Glass News October 2012

Issue 19 | October 2012The UK’s Only Industry Newspaper

TRADE NEWS – PAGE 24 OPPORTUNITIES IN DOORS – PAGE 46 WORKING WITH COLOUR – PAGE 55High performance acoustic and joint sealing at a new timber school block in Essex have been provided following the specification of ISO-Chemie’s advanced foam sealant technology.

Phoenix Door Panels has revised its County Collection Composite Door Brochure to include additional product information in line with its policy of continued improvement.

Prefix Systems has recently expanded its foiled options to 10 with the recent introduction of Anteak, which is one of the most popular options for the Residence 9 system.

Who reads us? Window, Door, Roof Fabricators & Installers, IGU Manufacturers & all who are associated with glass & glazing.

There is no question that the British commercial sector has faced severe strain. However, despite the seemingly proficient attempts by the Treasury and Government to take swift action and deliver unprecedented support to the UK business region; it is now evident that there is far more to be done before strength is regained.

In an official announcement; the British Chamber of Commerce has declared that the next eighteen months are set to be the most crucial for businesses throughout the nation, with a prediction of a 0.4 per cent contradiction in GDP for the year.

The economy remains locked in a damaging, double dip recession and despite an estimated growth prediction of 0.5 per cent by the BCC;

there is still a minimalist growth outcome for the coming year leaving those in the commercial sector stranded and again facing continuing difficulty. For business owners, managing finances and remaining on top of commercial mortgage repayments is now, more than ever, a highly crucial factor.

A WEAK ECONOmy fOR THE NExT 18 mONTHS; ARE BUSINESS OWNERS DOING ENOUGH TO SAfEGUARD THEIR fUTURE?

The forthcoming eighteen months will no doubt be the somewhat deciding months for the longevity of businesses within the nation and thus vigilance and sound advice is a must.

The Prime Minister and Chancellor George Osborne are facing severe pressure to secure the safety and strength of the UK economy

however Company Directors and business managers must now take the safety of their commercial future into their own hands.

It is a matter of urgency that our economy be restored and only we as its people can take swift action.

“The forthcoming eighteen months will no doubt be the, somewhat deciding months for the longevity of businesses within the nation and thus vigilance and sound advice is a must.”

2 October 2012 – The UK’s Only Industry Newspaper www.glasspeople.co.uk

3October 2012 – The UK’s Only Industry Newspaper www.glasspeople.co.uk

As the cold nights draw in and Christmas is fast approaching, many of you are focussing heavily on the next couple of months, ensuring sales figures match or exceed last years results.

Now is a crucial time. To fall at the last hurdle is not an option! Many business owners are so engrossed in running their business, they forget or have lost focus on their objective. Increasing sales is a must – and to do this, you need new customers…

For those of you who are lucky enough to have been chosen as finalists for the forthcoming G12 Awards, there is plenty for you to shout about. For those of you who win, further publicity options lay ahead.

But what of the rest of you? Marketing is key to a successful business. I often visit

customers and deal with a huge number of companies within our industry. The businesses who consistently market themselves, it would seem, are the most successful. There is always something to shout about!

This too applies to investment and on going training procedures. Invest in your equipment, your people and your environment and you invest in your own strengths and are able to capitalise upon this.

Ecobuild isn’t far away (March 2013). The FIT Show will soon be here (April 2013). Take the opportunity to see what is out there and look at new products and ways of diversifying.

Explore growth options and new ideas. Go and meet your suppliers. If you are exhibiting, make sure you tell your customers!

Don’t dread new legislation, embrace it! Educate yourself and your customers, to the changes in energy efficiency. Show them savings not costs!

Advertising isn’t the only option for you to create awareness of your brand. Why not talk to a professional advertising agency or marketing company? There are lots to choose from within our industry, so you will find the right one for you. Use press releases and online marketing to back up an ad campaign. In short, use every resource there is available to you, and more importantly, make sure you get across your unique selling point, and have a reason for someone to pick up the phone and call you!

first impressions count!

If you need any help or ideas on how to promote your business, or would like to see a list of professional agencies, please email me and I will endeavour to provide as much information as you require.

Got Something To Say?

Email us at: [email protected]

4 Trade News

45 Opportunities In Doors

50 Environmental Issues

54 Working With Colour

56 Recruitment

62 Glass People

63 forward Thinking fabricators

63 Letters

64 Time Out!

65 The Thoughts of The Basman

66 find A Supplier

CONTENTS:

Publisher & Owner: Christina Shaw E: [email protected] Tel: 01302 246122 Mob: 07805 051322

Editorial & Press Release Enquiries: Christina Shaw E: [email protected] Tel: 01302 246122 Mob: 07805 051322

Graphic Design: hook-a-duck

With thanks to our contributors: Daniel Basden, Andrew Scott, Publicity Seekers, Windowlink

Deadline for copy: 28th of each month

glassnews™ is a registered Trademark.

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

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

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ARE yOUR SALES fIGURES AS GOOD AS LAST yEAR? mAyBE IT’S TImE TO REVIEW!

Last months crossword solution

September Winners!

Sudoku: Brian Davison, Hemel Hempstead

Crossword: P Baker, Somerset

Spot The Difference: Nigel Porter, Tyne & Wear

Eye Spy: Mr Peter Davies, Carwgan

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

Sit down with a cuppa, relax & unwind with your very own industry newspaper!

TRADE NEWS


Improved air and weather tight sealing for new windows and doors being installed as part of a North East social housing refurbishment project is provided by ISO Chemie’s high performance sealant technology.

The company’s ISO-CONNECT Vario SD humidity regulating and airtight foil has been specified by property management firm South Tyneside Homes for its ‘Decent Homes’ regeneration scheme at Harton Moor estate in South Shields, Tyneside.

Dozens of properties there and throughout the borough of South Tyneside are being modernised to provide a package of energy improvement measures which will enable tenants to reduce their fuel bills and cut carbon emissions.

Throckley–based double glazing manufacturers and installers Warmseal is supplying hundreds of pre-fabricated BFRC energy rated and British standard accredited windows and doors to site before installing with the Vario SD foil to provide rapid and high performance sealing of the frame connecting joints.

ISO-CONNECT Vario SD provides ‘intelligent’ humidity control and airtight benefits for the home improvement scheme which

sees external insulation cladding, new kitchens, bathrooms and electrical wiring, heating systems and roofing also being installed.

The foil comes from a new generation of window sealing products which not only adapt to seasonal variations but also provide an excellent external weather seal that surpasses the current, and proposed, UK Building Regulations for air tightness in domestic and commercial buildings when used as an internal seal. As well as sealing against wind driven rain to hurricane forces.

Designed to last the lifetime of the windows the ISO-CONNECT Vario SD comes in a variety of widths and adhesive variations which features a high quality acrylic adhesive to bond to the window profile.

Product can be supplied either with a pre-applied butyl adhesive to bond to the building substrate, or left plain, and is part of the ISO3 3-level sealing system, which comes with a 10 year guarantee.

More than 5,500 metres ISO-CONNECT Vario SD has been supplied so far to support the new windows and doors installation programme.

Ian Glenister, quality manager for Warmseal, said: “ISO-CONNECT Vario

SD is a very good product, which was directly specified for the project to provide a high performance sealing solution.

“It’s easy to use and quick to install; and meets all the requirements of the Decent Homes scheme in terms of environmental and energy saving qualities and benefits.”

ISO-Chemie is one of Europe’s main producers of impregnated foam sealants, specialising in the manufacturer of foam products from polyethylene (EPE), polypropylene (EPP) and polyurethane (PUR) using the latest production techniques.

The company’s UK technical and distribution operation is based in the North East of England, supported by a dedicated logistics service to ensure customer orders are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible (usually next-day delivery). More at www.iso-chemie.co.uk or email [email protected]. Tel: 01207 566874.

ISO Chemie’s sealant tape has been specified for windows and doors being installed as part of a North East social housing refurbishment project.

NORTH EAST ‘DECENT HOmES’ REfURBISHmENT SPECIfIES ISO CHEmIE North Western Lead (NWL)

is exhibiting on Stand E21 in Hall 9 at this year’s Glasstec trade show. The company has exhibited more than a dozen times at this leading international trade fair, which is being held in Düsseldorf, Germany, from 23 to 26 October.

NWL will be unveiling an exciting new colour of powder coated lead - Rustic Copper. The new colour has received a wave of interest from international customers, particularly those in Eastern Europe.

NWL will be showing a wide selection of innovative products and application demonstrations throughout the show. They will also be displaying some stunning and creative decorative panels, including a bright red London bus, which capture the spirit of London and the Olympics in 2012.

The company’s recently extended collection of more than 500 film products, which includes the Spectrum Film, Decra Glow and Rainbow Film ranges will also be on show. Especially popular with the overseas market, NWL’s Spectrum films are 75 microns thick and are ideal for customers who prefer slightly thicker films. The range now includes some 300 plain and effect films, making it one of the most extensive ranges available today. The films are created using NWL’s highly automated printing process, which not only makes them available on realistic lead times, but also very competitively priced.

A collection of new Decra Led® bevels will also be on show. The range of bevel clusters and shapes features the classic thin edge bevels for which the company has

become well known. The range is supported by a brand new 36 page brochure, which once again features the “Easy Bevel Finder”. With its unique bevel design reference, it makes choosing bevels really simple.

Stephen Hart, managing director of NWL, says: “We are delighted to be exhibiting once again at this major industry show. Despite tough trading conditions for many, our export business continues to develop well and we have superb collection of products to show. From films to fused tiles and bevels to lead, our range is one of the most extensive in the industry. Developed to satisfy both the UK and overseas customer, every product in the range combines quality and durability with ease of application to help our customers maximise their profits.”

North Western Lead Co (Hyde) Ltd was established in 1946 and is a leading supplier of decorative glass overlay products, including glass bevels, self adhesive strip lead, film and fused tiles. The company’s flagship product - Decra Led® - is a self adhesive lead strip. Manufactured from ingot lead which has been specially selected to produce a polished even finish with clean cut edges, Decra Led® provides consistent malleability for ease of working on all designs.

Tel: 0161 368 4491 www.decraled.co.uk

NWL AT GLASSTEC 2012

This could be the latest advertising tag line from Rochford double glazing company, Thermoshield, after Sales & marketing manager Paul Standen was invited to take his clothes off at the Palace Theatre, Westcliff!

Leigh Operatic and Dramatic Society are putting on the American stage musical version of “The Full Monty” and were stuck for a character to play “Horse.”

A member of the society knew that Paul had recently sung “Carmina Burana”

with the Eastwood Chorale and also sang with the British Beach Boys. He approached Paul to see if he fancied having a go.

Paul said “Ken asked me if I could act, as they were looking for a character who looked like me. I remember

saying “What, fat and coloured?” Ken blushed a bit and said, “Well, yes!” I told him I had never really acted but was willing to give it a go and then he dropped the bomb shell “Oh, by the way, you have to get your kit off!”

Paul said that the rest of the cast had been extremely supportive and he was having a great time, although he couldn’t see himself taking his clothes off for a living! The play runs at the popular Westcliff venue from 24th

– 27th October and has already sold over 1600 tickets for the 6 scheduled performances. The banner outside, showing the male cast in nothing but hard hats, has already caused a stir in the local area!

THERmOSHIELD WINDOWS – WE HAVE NOTHING TO HIDE!


TRADE NEWS


A fourth hall has been added to The fIT Show as demand for stand space continues, with hardware giant maco the first to choose a stand in the new area.

Around 90% of stand space in the original three halls was sold by June, despite the plan being extended within weeks of the event’s launch. With just a handful of stands remaining on the original floorplan the the decision has been taken to open up a fourth hall, offering approximately 700 metres2 net of additional exhibition space. Maco is the first to take space, choosing a substantial stand in the new facility over the remaining stands on the original floorplan.

Matthew Glover, Managing Director of The FIT Show explained that enquiries are still being taken for stand space from all sides of the industry: “When we decided to organise The FIT Show we had to start from scratch. The last successful show for the glass and glazing industry took place years earlier since when the

industry and markets had undergone huge changes. We therefore sat down and worked out who we thought would join us but as word has spread demand has completely outstripped our original calculations. We have the well-known names and also dozens of new exhibitors joining us; the industry has really taken The FIT Show to its heart.”

In addition to further stand space The FIT Theatre has been located in Hall 4, for

which a programme of events is planned including GlassTalk ‘On the Couch’ sessions during which key issues will be discussed by experts and the audience. The FIT Theatre will also be the home of a series of sales seminars presented by renowned sales guru Paul Clifton, with other content to be announced.

One of the two FIT Bar-Cafés serving the event will also be located alongside Halls 1 and 4 providing

food, a bar and a superb networking space, the other located at the entrance to Hall 3.

The extended floorplan can be viewed on The FIT Show web site at http://www.fitshow.co.uk/floorplan.

The FIT Show will take place at The Telford International Centre, Telford, on 16th, 17th and 18th April 2013.

For more information go to www.fitshow.co.uk.

fOURTH HALL ADDED AS fIT SHOW DEmAND fOR STANDS CONTINUES: mACO fIRST TO SIGN

BBC business news has reported that small firms are struggling to raise the money they need to expand. Businesses want to invest and grow but they need a helping hand to do so.

This hand doesn’t necessarily have to be a traditional bank. A survey carried out by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) found that 42% of companies are turned down for loans. However, Mark Norden, owner of Nordens Chartered Accountants and Strategic Business Advisors, points out that the report is misleading. “The majority of small business owners that we work with are not approaching the banks to raise finance as they expect to be turned down. Instead, they are trying to improve control of their businesses and - in particular - cash flow, so that the business operates more efficiently. This leads to their companies growing

at a slower, but steady pace, and the controlled growth allows them to build more profitable businesses of more substance."

FSB recognises that lenders continue to provide credit, and they help customers to find alternative sources of funding. Mark agrees: “Considering the Bank of England's support through quantitative easing, it's disgraceful that the banks still aren't lending; however we are definitely seeing more small companies becoming substantial. We work with a number of organisations who provide finance so, if the company is viable, there is always an affordable alternative to the banks.”

Nordens provides advice on all aspects of business planning, tax planning and accountancy - and they’re happy to offer a free initial consultation.

Call Mark or a member of his team on 0208 530 0720, or email [email protected].

SmALL BUSINESSES STRUGGLING TO RAISE fINANCE IS mISLEADING

Pearl has recently announced its charity selection for 2013, 10 riders will embark on part of the top to bottom road cycle trip with a twist.

The intention is to ride from Bolton to Lands End and back to Bolton (746 miles) over a week in June 2013.

There is also discussion of a second stint from Bolton to John O’Groats and back to Bolton linked as part of the challenge, (dates TBC a further 958 miles).

Jeff Walsh thought up the ride in February this year with a chosen charity of Children In Need, based on a similar theme from last years ride

which saw the C2C raise over £36,000 for St Marys Hospice in memory of Jeff’s father who passed away in February 2011.

The riders will be selling advertising space on their back up vehicle together with sponsorship on the riders team kit. A bespoke web page will be set up providing updates for training and donations along the way all of which will be confirmed shortly.

PEARL’S CHARITy SELECTION fOR 2013

No less than 99.6% of the 1,137 jobs that Conservatory Outlet delivered in August were delivered On-Time In-full during a best-ever month for the West yorkshire-based fabricator.

This figure equates to more than 5,000 products – including frames, roofs, composite doors and glass - which were delivered to 22 Conservatory Outlet dealers using Conservatory Outlet’s own fleet of vehicles which regularly travel to customers between one and four times each week. Conservatory Outlet’s transport department, headed by Manager Dave Lucas, must now coordinate deliveries ranging from Scotland to the Isle of Wight and Wales to the East Midlands of England; such is the vast geographical spread of the Conservatory Outlet Network of Dealers.

The OTIF performance also serves as testament to the production

department which must ensure that every product is ready for its scheduled delivery date; an achievement which is made even more impressive considering that Conservatory Outlet is now fabricating two window systems and two types of composite door, following the introduction of Residence 9 windows and doors earlier this year, and Solidor composite doors in 2011.

Included in the August OTIF statistics was a 100% week during which every one of the 221 jobs delivered was On-Time In-Full, despite this month being a peak time for staff holidays.

‘First and foremost it’s important that deliveries are faultless for our customers, so that their business is not affected by a mistake further up the supply chain,’ said Greg Kane, Conservatory Outlet Sales Director.

But when we’re travelling hundreds of miles to make deliveries it’s important for us to get it right, first time, so that the margin made is not lost by having to make extra deliveries to rectify mistakes.’

The capacity of both the production and transport departments at Conservatory Outlet has been increased this year with the acquisition of an URBAN SV800 production line and the addition of another commercial vehicle to the fleet.

CONSERVATORy OUTLET RIGHT ON TImE


TRADE NEWS


The future of PVC-U, meet a Green Deal ‘Provider’ and networking with industry professionals in the industry’s most powerful format

GlassTalk, in its fifth consecutive year, returns in November 2012 in a brand new format and set to tackle two of the most compelling issues the glazing industry has to face: the future of PVC-U against demands for greater sustainability; and the Green Deal ‘Providers’ and how to get to them.

The focus of GlassTalk 2012 will as ever be on networking, providing the opportunity to meet other industry professionals with common goals and interests. But this year the organisers have introduced a new format in which delegates will discuss the topics presented as part of the programme and directed to produce feedback for policy makers.

Brand New Group Discussions

To keep GlassTalk fresh the organisers have created a brand new format to ensure new contacts are made amongst people with like-minds and similar focus and working together towards common goals for the industry. Following presentations by acknowledged experts, including representatives of the British Plastics Federation and a top Green Deal Provider, the speakers will be invited to sit ‘On the Couch’ for open discussion between guests and delegates.

The audience will then be invited to join discussion groups during which common objectives will be discussed. The format will ensure that common interests will be discussed without individuals ‘grandstanding’ or dominating the networking.

“There are a number of objectives we wish to achieve through the new format for GlassTalk,” explained Jon Twigge, director of GlassTalk. “Delegates may simply listen to and learn from the presentations made; but to gain the most from attending we want everyone to join in, to make their views heard and then to join together in a common voice, one that will have real resonance amongst policy makers.”

Brand New Networking format

If you have been to GlassTalk before you will have met a lot of people. To ensure that you meet even more people who have what you are looking for we are building on the success of the original GlassTalk networking sessions with a completely new format that puts you in charge.

The future of PVC-U Glazing

Two key subjects have been chosen as the core for presentation, discussion and debate at GlassTalk 2012. The morning sessions will look at The Future of PVC-U Glazing against a backdrop of increasing numbers of local authorities and private homeowners who demand true sustainability in their properties. Working closely with expert speakers from the British Plastics Federation GlassTalk 2012 will discuss PVC-U and Sustainability, looking at the future opportunities for the UK’s predominant framing material, but also the threats posed by customer demands for greater sustainability and apathy and unwillingness to change from within the industry. We will consider the pros and cons of recycling post consumer frames, offering the experience of others in the real world and considering whether the industry has time to wait for legislation to force the issue, or if it should take the initiative. And in the final discussion of the morning sessions, the opportunities and issues facing the PVC-U replacement window industry in conservation areas will be addressed and discussed, with advice on how planning and regulatory objections can be overcome.

Green Deal or No Deal

The Green Deal is now characterised by a lack of clarity and especially just how the window industry can benefit from it. The future of the Green Deal appears to be in the hands of ‘Providers’; but just how are they reached and who makes the decisions at these apparently all-powerful companies? GlassTalk 2012 has decided to find out by inviting a Green Deal Provider to come and tell delegates how it works from their point of view; if there are real opportunities to be had by the window industry or will it make the fortunes of a few.

GlassTalk 2012 delegates will have the opportunity to hear real answers away from the spin-doctors and politicians and then to discuss the key issues amongst themselves and with the speakers.

Book NOW to take part in the Future of the Window Industry at: www.glasstalk.co.uk/book-now

GLASSTALK 2012: NEW fORmAT PROmOTES NETWORKING WITH A REAL-WORLD fOCUS

“To gain the most from attending we want everyone to join in, to make their views heard and then to join together in a common voice.”

Just released, the Annual PVC Roofline Products Industry Report from independent specialists D&G Consulting is the most up to date study on the current health of and prognosis for our market.

Detailing the actual performance of the PVC roofline sector for 2011, this comprehensive 100-page report is packed with detail, figures, analysis and forecasts to 2015 on volumes and values for PVC roofline products (PVC-UE cellular foam profile; PVC-U twin wall hollow soffit; and PVC-U Rainwater products).

Importantly during this period of industry consolidation, this latest report covers the cellular foam profile industry in detail including production, export and consumption volumes by individual company.

David Amos, Principal of D&G Consulting comments: “While it may not make uplifting reading, this latest report certainly makes vital reading. As the market in the UK and the Republic of Ireland (ROI) for PVC roofline products continues to suffer from the effects of saturation and the current recession, it becomes ever more competitive.

“The demand for quality market information and forecasts by systems companies, their suppliers, and distributors therefore

is no less crucial now than when the market peaked. The forecast through to 2015 for the industry is cautiously encouraging in the longer term but less so in the short term. However the roofline industry remains an important and substantial part of the plastics construction industry sector with an annual turnover close to £250 million and increasing.

“Thanks to our forecasting model that uses construction industry and economic forecasts along with comprehensive interviews with in the UK and Ireland, we predict that by the end of 2012, we’ll see a reduction in the volume of roofline products of 1.2%, followed by a slow growth by 2014.

“Although we expect a very modest recovery to take place during the forecast

period, there are several areas that companies looking for growth should be considering. For example, the market value of PVC rainwater products and twin wall hollow soffit in particular is estimated to rise from £122 million in 2012 to £143million by 2015 – if, and it is a big if, new house building and non housing construction in the UK pick up pace as predicted. The report provides these insights. We are conscious that in today’s business environment, companies, institutions, accountants and banks are requiring more details and while it may be easier to bury your head in the sand or just take a guess at future trends, being armed with accurate and comprehensive information will give your business the best tools for survival and even growth, despite market conditions.”

The cost of the report is £2,350 (£2,000 to existing customers). All purchasers receive a free update to the forecast section in the autumn and following spring. The reports are sent by email. D&G Consulting are happy to visit and discuss the report and help you present the data in a format useful for individual businesses and stakeholders.

Call D&G Consulting now on 01424 773134 or visit www.dandgconsulting.co.uk to order your copy.

D&G CONSULTING’S ANNUAL PVC ROOfLINE INDUSTRy (UK & REPUBLIC Of IRELAND) mARKETS & fORECASTS 2015: AVAILABLE NOW

“While it may be easier to bury your head in the sand or just take a guess at future trends, being armed with accurate and comprehensive information will give your business the best tools for survival.”


TRADE NEWS


In a continued tough economic climate, SmEs need funding in order to survive and grow and are not aware of the range of funding resources available. New research of 1,000 UK SmEs from Hitachi Capital Invoice finance unearthed SmEs attitudes and how they really feel about the state of funding available, and most importantly who they trust to keep their business on track.

The new research, commissioned to launch Hitachi Capital’s new simplified Inspired Cashflow offer, signals that the nation’s SMEs are heading back to the days of money under the mattresses and loans from family and friends, rather than putting trust into their bank manager to look after their finances. It appears views and ways of working have gone back in time over recent years, as only 21% said they would trust advice from their bank manager, compared with the majority seeking help from their Accountant (43%) which came out top, then their Lawyer or Independent Financial Adviser.

John Atkinson, Head of Commercial Business at Inspired Cashflow, part of Hitachi Capital Invoice Finance, said: “We are in a very different business environment at the moment, not only are economic times tough, but our faith in the banks is at an all time low. This has created a difficult situation for businesses as companies don’t know where to turn, and because 43% of SMEs surveyed admit that cash flow is either a current problem or has been in the past year for them, it’s hard to hear that one fifth of those admit that their banks weren’t any help in solving this issue.”

“It seems many SMEs don’t even know the name of their own bank manager, and since a lot of business is done online, there is no personal attachment or face-to-face interaction like there used to be. Complicated online processes and fees from banks and service providers can lead to companies making the wrong choices and the misunderstanding of how services in the market work, such as invoice finance. It’s scary to see that nearly half of SMEs are sourcing finance from secured loans (20%), bank overdrafts (17%) and even credit cards (12%) – all of which are expensive methods of finance for SMEs – instead of opting for cost effective and simple means. And what’s even more worrying is that other sources including, friends, family, life savings and selling assets were used by nearly 28% to increase finance and cash flow for their business.”

“These issues with banks and SMEs gaining funding are nothing new – but continue to be concerning as many SMEs aren’t aware of the range of finance options available, such as the access to invoice finance services.”

“This is something we at Inspired Cashlow are trying to address, especially since over 50% of SMEs have never heard of Invoice Finance before and don’t understand how it works. The launch of new products such as, Inspired Cashflow, aim to shake up the market and lay everything on the line with a simple honest and cost effective approach for businesses to free up cashflow from their balance sheets.”

For more information please visit www.inspiredcashflow.co.uk or call the team on 08081 635 394.

ARE SmES DIVORCING THEIR BANK mANAGERS?

It’s true to say that some businesses are having a tough time at the moment. The economic crisis is taking its toll as we see companies falter and on occasions close the doors permanently. An all too common reaction is the failure to invest in new products as companies are reluctant to expose their fragile cash flow to new product lines and markets.

This cannot be said about Lister Trade Frames of Stoke on Trent who have this month welcomed to their portfolio, the Internorm range of windows and doors.

Internorm has a history spanning an incredible 81 years and has established themselves as the key players in the UPVC, UPVC/Aluminium and Timber/Aluminium composite window and door systems arena. Originating in Austria, Internorm looks for forward thinking companies with which to partner in the UK and become a specialist dealer with.

“We have a reputation that we were obviously eager to maintain so we couldn’t simply partner with the first company that showed interest,” remarked Andreas Simmer, Internorm’s UK Managing Director, “we had to be secure in the knowledge that the company we worked with could do justice to the Internorm brand.”

