamination from the thermal break, preventing potential aesthetic issues and ensuring a superior finished appearance.

Martin Westwood, Production Manager at Stellar Aluminium, said: “Qualicoat compliance is not a one-off achievement, but an ongoing commitment. The unannounced inspections are extremely thorough and passing them each year demonstrates the strength of our systems, our people and our attention to detail. It gives our customers complete confidence in the long-term performance of every Stellar profile.”

The continued certification underlines Stellar Aluminium’s position as a premium aluminium window and door system, delivering outstanding aesthetics and proven durability and longevity. In a market where coating quality is under increasing

scrutiny, Stellar’s audited, in-house approach provides reassurance that every finished product meets internationally recognised standards. Martin concluded: “Because we control the entire coating process and are independently audited twice a year, quality is never left to chance. Annual Qualicoat certification confirms that Stellar Aluminium continues to deliver the surface finish performance our customers expect and rely on.”

With its continued Qualicoat compliance, Stellar Aluminium remains at the forefront of quality, offering fabricators and installers a reliable, high-performance aluminium system backed by verified standards and ongoing independent inspection.

92 | general feature | february 2026

Recycling support for installers

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Rising sustainability expectations challenge shortcuts as FENSA gives installers compliant, cost-neutral recycling guidance

or some installers, waste removal has long been treated as an unavoidable part of the job – an inconvenience to be dealt with quickly so projects can move on. Skips are booked, materials are taken away, and little thought is given to what happens next.

But as sustainability expectations continue to rise across the construction and home improvement sectors, that approach is increasingly challenged.

Homeowners are asking more questions about environmental responsibility, local authorities are tightening oversight, and the industry itself is under pressure to demonstrate that waste is handled, transparently, responsibly, and legally, once an installation is complete.

Against that backdrop, one long-standing issue is coming into sharper focus, the widespread use of unlicensed “man in a van” waste collectors.

These operators often promise quick and low-cost removal with minimal paperwork, an attractive option for busy installers under pressure to keep jobs on the move.

The problem is many of these operators are not registered waste carriers.

They fail to provide legally required Waste Transfer Notes and sometimes dispose of materials illegally – causing environmental damage across local communities from fly-tipping.

It is key that installers remember responsibility for waste materials does not end once it leaves site.

In fact, under duty of care regulations, installers can be held accountable if waste is traced back to their business, even when disposal has been outsourced in good faith.

According to FENSA, this is rarely about negligence.

“The real issue has been access,” explains Sam Davies, Technical Manager at FENSA. “Most installers want to do the right thing.

Compliant recycling hasn’t always been easy, affordable or clearly structured, especially for smaller businesses.

That’s exactly what allows unlicensed operators to step in.”

It is against this backdrop that FENSA launched its free Recycling Scheme.

Available exclusively to FENSA installers, the scheme offers a compliant and cost-neutral route to recycling key waste streams generated by replacement window and door projects – including PVC-U and aluminium frames and glass.

By removing reliance on skips and informal collectors, the scheme helps installers manage waste responsibly without adding complexity or overheads.

Collections are arranged through a postcode-based referral system, ensuring waste is allocated to approved recycling partners efficiently.

Installers receive compliant Waste Transfer Notes with every collection, in hand with clear reporting tools that evidence materials recycled and diverted from landfill, providing transparency that many businesses have previously struggled to access.

“For too long, sustainability has been framed as something that costs money,” says Sam. “Responsible practice shouldn’t be limited to businesses with bigger budgets, it should be the minimum baseline. This scheme proves that installers of all sizes can recycle properly, reduce skip costs, and improve their environmental performance.”

Accessibility is key Smaller and independent installers are often the most exposed to the risks posed by unlicensed waste collectors, simply because alternatives haven’t always been accessible.

By making compliant recycling free and straightforward, FENSA is actively supporting installers to protect themselves, their customers, and the communities they work in.

There’s also a reputational dimension that installers can’t afford to miss.

As environmental awareness grows, homeowners are paying closer attention not just to how products are installed, but how materials are disposed of afterwards. Installers who can clearly demonstrate responsible waste handling are increasingly seen as more professional, trustworthy and futurefocused.

FENSA has indicated that further tools are planned to help installers communicate their recycling efforts more effectively, allowing responsible practice to sit alongside compliance, workmanship, and customer care.

Importantly, the approach reflects a broader shift in how regulation is being framed.

Rather than acting as an obstacle, FENSA is positioning itself as an advocate – supporting installers within a regulated system by removing barriers and offering practical solutions.

“This isn’t about catching people out,” Sam concludes. “It’s about giving installers a safe, compliant alternative to a problem that affects the whole industry. When responsible recycling is easy and cost-neutral, the ‘man in a van’ stops being the better option.”

Access to the FENSA recycling scheme is managed through the FENSA Installers Portal, where installers can request collections via the benefits page to ensure waste is collected, tracked, and processed through approved recycling partners.

For more information about FENSA and how it can support your business’ growth, please visit www.fensa.org.uk or call 020 7645 3700.

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94 | product innovation | february 2026

Carl F Groupco adds Yale Fortify 3 Star Cylinder to door security range

L

eading independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has further enhanced its door security portfolio with the addition of the Yale Fortify TS007 3 Star Euro Profile Cylinder, delivering maximum protection against modern attack methods.

Commenting on the new product addition, John King, Technical Director at Carl F Groupco, said: “Security performance and compliance are critical considerations for today’s fabricators and installers. The Yale Fortify 3 Star Cylinder delivers outstanding protection has been independently tested by BSI and awarded the British Kitemarked TS007-1:2024 3 Star accreditation, providing the highest level of cylinder security available for residential door applications.”

Designed to defend against both traditional and emerging break-in techniques, the cylinder incorporates a dedicated central bridge for enhanced internal strength, along with advanced protection against snapping, bumping, picking, drilling and plug extraction. In the event of a snapping attack, the external section of the cylinder is designed to break

away safely while maintaining the integrity of the internal locking mechanism.

The cylinder’s security performance is supported by a combination of hardened steel anti-drill protection, specialised side pins for anti-bump resistance and a unique arrangement of tumbler and side pins to deter picking.

Designed for versatility across multiple door systems, the Yale Fortify TS007 3 Star Cylinder is suitable for PVC-U, timber,

composite and aluminium doors. It is available in double key-key, thumb-turn and paired alike options, making it ideal for single and French door applications.

Tested to EN1303 durability standards, the cylinder is designed for reliable longterm performance, even under heavy daily use. It is Secured by Design approved and supported by a 10-year mechanical guarantee, with the added reassurance of inclusion within Yale’s Lifetime Security Guarantee.

John added: “By adding the Yale Fortify 3 Star Cylinder to our range, we are giving customers access to a proven, highperformance security solution that meets the very latest industry standards and delivers genuine peace of mind for end users.”

The introduction of the Yale Fortify TS007 3 Star Euro Profile Cylinder further strengthens Carl F Groupco’s commitment to supplying tested, compliant and futureready security hardware. With a carefully considered product portfolio from almost 60 leading manufacturers, Carl F Groupco continues to support fabricators with choice, flexibility and expert technical guidance.

Five new foil colours from Deceuninck

D

eceuninck, has launched five new, premium-quality, foil colours, giving its fabricator-base a distinct competitive edge.

Beige Grey, Shine Beige, Shine Dark Graphite, Green Grey and Turner Malt Oak on white, will join Deceuninck’s leading foils offer on a promotional 14-day lead-time, with matching trickle vents and end caps also available.

Shine Dark Graphite, Green Grey, Beige Grey, and Shine Beige are available in smooth matt foils, suitable for use inside and out, are available as part of the sophisticated Conti mattex range from surface specialist, Continental.

Conti mattex foils achieve an ultra-matte appearance closely resembling powdercoated aluminium, with up to 10 years’ warranty on colourfastness and surface properties.

Turner Malt Oak, is available in a deep woodgrain.

The five new colours will form part of Deceuninck’s broader colour offer, which also includes more than 200 special foils and 350 different colourways, including single and dual colours.

Darren Woodcock, General Manager, Deceuninck, said: “These latest additions to our special foil range, available in just two weeks, reinforce our lead on colour.

“With most of our competitors’ customers having to wait significantly longer for special foils, our fabricators have a clear advantage, even when it comes to

single lengths, with no minimum order required,” he added.

Operating from its state-of-the-art foiling plant and 140,000ft2 warehouse for maximum stockholding of foiled profile, matching end caps, cills and ancillaries, Deceuninck currently offers more than 30 different colourways from stock, with a further 20 available in just 15 days.

“One in four UK windows and doors are colour and demand for colour is still rising strongly,” continues Darren.

“Colour sells because it’s popular with consumers, and we want to help our customers take advantage. Offering a wide range of colours on shorter lead times means our fabricators stand out against the competition and we’ll endeavour to evolve our offer to keep up with current trends and ultimately help our customers win more business.”