With this in mind, Internorm was delighted to welcome Listers to the fold. And Listers were just as excited to be part of their network.

“Being able to offer the Internorm range as part of our portfolio is a huge boost to our business and to our ability to service a much wider market,” said Phil Warren, Listers Sales Director. “The Internorm product is a high-end range of windows and doors that provide top levels of thermal efficiency and sound proofing thanks to options such as triple glazing and Aluminium cladding. Offering Internorm has given us the opportunity to supply to a completely new customer base.”

It’s clear that Listers like Internorm are intent on growing their businesses despite the recession and they are investing in new product ranges and partnerships to make this happen.

“We are happy to welcome Lister Trade Frames to join our Partner Network and become a specialist dealer for Internorm UK. Lister Trade Frames have been in the industry for 36 years and are well known amongst architects, specifiers and customers. They have great potential and we trust they will grow with Internorm’s ongoing success,” said Andreas.

“We can’t afford to stand still and simply exist,” said Phil. “If you do that, you start to go backwards and lose business. We’re looking into the future with Internorm, and an even more successful business.”

www.listertf.co.uk @ListerTF Tel: 01782 391900

LOOKING INTO THE fUTURE WITH INTERNORm

Internorm UK mD, Andreas Simmer and Phil Warren. Listers Sales Director.

Zoom Ready has reached the finals of the G12 Awards for ‘Promotional Trade Campaign of the year’.

Zoom has an active promotional campaign which includes regular PR, advertising, direct mail, new brochures and POS, and a new website. Chairman Martin Randall says: “We’re thrilled to be shortlisted for the G12 Awards. The event is a prestigious milestone in the industry’s calendar. We’ve worked hard to create a dynamic, fresh campaign to catapult Zoom into the spotlight. It’s fantastic to get recognition for Zoom and I’d also like to congratulate the other finalists.”

Visit www.zoomroom.co.uk or call 0845 305 4138.

ZOOm READy IS A G12 fINALIST!

Crystal’s latest advert is raising smiles – it features the Quality Control department dressed in bee costumes! The advert is part of a wider campaign showing Crystal’s light-hearted side. But there’s a serious message behind the campaign – Crystal offers the best choice of top quality products and the best service.

Crystal’s Sales Director Matthew Burt captured the making of this new campaign in a series of behind the scenes photos. Matthew was also happy to join in on the fun by donning a party hat and streamers for his very own advert.

Matthew says: “We had a good laugh making Crystal’s new advertising campaign and everyone got into the

spirit of it. The campaign features real Crystal staff and shows a fun side to the company. We’re sure everyone will enjoy our adverts, which also reinforce our USPs – the widest product range and excellent customer service. Look out for the next advert in November!”

www.crystal-direct.co.uk

BEHIND THE SCENES Of CRySTAL’S NEW ADVERTISING CAmPAIGN

Behind the scenes of Crystal’s new ad campaign. Pictured is Darren mcLaughlin, Production manager.


TRADE NEWS


In the far east of Germany, six kilometres from the Polish border, flachglas Uhsmannsdorf GmbH produces high-quality branded insulating glass. This company, which is nowadays part of the Saint-Gobain group, evolved from a glass factory founded in 1890. With his experience of both socialism and capitalism over the past 40 years branch manager Alfred Bayer has learned to be flexible – and he also expects flexibility in his production. That is why he chose the speed'sealer sealing machine from Bystronic glass, which since April 2011 has given him a high level of flexibility in production, particularly for triple insulating glass units.

Alfred Bayer first became aware of speed'sealer during glasstec 2010 in Düsseldorf. That is where Bystronic glass initially presented its brand new high-speed sealing machine to selected customers in a top secret area. Alfred Bayer had previously been in discussion with Bystronic

glass and had defined his requirements clearly: “To equip our production in Uhsmannsdorf for the constantly growing demand for triple glazing, we needed a flexible sealing machine, which allows us to rapidly produce a large amount of insulating glass units.” With speed'sealer flexible sealing of triple insulating glass units in a variety of spacer widths within a dual cycle is achievable without changing nozzles and downtime eliminated.

Strong trend towards triple glazing

Since 2003 the site in Uhsmannsdorf has worked with one Bystronic glass insulating glass line. In 2005 a second line was added, which is also designed for the production of triple insulating glass units. Alfred Bayer takes a look back: "Until a few years ago we mainly produced double glazing, and the two Bystronic glass lines with their sealing machines of the sealer type were and still are very suitable for this". Interest in triple glazing was

still relatively low up until that time, and he could easily produce the quantities he required using the existing machinery. However, the market situation rapidly changed: "Within a few years, demand for triple glazing units rose sharply," he says. Alfred Bayer soon realised that he had to adapt his production to meet market needs.

"That's why we focused on the needs of the future and decided to equip the older of the two lines for modern triple production – with a speed'sealer and the retrofit of an insulating glass press. In the meantime the production of triple insulating glass units on this line has risen by up to 80 per cent."

Dynamic mix for more speed

For these production quantities the speed'sealer is the right machine for Flachglas Uhsmannsdorf GmbH. It seals windows and facade elements at a maximum flow and with unparalleled application speed. With a dynamic mixer it is possible, for the first time in the industry, to actively and consistently mix the two sealant material components, even with different production conditions – this ensures speed. "In addition, for us the flexibility in production is a critical factor, because we do not produce a single type, but meet the

individual requirements of the customers. That means for us that the units operate over the production line in exactly the same order we receive the orders from the customers,” says the branch manager. Thanks to the Bystronic glass speed'sealer he can now achieve this in a very flexible way: "We seal triple glazed units in double circulation. So even when there are varying spacer widths or asymmetrically constructed units we do not need to change nozzles."

Another of Alfred Bayer’s requirements for his new sealing machine was to reduce the effort and costs of cleaning the mixing zones. The speed'sealer has also met this need: "The sealer is virtually maintenance free. In Uhsmannsdorf we use - as is customary in all Saint-Gobain glazing centre locations – the material IGK 130 which satisfies our needs. The sealing machine works a three-shift operation around the clock,” he reported. Complete cleaning takes place only once every six months. Thus, the production operation in Uhsmannsdorf which has more than 100 employees and a production area of about 7,500 square metres

can provide the customers of the Saint-Gobain Insulation Centre with insulating glass when needed on short notice. Alfred Bayer receives support for this from Bystronic glass service. "I feel that I have been taken well care of from the initial contact to this day," says the branch manager, who finds it important to be able to contact service quickly and receive good advice.

The material IGK 130:

• Mercury-free, therefore low toxicity in production and processing

• Very fast hardening for fast delivery

• Little build-up on sealing machine for low cleaning needs

• B component is also available as a paste version

• Compatibility with all reputable silicones guaranteed

• Tested according to EN-1279, Cekal and Kiwa/Komo along with IGK 511 (primary seal) and IGK 805 (desiccant)

www.bystronic-glass.com / www.isolierglas-center.de

KEEPING THINGS fLExIBLE – BySTRONIC GLASS SPEED’SEALER

Retrofitted insulating glass press for the production of triple insulating glass units.

modern insulating glass production takes place opposite the old glass factory in Uhsmannsdorf.

With speed’sealer flexible sealing of triple insulating glass units is possible. Pictured: Layer technician Eberhard Noack at the control panel of the speed’sealer.

The Bystronic glass speed’sealer has set new standards in the production of insulating glass.

The administrative building of flachglas Uhsmannsdorf GmbH.


TRADE NEWS


Leading door and window hardware manufacturers mACO will have a large presence at The fIT Show next April and is the first to sign for the newly added Hall 4.

MACO is renowned as a market leader and innovator of products and services and is expected to create a significant draw to fabricators and installers alike when the show takes place on April 16, 17, 18, 2013.

Kevin Whiting, MACO UK Managing Director, explained the company’s decision to take a stand at the FiT Show: “As a company that designs and manufactures high quality industry leading products and associated services for the window and door markets, we were impressed by the energy and creativity of The FIT Show and by the excitement it is creating within the industry. MACO

UK will be releasing many new and innovative products and services to their existing customer base in the next few months and see The FIT Show as an ideal vehicle to reach potential new clients and catch up with existing partners.’’

MACO Door and Window Hardware (U.K.) Ltd was founded in 1986 and now operates from a state-of-the-art logistics centre in Sittingbourne, Kent. The success of the UK Company is based on offering outstanding products with a comprehensive back up of associated services specially developed for its UK partners.

The FIT Show will take place at The Telford International Centre, Telford, on 16th, 17th and 18th April 2013. For more information go to www.fitshow.co.uk.

HARDWARE GIANT mACO GETS fIT

Hardware giant maco UK has booked a substantial stand at The fIT Show and is expected to be a big draw.

Halifax based Polyframe, the UK’s leading manufacturer of windows, doors and conservatories, are pleased to announce that they have taken a shareholding in trade supplier Britannic Glass of Hailsham, East Sussex and that additionally, Britannic Glass will now use the distinctive Polyframe brand and trade as Polyframe.

This new joint venture will have significant advantages for new and existing Britannic customers, with the company being able to offer the complete Polyframe range and benefit from the planned investment that is fundamental to the future growth of the business. All the services currently offered by Polyframe will be available from Polyframe in Hailsham, such as the Clearly Greener Recycling scheme which saves installers money on skip costs and stops post consumer PVCu frames being deposited in land fill sites.

Additionally we will be able to offer up to 11 colour options on a 5/6 day turnaround, including the Polyframe ‘Express Range’ of White Woodgrain, Cream, Irish Oak and Black on White. With five profiles available in the Halo and Rehau systems, 3 decorative and 2 chamfered, Polyframe can give customers the choice that they require and can also supply either glazed or unglazed product.

Other unique products available include the Solis Modular Conservatory range, Aluminium windows, doors, including bi-folding and sprayed PVCu in any RAL colour, plus the life saving Fire Escape Ladder.

The Solis range is a unique modular pre designed conservatory system that is available in 5 styles, 4 sizes in each and 5 colour options. All frames are supplied fully glazed which enables the conservatory to be complete in 1 day. All Solis Conservatories are supplied with glazed frames with two openers, French doors, 150mm cill, roof with polycarbonate or glass, guttering and rainwater pipes, all wall fixings, silicones and screws. A full set of working drawings including flashing details is also included which enables the flashing details to be cut before the conservatory is erected.

Polyframe continue to be innovators in the industry and as new products are launched these will also be readily available through all Polyframe outlets.

For further information please contact: [email protected].

POLyfRAmE SECURE A SHAREHOLDING IN

BRITANNIC GLASS HAILSHAmKenrick has celebrated 18 years of working with the Bristol-based trade fabricator mB frames. And to mark the special milestone, mB frames has become one of the first fabricators in the industry to use Kenrick’s new Excalibur xL shootbolt locking system.

Excalibur XL is fitted as standard on MB Frames’ Classic chamfered and Encore fully sculptured window systems.

The Secured by Design approved Excalibur XL is a multi-point locking system which offers unique security features and is extremely quick and simple to fit. Durable and reliable, it benefits from a reinforced pressed steel face plate to provide superior strength and reliability. Excalibur XL also features a robust unhanded die-cast gearbox and patented bi-directional die-cast claws.

The Excalibur XL system is covered under MB Frame’s Royale security pledge, which is one of the most comprehensive guarantees available in the industry. It provides free security cover, up to £500 towards the cost of replacing a damaged window and up to £500 towards the cost of replacing stolen property for a period of 10 years.

Phil Purnell, MB Frames’ general manager, says: “As one of the south-west’s

largest fabricators, we have developed a reputation for providing quality, service and security. Our relationship with Kenrick has helped us to maintain this position and offer best of breed products to our growing customer base. Having worked with Kenrick for many years, we know that their service is always superb and their products are of a consistently high standard, whilst representing great value for money. Homeowners in the region can now benefit from the very best hardware solutions backed by one the best security guarantees available.”

Steve Williams, Kenrick’s sales and marketing director added: “In such an unpredictable and competitive climate, we are delighted to celebrate such

a long standing relationship with MB Frames. Our new Excalibur XL system brings even more security features and will help MB Frames to build on its superb reputation for providing top class windows throughout the south-west.”

Kenrick is a leading supplier of hardware solutions for PVCu, aluminium and timber window and door systems. The company has a proud heritage spanning more than 200 years, having been established by Archibald Kenrick who manufactured buckles and livery fittings. Kenrick’s range of top quality products includes the market leading Excalibur multi-point window shootbolt are extremely cost effective and easy to install.

www.kenricks.co.uk

mILESTONE CELEBRATION fOR KENRICK & mB fRAmES


TRADE NEWS


freefoam Building Products, the market leader in sustainable, innovative roofline and rainwater products, has achieved another first with the introduction of the first ever 50 years Lifetime Guarantee on white PVC-U and PVC-UE roofline and rainwater products.

Last year the company announced its intention to review its guarantees with a view to extending them. This development will help Freefoam stockists and Registered Installers gain a significant competitive advantage in today’s challenging market.

Having had many years of trouble-free performance in all weathers, from Scotland to the South of France, with its lead-free formulations, COLORMAX® technology and extra TiO2 UV protection, Freefoam is able to offer an extended 50 years transferable Lifetime Guarantee. The new lifetime guarantee is available immediately on white roofline, rainwater and cladding products installed by a Freefoam Registered Installer.

Freefoam’s standard guarantee on white products is 20 years, and this may be extended to a transferable lifetime guarantee of 50 years by registering the installation online at www.myfreefoam.com. The guarantee on coloured and foiled products remains at a market leading 10 years while the company builds up its performance record. Its intention is however, as announced in January 2010, to revise this upwards as soon as performance evidence supports it.

Aidan Harte, Freefoam Managing Director comments: “This announcement shows our determination to continue to lead the market, particularly

where it matters. Roofline, rainwater and cladding are fit-and-forget products. That’s what customers want to help them compete in difficult markets, and it’s up to us to manufacture trouble-free long life products which meet their expectations. Long life guarantees that support our long life products give customers the reassurance that they will.

“Making, and guaranteeing, long life products is a life-long company commitment that involves our technical and manufacturing resources and the cumulative experience of products in use over many years. Being first to offer a long life guarantee gave us the opportunity to collect and analyse huge amounts of detailed product data from installations ranging from cold wet and wild weather in Scotland to the baking heat and intense UV conditions of the South of France. In particular we have built up an extensive databank of registered installations with

detailed product information spanning many years. Our intensive technical work on advanced lead-free product formulations, work with external partners and first hand evidence of many years of their weathering in a wide range of testing climates, plus accelerated weathering tests of up to 50 years, has established unrivalled knowledge of how these products perform in a wide range of conditions.

“This enables our technical experts to correlate performance and product lifetime with exceptional confidence. But this has always been a journey for us. Our aim has been, as we have stated in the press, to steadily extend the period of guarantee as proof of evidence accumulates, so installers, specifiers, builders and stockists have the best assurance of trouble-free longevity in the market. The extended transferable 50 years Lifetime Guarantee is the logical next step. It shows our confidence in the quality of our products and is a clear intent to provide the very best customer service in the UK.”

Call 01604 591110 now or go to www.myfreefoam.com to register installations online.

fREEfOAm fIRST WITH 50 yEARS LIfETImE ROOfLINE GUARANTEEThe Customade Group

has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a specialist new business to manufacture aluminium conservatory and orangery roofs. The Group, which also supplies PVC-u and aluminium windows, PVC-u conservatory roofs, sealed glass units and high end aluminium folding and sliding doors, now offers the marketplace one of the broadest suites of products from a single source.

The new business - Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions Ltd - is fabricating the aluminium conservatory roofs at Customade Group’s headquarters in Gloucester. Atlas, which was formed after the Customade Group acquired the assets of BDG Group Limited of Lurgan, County Armagh, has more than 20 years experience in conservatory roof fabrication. The new business, which retains BDG’s former technical, sales and administration office in Lurgan, is already supplying roofs throughout the UK and as far afield as the USA, Japan and China. Well known industry figure Gareth Thomas is sales and marketing director and Winston Osborne is technical director.

Designed with aesthetics and performance as a priority, the competitively priced Atlas aluminium conservatory roof offers a

host of features. Tests carried out by the BBA have proven that the Atlas roof is the strongest and most thermally efficient aluminium roof available, offering a 33% greater windload and 25% greater snowload than its nearest competition. It is capable of achieving a U Value of 1.5 w/m2k. The roof also combines clean internal sight lines with low external sight lines and provides unrivalled good looks thanks to its unique box section rafter system.

John Lightowlers, Customade Group’s managing director, said: “The launch of Atlas brings fresh opportunities to the market and has enhanced the Customade Group’s reputation for quality and innovation. Without doubt, we now offer one of the strongest and most diverse product ranges in the industry. From the

supply of high volume, standard products to the more specialist, niche products which can secure better margins, our unique offering will satisfy any requirement. A true one stop shop for fenestration products, this proposition gives our customers a serious advantage in the marketplace.”

Customade was established in 1979 and fabricates the full Duraflex, Smart Systems and SAPA ranges of products to a consistently high standard. All Customade windows benefit from high quality hardware, including locks and hinges. The company cleans and wraps every single PVCu window by hand and fully inspects it before it leaves the factory. Customade offers unrivalled technical advice to its network of installers on the correct installation of its units to minimise problems after fitting and to ensure superior performance. The £18 million turnover Customade Group, which employs 200 people, also includes two other businesses - Fineline Aluminium, which supplies designer architectural aluminium products with very slim sight lines, and Hourglass Seal, which manufactures glass and sealed units using Edgetech Super Spacer technology.

Tel: 0800 0094 203 www.customade.co.uk

CUSTOmADE PUTS ATLAS ON THE mAP

TRADE NEWS


When specialist cavity closer manufacturer Subframes UK decided to invest in automation machinery, they assumed it would be a difficult task since any machining centre it bought would need to be specially adapted to meet its highly specialised requirements.

Having assessed the market, Paul Derbyshire at Subframes decided to approach Haffner GB Ltd. Subframes had used Haffner in the past, so knew the quality of the product and service that could be expected and hoped the company would make the process as easy as possible.

It became clear that Paul had made the right decision almost immediately. Haffner has recently partnered with Murat and supplies the company’s machinery range in the UK. Paul said, “Subframes’ specialised requirements were taken seriously from day one. Nothing was too much trouble for Haffner or Murat and the quality of the designs that Murat produced was excellent.”

When Subframes’ requirements were nearly finalised, Haffner’s Dave Thomas suggested that Paul visit the Murat factory and headquarters in Istanbul to sign off the designs and see the Murat operation for himself. Paul was extremely glad he did. “The quality and expertise of the Murat set-up was unbelievable. The quote

we received always looked good value for money, but seeing the operation more than confirmed it.”

The machining centre will be used to automate Subframes’ manufacturing process. The company was manufacturing 3,500 cavity closers a week, all using manual saws. It needed to introduce automation to keep up with demand in its growing business and add to the quality of the manufacturing process. As well as the investment in the machining centre, Subframes also invested in three 2-headed welding machines.

Paul concludes by saying, “We knew we needed to invest in automation if we wanted to continue to grow the business. But we were concerned that the amount of effort that would be needed to get what we wanted and the additional costs involved would be significant. Haffner and Murat proved us wrong. Their expertise and understanding of our requirements was excellent as is the quality and spec of the machinery. We also got excellent value for money and the investment we’ve made will help us to grow our business in the years to come.”

Haffner GB Ltd Tel: 01785 222421 www.haffnergb.com

Subframes UK Ltd Tel: 01773 590100 www.cavitycloser.com

SUBfRAmES UK INVESTS IN NEW mACHINERy TO mEET GROWING DEmAND

Saint-Gobain Glass UK Ltd has published a new brochure that outlines its commitment to the community, the environment, and economic growth.

Entitled ‘Our Commitment to Sustainable Development,’ the 46-page document stands as a record of the glass company’s ethical philosophy and achievements, while laying the foundations for future improvements.

Headline commitments include: helping to meet local social challenges; developing products that reduce energy consumption; and creating sustainable businesses.

“Publishing ‘Our Commitment to Sustainable Development’ is important in many ways,” explained Pierre Lucien-Brun, Managing Director. “Primarily it is useful for the company to constantly reappraise the impact it has on the environment, society, and the economy, and to help us to constantly seek ways to improve.”

“We hope that our customers and other companies will see that the path to sustainability has a very positive effect on business – and that they may develop their own environmentally friendly working practices with confidence.”

“‘It also has a practical use – larger projects in particular require that companies in the supply chain are taking measurable steps to

SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS PUBLISHES ITS SUSTAINABLE AmBITIONS

reduce energy usage and carbon emissions. Saint-Gobain Glass customers can be reassured that its supplier has a total and measurable commitment to sustainability at every level and that they can offer our products to their customers on that basis with confidence.”

Saint-Gobain Glass’ products are already recognised as being energy efficient in their own right, despite being energy-hungry in its manufacture. A recent study from TNO (Netherlands Institute for Applied Scientific Research) concluded that low-emissivity (low-E) glass (such as the SGG PLANITHERM range) can offset its carbon cost of manufacture in just ten and a half months when used to replace standard double glazing, making it carbon positive for the rest of its lifetime. The payback time is further reduced if it replaces older single glazing in buildings.

Specific targets in the brochure include: to increase recycling amounts by between 5% and 10%; to expand the range of recyclable cullet to include mixed loads; and to reach a further reduction of 25% waste to landfill by 2012.

Copies of the report are available by emailing [email protected].

“We hope that our customers and other companies will see that the path to sustainability has a very positive effect on business.”

TRADE NEWS


Cutting Edge Ltd was recently contracted to supply all the windows and doors for a new build project near Stoke On Trent. The quality, services and craftsmanship offered by the Cutting Edge team is well established in and around the area which is securing steady repeat business.

The project required all windows and doors to be supplied in the FS70mm system from Profile 22 for a new project on the outskirts of the town. This included 20 new homes as part of a regeneration project. For over 12 years the company has supplied market leading products to local businesses such as Millwood House Ltd, which relies upon the skills and expertise of the Cutting Edge team for both small and large projects knowing that the quality of product is exceptional.

Many Cutting Edge customers rely upon referrals for repeat business so the quality of the end product is essential along with the reliability of prompt deliveries. Managing Director Shirley Peake considers it vital to monitor quality control in relation to production standards whilst also offering strong customer support services.

The entire team is aware that customers need a supplier that will not only provide the very best in terms of products but that can also assist with technical advice on more complicated projects and unusual conservatory installations.

Shirely Peake comments, “Over the last two years, which have been difficult times for everyone, we have worked relentlessly to

provide services and products that will help our customers to build on good reputations in a fiercely competitive market. The finishes, glazing options and security features incorporated into our range ensure that we can offer total reassurance when it comes to all new projects.”

Shirley Peake concludes, “Developing strong business relations is tremendously important to this company. It is very rewarding to know that after 12 years we are still able to provide the right solutions for our longstanding customers such as Millwood House. Our flexibility, friendliness and reliability of product continue to place us in a strong corporate position.”

For more information on the range of products available from Cutting Edge Ltd then please call 01782 599955 or visit the website: www.cuttingedgewindows.co.uk.

CUTTING EDGE – CRAfTSmANSHIP CUSTOmERS RELy UPON

Seven cities across England will receive a share of £12m today to help them kick-start the Green Deal in their regions.

The cities – Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and Sheffield – have put forward ambitious proposals to lower their carbon emissions and this new funding will support their plans to test key elements of the Green Deal.

Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) Secretary Edward Davey MP said: “These cities have really ambitious plans to lower their emissions, reduce energy use and help people save money on their bills. I’ve been really impressed by their plans to start testing the Green Deal and transforming our homes and buildings.”

“This funding will help them get up and running, and I look forward to seeing a number of properties across whole communities get the energy efficient improvements they need.”

Earlier in the year, the Government announced that

cities would be given greater freedoms, powers and tools to help them go for growth.

This new funding was welcomed by the GGF but the Federation would like to see more funding injected to ensure Green Deal will work for businesses of all sizes.

The funding will allow local authorities to test elements of the Green Deal framework like assessment and installation, and provide early feedback. The proposals received include retrofitting properties across whole communities and initial indications suggest that the cities expect to deliver to around 2,500 retrofits to households and non-domestic properties.

Nigel Rees, GGF Group Chief Executive commented, “It is good to see the Government release some of the £200m it promised to earlier in the year to promote the uptake of Green Deal. We still remain cautious over the implementation process but encourage Members in these cities and UK wide, to become Green Deal Certified via FENSA and at least be

ready to undertake Green Deal work.”

All of the cities are also proposing to generate match funding and/or provide direct support themselves.

This funding will support future Green Deal activity in these cities, raise awareness of the Green Deal through community engagement and show homes, and provide support to local supply chains including trained Green Deal advisors and registered installers through Green Deal Certified Bodies such as FENSA – one of the GGF’s subsidiary companies.

To find out more on the GGF’s position and concerns on Green deal and ECO please visit the GGF website http://www.ggf.org.uk/green-deal-faqs

GGf WELCOmES £12m GREEN DEAL BOOST With some 80% of UK dwellings already

having double glazing of some kind big future savings can still be made by homeowners who follow today’s trend of just replacing the glass with new modern A Rated glass units.

The proliferation of adverts and websites that focus on terms like misty, steamy, failed and blown double glazing highlight the plight of many home owners whose earlier generations of double glazed windows are now reaching the end of their lives.

Many homeowners reading the adverts however may wrongly assume that complete replacement of their windows or doors at great expense is the only real answer when in fact the latest national trend is to just replace the glass units and not the frames.

Experienced industry insider and Director of Swindon based DA Windows and Doors http://www.doubleglazingswindon.co.uk/ Dave Pearson explains the trend.

“Most UK homes already have double glazing so a lot of the business for many window and door companies in a saturated market place is now in repair and replacement of those windows. For home owners who are experiencing tough economic times just replacing the glass units with the latest modern A Rated glass is actually a really effective and money saving option, and it’s straightforward work that window companies are happy to get at this time.”