Tel: 01249 816 969 E: deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com

february 2026 | product innovation | 95

Axiom High Security Hinge added to independent suppliers portfolio

L

eading independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has further expanded its product portfolio with the addition of the Axiom High Security Hinge from Dynamic Hardware.

Commenting on the introduction, Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco, said: “The Axiom High Security Hinge is an impressive addition to our range. It is quick to install, highly adaptable and manufactured to perform at the highest levels. We are confident it will add real value to our customers’ door products.”

The patented Axiom High Security Hinge has been designed to integrate seamlessly with PVC-U door profiles. Installation is rapid and straightforward thanks to full adjustability across all planes, while left- and righthanded configurations can be switched in seconds. All adjustments are carried out

using a single 5mm Allen key, with just a 4mm drill bit required for preparation.

Manufactured from high-strength materials including aluminium, zinc alloys, steel and 304 stainless steel, the hinge delivers outstanding durability, corrosion resistance and long-term reliability.

It is available in 12 colour options to suit a wide range of door styles and finishes.

The quality of the hinge’s design and construction is underlined by its industry accreditations. It is PAS24:2022 compliant for both internal and external doors when tested as part of a complete door assembly and has achieved Secured by Design accreditation. In addition, it has been corrosion tested to BS EN 1670 and cycle tested to BS EN 1191 standards. A 10-year mechanical guarantee further reinforces its high-quality performance credentials.

The Axiom High Security Hinge is

available in 19mm and 21mm height options, with a range of hinge packers.

It can be supplied ready to install or in packaging formats suitable for high-volume manufacturing environments.

The addition of the Axiom High Security Hinge further strengthens Carl F Groupco’s offering of Dynamic Hardware products.

Owen added: “Dynamic Hardware products are all designed in-house by industry experts with a proven track record in intelligent hardware innovation - and it shows in the quality and performance of every product.”

Dynamic Hardware is one of almost 60 manufacturers stocked by Carl F Groupco.

By offering such a broad and carefully curated product range, the company ensures fabricators have access to the choice and flexibility demanded by today’s market. Combined with its commitment to providing expert technical and commercial advice, Carl F Groupco continues to demonstrate why it remains a trusted and valued hardware partner to the industry.

SL16 offers Part Q compliant integral blind solution for new builds

T

he slimline ScreenLine® SL16 system, which is exclusively available in the UK from Morley Glass, makes it possible for installers involved in new build housing designed to Part Q’s enhanced security requirements to provide windows and doors complete with Venetian integral blinds in standard PVCu frames – without having to go beyond a standard 28mm IGU. This ‘security plus integral blinds’ functionality in a single Uni-Blinds® unit is possible thanks to the slimmer design of the SL16, meaning it will fit comfortably within a 16mm cavity, rather than the 20mm cavity needed for standard sized integral blinds.

This could be a powerful sales proposition to residential developers who are increasingly looking to incorporate integral blinds into windows and doors that are at risk of opportunistic burglary, such as door vision panels and French doors.

Using the SL16, a 28mm IGU can be manufactured using a P1A security glass, which is usually an outer pane of 6.8mm toughened laminated glass, and a 4mm inner pane. The addition of an integral blind is additionally beneficial from a security perspective, given how they provide an easy and quick to use privacy solution that keeps prying eyes out.

The SL16’s recently expanded colour range also ensures the integral blinds can be specified to match contemporary window and door frame choices. For example, the

slimline Venetian blind slats are available in Agate Grey (S120), Anthracite (S159) and Black (B160) – three of the most ‘on trend’ colours amongst today’s window and door buyers, as well as classics such as White Beige (S125) and Grey (S155).

All new build residential developments must be built to all applicable Building Regulations, and that includes Part Q, or Approved Document Q, in England & Wales, but it does not cover most domestic refurbishment or extensions. Part Q applies to all easily accessible doors and windows, which is why they should be specified and manufactured to the PAS24 enhanced security standard.

Ian Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass, said: “With many window and door systems used in new build based on a 28mm IGU, the SL16 overcomes the challenge of ensuring Part Q compliance where the

property buyer would like integral blinds, such as in their French doors. And the great thing is, thanks to the increased range of colours and the upcoming launch of a brushless motorised version, the SL16MB, it is a system that is on a par with all our standard ScreenLine® systems in terms of style options and control choices.”