Dave Pearson’s company DA Windows have many years experience installing, replacing and repairing all types of double glazed windows and doors. Dave has given home owners access online to vital spares and repairs services for the last 12 years via his http://www.doubleglazingsparesandrepairs.co.uk website.

For more information call Dave Pearson on 01793 790 754 or visit http://www.doubleglazingswindon.co.uk/ and http://www.doubleglazingsparesandrepairs.co.uk/.

STEAmy WINDOWS SPELL TOUGH TImES fOR DOUBLE GLAZING fIRmS

Solidor, who are arguably the fastest growing composite door manufacturer in the industry, have become a finalist in the hotly contested G12 Component Supplier of the year Awards category.

The G-Awards are seen as the industry’s ‘Oscars’ and Solidor’s credentials have clearly impressed the judges. Unprecedented growth, a continued thirst for product innovation and impressive KPI’s are some of the key criteria that were presented in the award entry.

The composite door market is primarily made up of GRP based doors, yet Solidor have developed a solid timber

core based door which boasts better environmental credentials, more internal and external foiled finishes

and a hardware range that’s the envy of the industry. The company has also recently moved premises to cope with current demand and expected future opportunities, along with on-going recruitment in the local labour market.

Gareth Mobley, managing director of Solidor Group comments: “We’re absolutely thrilled to become a finalist in the G12 Awards and it’s recognition for all the effort and commitment from our entire workforce and business partners. It should be a great night for the entire industry and fingers crossed we might just be standing on the top step come midnight!”

Tel: 01782 311191

SOLIDOR’S A G12 fINALIST

TRADE NEWS


The preferred partnership co-operation between Hegla and Bystronic glass announced in January this year has led to the introduction of new measures and taken progressive steps forward to offer the industry the best in terms of optimum performance and service.

At glasstec 2012, Hegla UK will assume responsibility for sales of both Bystronic glass and Hegla machinery throughout the UK and Ireland.

Bystronic glass UK retains responsibility for installation and after sales service on the complete range of Bystronic glass equipment whilst progressively integrating with Hegla UK in relation to installation and after sales support. The amalgamation of a unified sales and service presence in the UK comes after negotiation between senior management at both companies here and at the respective head offices in Germany.

Whilst the companies will retain their autonomy as brand manufacturers, the fusion of the sales and service roles for the UK is considered the most viable route forward to secure growth and future sales.

The roles are clearly defined: Steve Goble, Managing Director Hegla UK, will be responsible for the sales of both Hegla and Bystronic glass machinery across the UK and Ireland. Steve Powell, MD Bystronic glass UK, will support him using his contacts in the industry to ensure a smooth transition. He himself, will be responsible for the further development of the after sales and service for Bystronic glass and Hegla machinery in the region.

The pedigree of both Bystronic glass and Hegla are well recognised globally, having established reputations for excellence and reliability within their specialist fields. Existing and potential customers will still

have the same quality and service guarantees provided by the respective companies.

This is a confident move forward as sealed unit manufactures can now find complete Cutting, Sorting and IG solutions, together with associated handling and racking equipment as well as Laminated Glass Manufacturing equipment all under one roof, which is a positive change for the better for everyone.

Steve Goble comments, “In challenging times it is important to take stock and evaluate the best route to move ahead, not just as a business but in respect of market trends and customer demands.”

He concludes, “Whilst this is not a merger of companies, it is a logical and progressive step for today’s market. The UK and Ireland is a unique market and as such we have been working closely with Bystronic glass to ensure we can provide improved customer satisfaction and

believe the innovations, payback and excellence allied to German engineering, service and spares support will motivate investors.”

Steve Powell comments, “We have held several meetings over the last few months, discussing the strengths of the Bystronic glass and Hegla brands. From these it was clear that both companies are now in a position to offer comprehensive solutions to the market. Also, equally important, will be the two companies installation and after sales support which will progressively move together to offer unparalleled support to existing and new customers.”

HEGLA & BySTRONIC GLASS A NEW ERA DAWNS

TRADE NEWS


Network VEKA's recent 2012 AGm was a fantastic success, with Cranage Hall in Cheshire playing host to member companies from every corner of the UK.

Delegates viewed products from Bowater Doors, Force 8, Legacy Windows, Doors & Conservatories and Prefix before attending three informative seminars that preceded the main AGM and followed the theme of 'A Time of Change'. All speeches and presentations were designed to help companies 'future-proof ' their businesses with regards to current changes in legislation within the industry.

The event was topped off with the evening's awards and a glittering 'white tie and tiara' dinner dance that attracted more than 230 guests.

Learning a great deal about the Green Deal and more

Three seminars were presented on the afternoon of the 29th to help companies keep up-to-date with current industry developments.

The three sessions covered 'The Green Deal', 'CE Marking' and 'Minimum Technical Competences' and focussed on informing members what they need to do to remain fully compliant and stay ahead of the competition.

The Green Deal seminar was presented by VEKA's newly appointed Head of Technical Mark Barsby and detailed how the Green Deal initiative is likely to affect the way members do business, and what they need to do to be eligible for the Green Deal Register. Mark explained aspects of the Green Deal such as the 'Golden Rule' and was on-hand to answer questions throughout the day.

Tim Williams' CE Marking seminar ensured that delegates knew the 'ins' and 'outs' of the changes in legislation that will require all windows and doors to be CE Marked by July 1st 2013. Austin Greene hosted the third seminar explaining more about MTCs and how Network VEKA has access to free NVQs to help surveyors and installers surpass minimum standards.

You can download the presentations via www.network.co.uk.

An all time high

A record number of Network VEKA installer members have been accepted into the organisation's '100% club' for this year, with a third of installers achieving these impressive results.

Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie explains: “More members than ever before have achieved 100% in the results this year, which really demonstrates the whole organisation's unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction... and we don’t do grade inflation.

“It's a great representation of what Network VEKA is all about. These ratings come directly from the homeowners, and we collate the results from around 16,000 questionnaires each year. It's a true reflection of how our installers' customers feel they are treated.

“Network VEKA members collectively have an average customer satisfaction rating of 96%, compared with a recognised industry average of just 83%. Now, it seems that our

membership is doing everything they can to drive this up even higher!”

Competition for a good cause

The evening of the AGM saw Steve Davis, Network VEKA’s Brand Ambassador, face some new opponents.

In the run up to the event, delegates were invited to make donations to the North West and Midlands Air Ambulances and therefore enter a prize draw to play a game of pool against the Six-times World Snooker Champion.

Three lucky entrants were selected to pit their talents against the snooker legend on the day; Ian Beswick of Barrington Lewis, David Boyd of Better Homes and Steve Hancox, MD of Goliath Homeworld.

David Boyd commented, “the game was great fun, proceeds from the event went to a very worthy cause and everyone seemed to really enjoy the AGM overall. But I still think the really important thing to take away from the weekend is... I beat Steve Davis at pool!!”

All donations received before the event, and those collected on the night, were put towards the North West and Midlands Air Ambulances and more than £500 was raised in total.

National Winner

David Brunskill was not only announced to be the regional winner for the North East and Yorkshire for a fourth time, but was also crowned 'National Winner' at the evening's awards ceremony. The entire table erupted in cheers and applause, joined by the rest of the room as MD David Brunskill collected the trophy from Steve Davis.

Outstanding Achievement

This year's AGM saw a new 'Outstanding Achievement' prize introduced, which was deservedly awarded to Mews Windows, AWC Home Improvements and Rugby Double Glazing. They were acknowledged for immersing themselves in the spirit of

Network VEKA and going above and beyond even the high standards already expected from the membership.

These three companies were commended by Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie for their hard work, exemplary customer satisfaction results, great use of the Network VEKA support package and consistent willingness to go the extra mile.

Battle of the big winners

Aberdeen-based Thistle Windows and Heavers of Bridport have both broken their previous records for the number of regional awards won over the years.

Thistle proudly claimed the company's eleventh prize, while the Heavers of Bridport team were delighted to lift their twelfth trophy. Both companies were warmly congratulated by Steve Davis, to whom they have become very familiar faces over the years!

Good things come from those who wait

Surprise entertainment was the order of the day at the evening's dinner dance and awards ceremony thanks to The Three Waiters.

These talented singers began the evening incognito, serving starters and clearing glasses before surprising the audience with astounding operatic performances that resulted in an overwhelming standing ovation.

Live music was also provided by events band Elbow Room, before a disco that carried partygoers through to the early hours.

Thelma Wade of Rugby Double Glazing and Gary Sage of Sage Home Improvements celebrated their style in style with a bottle of bubbly each, after winning 'Best Tiara' and 'Best Tie' respectively.

Smile please!

A full gallery of photos from the event can be viewed at www.networkveka.co.uk/agm12

NETWORK VEKA AGm REPORT 2012

malvern Glass collect their award.

mark Barsby presents a Green Deal seminar.

John Ogilvie speaks at the AGm.

Steve Davies played three games of pool for charity.AWC Home Improvements collect the trophy from Steve.

TRADE NEWS


major investment from organiser UBm Built Environment will see a wealth of new features and content showcased at Ecobuild (5th – 7th march 2013, ExCeL London – www.ecobuild.co.uk), the world’s largest event for sustainable design, construction and the built environment.

Designed to inspire, educate and inform, the Ecobuild Arena returns to the exhibition floor, showcasing the crème de la crème of Ecobuild’s prestigious conference programme. Back by popular demand, the Arena will host key industry speakers, ministers, lecturers and academics as well as a sprinkling of celebrity speakers and hosts.

Featuring a series of cutting-edge debates, high-level discussion and covering topics such as The Green Deal – will it deliver?, Is it the end of the road for zero Carbon?, Why sustainable design should be irresistible design? and What’s the future of fracking?, the conference will focus on all the pressing issues facing the industry. The full conference programme will be announced early November 2012.

In response to industry feedback, Ecobuild will host new conference streams covering

Property and International. The first stream will have an exclusive focus on Property issues such as investor and occupier considerations and will be held in partnership with Property Week. The International stream will connect sustainability thought leaders across the international built environment and will link directly to the Ecobuild portfolio in China, India and Malaysia as well as Building magazine’s new Global Clients initiative.

Ecobuild will also offer a fully CPD accredited educational programme which will include a 12 stream, 3 day seminar programme featuring an additional 700 speakers. With a focus on practical case study learning, technical detail, policy guidance updates from key associations and the latest academic thinking, the broad ranging programme covers a range of subjects, including brand new for 2013: Water, Waste and Recycling, Refurbishing Britain and Property. The perennial favourites will also return including Self Build and Renovation, Designing and building with Passivhaus principles, Better Through BIM and Standards, Guides and Regulations.

Brand new features and attractions at Ecobuild include ‘The Green Deal Terrace’, a programme of seminars and a comprehensive advice clinic to help visitors understand the ramifications from the government’s showcase policy and how they can benefit.

Following significant investment into the green credentials of the show, the Working with Nature Zone will reinforce the importance of the natural environment in sustainable design and construction. This area of Ecobuild brings together the DEFRA backed, Green Infrastructure pavilion, Natural, Sustainable, which will comprise of daily interactive demonstrations covering a wealth of materials and techniques including straw bale construction, lime rendering, rammed earth, clay plaster and carpentry and the Biodiversity Pavilion, providing practical advice on how to create a rich bio-diverse environment, even in the grittiest urban environment.

Further new features include The Light Box, a showcase of the very best energy efficient lighting products and Global Clients, a major new initiative, facilitated by Building

magazine, which brings together construction clients operating in different sectors and countries to understand, unite and showcase common challenges and opportunities.

Tom Broughton, Brand Director for Ecobuild and Building comments: “We are delighted to announce that once again, Ecobuild has the official support and endorsement of many of the industry’s leading bodies and associations including The UKGBC, BRE, The RIBA and RICS.”

“The exciting new mix of features and content has been developed as a direct result of listening closely to Ecobuild’s stakeholders to ensure that debate, discussion and innovation remains at the heart of Ecobuild. We have drawn upon expertise within UBM and the wider sustainable built environment to create an offering which is relevant, engaging and most of all, inspirational”, he adds.

Ecobuild 2012 brought together over 57,000 of the design and construction industry’s most influential professionals including the largest gathering of architects in the UK. For more information, please visit the web site www.ecobuild.co.uk.

ECOBUILD IS BACK AND LOOKING TO THE fUTURE

The replacement window market is now split 50/50 between first time buyers and those wishing to upgrade from first generation PVCu windows. Affordable Window Systems have now invested in a unique slim sash to tap into this important and growing market sector.

Second time buyers of PVCu windows are looking for replacement windows that don’t look like typical PVCu, but that have the low maintenance selling points that have made these windows a huge success over the last 30 years. The new sash that has been extruded by Kömmerling for Affordable, is 69mm in height and has an ovolo feature to the shoulder of the sash and a bevelled dummy glazing bead on the external face.

This design gives the appearance of a deep putty line, to create a more authentic looking single glazed timber window, yet in double glazed PVCu.

This sash is combined with Kömmerling’s O70 Gold outer frame and transom to create a fully ovolo finish to the inside. Because of the deeper putty line glazing design, the face of the window has been reduced by 40%. This narrow face width and asymmetrical feature is critical to making an equal sightline design which replicates a single glazed timber window.

This new window is ‘A’ rated as standard and is available in white, whitewood, cream, Chartwell Green, black,

rosewood, light oak and Irish oak woodgrains. In addition the Timberlook window has been designed to accommodate an innovative concealed trickle ventilation solution, using a full width drip cover.

To support the launch of this exciting new product, Affordable have put together a 4 page brochure and a promotional flyer. In addition there’s a dedicated website at www.timberlook.co.uk which is just in the final stages of completion.

Eddie Gaughan, managing director of Affordable Window Systems comments: “We believe we have created a PVCu window that truly reflects the sightlines and appearance of timber. For our installers, this is an opportunity to open up new sales and generate better margins.”

For further information on the Timberlook window then log on to their website, call Phil Myers on 01253 888222 or e-mail [email protected].

AffORDABLE’S SLIm TImBER-LOOK

Dynatech Engineering, manufacturer of the Locit window and door cable safety restrictor has invested in new machinery to offer faster lead-times and further product variation for their customers.

The new machine, made by Swedish producer ‘Talurit’, mechanically crimps the stainless steel connector to the wire cable using 300kN of force. The decision to invest in the 18-ton machine came after Dynatech and distributor Sash Jack, saw a massive increase in sales over the last six-months.

Andrew Lane, Dynatech Managing Director commented “Previously, the crimping process for the Locit cable safety restrictor had been sub-contracted, increasing the products lead-time. Since its launch, we have seen a massive 80% increase in our unit volumes, so inevitably it made sense to bring all manufacturing processes in-house and reduce customers lead-times. The new machine will also offer other benefits for our customers moving forward; being simple and easy to operate, we have been able to train multiple users resulting in potentially no down time for production. The swaging machine can also manage varying wire sizes, providing the opportunity for us to review and develop the product range further.” Andrew continues.

Chris Law, Sash Jack, sole distributor for the Locit range of products concludes, “We are

delighted that Dynatech has taken this step and purchased the new machine, it can only help towards improving customer confidence in the products”.

Locit cable safety restrictors fit directly on to the window or door’s internal frames. They restrict full opening with the use of a high strength cable and lockable body unit. The restrictor has been fully tested to comply with the requirements of BS:6375 part 2:2009 and are used mainly on windows or doors in areas where they is a risk of falls.

For further information or any technical support on the Locit range of restrictor products, contact Chris Law, Sashjack Limited on 07900 891110 or Andrew Lane, Dynatech Engineering on 01902 637797.

NEW CRImPING mACHINE REDUCES LEAD TImES fOR LOCIT CUSTOmERS

TRADE NEWS


Synseal has published its eagerly anticipated hardware catalogue, which details the new comprehensive hardware range that brings together the very best residential window and door handles, hinges, shootbolts and accessories, providing fabricators with a wide selection of products that offer affordable quality.

In typical Synseal style the company has sourced the best hardware from industry leaders, such as Yale and Mila, at the best prices to help give its customers the edge over the competition – all available ex-stock.

Synseal’s hardware range is optimised to match the company’s PVC-U window and door systems and provides a ‘one-stop-shop’ supply chain to support professional fabrication and installation of window casements, front and back doors, and patio and bi-fold doors.

Included in the catalogue are attractive window handles,

durable friction stays, easy-to-fit shootbolts, ergonomic door handles, letterboxes, locks, and a selection of industry leading security options, including items that meet the enhanced ‘Secured by Design’ police preferred specification.

The catalogue has been published with clarity in mind, and illustrates each product with a high definition photograph and a detailed technical drawing. The items are accompanied with a checklist detailing each product’s characteristics and strengths, and there is a handy ‘at-a-glance’ section that quickly identifies key points, such as the guarantees available, and which industry standards they meet.

Furthermore, Synseal’s customers can be reassured that product ranges are always designed with 100% recyclability, improved performance, and cost-effectiveness in mind; new products will support

sustainable development and reduce carbon consumption.

“Choosing the right hardware can be hard work,” David Leng, Synseal’s chief executive explained. “Ensuring that all components meet stringent standards, and checking that they work together effortlessly and carry the guarantees that are require, can be time consuming and frustrating.

“That is why we have invested in creating a range of hardware available ex-stock, tailored to the specific needs of fabricators. We aim to offer proven hardware components carefully chosen for their reliability, technical performance and value for money, ensuring that fabricators always have the products on hand to deliver top quality finished windows and doors to their installer customers.

“From window handles and friction stays to trickle vents and letter boxes, Synseal’s hardware range has it all!”

SyNSEAL UNVEILS COmPREHENSIVE

HARDWARE RANGE

Zoom Ready has launched its new installation guide for conservatory roofs.

With the strapline ‘Your step-by-step guide to a brilliant conservatory roof ’, the guide is an invaluable tool for installers. It breaks down each section into simple steps with instructions for fitting different types of roofs.

Martin Randall, Chairman of Zoom Ready comments: “We want to give our customers the best possible start with

Zoom Ready. That’s why we set up a Customer Training Centre and dedicated installer helpline, and why we have a team of engineers who can visit installers on-site for initial smooth-start assists.

“All this support is free of charge, but we also recognise the importance of a step-by-step guide installers can take with them on site and use as a handy reference.”

“Zoom’s installation guide has been written specifically for installers. It gives clear,

concise instructions on how to assemble Zoom Ready trouble free roofs.”

Visit www.zoomroom.co.uk or call 0845 305 4138.

ZOOm READy LAUNCHES ‘BRILLIANT CONSERVATORy ROOf’ INSTALLATION GUIDE

Door Glass, the RegaLead division dedicated to the supply of glass for the composite door market, has been working with closely with customer force 8 to support the development of an exciting new product for the door industry.

Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director of RegaLead explains: “We believe this latest innovation brought to the market by Force 8 is another industry first - a composite Bi-Folding Door.”

“The new Mediterranean Bi-Fold is bristling with new innovations, from the marine grade stainless steel hardware to the integral blinds which are being supplied from the RegaLead Signature door glass range.”

“Integral blinds are growing in popularity as they never need to be cleaned, don’t attract dust and are particularly suited to Bi-Fold door systems where traditional blinds are difficult to install.”

“They are installed between the two panes of glass and are controlled via a system

of magnets that maintain the integrity of the insulated glass seal.”

Dennis Sumner, Managing Director of Force 8 comments “We’ve been asked about integral blinds for Bi-Fold doors many times, but we’ve also found the cost implications were quite high. The new Mediterranean Bi-Fold has overcome this problem by using integral blind units from RegaLead, which are not only more reasonably priced, but have the added benefit of a discreet fingertip control systems for easy raising, lowering and tilting.”

Guy concludes: ”RegaLead offers a range of integral

blind systems in both venetian and pleated styles to suit a variety of composite door glazing sizes. We are always keen to work with customers in order to support them in the development of new and innovative products that will benefit the market and we believe the launch of the Mediterranean from Force 8 will do just that.”

For more information on the composite door from Force 8 visit www.force8.co.uk or for more information on decorative products for glass, windows and doors from the Decorative Door Products Division of RegaLead visit www.doorglass.co or call 0161 946 1164.

A fIRST fROm fORCE 8 WITH A LITTLE HELP fROm REGALEAD


TRADE NEWS


Giles Willson, GGf Deputy CEO and Director of Technical Affairs presented the GGf’s concerns over the Green Deal in a roundtable discussion at the Liberal Democrat Party Conference 2012 in Brighton on Tuesday 25th September.

The fringe event organised by Dods Green Deal Dialogue was entitled “Getting the best deal from the Green Deal: How do we protect local businesses and consumers?”

Speakers included:

• Damian Carrington, Head of Environment at The Guardian (chair)

• Giles Willson, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of Technical Affairs, GGF

• Paul Hicks, Design Manager at Velux

• Edward Davey mP, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change

• Simon Wright, Liberal Democrat MP (Norwich South)

The discussion focused on how to make sure businesses and consumers benefited from the Green Deal programme and the safeguards that could be put in place to protect them.

Damian Carrington, Chairman, put it to the panel that the Green Deal loan policy had the potential to be the “greatest transformation of our buildings and homes” in the UK’s history. But he asked how to ensure its success in the face of a number of challenges.

Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Ed Davey said the main difficulty

was in creating a new market and that “Green Deal could take years to catch on.”

Mr Davey argued that consumer confidence was critical and emphasized the inclusion of consumer protection rules such as warranties, the “golden rule” assessment process, an ombudsman and complaints and handling guidance. He denied that the interest rates of six to eight per cent on loans could put off consumers and said that rates would be competitive.

A trickier challenge was introducing competition into a market which could be dominated by existing “big players”, he said. In particular he was keen to reduce the barriers to entry for new, smaller firms and thought local authorities and partnership between big and small companies could help.

Representing the GGF, Giles Willson outlined the “dramatic reduction” in consumer demand in the market. He was concerned that some energy efficient products with dual purposes, such as double glazing, would not be totally funded under Green Deal.

Emerging from the meeting Giles Willson re-iterated, “There are still huge question

marks over the implementation of Green Deal and ECO. Our presentation at the Conference highlighted the key issues concerning our Members and underlined the GGF’s position.”

“We are all for making millions of properties energy efficient and it is positive that the Government are creating a scheme to try and boost the construction sector and make the planet more environmentally friendly, however we remain unconvinced the present Green Deal framework will deliver the promise and have the positive impact on the Glass and Glazing Industry as was initially expected.”

The GGF will be presenting and on the panel of speakers at the Dod’s Green deal Dialogue events at both the forthcoming Labour and Conservative Party Conferences.

To find out more on the GGF’s position and concerns on Green deal and ECO please visit the GGF website http://www.ggf.org.uk/green-deal-faqs

GGf DISCUSSES CONCERNS AT LIB DEm CONfERENCE

Edward Davey.

Giles Willson.

High performance acoustic and joint sealing at a new timber school block in South Ockendon, Essex have been provided following the specification of ISO-Chemie’s advanced foam sealant technology.

The new log cabin style English Department building at Ockendon Academy, supplied and constructed by sustainable building specialists Cabinco, has seen ISO-BLOCO HF tape

installed to provide a high performance acoustic seal at the wall interfaces, which will be able to accommodate potential movement due to shrinkage.

One hundred millimetre wide strips of ISO-BLOCO T-Max have been specified to seal internal joints which have been specifically designed to accommodate over 80 mm of shrinkage movement.

Improved air and weather

tight sealing for more than 40 different sized windows and doors has also been achieved using ISO-CONNECT Vario SD humidity regulating and airtight foil.

The foil comes from a new generation of window sealing products which not only adapt to seasonal variations but also provide an excellent external weather seal that surpasses the current, and proposed, UK Building Regulations for air tightness in domestic and commercial buildings when used as an internal seal. As well as sealing against wind driven rain to hurricane forces.

Ockendon Academy’s new building, which features a high vaulted ceiling and larger than usual central hallway, can accommodate 240 potential pupils and has

been specifically design to create an enhanced sense of space and light.

Sound attenuation is a pre-requisite when designing and building new schools and at Ockendon Academy this has been achieved assisted by ISO-Chemie’s tapes - there was no hint of echo in the corridor or classroom areas prior to the building being occupied by pupils.

Jonathan Jones, project manager at Cabinco, said: “The support received from the ISO-Chemie technical team was invaluable, assisting with short notice orders and providing guidance on the correct products for the project."

Mike Cooke, ISO-Chemie’s UK sales advisor, said: “Increasingly, timber is being considered as low cost, practical and very

sustainable building products for important new education projects.

“So for us to be involved in this ground breaking initiative not only reinforces our strong environmental credentials but is also a strong endorsement for the airtight, acoustic and thermal benefits provided by our foam tape solutions.”

ISO-Chemie is one of Europe’s main producers of impregnated foam sealants, specialising in the manufacturer of foam

products from polyethylene (EPE), polypropylene (EPP) and polyurethane (PUR) using the latest production techniques.

The company’s UK technical and distribution operation is based in the North East of England, supported by a dedicated logistics service to ensure customer orders are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible (usually next-day delivery). More at www.iso-chemie.co.uk or email [email protected]. Tel: 01207 566874.

ISO-CHEmIE SPECIfIED fOR TImBER SCHOOL BUILD

TRADE NEWS


Orangeries, without doubt add a striking appearance to any property when constructed properly, which is where Orangery Solutions excels. The finished look adds an alluring charm to most homes adding not only a touch of grandeur but more importantly it increases the value of the home substantially.

For years installers have recognized that the orangery is considered a premium investment that can be enjoyed as a room for relaxation, every day of the year if so desired and sell it as such. However as Orangery Solutions customers are aware, this can only be achieved successfully, if the guarantees are as solid as the core structure and the foundations they are built upon. These are what give the ultimate in assurance and lead to referral business.

While brick pillars are very strong under the compression of a downward force, traditionally they are very weak laterally when a side force is applied. Structural integrity is vital if installers are to avoid potential problems later. Some installation companies produce “improvised versions” of orangeries having not taken into account all the structural loads and calculations required to keep the structure safe.

Orangery Solutions provides the only truly complete solution which guarantees total structural integrity, for roof and side walls.