Under the terms of Part Q, an ‘easily accessible’ window is defined in one of two ways. Firstly, it could be a window where any part is within 2m vertically of an accessible level surface, i.e. the ground, basement level or balcony. The second definition is a window within 2m vertically of a flat or sloping roof with a pitch of less than 30° within 3.5m of the ground level.

In all these doors and windows, for a housebuilder to comply with Part Q, they are likely to require a P1A double or triple glazed unit. This is a security classification according to the European standard EN 356, which is demonstrated by withstanding a low level of impact. It is established by resisting three strikes from a 4.11 kg steel ball dropped from a height of 1500 mm in a triangle formation.

As with all the ScreenLine® integral blind systems manufactured by Morley Glass in its Uni-Blinds® range, the SL16 is made to order at its Yorkshire factory and supplied to customers with complimentary delivery in as little as 10-12 working days (from a cut-off order point at 10am every Thursday).

Find out more at www.morleyglass.co.uk

96 | product innovation | february 2026

Kenrick enhances AK Safe Secure with new automatic self-locking feature

K

enrick has further enhanced the functionality of its AK Safe Secure smart lock box with the introduction of a new automatic self-locking feature, designed to improve security, efficiency and peace of mind for facility managers.

The new auto-lock function ensures that AK Safe Secure automatically locks itself just three seconds after the door is closed, removing the need for manual locking and reducing the risk of human error on site or in busy property environments.

As access solutions continue to play a vital role in modern property management and construction workflows, reliability and ease of use are becoming just as important as physical strength and security. The autolock feature has been developed to support contractors and property managers who require dependable access control across multiple locations and users.

Andy Meakin, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kenrick, said: “The addition of automatic self-locking is a simple but highly effective enhancement to AK Safe Secure.

It ensures the lock box is never accidentally left unsecured, even in fast-paced working environments.

For contractors and property managers,

this means greater confidence that access points remain protected at all times.”

For contractors, the auto-lock feature helps streamline daily operations by removing an extra step from access management. Whether working on new builds, refurbishments or maintenance projects, users can close the door knowing the lock box will secure itself automatically,

helping to protect keys, fobs and access credentials on site.

Property managers also benefit from improved security and reduced risk across managed properties. With multiple users accessing buildings throughout the day, the automatic locking function helps ensure consistent security standards are maintained, supporting safer access control in residential, commercial and mixed-use developments.

The new feature complements AK Safe Secure’s existing smart capabilities, including remote access management, permissions control and real-time monitoring, further reinforcing its position as a practical and dependable smart access solution.

Built on Kenrick’s longstanding reputation for strength and reliability, AK Safe Secure continues to combine design strength with intelligent technology, delivering a solution that meets the evolving needs of today’s built environment.

As with all Kenrick products, the latest enhancement reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation, quality and user-focused design, ensuring customers can rely on products that are efficient and secure.

Securistyle unveils premium Sterling Advance Window Hinge

S

ecuristyle is proud to launch the Sterling Advance Window Hinge, a next-generation self-balancing hinge system with exceptional natural ventilation, superior weather sealing, and smooth, reliable operation for projecting top-hung windows.

As building envelope design continues to advance, higher performance standards are placing greater demands on glazed façades.

One notable shift is the requirement for enhanced thermal performance, which has led to glazing in opening lights being positioned further outboard rather than in the traditional inline location.

The Sterling Advance Window Hinge has been specifically developed to accommodate these offset glass positions. Engineered to deliver improved balance and optimised operating forces, it ensures smooth, reliable operation even in complex facade designs.

The system has been precisionengineered using advanced kinematic CAD simulation. This means that each hinge is custom-developed to meet the specific requirements of that project, ensuring superior operation, long-term performance, and design flexibility.

Constructed from Austenitic 304 stainless steel, the hinge provides

outstanding corrosion resistance and mechanical durability in even the harshest environments.

Richard Gurmin, Director and Head of Export – Fenestration at Securistyle, comments: “Our new Sterling Advance Window Hinge is exceptionally strong, safe, and smooth to use – making it ideal for fabricators and architects working on buildings that require a premium user experience with no compromise on durability.”