For installers the Orangery Solutions system gives many structural advantages over alternatives, however as project management is eliminated without the need for different trades people, the job gets finished in half the time but perhaps more importantly this halves the cost. Typically, the entire roof structure can be completed and glazed in two days by conservatory fitters.

The patented cassette system from Orangery Solutions is proven to withstand a one tonne side load with ease. A reassuring fact for installers looking for an advantage over competitors. Every Orangery Solutions project is provided with structural calculations and 3D design plans with full technical assistance given after careful analysis.

The superior external finishes available come with a choice of fascias manufactured in either GRP or powder coated aluminium. Traditional or ultra modern fascia options have been developed to complement all property types.

Where other companies produce fascias using assorted pvcu trims the Orangery Solutions

range fits better and lasts longer to give an overall superior appearance to the finished project.

The unique Orangery Solutions flat roof finish utilizes a dry fit aluminium flashing system that can be installed rapidly in any weather conditions without causing delays. This is a major benefit compared to traditional flat roof finishes such as lead, grp and Sarnafil.

With investment in orangeries increasing installers have a clear advantage using the Orangery Solutions patented system when looking at ways to incentivize the discerning consumer market. Homeowners have grasped the benefit of adding space without the need to move, via the conservatory market, however, those making higher end investments also want the guarantees associated with premium products which cannot always be assured structurally.

Now in its 4th year of orangery manufacture the York based family run business established a reputation for excellence within the construction industry prior to this and prides itself on providing premium constructions for prestige homes.

Paul Nellis, Managing Director at Orangery Solutions comments, “As the orangery market

appears to be moving forward with a steady rise in consumer demand more recently, it is clear that this sector has huge potential for growth. We have seen a consistent steady rise in customer demand as bespoke installations have become increasingly popular particularly at the top end of the industry.

Paul concludes, “Without doubt, orangeries make really stunning extensions, which homeowners have grasped, seeing the benefits of stylish design along with the advangtages of year round use. For installers our range provides huge advantages, ensuring referral but it also provides much higher profit margins. This gives significant peace of mind in respect of the finished product and overall guarantees.”

For more information on the Orangery Solutions System please call 01904 786629.

ORANGERy SOLUTIONS – BUILT ON THE STRONGEST fOUNDATIONS

TRADE NEWS


following recent Government announcement of plans to boost UK house-building, jobs and the economy, Insight Data, the specialist data supplier for the fenestration industry, is doing its bit to support industry growth by launching its ‘Get Britain Building’ campaign.

The campaign aims to encourage suppliers within the fenestration and building industries to capitalise on the government’s new initiative and win new business in the trade, commercial and new build markets using Insight’s range of prospect databases.

Insight Data’s sales manager Sonia Punter discusses the government’s decision in more detail and explains how this relates to Insight’s new ‘Get Britain Building’ campaign: “The Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister have announced a major housing and planning package that will deliver up to 70,000 new homes, including affordable housing and opportunities for first-time buyers to get onto the housing ladder. It also promises to create 140 000 new jobs, a £40bn guarantee for major infrastructure projects, £10bn for new homes and a relaxation on planning rules for a three year period.”

Sonia continues: “This will kick-start a demand for products and a rise in sales opportunities for suppliers. Insight can help suppliers capitalise on this demand generate new business with our invaluable range of prospect databases, which contain detailed information on key decision makers across the industry that are looking to buy your products and services.”

Databases available include the Fenestration database, containing the contact details of 4474 fabricators and 12,276 installers, the Local Builders database with 22,025 contacts, the Renewable Energy database containing the contact details of 4871 companies, and the Construction File which contains the leading housebuilders, main contractors and developers.

These are accessible through Salestracker; the faster, smarter, easier way for sales and marketing teams to market products and services to potential customers. Subscribers to Salestracker can use this online prospecting tool to effectively target and connect with potential buyers as well as create highly accurate mailing lists for direct mail, email and telesales campaigns.

To make it even easier for suppliers to capitalise on the renewed opportunities, Insight is launching a series of promotional offers revolving around its databases, providing the perfect incentive for companies to join Insight in its mission to get Britain building again. More information on these offers can be found by phoning the Insight sales team on 01934 808 293.

To ‘Get Britain Building’ with Insight Data call 01934 808 293 or visit www.insightdata.co.uk.

GET BRITAIN BUILDING WITH INSIGHT DATA!

Eurocell will be headlining stand B387 at this year’s Grand Designs Live with a range of multimedia platforms designed to engage and inspire visitors.

Grand Designs Live 2012 is the UK's leading contemporary home show with around 44,000 visitors expected over three days. It’s being held at Birmingham's NEC from 12th - 14th October 2012.

Products being showcased by Eurocell include the innovative Aspect bi-fold door and brand new Charisma Classic vertical sliding sash window system.

Engaging and inspiring consumers through interactive media is the goal, with all of Eurocell’s latest videos, websites and digital literature ‘flip-books’ available to browse on iPads featured across the stand.

Eurocell, part of Tessenderlo Group, is expecting a huge amount of interest in its critically-acclaimed Aspect bi-fold door, which has over 30 unique and innovative features – including a new Building Regulations Part M-compliant low entrance threshold. Bi-fold doors

is a growing market as more and more homeowners aspire to ‘bring the outside in’ and create open areas offering luxurious amounts of natural light and space.

The show will also debut the new Charisma Classic vertical sliding sash window system, specifically designed as a replacement for traditional sash windows in period properties, many of which are subject to more restrictive planning conditions, especially in designated conservation areas. Charisma Classic combines traditional aesthetics with contemporary technical performance. It features a new sash horn design unique to Eurocell, which echoes the design of sashes from a bygone era. A bespoke deep bottom rail completes the system for creating authentic-looking sash windows suitable for the most historic of locations.

Eurocell is also taking the opportunity to make homeowners aware of the sustainable benefits of PVC-U by showcasing its latest Eurologik windows, made using post-consumer recycled PVC-U. Visitors will be able to view the recycling process for themselves,

as well as learn more about the closed-loop recycling which makes it possible for Eurocell products to be ‘made and recycled in Derbyshire.’

Chris Coxon, Head of Marketing at Eurocell, said: “Grand Designs Live is one of the most prestigious shows for anyone looking for inspiration and ideas for their home. We have a range of exciting new products on demonstration and would urge anyone interested in adding value to their home to come along and see us. Our latest interactive media means that there really is no better way of finding out how Eurocell can help you create your dream home.”

For more information on Grand Design Live 2012, visit: www.granddesignslive.com.

To find out how to create your dream home with Eurocell, call the customer services team now on: 0800 988 3049, or visit: www.eurocell.co.uk. Alternatively, email: [email protected].

EUROCELL GETS INTERACTIVE AT

GRAND DESIGNS LIVE

Product quality and consistently reliable service have ensured repeat business from fairview Windows for Tuffx Conservatory Roof Glass. David Jones managing Director at fairview considers the products as premium enabling the company to provide greater choice for homeowners.

Since TuffX launched the Ambi-Max glass roofing option, Fairview Windows has installed the superlength units in a number of bespoke conservatories in and around the Cheshire area, using various glass colours. For Fairview it has proved a popular addition as it provides more scope with conservatory design.

Depending upon exactly where a conservatory is to be installed will determine the type of glass to be used to ensure year round usage for the homeowner. The

superlength units from the Ambience range can be manufactured in a number of colour options to suit the location.

With over 30 years specialising in the design and installation of conservatories and energy efficient windows and doors, Fairview Windows has established a reputation for excellence, building the business upon referral and reliability.

The company has used products from the Ambience range as they have been developed by TuffX which, as a leading glass specialist, considers the needs of customers in a fiercely competitive market.

David Jones considers the Ambi-Max product gives Fairview a leading edge that makes conservatory design much simpler and eliminates the tiresome leak problems associated with muntin

bars. This combined with competitive pricing and fast turnarounds ensures that Fairview Windows can rely upon TuffX as a supplier and ensures that Fairview customers are not let down.

David Jones comments, “The glass and conservatory market is growing consistently with polycarbonate roofing diminishing rapidly as the consumer has become aware of the benefits to be had from glass roofing. Solar control is more prominent and we have seen a lot of growth in both retrofit and bespoke glass roofed installations.

The Ambi-Max option from TuffX has made life so much easier for this company as problems regarding muntin bar leaks have disappeared and the designs we can create are aesthetically much more dynamic. We know we can rely upon the team

which offers us, the right product, at the right time and at the right price.”

Graham Price, Managing Director at TuffX Conservatory Glass comments, “As the industry once again gears up to move forward, it is great to see that we are providing the right solutions for our customers. Our portfolio was diversified to revitalise a previously stagnating market and we are impressed by the uptake from customers who can clearly see the performance and aesthetic benefits of all products in the Ambience range.”

For more information on products in the Ambience range from TuffX please visit www.ambiglass.co.uk

AmBI-mAx THE BEST CHOICE fOR fAIRVIEW

TRADE NEWS


It is not every day Hazlemere Window Company gets an order from their local Conservative MP to build a bespoke brick built orangery onto his High Wycombe Constituency home. Consequently, we were thrilled to be appointed as main contractors on the project to extend his family home.

That said, double glazed conservatories and/or orangeries are not just for those more Conservative minded, as Hazlemere have conservatory designers with over 30 years’ experience who specialise in designing structures that are so in-keeping with the existing property, that it is difficult to tell that there has been any extension at all to the dwelling.

That also was the case here, and in a letter to Hazlemere Window Company dated 19th September 2012 (See extract below), High Wycombe’s MP was effusive in his praise for Hazlemere Windows products, quality of installation and experienced staff.

“We are delighted with our new extension. Hazlemere's products are first class and the building work was managed and carried out with exceptional professionalism. The builders astonished us with their tidiness at the end of each day. Of

course there were the inevitable minor issues but these were resolved swiftly and completely by Jason, who could not have done more to be helpful. Thank you for the excellent service

and product you have delivered. Thanks again for adding a wonderful new room to our home,”

In response, Hazlemere Windows Marketing Director, Mark Austin commented “It is always nice when any client writes in of their own volition, particularly when one of these is from our local Conservative MP. Adding a full blown orangery to any home as Mr & Mrs Baker have done is a major extension, and a partnership between the client and the installers, requiring patience and perseverance during the several weeks of disruption whilst building work is undertaken.”

“I am truly delighted that Steve and Beth are thrilled with their new brick built double glazed orangery extension, rear two section bi-fold door, lantern light roof, internal down lighters and six section aluminium bi-folding and sliding doors. We always aim to please and deliver high quality installations for all clients, whether they want a conservatory, orangery or just one window or one door.”

For further info on Hazlemere Window Company Ltd, contact Mark Austin, the Group’s Marketing Director on 01494 897605 or email him at [email protected] or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk.

NEW DOUBLE GLAZED BESPOKE ORANGERIES ARE NOT JUST fOR THE CONSERVATIVE mINDED

TRADE NEWS


ImPROVED BRE GREEN GUIDE RATINGS fOR ALUmINIUmCAB is pleased to report that there has been an updating of Aluminium’s generic environmental profiles and the results for 281 Elements were updated in the BRE Green Guide to Specification Online on August 8, 2012.

For the first time ever in the history of ‘The Green Guide’ (the 1st edition was in 1996) Aluminium powder coated windows can now achieve the following ratings:

Commercial Windows New Element Number BRE Green Guide Rating as at 8.8.12

Previous Green Guide Rating

Powder Coated Aluminium Window

Profile<0.9 kg/m double glazed 1231500011 A+ A

Profile<1.25 kg/m double glazed 1231500007 A B

Profile <1.5kg/m double glazed 1231500008 A C

Profile <1.75 kg/m 1231500009 B D

Profile >1.75 kg/m 1231500004 C E

Domestic Windows New Element Number BRE Green Guide Rating as at 8.8.12

Previous Green Guide Rating

Powder Coated Aluminium Window:

Profile<0.88kg/m double glazed 1213100007 A B

Profile <1.08kg/m double glazed 1213100004 A C

Profile >1.08 kg/m double glazed 1213100003 B D

Source: BRE Green Guide to Specification Online – 8 August 2012 updates.

BRE website.

The full environmental profiles can be viewed at: http://www.bre.co.uk/greenguide/podpage.jsp?id=2126.

The project to update the profiles was coordinated by CAB with key sponsors being the International Aluminium Institute (IAI), the Aluminium Federation. CAB was additionally indebted to the input from the European Aluminium Association (EAA).

The Green Guide Ratings ‘A+ to E’ are used where ‘A+’ equals good environmental performance i.e. least environmental impact with A, B,C, D and E ratings increasing as environmental impact increases. This system has made Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) - an environmental impact assessment method for products and materials - of interest to those involved in day-to-day procurements rather than just specialists. Every specification in the Green Guide uses this scale for each of the 13 categories of environmental impact, together with an overall Summary Rating. The LCA’s take into account such environmental impacts as mineral resource extraction, manufacture, ecotoxicity to land and waste management at end of life.

The results of these updated profiles will undoubtedly offer the aluminium window industry an important boost in difficult trading conditions. It also comes at a time when aluminium continues to attract an increasing number of fabricators to offer the material within their range.

CAB continues to drive forward a strong aluminium and sustainability agenda and together with participating in the Windows Sustainability Action Plan and the 2012 Annual Report, is sponsoring a project with the Department of Architecture and Built

Environment at Nottingham University to look at ‘Aluminium and Durability’. Furthermore, CAB is working with the European Aluminium Association to support the production of an FAQ document on Aluminium and Sustainability which will help the supply chain by providing valuable but also reasonably succinct up-to-date information.

CAB urges all companies involved in the construction supply chain to become members of Trade Associations in order to bring about change not only in the UK but in Europe where many standards are now emanating.

To find out more about the benefits of CAB membership or future events being organised, please visit the Association’s website at www.c-a-b.org.uk or contact Julie Harley at the CAB office on 01453 828851, or email [email protected].

As months tick down to the inaugural fIT Show, the organisers have begun the process of planning the support programme of events, including the fIT for Business Seminars that will be available for visitors to attend free of charge when they visit Telford on 16th, 17th and 18th April 2013.

The industry is being asked: ‘What do you want to see and do at The FIT Show?’, with a simple survey created to find out the issues people on all sides of the industry are interested in and what they want to know more about to assist them in running their businesses.

The short survey, at www.surveymonkey.com/s/FITseminars, is designed to gauge interest in a number of key subjects such as Sales Training, Solar, Web/Internet Marketing, Planning Permission, The Green Deal and many others. Crucially it offers the opportunity for participants to offer their own suggestions.

“It is important that we get a response from all sides of the industry with this,” insisted FIT Show director Paul Godwin. “The purpose of the The FIT For Business Seminars is to provide visitors with advice and

information about the key issues that affect their lives on a day-to-day basis. The simplest way of finding out what those issues are is to ask the people they are aimed at. Tell us what you want to know about and if enough people agree, we will do our very best to include it in the programme, presented by experts in their field.”

The FIT Show will take place at The Telford International Centre, Telford, on 16th, 17th and 18th April 2013. For more information go to www.fitshow.co.uk.

THE fIT SHOW ASKS THE INDUSTRy:

WHAT DO yOU WANT TO KNOW?

The fIT for Business Seminars taking place at The fIT Show are intended to offer real world information and advice to visitors that can be put to work immediately. Tell The fIT Show what you want to learn about at www.surveymonkey.com/s/fITseminars.

Powder coating customers rate reliability and responsiveness to requests as the most important attributes of a powder coating service provider. Quality and uniformity of coating are expected and there is an increasing need for a wide range of solutions in terms of coating systems, colour and finish.

These insights were gained from Powdertech’s June 2012 Customer Survey, and came as confirmation of the company’s core principle – to be ‘A Company You Can Depend On’.

“At Powdertech we always strive to be on our customers’ side” explained sales director Richard Besant. “We build open and honest relationships with our customers and aim to make their lives easier wherever possible; a key part of being a service provider. We operate a fast turnaround, deliver and collect on a 24/7 basis when necessary, and are always available to provide advice and discuss new approaches.”

“And to prove our responsiveness we have immediately acted upon two areas in which our customers were not entirely satisfied,”

continued Richard. “In an effort to reduce delivery charges we now offer both a direct delivery rate and a passing-by rate which means we charge only from our nearest point of call. Also, we have ensured that touch-up paints in all sizes, colours and finishes are now readily available with one phone call to Powdertech.”

Powdertech thanks everyone who responded to the 2012 Customer Survey and congratulations go to the prize draw winner, Vikki Blyde of Premier Architectural Design, who received a £100 Asda Voucher.

To judge Powdertech’s responsiveness for yourself call Richard Besant on 01536 400890 to discuss your project.

A COmPANy yOU CAN DEPEND ON

TRADE NEWS


Lister Trade frames of Stoke on Trent have just been selected as finalists in the National Glass and Glazing G-Awards for the eighth consecutive year. The Awards this year will be hosted by Patrick Kielty, comedian, TV and radio star, at the London Hilton Park Lane.

It’s believed that Listers’ achievement is a record in itself and is all the more impressive when considering that this is a national event where the standard of entries remains consistently high year on year and where companies actively compete to gain the top industry accolades. This year Listers are finalists in both the Customer Care and the Fabricator of the Year categories.

In 2005 Listers entered the G-Awards for the first time and they walked away as winners of the UK’s top “Fabricator of the Year” award. Not bad for a first attempt! The subsequent years have seen them chosen as finalists and winners in a variety of categories, including ‘Training & Development”, “Energy Efficiency”, “Customer Care”, “Promotional Campaign”, Health & Safety” and the highly prized “Fabricator of the Year” Award.

Listers’ Managing Director, Mark Warren, said that while winning any one of the G-Awards is an excellent prize to gain, what he is most proud of is Listers continuous drive

for improvements over the years; “You can’t expect to be shortlisted in these awards unless you have done something new and special, or have achieved something above and beyond what your competitors have done. For Listers to have been chosen as finalists every year, for the last 8 years, is truly remarkable and something unique which we cherish.” said Mark. “Listers’ business is driven by consistent change for the better, so every year we achieve new things that push the business forward. Having this recognised in the G-Awards is an added bonus for the Company.”

The gala event is the only one of its kind for the UK glass and glazing industry, at which over 600 guests will enjoy a Champagne Reception, four-course dinner with wine, the Awards presentations and post-Awards entertainment, all within one of the finest venues in London, the Hilton Park Lane Hotel. It’s the Oscars of the Glazing Industry.

Having a business recognised for its efforts in any year is always something special for a company and its team. Listers have now achieved this recognition every year for the last 8 years in a highly competitive industry and at a national level. This is truly exceptional and something that everyone at Listers can be proud of.

Tel: 01782 391900 www.Listertf.co.uk @ListerTF

LISTERS ENJOy 8 yEARS Of G-AWARD RECOGNITION

I was surprised at the level of disparity between skip prices in the capital compared with other major cities like Birmingham and Liverpool. Skip and Bin (http://www.skipandbin.com) the price comparison website for UK skip hire companies have revealed figures showing the average cost of skip hire across the UK.

The data, compiled from the average prices quoted by 3 or more skip companies in each area in September 2012, is believed to be the only up to date source of skip hire pricing information available in the UK.

Key findings from the research are summarised below:

• Sizes of skips available and prices varied significantly across the country.

• London is the most expensive area for all sizes of skip hire – an average 6 yard ‘builders skip’ (the most common size used by households in the UK) costs £210 in London, compared with just £135 in Nottingham, which was the cheapest city in the 6 yard category.

• In most cases the difference between the price of a 6 and 8 yard skip is less than 20% - suggesting construction firms using 6 yard skips could make considerable savings by switching to an 8 yard skip.

• On average Liverpool was the cheapest city in the UK to hire a skip. The cheapest skip hire available in Liverpool started from just £80

• For large 12 yard skips, the cheapest city, Newcastle was £165 while London was nearly twice the price at £300.

MD of Skip and Bin, Jason Mohr said of the findings:

“We work with a lot of London skip companies and fully expected London to come out as the most expensive city we researched. However I was surprised at the level of disparity between skip prices in the capital compared with other major cities like Birmingham and Liverpool.”

“You can’t blame London skip hire companies for this though, as the truth is that the cost of running a waste logistics business in London is far greater than other parts of the UK because of the cost of rent, effect of congestion on the efficiency of your fleet, and higher costs of labour and disposal.”

Last month SkipandBin.com released figures showing that London borough’s also had the highest charges in the UK for skip permits – the charge applied by councils for placing a skip on public roads - adding further expense to the cost of waste disposal in the capital. Mohr went on to say;

"I don’t believe it’s a coincidence that 5 of the 10 worst performing areas of the UK for fly-tipping are in London".

"People are strapped for cash at the moment and when it costs in excess of £300 for the average household to hire a skip in London, its sadly inevitable people will turn to disposing of waste illegally”.

Skip and Bin’s partner site Anyjunk publish an annual report on fly tipping which can be downloaded here. Full details of the skip hire pricing research can be found on the skip and bin website http://www.skipandbin.com/skip-hire-prices/

For further information contact Tim Witcomb on [email protected] or 020 7819 9019.

SKIP & BIN RESEARCH AVERAGE UK SKIP HIRE PRICES

TRADE NEWS


Dr Jerry Harrall of SEArch architects describes how simple, low invasive design techniques such as using extruded polystyrene as external insulation transformed the cost of living and quality of life for residents of a 200 year old house in High Wycombe.

“For some, the clock is ticking towards zero carbon goals. For others, it’s already become a reality. The good news is that it doesn’t require complex building methods or even high tech equipment to achieve significant improvements in the energy performance of existing building stock.

Greening-The-Box™ offers a suite of building techniques developed by SEArch (Sustainable Ecological Architecture Ltd) applying straightforward, low invasive design methods to enable existing buildings to operate without reliance on fossil fuels.

Greening-The-Box™ High Wycombe is the first private dwelling to benefit from such adaptation techniques, resulting not only in remarkable cost and energy savings but, according to the homeowners, an improvement in their quality of life too. When a client uses words such as “uplifting” and describes their new environment as providing “serenity and tranquillity”, you know you are on to something!

I believe the environmental and cost benefits are just as impressive, including:

• 100% reduction in CO2 emissions of 18 tonnes/year (17,878kg CO2/year)

• 80% reduction in running costs (a very considerable £2,000 reduction in the first year)

• 100% reduction of fossil fuels use

Providing further credence to the building’s enhanced performance, the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) produced a

rating of 89A, a highly notable performance when most housebuilders are working to ratings of lower than 80 for new dwellings. The pre-design SAP rating was 49.

So how was this achieved? Let’s go back to the beginning. The High Wycombe project is a 200 year old detached house. The owners were looking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, cut energy bills and at the same time have less of an impact on the environment. Their ambitions were to design out the need for an oil fired central heating system, and put in its place a naturally heated environment as well as a natural ventilation regime.

Perhaps surprisingly, just five key changes were needed to make the existing building fit for a low carbon future:

• Enveloping the house externally with STYROFOAM™-A extruded polystyrene insulation

• Increasing internal thermal mass of walls and floors

• Increasing the southerly glazed areas

• Decreasing the northerly glazed areas

• Modifying the layout to encourage natural ventilation

Insulating the envelope

In its pre-adapted condition, the absence of any external insulation to the solid external walls and below the ground floor slab meant that both building elements offered little resistance to heat transfer; it was a difficult building to keep warm. The average rate of heat loss, or U-Value, was calculated at 2.17W/m2K.

STYROFOAM™–A insulation from Dow Building Solutions was specified for the project for both environmental and performance reasons. The material is not only UK-manufactured, but is blown with carbon dioxide giving it a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of less than five. The material also has an Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) of zero and is ideal for external use where moisture resistance, rigidity and strength are key requirements.

Post adaptation, the introduction of 200mm of STYROFOAM™-A insulation to the external fabric and below the floor slab reduced the rate of heat loss by a very considerable 620% to just 0.35W/m2K. Thermographic images show minor surface temperature variations over the STYROFOAM™-A clad external fabric and junctions with minimal heat loss detected. In comparison, thermographic images of the adjacent, twenty year old property indicate significantly higher levels of fabric heat loss with noticeable variations across different building elements.

Increasing thermal mass

Adding such high levels of insulation also contributed to the effectiveness of thermal mass within the structure. The pre-adapted, un-insulated thermal mass of the building was calculated as 0.68MJ/K/m2. Post adaptation, the property’s thermal mass marginally increased by 9% to 0.72MJ/K/m2, a small incremental increase.

Despite the small increase, the thermal mass acts as a highly effective heat-sink and helps to moderate internal ambient air temperatures throughout the year for both heating and cooling; introducing STYROFOAM™-

A externally means the thermal mass becomes that much more effective.

Residents now enjoy a relatively stable ambient internal air temperature of around 21⁰C without the aid of a central heating system. Instead, supplementary heat contributions are achieved with a low grade, self-regulating electric under-floor heating system, a wood burner and secondary heat from household appliances. The 35KW rated under-floor heating contributed 1200KWhr of heating load over the first twelve months; this is anticipated to reduce over the second year due to drying out.

Adapting fenestration

To the south of the building, the potential for solar heat gains through the fenestration was increased by creating a larger area of direct south facing glazing which now measures

9.3m2 in total, an increase from 3.9m2. This represents a 72% increase in south facing glazing areas with a net solar heat gain contributing to the overall heating load.

In contrast, the north elevation glazed area was reduced from 11.3m2 to 6.1m2. This 50% reduction in glazing combined with the higher specification replacement glass (24mm low–E double glazing), reduced the heat transmittance through the north windows collectively from 34 W/m2K to 11W/m2K. This resulted in a 68% reduction in the rate of heat loss from the north windows alone.

A change in the view!

As an additional touch, who would have thought that simple changes to layout could result in dramatic changes? Simply by putting bedrooms on the ground floor and principal occupation rooms on upper floors, solar receipts could be increased and elevated daylight levels enjoyed where they are needed most.

Finally, as well as relatively simple changes to the building structure, 5.5KWp of roof mounted photovoltaics (PVs) were added, generating 4,200KWhrs in the first year and displacing 3,106kg of CO2.

Blueprint for the future

What has been created at Greening-the-Box™ High Wycombe is a pragmatic, affordable and replicable solution which will no doubt be of great interest to those working hard to get the Green Deal out of the policy papers and into our homes.

A highly inefficient 200 year old building has been transformed into a genuinely low carbon, low impact household which offers a perpetual environmental legacy. It’s been achieved by employing simple design techniques and by using materials which are already widely available in the UK, and as such offers a potential blueprint for the benefit of generations to come.”

For more information on Greening-the-Box™ visit www.searcharchitects.co.uk. For STYROFOAM™-A product details visit Dow Building Solutions at www.styrofoam.co.uk.

BUILDING ADAPTATION ACHIEVES 80% REDUCTION IN RUNNING COSTS Dr Jerry Harrall.

“Their ambitions were to design out

the need for an oil fired central heating system,

and put in its place a naturally heated

environment as well as a natural

ventilation regime.”

TRADE NEWS


The National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham was the venue for the final round of the formula 2 Powerboat Racing World Championship. fourteen of these formidable craft, capable of speeds of over 150 kph, battled for the 2012 f2 championship.

Senior Architectural Systems are sponsoring the current F2 champion, Eric Stark from Sweden, and this final round would prove to be decisive for the championship leader if he was to keep the title for 2012.

Qualifying was hard fought and Erik Stark took the second qualifying session setting the fastest lap time of the weekend in 41.25 seconds and a speed of 157.1km/h and securing pole position. The following day thirteen mighty F2’s lined up for the main

event, with Erik in pole position, Latvia’s Uvis Slakteris in second and UK's Malcolm Goodman in third.

In typical fashion, racing was frenetic and Goodman clipped another craft which barrel rolled him out of the race. On restarting, the championship leader lead the race until the bottom turn mark, he spun out leaving Slakteris to take full opportunity of the misfortune and power through to take the lead which he held to the chequered flag. Eric Stark took third place and with it the F2 2012 World Championship.

Information regarding products, services and support offered by Senior Architectural Systems is available on the company’s website at www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk or phone for further information on 01709 772600.

SENIOR’S BACK 2012 WORLD CHAmPION

James Keeling and mark Wadsworth of Senior Architectural Systems.

A spell at British Coal formed vertical sliding sash manufacturer Quickslide’s Quality Assurance manager Don Warren’s early attitudes to quality management; it was a company in which the fall out from poor quality standards could have serious implications.

Says Don: “The standards imposed at British Coal were absolute as there were lives at risk,” explained Don. “So attention to detail is something that became an obsession with me and it has never left.”

Don was explaining why he has accepted Quickslide’s request for him to continue past his 65th birthday in his role as the company’s quality supremo, extending still further his 35 years in quality control.

“You die when you put your feet up,” he says. “I’m in at 6am every morning to make sure that everything is in place for the day, to check and make sure I haven’t missed anything. And I love the camaraderie that exists at Quickslide; they are mostly young people and it keeps me young. And besides, it would fall apart without me!” Don joked.

“Don has been running quality assurance on windows and doors since 1991 when he joined Scholes Windows, once one of the best known brands in the industry,” explained Adrian Barraclough, Quickslide’s Chairman.

QUALITy IS ASSURED AS QUICKSLIDE’S VETERAN QA mAN CONTINUES ON

Quickslide QA manager Don Warren has shunned retirement to continue his work ensuring perfection at the VS frame manufacturer’s Brighouse works.

TRADE NEWS


UAP Limited are now using youTube as a fundamental marketing tool to demonstrate key features of all products, show latest innovations and to promote company news.

UAP have already been using the popular social media site for two years but will now use it as an important part of their marketing strategy. YouTube provides the opportunity to share videos easily and to promote them amongst a targeted audience through other channels such as Twitter and Facebook.

In order to make an informed decision when purchasing products customers need to see the products, understand how it works and know the unique selling points. This is one of the reasons for sales meetings; the sales representative can take a sample of products to their client and allow them to play with it to see how it works and what they like about it.

By utilising YouTube, UAP Limited are able to provide customers with this information

at their convenience from the comfort of their own home, office or whilst on the move. The information can also be provided instantaneously when a new product is released.

Videos uploaded to YouTube will showcase products and their USP’s, they will also include a tutorial on how to use a product or a guide on how to install it. UAP will be creating a video for the majority of their door hardware, door security and locksmith tool lines. These videos will also be embedded onto the TradeLocks website under the relevant product page.

The latest video from UAP focuses on their range of Hidden Fix Door Knockers demonstrating the key features and showing just how easy they are to attach to a door.

Through YouTube UAP hope to increase traffic to their website and in turn increase sales. UAP Limited Managing Director

David Jennings said: “This is an exciting time for marketing with social media providing a platform to connect with potential and existing customers. Also, with the internet providing a world of information at their fingertips, customers are able to thoroughly research all the different brands of products available. It is for this reason that sites such as YouTube are so useful, we are not only able to describe the unique selling points of our products to customers, we can demonstrate them too at the their convenience from any location at any time.”

UAP launched their YouTube channel two years ago to promote a series of burglary awareness videos featuring Coronation Street’s Sean Wilson (aka Martin Platt). The videos provided solutions to ‘key fishing’, lock bumping and lock snapping, and showcased products that can help protect against bogus callers, these include the Identity Card Entry Slot, door chains and guards and door viewers.

To date UAP have uploaded 24 videos and have received 10,704 views. The most popular video was one raising awareness of lock snapping.

To view all of the videos from UAP Limited visit their YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/user/UAPLimited.

To find out more about products available from UAP Limited contact a member of the Sales Dept. on 0161 796 7268 / [email protected].

yOUTUBE KEy fEATURE IN UAP LImITED’S mARKETING STRATEGy

Chestnut Court in Sefton is a sheltered housing scheme in Liverpool managed by Pierhead Housing Association. Built in 1985 it has 29 one bedroom flats together with a communal lounge and dining room plus numerous other facilities to help residents enjoy their later years.

The flats were built with timber windows which were starting to show their age and needed to be replaced. The replacements needed to be low maintenance and energy efficient, but the distinctive look of the timber windows needed to be retained to preserve the scheme’s overall look. The scheme’s residents were another important consideration. Any contractor working on the replacement of the 191 windows and 11 doors would need to demonstrate their ability to work efficiently, tidily and professionally in order to minimise disruption to the residents’ day to day lives.

Pierhead has contracted trade and retail fabricator Spektaglaze to undertake window and door

refurbishments on several social housing projects since 2005 and had no hesitation in asking it to tender for the Chestnut Court work. Spektaglaze tendered to supply and install Deceuninck 3000 series with a rosewood foiled exterior and a white interior. It was awarded the contract thanks to Pierhead’s knowledge of Spektaglaze’s ability to supply a quality product and a professional, courteous installation service.

Richard Hincks at Spektaglaze said, “We were delighted to be awarded this project by Pierhead because it reflects the trust they have in our ability to deliver a quality result. Projects like these pose unique challenges, but because of

that they’re always enjoyable to work on.”

Careful planning of both the manufacture and installation phases meant that installing the new windows and doors took just six weeks. Richard said, “We are very proud of the finished result. The new windows and doors have not only given the buildings a new lease of life, they have also made them easier to maintain. We are delighted to have helped contribute to Chestnut Court residents’ quality of life and to have enhanced our relationship with Pierhead thanks to the project’s successful delivery.”

Spektaglaze Tel: 0151 207 4066

Deceuninck Tel: 01249 816969

SPEKTAGLAZE GIVES mERSEySIDE SHELTERED ACCOmmODATION A NEW LEASE Of LIfE

Synseal Extrusions, is taking the ‘portal’ message to architects, and proving that eye-catching glazed roof extensions are not just options for homeowners, but can also dramatically improve commercial projects.

The undisputed UK leader in roof glazing, Synseal’s CPD seminar entitled ‘Roof Glazing – the Art of the Possible’ has been approved by RIBA, and is now available for presentation to architects and specifiers up and down the country.

Delegates will also receive a copy of Synseal’s new SkySpace brochure, which includes the latest technical information and inspirational case studies where its custom-designed aluminium portal frames supporting large glazed roof structures have brought architects’ dreams to reality.

Synseal’s one-hour CPD seminar forms part of architects’ ongoing professional development, and details how advances made in the design and construction of wide-span portal frames mean they are no longer just the reserve of big-budget flagship projects.

The seminar takes delegates from domestic roof glazing solutions through to specification of super-sized aluminium portal frame solutions for commercial buildings, all of which are illustrated with case studies and concept designs.

“CPD seminars are a vital source of information for architects and specifiers because they help keep them right up to date with modern ideas and best practice,” explained David Leng, chief executive of Synseal Extrusions. “Since Synseal is leading the way in portal frame technology, we are best-placed to educate building professionals, and give them the confidence to bring striking bespoke roof glazing designs to life with dramatic effect.”

The accompanying literature is packed with technical drawings, concept ideas and project photography, which is designed to inform architects and specifiers, and form part of their library of technical documentation.

“Synseal’s portal frames are exported across the world,” David said. “Coupled with our proven and BBA accredited glazed roof systems, our project designs can withstand the most extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, they are flexible, lightweight, convenient to transport, and speedy to construct. Specifiers will also be pleased to learn that SkySpace aluminium portal frames can offer reduced cost and labour time on site, when compared to conventional building method!”

SyNSEAL GOES BACK TO THE CLASSROOm


TRADE NEWS


VPS, the vacant property specialists, has issued its reponse to monday’s change to legislation on the prosecution of squatters.

From Monday, squatting in residential buildings is a criminal offence, with perpetrators facing up to six months in jail and a maximum £5,000 fine. The legislation does not apply to commercial buildings, which now may become more vulnerable as squatters look for alternatives.

Gavin Pringle, VPS spokesperson, comments: “We welcome this legislation, as it seeks to reduce the damage and disorder caused by squatting. With between 50,000 and 60,000 squatters in the UK, vacant buildings are in need of protection from intrusion, arson and vandalism. Unfortunately, the legislation only applies to residential property, leaving commercial buildings unprotected, and potentially at more risk, as squatters look to target them exclusively.

“We would urge those who own or manage vacant property to implement proactive measures, such as alarm technology, to deter intruders. Whilst it is encouraging that the Government is seeking to address the issue of squatting, it is an issue where prevention is better than cure. Even with increased prosecution, property owners will still be left with damage and clean up costs unless they install effective security systems that prevent intrusion from taking place.”

VPS offers the following advice to property owners and managers, who can take the subsequent steps to ensure their property is well protected:

• Taking immediate action when a building becomes vacant is the most effective way to protect a property and mitigate the risks associated with squatting. You are required by law to inform your insurer immediately when a property becomes vacant. They may have specific requirements to ensure your building is properly covered.

• Undertake a comprehensive risk assessment using a specialist company to assess potential risks, such as fire hazards and public liability exposure as well as the exposure to damage from squatters/ criminals.

• Isolate and shut down the power and gas supplies and drain down your water systems properly to avoid flooding. Clear the property making sure to remove any combustible material. Install a letter box seal to prevent arsonists or squatters setting fire to the property. A build up of mail is also a vital clue that a property is empty.

• Ensure the perimeter of the property is secure and where required fit steel security fittings to windows and doors. Instigate a minimum weekly inspection of the property both internally and externally – as required by most insurance providers.

• Secure the property with electronic security, such as the VPS SmartAlarm Gold. Sensors provide immediate detection and report on a range of incidents including intruders, flooding and fire. Verifeye Visual camera sensors, on activation, take full colour video clips which are rapidly relayed to VPS’ 24/7 national monitoring station. Not only will the alarm act as a deterrent, but if squatters do gain access, the alarm activation will register any break-in, plus the security response team will be deployed. This can act as evidence when applying for an Interim Possession Order – a fast track eviction process – or in a criminal prosecution.

• For properties requiring additional protection VPS provide a SmartGuard service which combines an onsite guard with a SmartAlarm. This is recommended for high profile sites where an onsite presence is imperative. The guard and alarm will work together so limiting the number of guards required on site.

NEW SQUATTING LAW LEAVES COmmERCIAL PROPERTy VULNERABLE TO ATTACK The federation of master Builders (fmB)

brought together Politicians, journalists and a solicitor to debate the issue of Scottish Independence and the impact it would have on the UK construction industry, at Dunblane Hydro Hotel on Saturday 15th September.

The debate, the first of its kind, included Keith Brown MSP, Minister for Transport and Veterans; Gordon Banks MP, Shadow Scotland Office Minister; Steve Bargeton, Deputy Editor of the Courier and Anne Struckmeier, leading construction Solicitor and Partner of HBJ Gateley with Gary Robertson of BBC Scotland chairing the discussion.

The panellist offered contrasting views on whether independence would be good for Scotland. The debate also covered issues such as independence from an SME perspective and the legal issues of independence. FMB Members and leading construction industry representatives attended the debate.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: “The question of Scottish

independence is important to the UK construction industry. Many construction SMEs, including many of our members, have questions about the business environment they would operate in should Scotland become independent.”

“Some of these questions relate directly to the construction industry, such as the CITB levy and CIS taxation regime, whilst others are common questions for all SME businesses, such as tax rates, employment law, health and safety, capital investment spending, company regulation, currency and border control. The debate provided an opportunity for FMB members to ask these key questions.”

Berry concluded: “The FMB has adopted a neutral position on whether Scottish independence would have a positive or negative impact on the construction industry. However, we are keen for our members to make informed decisions and this debate provided an excellent opportunity to start that process.”

fmB KICK STARTS THE SCOTTISH INDEPENDENCE DEBATE

CAB has secured two highly passionate speakers to highlight the ‘Specification Journey’ at the final Regional members’ meeting of 2012 on 31 October at the Coventry Transport museum.

Ian Harris, Director, Maber Associates and Richard McWilliams, Director – Research, Development and Innovation at Capita Symonds will consider a number of issues not least being why only 20% of specifications actually reach site.

Ian Harris will consider, in a presentation entitled ‘The Specification Journey:

from concept to site’, a number of product areas relevant to aluminium in building such as external cladding, curtain walling and ironmongery. He will look at several case studies with a particular focus on education, some exciting product development work with pods and examine the lessons to be learned if you want to be successful in getting your products selected. Ian will also touch on his involvement in the Priority Schools Building Programme.

Richard McWilliams will be looking at ‘what

professionals want from their supply chain’ and ‘how can you be someone that others want to work with?’ The aim of both the presentations is to help provide members with as much insight as possible into these hugely important issues at a time when even some of the most optimistic outlooks for the construction sector are ‘flat’.

The venue for the meeting and dinner has a unique collection of over 240 cars, commercial vehicles and buses, 94 motorcycles, 200 cycles and 25,000 models which are designated’ as being ‘of national importance’. If you are interested in following the event or contributing with questions for the speakers on Twitter, the hashtag is #CABSpecEvent.

For further information on CAB, its activities and membership benefits contact the CAB Office on 01453 828851 or go to the Association website at www.c-a-b.org.uk.

CAB ExPLORES THE ‘SPECIfICATION JOURNEy’

Thrust 2 was designed by John Ackroyd and driven by Richard Noble. On October 4, 1983 the car reached a top speed of 650 mph and broke the then world record of 633 mph.




TRADE NEWS


Everglade Windows is a double finalist for the highly prestigious G12 awards for both Customer Care Initiative of the year and Apprentice of the year.

Reena Gjoci says: “We are thrilled to be double finalists for the G12 awards.

“We have worked extremely hard this year to develop the Valentis Partner Scheme for our customers. Launched in May 2011, we’ve added new products and services in 2012 to help customers sell more and make more profit. We also continue to hold our highly successful annual customer conference. It’s a comprehensive programme that really works. Sales for aluminium are up 45 per cent for customers. Being a finalist for the G12 Customer Care Initiative of the Year shows the scheme is recognised by industry experts.

“I also want to say huge congratulations to William Carrigan for being a finalist for the G12 Apprentice of the Year. He has worked hard and his efforts have been rewarded. He came to us through a scheme run by the local college and council. And from there he has made his mark in the company. William continues his training with us and we are looking forward to bringing him to the ceremony at the Park Lane Hilton.

“Everyone in the company plays a part in looking after customers,” adds Reena. “Not just the customer facing team members but all of us and this recognition in the finals of the G12 awards shows that when we say we look after customers, we really mean it.”

Tel: 020 8998 8775 www.evergladetrade.co.uk

G12 DOUBLE fINALIST fOR EVERGLADE WINDOWS

Global Glass, the specialist manufacturing division of Synseal Extrusions, has launched its new insulated glass unit brochure, which highlights its market leading products supported by crucial technical information.

The manufacturing principles at Global Glass reflect the guiding principles at Synseal, which are to build-in quality at every stage and continually improve quality standards to achieve optimum performance and customer satisfaction.

David Leng, Synseal’s chief executive, explained the advantage of manufacturing insulated glass units for windows, doors and conservatory roofs on site at Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire. “It ensures quality control of manufactured products, stock, cost base management, reliability of supply chain materials and, even more importantly for customers, precise management of price, lead times and product availability,” he said.

The IGU assembly process is automated and testing is computerised to ensure products of a consistently high quality. With investment in the latest technologies and modern machinery, Global Glass is able to manufacture and deliver market leading products time after time. Operational processes at the Global Glass production plant are constantly reviewed to reduce waste, diagnose potential problems and identify solutions quickly and systematically.

“Choosing a sealed glass unit manufacturer is a critical decision,” David said. “Consumers are increasingly demanding higher energy ratings to keep their homes warmer and heating bills lower.”

The Global Glass IGU brochure discusses the various elements that go

into making the market leading units, such as: the choice between double and triple glazed units; gas filling options; warm edge spacer bars; and self cleaning and solar control glass coatings. An experienced and skilled customer care team is always on hand to provide technical advice, address any glass-related questions and assist with project enquiries.

Global Glass has also won fantastic plaudits from customers, including Somerset-based fabricator, Trade

Frames, which has transferred its entire glass business to the supplier. Owner Keith Matthews said: “The product they are producing at Global Glass is fantastic, it is second to none. For example, the cleanliness is brilliant, and they have introduced this simple thing that my guys on the floor absolutely rave about: it is an identification sticker on the top edge of the unit, so when the glass is unloaded at our end, the guys can tell at a glance which unit is destined for which frame, rather than having to trawl through a whole delivery.”

David Leng concluded: “Further strategic investments in both technology and processes will be deployed as Global Glass intends to lead the way in advanced IGU manufacturing technology. Global Glass will constantly strive to find new ways to design, produce and deliver market leading IGU products.”

NEW IGU BROCHURE fROm GLOBAL GLASS

“An experienced and skilled customer care team is always on hand to provide technical advice, address any glass-related questions and assist with project enquiries.”

Conservatory Outlet Dealers enjoyed a well-earned day out of the office on friday 14th September at Chester Races, courtesy of supplier Conservatory Outlet.

Sixty people from the fabricator’s Network of Dealers gathered at the Festival Chalets of Chester Racecourse for a three course meal and an eight race fixture as Conservatory Outlet showed its gratitude for the continued loyalty of its 22-strong customer base which orders in excess of 1,200 frames each week.

Hosting the event were Sales Director Greg Kane, and Operations Director Michael Giscombe – the men who have taken the Conservatory Outlet reins to an even greater extent, since MD Matthew Glover launched FIT Show. In stark contrast to Conservatory Outlet’s annual conference – very

much a business-focussed event – the only item on the agenda was relaxation and enjoyment. There were mixed fortunes as far as the bets went, but the rain held off to everyone’s delight.

‘It’s the first time we have held an event of this kind but, aside from the obvious fun involved, it proved to be a winner in terms of increasing the familiarity between the newer and longer established dealers, and those from opposite ends of the UK who otherwise would never meet,’ said Greg Kane.

‘We’re already thinking of ideas for next year’s event, in addition to meeting up with our customers at the FIT Show in April’.

Conservatory Outlet Enquiries: www.conservatoryoutletdealers.co.uk.

RACE DAy A WINNER fOR CONSERVATORy OUTLET


TRADE NEWS


Edgetech, a Quanex company, has made it to the finals in no less than three categories of the prestigious G12 Awards. The leading warm edge technology manufacturer has been shortlisted for Component Supplier of the year, Health and Safety Initiative and Trade Promotional Campaign.

Andy Jones, Managing Director of Edgetech comments: “To reach the finals of one category in the G12s would have been great, but to be in three shortlists is a fantastic endorsement of the work we’ve doing over the last year.”

“Our business and marketing support is comparable to that offered by systems companies, yet we still only manufacture and supply one of the smallest components in a window, the spacer.”

“Our approach has always been unique, but the last 12 months in particular have seen us looking inwards to see how we can improve internal systems to ensure customers continue to get the best value for money; and outwards, with a comprehensive marketing and educational campaign.

I’m particularly proud though to reach the Health and Safety finals, which will provide a big thank-you to the team here who’ve worked so hard to help Edgetech embrace the ‘Raising the Bar on Safety’ initiative to drive World Class safety performance at our Coventry site.”

“Through commitment from the management team, investment in awareness and training across all our operations, and reinforcement of the prioritisation of safety first and foremost in all daily activities, we’ve driven numerous improvements, resulting in our exceeding 100,000 working hours without a single health and safety incident. We’re looking forward to the ceremony itself next month.”

For more information on Edgetech’s range of Warm Edge Technology, call 08700 566844 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk.

EDGETECH IN G12 fINALS

TRIPLE WHAmmy Industry leading VEKA has

teamed up with its nearby community college to bring a University 'Schools' Challenge to its local area.

VEKA and its partner school, Hameldon Community College share an initiative to encourage and support its students, in conjunction with the Business in the Community (BITC) 'Business Class' organisation that they are a part of.

A need to promote and develop Hameldon's talented students was identified, and following a discussion with all school representatives at the BITC Cluster meetings, it was also identified as a development area for all schools in the Burnley, Lancashire area. Gabriella Hammond, VEKA Head of Human Resources says: “The University 'Schools' Challenge event was decided on as it's a great, fun way to encourage this group of gifted pupils to broaden their knowledge of national and international subjects. The teams of students will work together to answer a

series of challenging general knowledge questions.”

Celebrating the achievements of both students and the schools, five Burnley schools are supporting the event, which will take place at the Burnley College UCLAN campus on November 29th.

Hosted by BBC Radio Lancashire's Ted Robins, the University 'Schools' Challenge will also be recorded for broadcast, with the winning school team also being interviewed for both BBC Radio Lancashire and local newspapers. Each school's team will have an individual mentor; a current undergraduate student at UCFB to coach and assist them with knowledge, and gain question practice.

Gabriella concluded: “This is a fantastic promotion for the local area and the schools involved, and friends, family and fellow students are invited to cheer their teams on in the finals!”

Tel:01282 716611 www.vekauk.com

VEKA AND HAmELDON WILL BE ‘ON THE BUZZER’ fOR UNIVERSITy ‘SCHOOLS’ CHALLENGE A further accolade for Senior

Architectural Systems with the award for ‘Best Building Envelope Product’ was presented at the Timber Expo held in Coventry.

Senior’s Hybrid Door, Window and Curtain Walling Systems provide a profile combination of engineered timber with externally powder coated extruded aluminium; these materials are combined for long life and together offer excellent thermal properties. Hybrid has been proven in use in Commercial Projects across the UK and with new developments such as the Hybrid Folding Sliding Door and the Lift & Slide Door, both exhibited at Coventry, now being adopted in both in residential new build and home improvement applications.

Steve Wightman, Senior’s Sales Director, comments, “We are delighted to receive a further award for our Hybrid System. The new range of products are being well received by the Industry and the latest ‘Best Building Envelope Product’ Award confirms that we continue to develop products which both Specifiers and homeowners wish to use in their properties. With growing recognition of Hybrid’s status comes further enquiries, and we are currently seeking

Fabricators across the UK to service enquiries.”

Senior’s Hybrid products are available in bespoke sizes through a network of suppliers across the UK. Hybrid is also available directly from Senior’s in profile form, as the company offers various machinery packages to enable fabricators to manufacture Hybrid themselves.

Details of the Hybrid systems available can be found on the company’s website at www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk or by contacting their Head Office in Doncaster on 01709 772600.

HyBRID AWARD AT TImBER ExPO

Timber Expo - ‘Best Building Envelope Product 2012.

The Global Summer orangery has been widely applauded for its excellent and high quality aesthetic interpretation of the orangery design theme, as well as practical technical and installation features that have been well thought out and developed by Synseal’s engineers and designers. Now they have put their skills behind enhancing features that will offer homeowners the opportunity to customize their Global Summer to make it even more distinctive.

New decorative pilasters provide an eye-catching feature that adds an elegant finishing touch to this clever and stylish design enhancement of Synseal’s market leading Global conservatory roof. Manufactured in GRP the pilasters, which include self-draining flutes, perfectly complement the roof.

Corner and in-line pilaster designs are available, all dimensioned to perfectly fit a ‘raised line’ Global Summer

installation with a 1500mm window frame height including sill. Specially-designed left or right handed pilasters are also offered, featuring cut-outs to receive gutter downpipes adjacent to a house wall detail. These designs have been carefully prepared to maintain excellent installed aesthetics whilst being uncomplicated and convenient to fit.

The range of pilasters comes in White finish as standard, available ex-stock. Other popular colours such as Cream and, Chartwell Green are available on request.

The system is highly versatile, especially when used with the innovative two-part aluminium frame connector that can be used to form either a 180° straight connector 140mm wide or a 90° corner. The two-part connector is coupled together with two strips of insert, which hold the connector in alignment whilst it is screw fastened. Both connector and insert

components are available in 3m lengths which may be cut in half to form each finished connector. The GRP pilaster is then securely bonded onto the connector for a perfect finish to the orangery installation.

NEW PILASTERS PROVIDE AN ELEGANT fINISHING TOUCH TO THE GLOBAL SUmmER ORANGERy


TRADE NEWS


Already The Glass machinery Company is expecting a busy time at Glasstec 2012 with most of the company’s suppliers attending in force at the Dusseldorf exhibition. The leading glass machinery provider has a convincing reputation across the UK and will be present in Germany to discuss new and existing customer requirements alongside the companies it represents.