Further key features of the Sterling Advance Window Hinge include: • Suitable for top-hung vents up to 180kg and 2.5m in height • Adjustable maximum opening stop and optional cam adjustment device for precise onsite alignment • Available in standard and offset variants to suit 16–18mm hardware cavities • Asymmetric stainless steel end cap with plastic endpoint to eliminate metal-tometal contact and enhance durability • Composite stainless steel and plastic slider for improved strength and wear resistance

• Coated pivot rivets for superior longterm performance and reduced wear • Backed by a 12-year guarantee and full technical and sales support For more information on the new Sterling Advance Window Hinge from Securistyle, please visit https://www. securistyle.com/uk/en/products/windowhinges/sterling-advance/sterling-advance.

february 2026 | product innovation | 97

Heritage Trade Frames fits Ultion 3 Star cylinder as standard on all doors

H

eritage Trade Frames is now fitting the Ultion 3 Star cylinder with ALPS (Always Locked Protection System) technology as standard across its entire door range, giving customers a premium security upgrade on every installation.

By making the Ultion 3 Star cylinder part of its standard door specification, the Bolton-based fabricator is delivering a strong, clearly defined selling point that helps installers stand out in competitive markets while offering homeowners one of the highest levels of door security available.

Lee Darcy, Sales and Marketing Manager at Heritage Trade Frames, said: “Security remains a major priority for homeowners.

By fitting the Ultion 3 Star cylinder as standard across all our doors, we’re giving our customers an immediate advantage. It’s a genuine upgrade that strengthens their offer without adding complexity to the sale.”

The Ultion 3 Star cylinder is designed to protect against all common break-in methods, including thermal manipulation and twist attacks, areas where many standard 3 Star cylinders offer little or no protection.

Lee added: “Most 3 Star cylinders focus on snapping, picking, bumping and drilling.

Ultion goes further, adding dedicated protection against thermal and twist attacks, which makes it capable of deterring even the

most determined intruder.”

Reflecting its advanced design and performance, the Ultion 3 Star cylinder has achieved Sold Secure Diamond 2024 accreditation and meets the latest TS0071:2024 security standard.

The upgrade builds on Heritage Trade Frames’ already strong security credentials.

The company was also among the first UK fabricators to offer smart-enabled Yale SensCheck-compatible hardware as standard across its door and window ranges, enabling homeowners to monitor security remotely via the Yale Smart Living Home App, enhancing protection, customer

experience and market positioning.

Lee commented: “With nearly seven in ten burglaries taking place during the working week, smart monitoring adds real value. Being able to check door status from anywhere gives homeowners greater peace of mind.”

As one of the largest and most trusted trade fabricators in the North West, Heritage Trade Frames continues to invest in meaningful innovation that delivers a measurable competitive advantage. Making the Ultion 3 Star cylinder standard across its door range is a further demonstration of that commitment.

PST’s vsHome software streamlines design and quoting for installers

A

s businesses look for smarter ways of working in the new year, Production Software Technology (PST) is encouraging installers to take a closer look at vsHome. PST offers a free 14-day trial of its all-in-one sales, surveying and visualisation tool, designed specifically with installers in mind.

With simple drag-and-drop tools, designs can be created in minutes. Installers can quickly adjust sizes, swap styles and explore different configurations without the usual technical barriers, helping customers clearly

visualise how their finished product will look. vsHome goes beyond conservatories.

Many installers are surprised by the wide variety of projects the software can handle, including solid roofs, orangeries, garden buildings, pergolas, louvres, windows and doors. By supporting multiple product types in one platform, teams can generate quotes across different product lines using a single piece of software. This saves time, improves accuracy and deliver a consistent and professional experience for customers.

vsHome also integrates with PST’s augmented reality app, VisiRoom, allowing installers to share proposed designs that customers can view on their phone or tablet.

Homeowners can place full-scale 3D models onto their own property, adding clarity and confidence to the decision-making process.

Installers interested in seeing how vsHome can transform their sales process are invited to book a free 14-day trial. To find out more or arrange a demonstration, contact PST today and experience the software first hand.

98 | movers and shakers | february 2026

Safeware has announced the appointment of Charlotte Maynard-Keene as Business Development Manager, strengthening its commercial team at a time of continued year-on-year growth for the business.

Charlotte will be a familiar face to many across the fenestration industry, having worked in hardware for more than a decade.

Widely recognised for her infectious personality and genuine passion for the sector, she brings extensive experience across both traditional hardware and the rapidly evolving smart home space.

Commenting on the appointment, Rob Hartill, Commercial Director at Safeware, said: “We are delighted to welcome Charlotte to Safeware. Her energy, experience and passion for hardware make her a fantastic addition to the team.

“Having worked with Charlotte before, I know the talent and drive she brings, and her appointment comes at the perfect time as Safeware continues to see strong yearon-year growth. She will be instrumental in helping us build even closer relationships with our customers.”