Headed up by Phil Birchall, Managing Director, The Glass Machinery Company team is very positive regarding the exhibition despite the difficult economic conditions of the last two years.

Phil comments “As an arena, Glasstec offers manufacturers a huge platform to demonstrate advancements that will help to take businesses forward. It is clear that there is now an optimistic determination once again happening in the glass sector. This is extremely encouraging for everyone as there is a positive outlook prevailing about the entire exhibition.”

Some of the notable companies attending have new improvements or additions to their ranges which will be shared at Glasstec. These include:

Benteler Maschinenbau will be present in Hall 15, Stand E11 for manufacturers looking for the best in glass drilling, grinding and lamination equipment. The company is committed to ongoing development which will be demonstrated at the show.

Fratelli Pezza has a formidable reputation in sandblasting machinery as such the company will be demonstrating the latest developments within the range in Hall 16, Stand D68.

Whether a large or small business the Helantec range of gas filling, measurement and control equipment provides a wide range of products for complete quality control. The company will be exhibiting in Hall 17 Stand C14.

The Denver range of CNC machines is a well established brand which was developed by the Italian company after recognizing that glass workers were in need of machinery that could withstand long hours of continual use with a minimum of down time and maintenance. The company will be demonstrating developments in its glass and stone machinery product portfolio in Hall 16 Stand D55.

Another well-known Italian company will also be attending the exhibition with the latest in filtration systems. Winklemann Filtri can be found in Hall 16, Stand A68 and the company will be placing focus on the automatic water treatment units for glass processing. These provide a cost effective means to treat all processing water in circulation, with systems available for double edgers, grinders and bevellers

Viprotron is a leading supplier of visionsystems which provide quality control and optimization for flat glass processors. The company can be found in Hall 14 on Stand C40.

One of the latest companies to become part of The Glass Machinery Company portfolio, Keraglass, will be exhibiting in force at Glasstec with a wide variety of glass machinery solutions for the glass industry in Hall 16, Stand D67.

Zafferani Glass will be introducing a new and improved line of machinery in Dusseldorf which will provide customers with faster output levels and improved quality. They will be found in Hall 16, Stand D11

Phil Birchall concludes, “Again the market is changing with new industry legislation coming into effect in the UK next year regarding CE marking. Stringent standards will be introduced which could have considerable effect on the market if manufacturers can’t comply. The machinery within our range will help to take manufacturers forward to meet and exceed those regulations. Glasstec will provide the ideal opportunity for customers to evaluate their needs and plan ahead.”

Anyone travelling to the exhibition and wishing to arrange a meeting at the show then please call 01630 638555.

Alternatively for more information on the products in The Glass Machinery Company range then please visit the website www.theglassmachinerycompany.co.uk.

THE GLASS mACHINERy COmPANy TO ATTEND GLASSTEC

East Kilbride-based Trade frames Direct has been involved on a prestigious housing development in Kilmaurs, East Ayrshire, thanks to its excellent reputation in the region.

The Synseal fabricator manufactured, supplied and installed a range of products, including casement windows, tilt and turns and french doors – all using Shield profile – and vertical sliders, also supplied by Synseal.

The Rowallan Castle development – worth £275,000 to Trade Frames Direct – began in the autumn of 2010, and is an ongoing project by developer, Charles Church, to build 35 detached luxurious five and six-bedroom homes. The exclusive gated properties are nestled in five clusters in a mature estate surrounded by listed buildings and a Colin Montgomerie-designed championship golf course.

In keeping with the adjacent historic buildings, the developers’ architects specified vertical sliders on the houses’ front elevations. “The unique selling point of these properties is that each house is individual to reflect its

WINNING PARTNERSHIP CREATES OPPORTUNITIESsurroundings,” explained Michael Bishop, Trade Frames Direct’s Director. “As part of the tendering process, we were able to draw on our portfolio of successful projects that we have previously carried out for Charles Church, as well as our close relationship with Synseal. They were able to supply the market-leading vertical sliding windows that suited with the other windows on the development.”

Winning prestigious contracts, like this one on the Charles Church Rowallan Castle,

relies on having a supply chain behind you that works with you and supports you, rather than simply providing products, as Michael explained. “We have a very strong and long-lasting relationship with Synseal,” he said. “Not only do they supply high value products – such as the VSs – but they are also supportive on site.”

“Trade Frames Direct’s reputation allows its clients to rely on them to deliver what they promise, when they promise,” Brian Walker, Synseal’s Fabricator Development Manager said. “In order to achieve that, they need suppliers behind them that they can trust, which is why Synseal is much more than just a profile extruder. Not only can we fill the gaps with bespoke high end products, such as the VSs, but we partner with our customers to help them make the most of every opportunity.”

“They were able to supply the market-leading vertical sliding windows that suited with the other windows on the development.”


TRADE NEWS


manufacturer, installer and Conservatory Outlet Dealer, Hazlemere Window Company, has been named as an “Outstanding Company” by Plimsoll Publishing, a leading provider of market reports and company analysis, based on its latest set of published annual accounts.

Over 25 years Plimsoll have produced reports for over 1,500 industries including the Windows, Doors and Conservatories industry, and these reports are often part of the furniture in the offices of business managers, directors and decision makers. On the 11th September 2012 Plimsoll awarded High Wycombe based Hazlemere Window Company the accolade of “Award for Outstanding Company 2012”.

Plimsoll’s analysis of Hazlemere’s latest published annual accounts show that Hazlemere Window Company “is ranked as the 33rd fastest growing in terms of sales growth in the latest year.”

In addition this independent analysis found that the company is among the top 50 in the double glazing industry in both trading profit and leaders in efficiency.

From a 56,000 square foot premises in High Wycombe, which includes an 8,000 square foot customer home improvement showroom, Hazlemere Window Company has, for nearly three decades, manufactured a complete range of aluminium windows, doors and conservatories.

Since the beginning of 2011 Hazlemere has also been a

Conservatory Outlet Dealer - sourcing its UPVC products from Wakefield-based fabricator Conservatory Outlet – serving Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

Commenting on the company’s new found status Hazlemere Window Company Sales Director, Tony Beale, said: “This prestigious Plimsoll award is clear recognition of the company’s sustained success during the last three decades, and proof that Hazlemere Window Company have managed to maintain outstanding financial performance over a long period of time, due to sound management, efficiency and prudence.”

“This diligent business approach was further enhanced when Hazlemere became a Conservatory Outlet Dealer in April 2011, which has resulted in further steady profitable growth and diversification.”

Tony’s counterpart at Conservatory Outlet, Greg Kane, added: “It’s great news, but little surprise, that Hazlemere have been named an Outstanding Company by Plimsoll. It also hints at the calibre of the installation companies that make up the Conservatory Outlet Network of Dealers – well run, successful business with a sound infrastructure.”

For further info on Hazlemere Window Company Ltd, contact Mark Austin, the Group’s Marketing Director on 01494 897605 or email him at [email protected] or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk.

“OUTSTANDING” HAZLEmERE WINDOW COmPANy LTD

On the back of launching a free guide to all hardware related standards under BS EN 14351-1, Securistyle, the well established manufacturer of quality, innovative hardware for windows and doors, is helping customers prepare for one of the next big step changes for the industry – CE marking. The European Construction Products Regulation requires the mandatory CE marking of all installed windows and doors from 1st July next year.

Grant Stratford, Technical Director of the company explains: “Most of the industry will now be aware that CE Marking will be mandatory from July next year, but don’t necessarily know what they need to do to comply. Although Securistyle is a

component supplier, we have almost 100 years of hardware industry experience in our management team alone and like to make our customers’ lives easier by keeping abreast of changes to industry standards and market trends on their behalf. Our customers expect our products to comply with future as well as existing legislation and CE Marking

is no different which is why we have already got the hardware element covered for them with a range of independently certified hardware. The fact that we can demonstrate compliance to the applicable standards tiered down from BS EN14351 means our customers will have the evidence they need for their own technical files and Factory Production Control.

“In addition to having the product certification covered for our customers, our team of experts are on hand to offer advice on the up and coming changes, how it will affect their business and what they need to do to ensure they comply.”

For more information call Securistyle on 01242 221 200 or email us at [email protected].

SECURISTyLE HITS THE mARK

Industry-leading system supplier VEKA plc has been named as a finalist in the G12 awards. The Burnley-based company has been shortlisted for 'Energy Efficiency Initiative of the year' thanks to a cost-effective, simple system for achieving U-values of 0.8, without the need for ultra expensive krypton-filled sealed units

VEKA unveiled the new and improved means of achieving U-Values as low as 0.8W/m2K earlier this year.

VEKA Sales and Marketing Director Colin Torley explains more about the thermal enhancements: “We wanted to develop a combination of products that would result in an economical way for our customers to achieve lower U-Values on the profile systems they already use. Although the overall thermal performance of a window is largely dependent on the glazing specification - there are also a number of cost-effective enhancements that can be made to the frame and glazing in order to better the U-Value performance of existing frames.”

“We developed a glazing bead to allow the incorporation of 40-44mm triple insulated glazed units within VEKA's Matrix 70 and FS systems.”

“Our Technical Department also developed an innovative solution whereby U-channel steel reinforcements incorporating foam inserts are used to fill the profile's reinforcement chamber. The foam inserts are not only the ideal product for enhancing the thermal performance of the product, but it is also a comparatively cost-effective method when compared with other solutions.

Foam inserts are readily available from a number of recommended third parties. In addition, we offer two self-adhesive seals, one for the glazing rebate and a centre seal that - together with a back of frame adaptor - take VEKA windows effortlessly and economically down to the coveted 0.8W/m2K U-Value.”

“We constantly strive to equip our customers with the products, knowledge

and skills to prepare them for whatever the industry throws at them. The minimum Building Regulation requirements for Approved Document L for thermal performance currently only call for a whole window U-Value of 1.6W/m2K. But our customers will be well prepared to stay ahead of the competition in the years to come with our 0.8w/m2k solution.”

“Although our customers' satisfaction - rather than potential awards - was obviously the driving force behind this development, it's great to be recognised by the G12 organisers for our energy-efficiency efforts.”

The G12 winners will be announced live at the Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner hosted by Patrick Kielty on November 23rd. For full details of VEKA’s route to 0.8 - contact the Technical Department on 01282 716611.

VEKA’S ‘ROUTE TO 0.8’ IS SHORTLISTED fOR

GREEN G12 AWARD

“Although our customers’ satisfaction - rather than potential awards - was obviously the driving force behind this development, it’s great to be recognised by the G12 organisers for our energy-efficiency efforts.”

OPPORTUNITIES IN DOORS


A brand new office block in-front of a major manufacturing hub just outside of Kings Worthy near Winchester is the latest building to have CDW Systems’ market-leading EasySecure door incorporated within it.

Gloucester based Alfram, who supply a wide-range of aluminium glazing products to both the commercial and domestic sectors, worked together with CDW Systems to manufacture and install the recently-launched and highly coveted EasySecure door, as the staff ’s main entrance door, in an office block that is behind a Garbuio Dickinson factory.

Garbuio Dickinson is a world leader in the design and manufacture of Tobacco Processing Machinery.

As part of the project Alfram also worked together with CDW Systems to install two 57.6 metre elevations of continuous runs of curtain walling framing, with casement inserts on both sides of the building.

Altogether this resulted in an impressive 104 square metres of curtain walling across both sides of the building

and the CDW Systems and Alfram project teams were delighted with the finished project.

Alfram’s Managing Director Barry Newman comments: “Garbuio Dickinson is an international powerhouse that is specialists in its field. The finished project was very impressive and a great advocate for the quality and striking aesthetics of aluminium.”

The development was completed on time and on-budget and represented the latest in a long-line of collaborations between the two: “CDW Systems have been supplying us for a number of years- over twenty for sure.

“They are the specialists in the manufacture of market-leading aluminium products and the level of service and expertise you receive is always of the highest standard,” Barry continues.

On the EasySecure Door itself, which is an evolution of the Sapa Stormframe door and CDW Systems’ latest product innovation Barry comments: “It’s a market-leading product which offers features and benefits that

other similar doors don’t – it’s a testament to CDW as a company and is helping us win sales in these well-publicised tough times.”

These features and benefits begin with the fact that any hardware can be fitted to EasySecure – including Dorma, Axim and Adams Rite – offering extended customer choice and improving security credentials, while a co-extruded bead makes the glass more secure within the door leaf.

Furthermore a new one piece anti-finger trap stile designed to suit all types of exit devices without the need for a mid-rail is incorporated; whilst dual weathering all the way around the perimeter of the door minimises air and water infiltration, ensuring the product performs better for longer.

Very popular since its launch, CDW Systems’ Managing Director Jerry Webb is delighted that the product has been successfully specified in another high-profile project: “It’s been a very good year so far for CDW Systems

and the launch of the Easy Secure door has certainly played its part in this as the door is giving our customers an original and high-performing product ideal for commercial developments.

“On the project itself, as usual Alfram were a great company to work with and they are gaining more and more work in that part of the country and it’s always satisfying to think that CDW products have been used in these high-profile developments.”

For more information call CDW Systems on 01452 414853or visit www.cdwsystems.co.uk.

ANOTHER HIGH-PROfILE EASySECURE INSTALLATION IN HAmPSHIRE

Easy Secure Door.

A 24% rise in sales has spurred Door-Stop to invest in two new CNC centres. With seven CNC machines in total, Door-Stop now has the capacity to make 2,200 composite doors a week on a single shift.

Managing Director Nick Dutton says Door-Stop commissioned the new routers to stay ahead of demand: “Our customers are experiencing rapid growth in the composite door market, which helped us hit the no.1 spot earlier this year.”

Door-Stop’s latest accounts, published in August, record a turnover of just under £20 million in its 4th year of trading.

Nick adds: “The composite door market is still increasing at the expense of PVC door panels, but Door-Stop’s growth is faster than the market because we’re meeting a real need. Our online ordering and 3 day delivery doors are still unmatched, four years on, while the specification and quality of our standard doorset is one of the highest on the market. The new CNC machines mean we can comfortably stay ahead of demand while delivering the best customer service, creating a sustainable business.”

For more information see www.door-stop.co.uk.

NEW CNCS HELP £20m DOOR-STOP GO fOR GROWTH



Phoenix Door Panels has offered to help customers left with outstanding or incomplete orders for PVC-U door panels following the collapse of Worcestershire-based Door Panels Ltd in mid- September.

The Cambridgeshire-based composite door and door panel manufacturer is waiving its £10 delivery surcharge for 24-hour delivery on any of the 121 standard designs its brochure until the end of October.

Orders received for standard panels by 10am will be delivered the following day. Although specific glass designs can be replicated, these would take a little longer.

“We have had a lot of calls from window companies desperate to fulfil orders that were placed with Door Panels Ltd, which stopped trading on Sept 17,” said Haydon Statham, Phoenix

National Sales Manager. “They hadn’t had their deliveries and were obviously concerned about their customers who were awaiting installation of their new doors.”

Haydon said their already highly-efficient manufacturing systems could cope with a sudden uplift in orders and panel sales were up by 10% compared to a usual week.

He added: “While it’s sad to hear of the demise of Door Panels Ltd, which had a reputation for service and quality, Phoenix is ready to step into the breach and look after the industry in these difficult times.”

Contact Will Reader at Phoenix Door Panels on 01487 740469, email [email protected] or visit the website at www.phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk.

PHOENIx DOOR PANELS OffERS HELP WITH UNfULfILLED PANEL ORDERS

Phoenix Door Panels has revised its County Collection Composite Door Brochure to include additional product information in line with its policy of continued improvement and enhanced customer service.

Available now, the updated 40-page brochure contains information on new edge-banding to the doors that replaces the aluminium strip on the edge of the door leaf to give a neater finish. Additional products are also featured; including

amended technical data and dimensions on the Duraflex dedicated composite door framing system.

“We feel it’s important to keep updating the brochure regularly in response to new additions and improvements to our range as well as to keep it looking fresh, new and bright,” explains Haydon Statham, Phoenix National Sales Manager.

“As it’s a vital selling tool for our customers, by ensuring it always contains the most up-to-date information they can be confident of being able

to offer one of the industry’s most extensive range of quality composite doors to homeowners.”

“While our popular products, such as the stable door, door and a half, and twin doors have always been

in there, the colour range has expanded on most products since it was originally printed.”

Identifying the latest brochure is easy, as Haydon adds: “We simply change the photo on the front; just look for the ‘door-savvy’ toddler peering from behind our composite door!”

Contact Phoenix Door Panels on 01487 740469, email [email protected] or visit the website at www.phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk.

PHOENIx DOOR PANELS UPDATES ITS COmPOSITE DOOR BROCHURE

VBH stocks the new Hoppe Atlanta Secured by Design approved security door handle.

The handle features a solid aluminium external backplate for added strength.

Further attack resistance is provided by the ‘slippery’ shape of the backplate that makes attempts to wrench it off the door more difficult.

Atlanta is available with short or long screw pitches, making it suitable for use with most popular 92mm PZ single or split spindle locks. Fixing positions are

identical to those on standard Hoppe door furniture so the product is easy to retro-fit on existing installations with no additional door-prep required.

Other key features are the adjustable sliding cover that protects against an attack on the profile cylinder and the patent pending hardened steel lower fixing bolt.

The upper screws are M6 hardened steel for improved strength.

Atlanta PAS24 is available in 4 attractive ‘Duraplus’ finishes, each of which is guaranteed for 10 years.

The handles are also covered by Hoppe’s 10 year mechanical and operational guarantee.

Call VBH 01634 263300 for more information or download at www.vbhgb.com.

VBH STOCKS NEW HOPPE ATLANTA SECURITy DOOR HANDLE

“Atlanta PAS24 is available in 4 attractive ‘Duraplus’ finishes, each of which is guaranteed for 10 years.”

One of the world’s strongest men has taken on Apeer Doors – and lost!

‘Big Daddy’ Glenn Ross – five times winner of the UK strongest man competition and three times winner of Britain’s strongest man – failed dismally when he went three rounds with the most advanced door set on the market. And just how the Northern Ireland international strongman and power lifter fared can be seen in a fun new video, rapidly going viral on the internet.

Said Apeer md Asa McGillian who came up with the idea of challenging

Glenn to go in the ring with the all-composite Apeer 70 door: “We wanted a simple but effective way to visually demonstrate the strength of our doors. And the contest with Glenn works a treat!”

The two minute video shows how Glenn goes into the first and second rounds wearing his boxing gloves – and becomes increasingly frustrated with his inability to inflict a fatal blow to the door.

Taunted by ‘Who’s The Daddy Now?’ signs, Glenn – who in the past has lifted off the ground the rear wheels of three Citroen Saxos (with a combined weight of

almost three tonnes), finally loses his cool. He enters round three with gloves off and carrying a 16lb demolition sledgehammer in a bid to smash the door to smithereens. When even that inflicts only minimal damage, the Apeer Door is declared official winner of the contest.

Said Asa: “The video is designed to be a bit of fun but also makes the very real point about the strength and durability of the Apeer door.”

“Glenn was terrific to work with. I think he was genuinely frustrated by how little damage he was able to cause – and impressed by how strong it was.”

To see the Glenn Ross v Apeer Door match visit www.apeer.co.uk.

Apeer 70 doors have now been officially recognised as ‘Energy A Rated’. The company has also expanded its standard colour offer and introduced a brand new, four-colour Premium range.

Apeer Doors will be exhibiting at the Fabricator and Installer Trade (FIT) show at Telford International Centre in April 2013.

APEER DOORS GO fROm STRENGTH TO STRENGTH WITH WORLD STRONGmAN!




Hurst Plastic’s has launched a new range of designer composite door colours for fabricators and installers to offer customers, adding style and difference to home-owners entrance doors.

The company’s latest range ‘The Bohemia range’, offers a range of stylish and sophisticated door styles in choice of six new exciting colours; Stone, Cotton Cream, Sage Green, Heather, Damask Red, Slate Grey and Tarn Blue.

The initial colour choices were carefully chosen after customer’s highlighted a need to give homeowners more individuality for there properties.

The company are also offer customers the opportunity to co-ordinate the same or a contrasting colour on the composite door’s outer frame.

Emma Cade, Hurst Plastic’s Marketing Manager commented, “Entrance doors should be an accent colour, in other words they should be strong, dramatic, bold shades.”

“With the help of our customers, the Bohemia range offers the diversity of six individual, striking colours, which we feel will definitely make a statement”.

“To add further to the uniqueness of the range, we are offering customers the option to upgrade and fit contemporary door hardware from Germany based manufacturer Karcher, the AV-2 high-security auto locking system by Winkhaus and their own colour choice other than the six colours being offered” added Emma.

The new ‘Bohemia’ range extends the companies existing product offering into the marketplace, the company has also produced a brand new brochure to accompany the launch of their new range.

For further information regarding Hurst Plastics new ‘Bohemia’ range or to obtain a copy of their latest brochure, contact Emma Cade on 01482 790790.

HURST PLASTIC’S NEW RANGE HELPS CUSTOmERS CREATE A STATEmENT

“Entrance doors should be an accent colour, in other words they should be strong, dramatic, bold shades.”

Not content with taking over mainland England as the most dynamic supplier of second generation composite doors, Solidor are now working with Peninsula Home Improvements from Anglesey, North Wales.

Launched in 1984, Peninsula was the first installer and manufacturer of PVCu windows and doors in North Wales. Over the past 28 years the company has earned the status as one of the market leaders in the home improvement industry, when it comes to the adoption of new product ranges.

One of the most recent projects on Anglesey was for the replacement of a front door with a Naples, Chartwell Green door from Solidor’s Italia Collection. This was supplied with a matching Kömmerling outer frame and featured a Tudor handle and matching letterplate from the company’s exclusive antique furniture range. This installed door was supplied with a certificate of compliance, achieving a U-value of 1.2 w/(m2K).

Ken Grayson, managing director of Peninsula Home Improvements commented: “For the last 18 months we’ve been working with Solidor and our delighted not only with the product but with the service. We’re a very product focused business and it’s always important for us to offer the leading products in each sector, which Solidor clearly is.”

Gareth Mobley, managing director of Solidor concluded: “We’re delighted to work with companies of the calibre of Peninsula who demand the best in terms of product innovation and support. We’ll keep on pushing the boundaries in terms of product innovation to help our customers stand out from the ‘me too’ products in the composite door sector.”

For a free copy of the latest Solidor brochure call their sales office on 01782 847300, e-mail [email protected] or download it from www.solidor.co.uk. You can also follow them on Twitter @SolidorLtd.

SOLIDOR’S WELSH PENINSULA

VBH stocks the new Birmingham Series door handle from Hoppe.

Birmingham is an ‘economic solution’ for those installations where the hardware cost is the over-riding factor in product selection. Efficiencies are gained through the use of basic packaging, which means the product quality synonymous with the Hoppe brand is not compromised.

Birmingham is available in short and long screw pitch versions in standard 92mm centres. There is also a 92/62mm offset lever/pad for use with dual spindle locks such as Millenco Mantis 3, Lockmaster, Roto, Yale etc.

Birmingham is available in 7 attractive ‘Duranorm’ finishes, each of which is fully covered by Hoppe’s Surface and Mechanical and Operational guarantees.

Call VBH 01634 263300 for more information or download at www.vbhgb.com.

BIRmINGHAm AVAILABLE fROm VBH

The Crimebeater multi-point door lock for composite doors has been added to Carl f Groupco’s hardware range. Tested to Secured by Design and PAS 23/24 requirements the lock, manufactured by fullex, is designed for ease of use, durability and reliability.

With flexibility and security in mind, the Crimebeater is available with hook or deadbolt locking points: deadbolts provide a traditional locking solution and hooks offer higher levels of security.

The lock is available with a range of faceplate variants including rounded or square ended, made from austenitic stainless steel.

A 44mm white powder coated aluminium face plate lock and hinge cover can be used to finish the composite door – as a result, fabricators can complete the door with lock and hinge plate, saving the cost of applying door trims.

Dual spindle or lever operation options are available for the Crimebeater, depending on the end user’s requirements.

Contact Carl F Groupco Limited Tel: 01733 393330

For more information, contact Clare White e-mail: [email protected].

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

CRImEBEATER LOCK fOR COmPOSITE DOORS fROm CARL f GROUPCO

The Crimebeater door lock from Carl f Groupco, designed for

ease of use and durability.


ENVIRONmENTAL ISSUES


Window and door installers are being urged to consider recycling their UPVC waste to counter rocketing Landfill Tax charges.

Last April’s 15% hike is expected to be followed by similar increases over the next few years, hitting both fabricators and installers hard in the pocket.

But waste management company J & B Recycling has claimed that many installers are unaware they can recycle old material and are missing out on potential rebates.

J & B Recycling is a waste management company that recycles both old UPVC frames removed by installers and off-cuts from the fabricators.

Managing Director Vikki Jackson Smith said: “A lot of commercial waste comes from small businesses and the windows industry in particular produces significant volumes of waste which can be recycled and does not need to go to landfill. That’s not just the UPVC but plate glass, timber frames and other plastics such as guttering and facias, packaging materials and rubble.

“Certainly speaking to our customers in the replacement windows and doors industry we have found that there is a lack of knowledge about recycling, particularly amongst installers. But they could be making decent rebates back on the old UPVC as we pay for every tonne we take away. The message is simple – sorting your old UPVC, earns you money.”

Installation company Sedgefield Windows uses J & B Recycling to manage its waste products generated both pre and post-installation.

Owner Mark Hughes said: “The main benefit to our business is not having the hassle of dealing with our waste UPVC. We

have a skip provided on-site for our off-cuts. The more we can separate, the more we get back in a rebate payment.

“My experience is that many installers are not recycling the old UPVC material and a significant amount is going to landfill. That’s not good for the environment or their business.”

RECyCLE yOUR OLD UPVC TO COUNTER LANDfILL TAx

mark Hughes, owner of Sedgefield Windows.

Old UPVC products.