Window Supply Company (WSC), one of the UK’s fastest growing manufacturers of PVC -Uwindows, doors and composite doors, has appointed Kevin Harvey as its new MD. The appointment marks a key milestone in WSC’s long term strategy to strengthen its position as a leading supplier to the UK trade, commercial, and public & energy sectors. In his new role, Kevin will lead the implementation of WSC’s business strategy in line with the board’s growth ambitions. He brings extensive leadership experience across the building products and manufacturing sectors, with a strong track record in commercial transformation and scaling high growth organisations. Kevin has held leadership roles at several leading brands within the UK fenestration sector, notably Bristant Secure and Future Products, enhancing his reputation as a strategic leader with a proven ability to drive growth.

Kevin said: “Window Supply Company has built a strong reputation for quality, service and innovation. I’ve long admired what the business has achieved in a short period of time.”

Tradeglaze has appointed Jonathon Price as Head of Production, strengthening its manufacturing leadership as the business continues to support a growing number of trade, commercial and domestic customers across the East Midlands. Jonathon leads PVC-U and aluminium production at the Lincoln-based fabricator and installer of premium glazing solutions, taking responsibility for output, quality assurance and continuous improvement across the company’s production facilities. Jonathon succeeds Kenny King, who retired at the end of 2025 after 16 years with the business. Kenny was instrumental in designing Tradeglaze’s current production layout, implementing structured workflows and successfully guiding the business through multiple machinery upgrades and operational challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic. Jonathon said: “Tradeglaze already has strong systems in place, and my role is to build on that by further stepping up quality assurance processes.”

Bel’M Entrance Doors has appointed Jacqueline Shepherd as its new sales representative for GB North and Ireland, strengthening its presence across key regional markets. Shepherd joined the business in early January and brings more than two decades of experience in sales, service and management roles within the windows and doors sector, having worked in the industry since 2004. In her new role, Shepherd will be responsible for developing relationships with both existing and prospective customers, supporting partners across northern England, Scotland and Ireland, and promoting the company’s extensive portfolio of entrance door solutions. Commenting on her appointment, Shepherd said she was excited to join the sales team and looked forward to working closely with customers to discuss product opportunities and arrange meetings in the coming months. Bel’M said the appointment underlines its commitment to regional customer support and welcomed Shepherd to the team as it continues to expand its footprint in GB and Ireland.

Dan Bowler has joined Metal Technology in the role of Business Development Manager / Architectural Advisor. Dan has 18 years of industry experience, having previously worked for system houses in specification and fabricator support roles.

He brings with him a wealth of technical and commercial insight and will be a valuable asset to the external sales team.

In his role Dan will be covering the South West of England and South Wales, further strengthening the company’s already strong presence in the region. Jim AlderseyWilliams said: “Dan brings strong technical knowledge and is a great character. He has slotted seamlessly into Metal Technology and will be a real enhancement to both the role and the wider sales team.” Dan added: “I’m pleased to have joined a forward-thinking firm with great products and industry-leading service levels. The team here have been fantastic and made the first few weeks easy. I’m relishing the opportunity and look forward to being in touch with Metal Technology’s fabricators, architects and main contractors.”

Glazpart has confirmed the appointment of Tamás Bareith as Finance Director, taking responsibility for the senior financial management of the Glazpart Group Tamás has operated as Glazpart’s Company Accountant since 2023, playing a pivotal part during a period of financial growth and significant investment in manufacturing resources.

On his appointment, Tamás commented: “I am delighted to be appointed Finance Director and I look forward to continuing working with the senior management team and growing the Glazpart Group further.”

Following Tamás’ appointment, Glazpart has appointed Karen Hart as Financial Manager.

Glazpart are plastic injection moulders with an enviable reputation. Glazpart offers a full service to facilitate customer’s individual needs from concept and design through to tooling and manufacturing.

Supplying accessories to the glazing and fenestration industries, Glazpart offer their customers a “cradle to grave” design and manufacturing service.

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Visofold 1000 Aluminium Bi-Fold

now with Quick-glaze bead

SPECIAL PRICING OFFER

51.5

46 17

UN3160G

CALL NOW FOR DETAILS

82

*Applies to new and existing customers.

DV220G DV19G DV1 *

12 31

55.5

11 97.5

Call us now for enquiries

01296 668899 sales@garrardwindows.co.uk

www.garrardwindows.co.uk

*6 day delivery applies only to our standard stocked colours