Old UPVC products.

Vikki Jackson-Smith, managing director of J & B Recycling.



The GGf will be raising members concerns about Green Deal at all three Party Conferences this Autumn with presentations at the Dods Green Deal Dialogue fringe events in Brighton, Birmingham and manchester.

The first event “Getting the Best Deal from the Green Deal” takes place at the Liberal Democrats Conference 2012 at The Ambassador Suite, Hilton Metropole Hotel, Brighton, on Tuesday 25th September starting at 8am.

The Federation will be represented by Giles Willson, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Technical Affairs who will sit on a formidable panel of speakers including:

Chair:

• Damian Carrington, The Guardian

Speakers:

• Rt Hon Edward Davey MP, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change

• Simon Wright MP

• Neil Pennell, Head of Sustainability & Engineering, Land Securities

• Giles Willson, Deputy Chief Executive and Director for Technical Affairs, Glass and Glazing Federation

• Paul Hicks, Design Manager, Velux

The Dods Green Deal Dialogue has been a process of engagement between a number of partner organisations and the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) around the detail of the Green Deal – how it will impact them and what can be done to ensure its success.

Dialogue partners include the GGF, Land Securities and Velux. As part of the

dialogue process, Dods held a business summit and number of roundtable meetings across the UK to help understand the concerns of those who will be responsible for delivering the Green Deal programme. These events were accompanied by a programme of research, carried out through polling, focus groups and interviews. The findings from the research have been fed into the final report which will be launched at Conference.

At the Green Deal Dialogue Party Conference Events the discussion themes will be:

• Will small and medium sized businesses be able to take advantage of the Green Deal?

• What sort of consumer demand can be expected?

• What are the economic and social benefits that could arise from the Green Deal?

• What safeguards should be put in place to ensure the scheme is a success?

Background

The list of speakers for the Labour Party Conference and the Conservative Party Conference have yet to be fully confirmed by Dods, but Giles Willson will elevate GGF Members’ concerns at all three Party Conferences and will present:

• The background to the GGF’s work on Green Deal

• More details of the accreditation gained by FENSA (a GGF subsidiary company) to become a Green Deal Certification body

• The options for businesses of all sizes

• The obstacles facing SMEs to access Green Deal work

• The GGF’s work going forward on Green Deal and ECO

Details for the other Party Conferences

Labour Party Conference

Date: Tuesday 2nd October Time: 17:45 – 19:00 Place: Central 7, Manchester Central

Conservative Party Conference

Date: Tuesday 9th October Time: 12:30 – 14:00 Place: 10b, ICC Birmingham

Aligned to Giles Willson’s presentations, Nigel Rees GGF Group Chief Executive will be attending several events at the Conservative Party Conference to discuss the GGF’s concerns with relevant Government Ministers.

GREEN DEAL ON THE GGf AGENDA AT PARTy CONfERENCES

An energy saving calculator has been available on the GGf website for some time but now the same calculations have been built into Windowlink’s focus program.

Whilst energy saving figures for an average sized houses such as detached, semi-detached, terraced and flats can be calculated from the website, Focus uses the actual frame sizes to firstly ascertain the heat loss and then the annual savings dependent on the type of heating fuel used and the construction of the existing frames – for both A rated and C rated options. In

addition, the payback period for each rating is shown taking into account inflation.

“The results are very interesting” commented Giles Hayhurst, managing director of Windowlink, “whilst the saving obtained by replacing steel windows using electricity is colossal, it’s not much of a saving when replacing existing double glazed PVCu windows when using the cheapest form of heating which is gas. Therefore it’s up to the individual salesman to decide when to use this facility but the ability to accurately show the savings will appeal to many homeowners”.

The sample printout shown is for replacing single glazed timber windows in an electrically heated detached house.

Whilst the “Focus Energy” upgrade is supplied pre-set with current fuel and inflation costs, these can be updated by the user at any time.

This new addition to the Focus family can be added as an after-market upgrade for a one-off cost of £ 295.00 (+vat) and orders are being dealt with on a first-come first-served basis.

ENERGy SAVINGS NOW CALCULATED By WINDOWLINK’S

fOCUS SOfTWARE


following the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) Green Deal Supply Chain Roadshows in the summer, DECC and the Energy Efficiency Partnership for Buildings (EEPB) are hosting an additional set of briefings during October for the supply chain.

The GGF encourages all companies and in particular GGF Members, interested in supplying into the Green Deal to attend one of the briefings.

If you are a manufacturer, an installer or in the supply chain for Green Deal products or services then these briefings are sure to be informative.

DECC are particularly interested in attracting smaller companies so they may find out more about the opportunities offered by the Green Deal.

These briefings are being run so participants can:

• Understand what the Green Deal means for their business

• Hear how other companies are seizing Green Deal opportunities

• Discuss ideas for the Green Deal with local companies like theirs

The following events are available

monday 15th October 10am-12noon – London Coin Street Neighbourhood Centre, SE1

monday 15th October 2.30pm-4.30pm – London Coin Street Neighbourhood Centre, SE1

friday 19th October 8am-10am – Leicester Leicester Race Course

friday 26th October 8am-10am – Middlesbrough Middlesbrough Training and Learning Centre

These events are free to attend. There were large waiting lists for the previous events and we want to ensure that as many companies get the opportunity to attend as possible so if you attended an event in the last round, we would ask that you do not sign up for the events in this round.

To make an online booking to attend one of these events, visit www.deccgreendealbriefing.eventbrite.co.uk or call event managers, SE2 Ltd, on 020 8469 1333 who will be happy to take your booking for you.

To find out more on the GGF’s position and concerns on Green deal and ECO please visit the GGF website www.ggf.org.uk/green-deal-faqs

GGf SUPPORTS DECC’S GREEN DEAL BRIEfINGSDelays to work beginning

under the Green Deal will hinder growth in the construction industry and the wider economy according to the federation of master Builders (fmB).

Government originally pledged that work under its flagship Green Deal programme would commence today – 1 October 2012 – but Ministers have now confirmed that this will not be happening until February 2013 when the repayment mechanism is in place. However, households will be able to get their homes assessed from October onwards and companies that want to become certified Green Deal Installers can already apply for certification.

Commenting, Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The FMB has long argued that for the Green Deal to succeed, Government must generate business confidence in the scheme by sending clear policy signals. When agreed

time frames are not adhered to, businesses lose faith in what the Government is saying. This could mean that the next time such a scheme is announced, these businesses will be reluctant to invest in the areas of their business that are essential to the Government delivering their policy objectives.”

“The Government predicts that the Green Deal programme could kick start £14bn of investment over the next decade and support at least 65,000 new insulation and construction jobs by 2015. However, with the construction industry continuing to falter, we need this stimulus right away which is why it is so disappointing that there will be a three month delay to actual work commencing under the Green Deal. It is now more important than ever that Government ensures the Green Deal is a success once it does eventually get going. As part of this, Government must support the efforts of SMEs to forge a mutually beneficial relationship with one or more Green Deal Provider. Without certainty that small firms will have access to the Green Deal market, it will be much harder to drive the development of new skills needed to support the effective transition to a low-carbon built environment.”

GREEN DEAL DELAyS WILL HINDER ECONOmIC GROWTH SAyS fmB

“When agreed time frames are not adhered to, businesses lose faith in what the Government is saying.”

SEEE Windows and Doors have provided a perfect view for a client on the Isle of man and, at the same time, offered a glimpse of what can be achieved in terms of energy-efficient design.

The East Sussex-based designer and fabricator has produced bespoke windows and sliding doors for a beachfront house. From a combination of Accoya material, triple glazing and Roto hardware, they've created sliding doors that achieve both an unspoilt panorama and impressive U-values.

SEEE puts an emphasis on constant design improvement with the aim of getting the maximum efficiency out of its glazing units and frames and, wherever possible, using natural materials.

“If we can use eco-friendly materials, we will”, says SEEE Financial Director, Cheryl Guest. “In this project, every thermal break is made from cork. All of the timber has a 30mm break along the glazing line.”

In order to give the best possible thermal performance, the cork break is also included in the flush-level threshold.

The full-height sliding doors contain triple-glazed units

with a Ug value of 0.7 W/m2K. The use of Infinity glazing to the walls with a Ug of 0.6 ensures the best possible views out to sea from this very enviable location. SEEE has achieved an overall Uw of 0.75 W/m2K.

“In this case we've added extra seals to the doors,”, Cheryl reveals. “Roto have already used the standard seals on units tested to Class 4 of EN 12207 for air permeability, but we've further improved the weather-tightness. Roto has become our hardware of choice. The best aspect of Patio Life is the fact there's no 'lift' element. You get all the load-bearing strength and ease of sliding, but without having to lift the sash. The gasket system also makes it perfect for energy efficient doors”, she says.

The praise goes both ways. “We're always impressed by what SEEE are able to do”, says Roto Key Account

SEEE PROVIDES A VIEW Of THE fUTURE ON ISLE Of mAN

Manager, Tony Hill. “On this project, they've configured their own cills and it all

works perfectly. They're always able to take Roto hardware and integrate it into their own designs. SEEE have produced a really unique package of energy-efficient doors. I'm now interested to see their next project in Manchester.”

That forthcoming Manchester contract is the supply of windows and doors on a Lottery-funded community centre, for which the air permeability requirement, in accordance with DIN EN 13829, is 1 to 1.3 m3 h-1 m-2 at 50 Pa. In

other words, very close to Passive standards.

For further information, email [email protected].




Trade fabricator Dekko Windows prides itself on offering the best energy rated windows. The company started using sealed units with SWISSPACER two years ago for its A rated windows, and since then sales have doubled.

Currently Dekko uses SWISSPACER in 40% of its windows, but as demand for top performance windows grows, so will demand for SWISSPACER.

SWISSPACER has excellent thermal properties, helping Dekko and other window companies achieve top performing windows.

Kurt Greatrex, Dekko Windows’ Sales Director says: “SWISSPACER helps us achieve A rated windows and we’re very pleased with its performance. Since we first started using SWISSPACER two years ago, sales have doubled. With the tightening of building regulations, the Green Deal and increased awareness of energy efficiency amongst homeowners, we expect sales of SWISSPACER to grow even more. Eventually, we estimate 70% of our windows will have SWISSPACER inside. Whether it’s the specifier or end user, everyone wants the most energy efficient window and

SWISSPACER helps us to achieve this.”

Tel: 0845 601 1265

SWISSPACER SALES DOUBLE AT DEKKO

“With the tightening of building regulations, the Green Deal and increased awareness of energy efficiency amongst homeowners, we expect sales of SWISSPACER to grow even more.”

from the manufacturer of Thermobar Warm Edge Spacer Tube and Accessories, Thermoseal Group is to introduce its new product at Glasstec Dusseldorf 23–26 October 2012 - Thermoflex Warm Edge Spacer.

Thermoflex is a flexible warm edge spacer tube manufactured using pre-desiccated flexible elastomeric foam, and the design incorporates a unique gas barrier tape and pre-applied structural adhesive side tape.

Thermoseal Group’s sales director, Mark Hickox comments: “Our flagship product – Thermobar warm edge spacer – has been in production for nearly 2 years, and we are now proud to introduce the latest addition to our warm edge range – Thermoflex. It will be on sale from early 2013, but we see Glasstec as a great platform to show visitors samples of our new product and the advantages we can offer over other warm edge suppliers in the market.

“Of course, we will be showing Thermobar Warm Edge Spacer tube at the show as well, so invite all to come and see us for an update on our products and what our future plans are to extend our warm edge range further”

To find out about Thermoseal Group Limited and its comprehensive range of insulated glass components and machinery for glazing manufacture, visit stand C06 in Hall 17 during the Glasstec show. Alternatively, call 0121 331 3950 or visit www.thermosealgroup.com for further information.

NEW WARm EDGE SPACER AT GLASSTEC DUSSELDORf

WORKING WITH COLOUR


freefoam, a leading manufacturer of a wide range of innovative products for the building industry in Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe, has introduced a new product to its range of fortex® textured cladding systems.

The new Render Finish Flat Cladding product has an attractive textured render finish and a flat appearance when installed. The product is 250mm wide, 5m long and is available in white and sand colours. It includes a range of matching accessories to ensure a neat and professional installation.

The Fortex® range includes exterior cladding systems available in single and double plank format. Each format has an attractive textured effect and comes in a range of standard and bespoke colours. Fortex requires little maintenance once installed which is a major benefit for the owners of residential and mobile homes. Finally, Fortex comes with significant environmental credentials with the Building Research Establishment’s (BRE) ‘Green

Guide To Specification’ giving PVC cladding an A+ rating when installed with standard components.

Aidan Harte, Managing Director, Freefoam, comments: “we’re delighted to add the new Render Finish Flat Cladding product to the Fortex® range. The new product gives customers and homeowners additional choice when it comes to selecting a style and colour that suits their home or project. Fortex has proven to be very popular in Ireland, the UK and France in particular. The quality, quick installation and low maintenance features of the product are important selling points. In addition, the attractive textured effect and range of colours to choose from add significantly to the attractiveness of the product. We’re delighted with the popularity of the product to date and confident that sales will continue to increase as awareness of this innovative product continues to grow throughout Europe.”

Tel: 01604 591110 www.freefoam.com

fREEfOAm LAUNCHES NEW fORTEx® RENDER fINISH fLAT CLADDING PRODUCT

REHAU has updated its consumer website at www.rehauhome.com making it easier to navigate and with an even stronger emphasis on generating enquiries for its network of Authorised Partners.

Changes to the overall content of the site and to the layout and navigation have all been made as a result of extensive research with independent focus groups and with input from Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) specialists.

This, REHAU says, will help to ensure that it ranks higher in online searches by homeowners and that once they click on to the site homeowners will be more likely to submit an enquiry.

Sheila Normington, the Authorised Partner coordinator at REHAU, says that there are calls for action throughout the new site, encouraging consumers to find an Authorised Partner in their area, download literature and request a quote.

There are several new features in the new website which Sheila says have been designed to appeal directly to homeowners.

One of the most innovative is an online colour selector which allows users to select from three types of property – red brick, stone or rendered, and then view a visualisation of that property fitted with REHAU windows, doors or a conservatory in any one of REHAU’s woodgrain or coloured foiled finishes.

The colour selector even allows users to print off a PDF of their preferred colour choice to use when requesting a quote from an Authorised Partner, and Authorised Partners themselves can insert links to this feature from their own websites if they choose.

Alongside this, there are also new galleries to inspire consumers, downloadable brochures, a blog focused on home improvement and useful information for potential buyers on security, energy efficiency and acoustic performance. The ‘find an installer’ function remains at the forefront of the website and REHAU has taken the opportunity to overhaul the look of the individual Authorised Partner landing pages which homeowners are directed to when they enter their postcode details.

These pages are now much more intuitive for the first time visitor and also have new separate function buttons for homeowners either to make a general enquiry or to get a quote. This, says Sheila, will help Authorised Partners to track more easily all the enquiries they receive via the website.

REHAU has invested in full SEO for the website so that it will rank highly in online searches for replacement windows, doors and conservatories but it is also supporting the update with a Google Adwords campaign and continuing full colour, full page advertisements in the consumer lifestyle magazines Ideal Home and House Beautiful.

Sheila Normington says: “The REHAU consumer website is already hugely popular, generating more than 6500 hits per month, but websites should always be evolving and improving to reflect how the market is changing and how users want to interact online. The improvements we have made to www.rehauhome.com demonstrate our commitment to that and I am confident they will prove really useful to our customers.”

UPDATED CONSUmER WEBSITE fROm REHAU PROmISES mORE ENQUIRIES fOR CUSTOmERS

WORKING WITH COLOUR


Prefix Systems, the UK’s largest independent conservatory specialist, has recently expanded its foiled options to 10 with the recent introduction of Anteak, which is one of the most popular options for the Residence 9 system.

Within the PVCu extrusion sector, colour is primarily driven by the popular foil finishes from the leading Systems Companies and also the more niche ones, such as Eclectic Systems, the company behind Residence 9. As the pioneer in coloured conservatory roofs, Prefix offers a complete range of foils that perfectly match the finishes from the leading window and door companies.

These 10 foiled options are now carried in stock with matching ancillaries and components, along with three shades of white. The components are all colour matched thanks to the in house painting facility at Prefix, which also offers a complete bespoke conservatory roofing colouring facility. The company also boats an impressive and unique cast iron effect gutter for traditional architectural detailing.

Through their three regional depots, Prefix have seen an impressive increase in the number of foiled and coloured

conservatory roofs over the last 18 months, with the average sales value of a conservatory roof on the increase. Stocks of all the colours which amount to 13 in total have also increased, to ensure that fully fabricated roofs can be delivered direct to customers nationwide, with their own delivery fleet.

The conservatory market is clearly changing with the introduction of new colours, Garden Room Roof and Livin Room (now branded as Loggia). Prefix is also experiencing the growth in the replacement conservatory market, with specialist structural products such as Retro-fix and Multibeam pivotal to adding additional structural stability.

Chris Baron and Chris Cooke, directors of Prefix Systems commented: “We’re now in double figures in terms of foils we offer and have plans to further extend the range. Combined with our Garden Room Roof and Loggia, we believe we have the best conservatory and related product range in the industry.”

For further information log on to www.prefixsystems.co.uk, email [email protected], call 01254 871800 or follow them on Twitter @prefixsystems.

A COLOURfUL ADDITION

80 houses and 124 apartments have been built on four sites in the suburb of Gorton in the first major development of new council housing by the City of Manchester Council for more than 30 years.

The focus throughout is on sustainability, security and lifecycle costs and the REHAU PVC-U window and curtain walling system satisfied all three criteria with a WER ‘C’ rating on the windows, a Uf-value as low as 0.88 W/m2K on the curtain walling, Secured by Design accreditation and proven low maintenance and long term performance.

The windows and curtain walling were fabricated and installed by commercial specialists Per-Fit Windows of Heywood who were appointed by the two main contractors Bramall

Construction, now known as Keepmoat, and G.B. Solutions on the basis of their manufacturing quality and commercial experience.

All of the frames were coloured grey on the exterior using REHAU’s Acryl II PVC-U colouring system and the windows are white on the interior to give tenants greater flexibility in terms of decoration.

The screens, up to 4m high, were used in the stairwells of the four storey apartment blocks and were preferred to aluminium screens because of their better thermal performance and ease of fabrication.

The development was designed by architects Bowker Sadler and is now managed by Guinness Northern Counties.

www.rehau.co.uk

REHAU WINDOWS INSTALLED By PER-fIT WINDOWS IN CfSH LEVEL 4 DEVELOPmENTA Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 development in Gorton, manchester features more than 800 windows in REHAU’s S706 70mm PVC-U system and 20 screens in the REHAU Polytec 50S composite curtain walling system.

RECRUITmENT


Employment prospects for small and medium-sized enterprises (SmEs) in the construction sector are continuing to deteriorate, according to the latest State of Trade Survey from the federation of master Builders (fmB), the UK’s largest construction trade association.

The FMB’s State of Trade Survey, the only one of its kind looking at construction SMEs, reveals that in the second quarter of 2012, lower employment levels were reported by more than a third of builders (37%) and the outlook is little better with 30% of construction SMEs expecting to reduce employment levels over the next six months.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: “The results from the latest FMB survey are particularly depressing. After four years of continuous recession in the SME construction sector we would hope to be seeing signs of a return to growth and new job creation, not on-going heavy job losses.”

Berry continued: “The problems affecting the construction sector pose real problems for the wider economy, not just because of the direct cost of unemployment but because of the impact on the industry’s skills base. Evidence from past recessions shows that when people leave the construction industry they tend not to return when the economy recovers. This leaves the construction industry short of skills which in turn delays projects and forces up prices when demand returns to the market.”

Berry concluded: “To help construction SMEs create jobs and promote growth in the construction sector, the Government needs to be making bolder policy decisions on a range of policy issues such as reform of the current procurement rules, incentives to promote the forthcoming Green Deal retrofit initiative and a targeted drive to increase house building. Construction industry procurement is a particularly onerous and costly process for small building companies and more must be done to prevent the exclusion of the small businesses that typically use local materials, local labour and promote the development of local skills. Both central and local government need to recognise that value for money is not just about the lowest cost.”

37% Of CONSTRUCTION SmES ARE CUTTING JOBS, SAyS fEDERATION Of mASTER BUILDERS

Joint research by Recruitment body and leading Professional Services firm points to growing confidence among UK firms for hiring.

Companies have started to take on staff again, particularly temporary and contract staff, suggesting an improving economy. SMEs are most confident about future prospects, coming at a time when the government has announced an initiative to boost long term lending for small businesses. According to a report on jobs produced by the Recruitment Employment Confederation (REC) and KPMG, the rate of decline in permanent hires eased in August, halting a trend of several months. Similarly, temporary and contract staffing witnessed a rise in placements, for the first time in nine months.

If this trend continues it suggests that demand is for staff is beginning to increase without companies necessarily having the flexibility to take staff on a permanent basis. It may also point to a ‘wait and see’ attitude among employers. The REC/KPMG research was based on information gathered from recruitment agencies throughout the UK.

REC Chief Executive Kevin Green said: “Recruiters tell us the first rise in the placement of temp workers in nine months is because employers are calling on that flexibility offered by agency staff as a way to grow to meet recent increases in demand, like that seen last month in the service sector.”

Growth in the number of companies recruiting

According to Bernard Brown, Partner and Head of

Business Services at KPMG: “With question marks still hanging over the long-term state of the economy, it would be easy to suggest that an upward curve in the jobs market is nothing more than a blip. But the truth is that, in some parts of the country, we are actually seeing a growth in the number of companies recruiting and where there is a decline it is now virtually insignificant.”

For once London and the South East is not the driver of growth. The strongest geographical expansion came in the Midlands, which took the biggest share of both permanent and temporary hires.

The most in-demand staff according to the REC/KPMG research are in the nursing, medical and care sectors - in the private rather than the public sector.

“It may be slow, but perhaps we are witnessing the first signs of recovery? Temporary placements are also on the up, so the hope must be that employer confidence is returning, that they are looking to the long-term and recruiting for growth,” said Brown.

The report also found that the number of staff available, both for permanent and temporary roles is increasing, meaning that any rising demand for staff is being filled by workers coming on the market. Consequently, rates of pay are flat and there has even been a slight drop in temp hourly pay.

Employer confidence

Previous research published in August by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)

found that 1 in 3 firms were keeping on more staff than they needed to avoid losing valuable skills, but anticipated making redundancies if economic growth did not take place within the next year.

However private sector employers were generally the most optimistic that they would increase staffing levels over the next year. The CIPD surveyed more than 1,000 employers via YouGov and found confidence levels were highest in the private sector and particularly among SMEs. This contrasted with negative expectations among public sector employers, where the outlook remains bleak.

Government initiative for SmEs

The mood of confidence amongst small and medium sized businesses by government announcements of financial support to the sector. The Business Secretary, Vince Cable announced the formation of a business bank during the week, for the purpose of making lending available to SMEs who are struggling to access credit.

The government initiative will provide funding of £1bn via existing lenders with government support acting in the form of guarantees and equity. It is anticipated that the assistance will ease the way for lending where high street banks are reluctant to take risks on businesses.

Commenting on the government plan, BBC business editor Robert Peson said they were trying to produce a long-term improvement in lending to

GROWING CONfIDENCE AmONG UK fIRmS fOR HIRING

RecruitmentHelping you find & place positions.

“Evidence from past recessions shows that when people leave the construction industry they tend not to return when the economy recovers.”

small firms rather than a quick change. “The intention is that these would be longer-term loans with a maturity of about 10 years, that small businesses find hard to prise out of our risk-averse banks,” said Peston.

The government plan was given a broad welcome by both trade unions and business groups. CBI director-general John Cridland called on the government to get the bank running quickly, saying that it could “play a vital role in packaging up and selling

debt from medium-sized companies, allowing them to access vital finance streams.” TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said: “The new state investment bank should provide much needed support for businesses to grow and create jobs.”

There are 4.5 million small businesses in the UK, which account for 58.8 percent of private sector employment – estimated at 13.8 million people.

Unemployment in the UK fell by 7,000 to 2.59

million in the three months to July - a rate of 8.1 percent, while the number seeking Jobseeker’s Allowance fell in August by 15,000 to 1.57 million. A person is considered to be unemployed if they are out of a job, actively looking for work and are available to start within a fortnight. The unemployment figures have dropped from their peak of 2.7 million, recorded at the end of 2011. This in turn was the highest figure for 17 years.

www.cvrite.co.uk

RECRUITmENT


RECRUITmENT


The Get Britain Building lobby has launched a Jobs and Growth campaign, aimed at getting the economy moving again.

Get Britain Building campaigners firmly believe that the only option left for Government is to build our way out of recession. They argue the simple but effective answer to the country’s plight has worked before and will be successful again, quickly stimulating growth by building much-needed housing and generating jobs.

The ‘Jobs and Growth’ campaign was officially launched at the UK’s Housing Summit addressed by Shadow Housing Minister Jack Dromey MP and attended by industry leaders from the private and public housing sectors.

Get Britain Building campaigners, who are behind the call for a serious targeted stimulus package, argue there is an irrefutable business case for investing in new homes, home improvement and infrastructure.

Their new Jobs and Growth campaign sets out clear recommendations on what

GREAT BRITAIN NEEDS “GOLD” fOR

JOBS & GROWTH

measure’s Government and the Banks need to take if we are to build our way out of recession.

Commenting on the launch, Get Britain Building spokesperson Mike Leonard said “The UK needs jobs and growth, and building our way out of recession is now the only solution left to Government.”

“After a golden summer of sporting achievement, we need to capture some of that Olympic spirit, positivity and determination and go for “Gold” in Jobs and Growth.”

Leonard said: “Over the coming months we will work closely with all our local and national politicians, banks and other decision influencers to build the case for Jobs and Growth.”

“We have the demand, the will, the land, the materials and the skills to make this happen. With the same level of focus, commitment and pride demonstrated by our athletes this summer, the building industry can lead Britain out of recession.”

Visit www.jobsandgrowth.co.uk for more information or call Mike Leonard on 07778 842831.

“The UK needs jobs and growth, and building our way out of recession is now the only solution left to Government.”

mila’s commitment to improving the service it delivers both to its customers and to its own staff has been superbly demonstrated by Sales Advisor megan Bradford who has become the first member of the internal sales team to achieve a Customer Service NVQ Diploma Level 3.

Megan has recently completed an 18 month course which she says has given her valuable new skills to help improve her sales performance as well as a greater understanding and appreciation of her customers’ perspective.

Mila identified the course for Megan after she told the company in an appraisal that she wanted to improve her skills and obtain a formal customer service qualification. An external training provider was identified to deliver all of the training at Mila’s Daventry office and Megan was given time off from her regular job to study and complete assignments.

She says: “In terms of my own career development, the course has delivered exactly what I had hoped and, in terms of

improving the service I can now deliver to customers, I can see it has had a really positive impact. The various assignments have made me analyse every aspect of my role and I can see how the improvements I have made will benefit customers. My team leaders and line manager have also given me really valuable input during the training and it has been a worthwhile investment both for Mila and for me.”

Megan’s success has prompted Mila to roll out the NVQ Customer Service programme to other members of the 12 strong internal sales team and it is set to become an integral part of the training and development offered to new recruits.

Training is one of the key areas identified in Mila’s regular staff surveys which is most valued by staff, and as a result the company invests in widespread training for groups and individuals designed both to improve individual performance and to meet career aspirations.

www.mila.co.uk

NVQ SUCCESS AT mILA

Quickslide has created the Quickslide Academy to train and up-skill existing employees and new staff in the company with the objective of further improving product quality, production efficiency and staff satisfaction.

Operated in partnership with the Fenestration College Quickslide is embarking upon a long-held desire to ensure that every employee involved in the manufacture of the company’s windows, residential and bi-folding doors has formal qualifications and the desire to continuously improve their skills. The scheme will include the recruitment of five apprentices - one for each of the company’s production areas - in addition to existing operators and fabricators being trained to a minimum of the National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) Level 2. Other qualifications include GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Glass Processing (QCF); and GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Fabrication of Glass Supporting Structures (QCF). Apprenticeships will be Intermediate Level 2 Apprentice Window Fabricators.

The scheme is the brainchild of Mick Madigan, Quickslide’s Production Director, together with the company’s Chairman Adrian Barraclough. Mick explained their philosophy: “We have the best production equipment and processes in the company, following years of investment and last year we won the G11 Fabricator of the Year Award, confirmation that we were getting things right. But ultimately it is all about our people; if we want to continue to make further incremental improvements this will come through our employees and how well they perform and also of course,

how much they enjoy their roles. That is a key issue. Training is an investment just as surely as buying a new machine.”

Andy Clegg, whose Fenestration College implemented and manages the Quickslide Academy for the company, says that Quickslide will enjoy direct benefits as a result of their commitment: “We have worked with Quickslide for some time to train their staff. The Quickslide Academy now makes training an inherent part of Quickslide. It is established within the factory, a department of the company just as are HR, sales and dispatch.”

Within a week of the agreement to proceed a presentation was made to all employees to explain the vision of the Quickslide Academy and its aims. The staff has universally embraced the scheme says Mick: “We are delighted with the response we have received from them and especially those who have commenced their training. Knowing that they are valued in itself motivates them. Having the formal skills to do their jobs improves their confidence and efficiency; it’s very rewarding to see the difference it makes.”

QUICKSLIDE TAKES A STEP CLOSER TO ACHIEVING THE WINDOW INDUSTRy’S BEST WORKfORCE

Quickslide has created the Quickslide Academy to train and up-skill existing employees and new staff in the company. Here Andy Clegg of fenestration College coaches some of Quickslide’s star students.

RECRUITmENT


Apeer Doors, the most advanced door entrance system on the market, has appointed martin Nugent as its sales representative covering the North of England.

Martin, who has spent more than 20 years in the double glazing and window industry, will be responsible for developing the area from Birmingham and North Wales up to the North West and North East of England.

Said Martin, who joins Apeer from Group Home Safe: “Apeer is a genuinely forward thinking company and I’m looking forward to helping it further develop its business across the North.”

Martin is based in Stockport, Manchester. When not working he enjoys playing golf and fishing.

For more information about Apeer Doors visit www.apeer.co.uk.

The VEKA UK Group has recently welcomed mark Barsby to its Burnley-based site, in the role of Head of Technical.

Joining the glazing industry in 1985, Mark has been in the PVC-U window systems game ever since.

“At the age of 16, I went to work for my original employer for three days to earn some money before college, but I ended up there for 22 years!”

With his extensive experience working in both technical and managerial

roles, Mark is well prepared for the challenges his new position will involve: “I wanted the opportunity to work for the largest PVC-U Window Systems Supplier in the UK – and I saw that chance following VEKA’s acquisition of Bowater Building Products last year.”

Within his role, Mark is keen to maintain and even improve the VEKA UK Group’s renowned reputation for Technical Support.

“If you ask anyone in the construction and refurbishment industry, they will confirm that the VEKA UK Group is second-to-none in the technical support that it offers to clients.”

“From concept to completion and whatever the nature of the project, there is an extensive range of services of offer.”

“I have always been aware of VEKA and Halo as worthy competitors with excellent products, and I feel proud to become a part of such an extremely professional team.”

Tel: 01282 716611 www.vekauk.com

mARK BARSBy JOINS THE VEKA UK GROUP

Business micros has appointed Amitabh Saikia as its new Business Development manager in India with a brief to further assist the software specialist in developing sales opportunities across Asian markets.

Amitabh has a successful track record in promoting software solutions to window and curtain walling manufacturers across India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and Business Micros believes that this expertise coupled with his local knowledge will prove valuable.

He will work across India for Business Micros, targeting the fast growing PVC-U fabrication sector and will be responsible for on-site technical support as well as sales and marketing.

Business Micros had previously worked with a partner business in India but the rapid growth in the country and across the region has prompted it to

employ a dedicated Business Development Manager for the first time.

Managing Director Graeme Bailey says: “We’re determined to maximise the opportunities which exist in India at this critical time when its window and door fabrication industry is just starting to get established and we believe Amitabh is the right individual to help us achieve that.”

Business Micros already has a number of customers in India, the Philippines, the US, Bahamas and particularly in Australia.

Tel: 01925 422955 www.businessmicros.co.uk

BUSINESS mICROS APPOINTS BUSINESS DEVELOPmENT mANAGER IN INDIA

Climate, the conservatory roof glass division of the Glass Systems Group, has strengthened its production team with the appointment of Dan Cox, who joins as Production manager.

Dan, who lives in Burnley, Lancashire, but stays in South Wales during the week, has previously worked as Production Manager at a number of major sealed unit companies and brings with him a wealth of experience to the company.

Dan comments: “Climate is a company that is not afraid to invest and have experienced major growth as a result, so when the Production Manager position became available I jumped at the chance to be part of a business that is serious about its future in the industry.

“It may be a long commute for me but John Wood (Chairman) and Alan Atkinson (Managing Director) have such big ideas for Climate I simply couldn’t turn down the opportunity to be involved with such a dynamic and fast growing company.”

Managing Director Alan Atkinson comments: “Dan is

highly experienced in sealed unit production and was the ideal candidate for the job – I am delighted to welcome him to Climate.”

Dan’s appointment is the latest step Climate has taken to improve its production in recent times. The company recently invested in an additional auto-cutting table with edge deletion, a new tempering furnace and a fourth Lisec arising machine, meaning they can provide faster turnarounds and a more flexible service for their customers.

“Recent investments mean Climate is better equipped than ever to supply the rise in demand for conservatory roof glass, and there is still room for further growth” Alan comments.

Climate conservatory roof glass is available in five options – Aqua H.P, Active Blue, Activ Neutral, Privacy and 4S – and each options provides a host of benefits for the end user including, solar glare reduction and self-cleaning properties.

For more information call the Climate Sales Office on 01639 823778

CLImATE APPOINTS NEW PRODUCTION mANAGER

Dan Cox.

NEW REGIONAL SALES mANAGER

fOR APEER DOORS

“I wanted the opportunity to work for the largest PVC-U Window Systems Supplier in the UK – and I saw that chance following VEKA’s acquisition of Bowater Building Products last year.”

RECRUITmENT


Leading pvc-u window, conservatory and door fabricator, framexpress Ltd, has appointed Sarah Price as Commercial manager in a strategic expansion move that further fortifies the team.

With the introduction of new products into the frameXpress portfolio senior board members considered it essential to bolster management levels as the popularity of the product range continues to increase

Sarah joins frameXpress with substantial industry recognition having worked for companies including Soverign.

Whilst frameXpress maintains a stronghold within the fabrication sector the company has begun this expansion phase into a wider product sector which is being well received by existing and new customers alike.

Bringing many years experience with her, Sarah will be responsible for all commercial sales at the company, implementing new strategies to further strengthen the frameXpress reputation for excellence.

This new post will help to underpin the qualities of the existing team resulting in stronger business relations with customers both regionally and nationally.

With demand for the company’s products and services increasing steadily, it has become clear more businesses are turning to frameXpress as a preferred trade supplier due to product quality and strong support services.

Sarah considers that standards across the board must be monitored, maintained and improved when appropriate which will ensure that the already established reputation of frameXpress as a service led company remains prominent across the industry. She believes that in her new position she will be able to assist customers further build their own businesses.

She states, “A responsive and flexible approach will ensure peace of mind for frameXpress’ customers. With an eye on future direction market at a difficult time we will ensure that customers can share the positive results from growth and diversification.”

Mark Westbrook, Managing Director comments, “Sarah’s appointment will prove invaluable to this company establishing us further in the commercial sector. Additionally it will help to improve efficiency and standards from which our customers can greatly benefit.”

Tel: 01952 581100

COmmERCIAL mANAGER APPOINTED AT fRAmExPRESS AS ExPANSION CONTINUES

Lister Trade frames are renowned for delivering to the trade a service and product unsurpassed by their peers. for 36 years they have been working hand in hand with their customers and suppliers to establish a business that is often emulated but never beaten.

Three years ago Listers diversified into the Commercial Installation Market an area where they have seen consistent growth. “We’ve had substantial success since we introduced a commercial arm to the business.” Commented Phil Warren, Sales Director. “That initial success has given us the confidence to invest even more resources so that we are able to fulfil larger contracts and meet the expanding demands on us.”

With this in mind Listers has employed Nick Ball as their new Commercial Sales Manager to reinforce their Commercial Team. With over 20 years experience working for the likes of Heywood Williams, Bowater and Profile22, Nick has already become an important driving force in advancing Listers goals.

“I was delighted to be able to join Listers and very excited by the challenges facing me,” remarked Nick, “I want to help Listers become the name on specifier’s lips when sourcing commercial glazing products and installers.”

Thanks to Nick’s industry and product knowledge, Listers is now becoming increasingly

involved in projects that would normally have been out of reach because of size or distance. “We were being asked to tender for larger works in London and we had to balance the new jobs with our existing commitments closer to home,” said Nick. “So we needed to expand our workforce so that we could literally be in two places at once.”

Listers saw this as an opportunity and employed and trained new fitting teams to cope with extra demands. The decision has certainly paid dividends.

2012 has seen Listers continue to invest extra time and money to increase their skill base so that they can go on growing their business and establishing themselves amongst the major commercial players.

“We knew that commercial installation was an area that could prove fruitful and by bringing Nick Ball on board and expanding our team, we’ve been able to grow our business in an economy that is struggling,” said Phil. “We’re always eager to adapt and explore new avenues of business that keep our company strong.”

Listers continue to defy the recession with their commercial success and when asked what drives them on, Nick Ball made a very simple observation: “Listers won’t stop when there’s work to be won.”

Tel: 01782 391900 www.listertf.co.uk @ListerTF

A NEW COmmERCIAL

SALES mANAGER fOR LISTERSNick Ball, Listers new Commercial Sales manager.

Continued expansion and growth has led ISO-Chemie, one of Europe’s main producers of impregnated foam sealants, to appoint a new technical advisor for the south and east of England

Craig Perks, who has more than 20 years’ sales experience in the UK construction products market, will be responsible for developing further new business among window and doors fabricators, installers and specifiers for the company’s range of advanced sealants.

ISO-Chemie specialises in the manufacturer of foam products from polyethylene (EPE), polypropylene (EPP) and polyurethane (PUR) using the latest production techniques. Its products are used for the fast and effective air tightness sealing of windows as well as other joint and gap sealing applications in the building, eco-build and construction sectors.

Peter Thompson, ISO-Chemie’s UK general manager, said: “Craig’s in-depth knowledge of the construction products market will be of great benefit when dealing with new and existing customers.

“He genuinely understands the issues involved when it comes to installing products onsite and the easy-to-use, added value product solutions customers require to improve installation times and quality.”

ISO-Chemie’s UK technical and distribution operation is based in the North East of England, supported by a dedicated logistics service to ensure customer orders are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible (usually next-day delivery).

More at www.iso-chemie.co.uk or email [email protected]. Tel: 01207 566874.

PERKS fOR fOAm TAPE SEALANTS mARKET LEADER

RECRUITmENT


The federation of master Builders (fmB) has appointed Nigel Stubbings as its new Commercial Director.

The appointment is part of the FMB’s new five year strategic plan to modernise the trade association and make it the first choice for construction Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs).

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: “I am very pleased to welcome Nigel Stubbings into the FMB. Nigel has a wealth of experience in the construction industry, having provided services to construction companies in his previous roles as Construction Services Director for the law firm Watson Burton LLP and

as Operations Director for the National Federation of Builders. Nigel’s new role will include developing the services provided to members and helping to deliver the FMB’s new strategic plan.”

Commenting on his appointment Nigel Stubbings said: “I am delighted to be joining the FMB at this exciting time in its history, to help drive changes that will benefit members and make the FMB the one-stop-shop for construction SMEs. The FMB’s new strategic plan is an ambitious reform package that will be of benefit to any SME contractor working in the construction sector.”

Hurst Plastics is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Kirman, as New Business Co-ordinator, working nationally with the company’s business development team.

Richard joins Hurst with over 20 years experience in the industry, holding key positions throughout his career, with the most recent being as Sales and Marketing Director for Door Panels Ltd and The Coloured Door Company Ltd.

Mark Atkinson, Hurst Plastics Sales Director, commented, “Richard is a welcome addition to a growing team and joins us at a key time for Hurst. The synergy between the

two companies will stand Richard in good stead to grow with the company and develop new business and relationships as part of a forward thinking strategic team”.

Richard commented, “Hurst Plastics are well known

and respected within the industry, having always had a great reputation for quality and service. I am pleased to be expanding my career within the fenestration industry with one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of PVC-U door panels and composite doors”.

Richard’s new appointment is the second addition to Hurst Plastics business development team in recent months, aimed to continue to drive the business forward and provide a-hands on quality service. For further information on Hurst Plastics composite doorsets or pvc-u panels call Hurst Plastics on 01482 790790 or contact Richard direct on 07970 565705.

fmB APPOINTS NIGEL STUBBINGS AS ITS NEW COmmERCIAL DIRECTOR

HURST PLASTICS APPOINTS NEW BUSINESS CO-ORDINATOR

The Group finance Director for Anglian Group, Phil Tweedie, has been appointed Chairman of the Glass and Glazing federation Home Improvement Executive.

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is the primary trade association for companies that make, supply or fit flat glass and related products, representing more than 60 per cent of the industry’s turnover.

Tweedie will also sit on the Glass and Glazing Federation Board of Directors, thereby becoming a key member of the industry steering group.

This is a significant appointment at a critical time for the industry, with economic and environmental issues high on the agenda. With 13 years’ experience in the glazing business at Anglian, Tweedie will play an important role in steering

the industry towards greater technological innovation.

Speaking about his appointment, Tweedie said, “I am honoured to have been asked to join the GGF board, giving me an opportunity to further focus the industry on developing solutions to reduce energy consumption. It is an important time for the glass and glazing industry, particularly with the forthcoming

introduction of the Green Deal scheme. Increasing energy costs mean home owners are looking for ways to reduce their energy requirements and the GGF has a central role to play in challenging the industry to develop and provide affordable ways to do this.”

Anglian is a cutting-edge company, at the forefront of glass technology with products such as its state-of-the-art A rated EcoGain windows, as well as being one of the pioneering Green Deal providers. This latest company news serves to further strengthen its position within the industry. Already the UK’s biggest double glazing window, door and conservatory specialist, Anglian continues to invest heavily in the research and development of the next generation of energy efficient glazing and home improvement products.

ANGLIAN GROUP fINANCE DIRECTOR APPOINTED TO GLASS AND GLAZING fEDERATION BOARD

Phil Tweedie.

“I am delighted to be joining the FMB at this exciting time in its history, to help drive changes that will benefit members and make the FMB the one-stop-shop for construction SMEs.”

modplan has just announced Chris Reeks as its new Sales manager. Heidi Sachs, modplan’s managing Director, said, “Chris is well-known in the industry for adding value with his focus on sales and customer service. We are delighted to be welcoming him back.”

As Heidi’s comments suggest, Chris has worked at Modplan and its parent company the Burles Group before. In fact, he spent 11 years with the company, before his career took him in a different direction a couple of years ago. Chris is similarly delighted to be back at Modplan: “Modplan has manufactured windows and doors through four decades and continually invests in products, machinery and people to stay ahead in today’s competitive marketplace. I

am pleased to be rejoining them in their latest stage of the company’s development and firmly believe with our diverse product range and proactive support the name of Modplan will be around for many decades to come!”

Chris will be leading Modplan’s sales team and he is clear about his aims: “I will be focusing on my

core belief of providing the customer with an unrivalled service and a quality product range.” Modplan is already renowned for its excellent customer service and a commitment to putting customers’ needs first, so Chris’s appointment can only enhance that.

Tel: 01495 246844 www.modplan.co.uk

CHRIS REEKS REJOINS mODPLAN

GLASS PEOPLE


Not satisfied riding the length of the UK, Europe and indeed the USA back in 2008, Gm fundraising have just launched their latest charity adventure. ‘Hope 66’, which is sponsored by mighton Products Ltd, will take a team of cyclists along the iconic Route 66 in the USA.

On 30 August 2013, 15 riders and 6 support crew will start their 14 day adventure from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California on a 2,616 mile exploit. The riders will be faced with 100 plus mile days in the saddle, the Arizona desert where temperatures will be well in excess of 40 degrees and the torturous climbing of the southern Rocky Mountains.

This latest adventure has been supported by Mighton Products, without whom this fundraising effort would not be possible. This latest GM Fundraising challenge was launched at the Manchester Velodrome, home to British Cycling on 20th September, 2012.

Like every GM Fundraising challenge, each rider and member of the support team will be funding the entire trip themselves, ensuring that every penny raised goes directly to Hope House Children’s Hospices. Over £850,000 has now been raised, with the aim to reach £1million within the next 18 months.

Riders will be tasked with a rigorous training programme that will include a training camp in the Spring in Mallorca, where riders

will be in the saddle for up to 6 hours each day. Riders have already invested in new equipment and in a new fitness regime to cope with the demands of the ride.

Mike Derham, chairman of Mighton Products comments: “We’re delighted to support Hope 66 and to provide the platform for the team to achieve personal goals and more importantly raise much needed funds for a very worthy cause. While not cycling myself, I will be very much a part of the support crew.”

Gary Morton, founder and chairman of GM Fundraising concludes: “I would like to say a big thank you to Mighton Products and the team at GM Fundraising for putting this ride together. The hard work now starts and as ever, we look forward to the wonderful generosity of the industry for such a worthy cause.”

www.gmfundraising.co.uk

IT’S HOPE 66 fOR Gm fUNDRAISING!

The Hope 66 Team at the manchester Velodrome.

Sash Windows Isle of man is the only REHAU fabricator on the island and, since it was established in 2000, has built a strong reputation amongst trade customers for the quality of the REHAU windows it manufactures.

The company fabricates in both the REHAU S706 70mm system and the REHAU Heritage vertical slider system, supplying windows which meet the strict conservation code governing many of the island’s seafront hotels and villas.

The company was founded by Ken Chadwick who had already established a successful REHAU fabrication business on the UK mainland before he relocated to the Isle of Man.

REHAU has recognised Ken’s longstanding loyalty and area sales manager Tony Ball recently presented Ken with a certificate and engraved trophy marking his 22 years of commitment to REHAU.

Ken says that it is the consistent quality of the REHAU product which has ensured that he has never switched system or considered dual sourcing, coupled with the fact that REHAU is refreshingly easy and straightforward to deal with.

KEN CELEBRATES 22 yEARS WITH REHAU Hazel Grove based Alexander Windows are

celebrating their 21st birthday in business with Kömmerling, who have been their sole window and door systems provider since day one.

In an industry when companies come and go, this celebration shows that a commitment to product quality and outstanding customer service yields long term returns. The company primarily operates in the retail sector but also offers a very impressive trade service within the Manchester area, including blank brochures, direct delivery to site, on site assistance, technical support and a dedicated trade showroom.

The relationship between Alexander Windows and Kömmerling is strong and the company offers a ‘Unique Lifetime Warranty’ on all these products that are taken from the impressive lead free, 5 chambered O70 Gold System. Alexander Windows have also worked with Kömmerling over the years on product development projects, including the recent run through sash horns.

Alexander Windows have built a remarkable reputation in the Manchester area and many leads are generated through recommends and referrals, testimonial to the trust customers place with them. The company also carries ISO 9001:2000/2008 for quality management and ISO 14001 for their environmental systems.

Steve Wood, managing director of Alexander Windows comments: “We’re two premium brands working together and that says a lot about the trusting relationship we have. I’ve not seen a better product than the one Kömmerling offers us and that’s something we proudly present to our customers.”

Dave Reay, area sales manager of Kömmerling concludes: “I genuinely believe we have a different attitude to many systems companies in the industry with our ‘can do’ attitude. The customer must always come first and that’s why we have some of the most loyal customers in the industry, as Alexander Windows 21st birthday shows.”

Tel: 0161 482 2300 www.alexanderwindows.co.uk

ALExANDER’S 21ST BIRTHDAy

from left to right: Steve Wood of Alexander Windows and Dave Reay of Kömmerling.

A team of 10 intrepid adventurers from Anglian Home Improvements has raised over £8,000 for the Brain Tumour UK charity by tackling the gruelling Three Peaks Challenge. This demanding expedition involves scaling the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales within just 24 hours.

After almost five months of planning and training, the Anglian Home Improvements team climbed the demanding heights of Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon on 28th September to raise vital funds for its chosen charity Brain Tumour UK, which provides research and support for those affected by brain tumours.

The explorers battled changing weather conditions, including rain, sunshine, heavy winds and even a hailstorm, covering a total of 23.5 miles (38 kilometres) on foot, up and down the Three Peaks. An additional ten hours’ driving time and a series of injuries along the way, on top of a lack of sleep and real food, ensured this was not a feat to be taken lightly.

Training & Development Manager Nicola Lankfer, who helped to organise the Challenge, says, “It was a real emotional rollercoaster. I think all of us underestimated the magnitude of the challenge before we got there but the team spirit really shone though – everyone pulled together and made decisions as a team and stuck together through thick and thin. Many of us didn’t know each other before we set off and it has really brought different areas of the business together, from

director level through to people from the IT department, product design team and the call centre. The camaraderie was amazing throughout the four days we were away and we’ve been able to raise a fantastic amount of money for Brain Tumour UK.”

Community Fundraiser for Brain Tumour UK, Nicky Turner, says, “The 3 Peaks Challenge is a major undertaking and the experience of the Anglian Home Improvements team clearly shows that! Couple the actual experience of the climb with the hard work that has gone into both training and fundraising for it and you begin to get an idea of what these wonderful people have done for Brain Tumour UK. The whole team here at the charity are amazed and delighted and we really appreciate the support of Anglian in helping us continue with our work in providing support, funding research and raising awareness in a bid to change things for the better for everyone affected by a brain tumour. And as the charity contact for Anglian, I am really looking forward to helping with their other plans while we continue as their chosen charity of the year!”

Anglian’s total fundraising target for Brain Tumour UK is £15,000 by the end of March 2013 and a number of other events are being planned in order to reach this, including a Christmas quiz night, a Valentine’s Day Ball and regular ‘dress down’ days at the company’s customer contact centre.

To make a contribution towards this deserving cause, please visit the Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/Anglian3Peaks.

ANGLIAN THREE PEAKS TEAm RAISES £8,000 fOR BRAIN TUmOUR UK

fORWARD THINKING fABRICATOR


A new Group mD and the roll-out of new Green Deal-ready window and door systems are the springboard for one of the UK’s longest established and best-known window and door systems manufacturers to launch it into an exciting new era.

The Litchfield Group – parent company of LB Plastics (Sheerframe) and Manse Masterdor businesses - has appointed Paul Herbert as Group Managing Director with a brief of growing market share with its next generation window and door systems.

Paul brings to the organisation a strong track record in engineering businesses and, alongside new Marketing Manager Helen Ramage, he aims to revitalise the business with a broader fabricator network with its super thermally efficient Sheerframe 8000 windows profile and Masterdor Thermal Composite door-sets.

Employing 400 people across its international operations, The Litchfield Group has not been immune to the challenging global

economic conditions of recent years. But being a UK-based company with manufacturing plants in Germany, Poland and the USA, as well as in Derbyshire, has helped it maintain a level of stability that most other manufacturers have struggled to achieve.

“With a series of acquisitions and mergers in the PVC systems sector in the last few years, the industry has undergone a great deal of change at a time when fabricators and installers need optimum support and supply chain reliability to compete most effectively,” says Paul. “Sheerframe customers haven’t been subjected to that kind of disruption and with our new future-proof product portfolio we will continue to be their secure partner.”

“Most Sheerframe fabricators have been with us for decades because we offer a great support package. For example, some don’t have the facility to manufacture all the products they need to win contracts. So here at the Litchfield Group we

can fabricate on their behalf - ‘specials’ such as arches, circular windows plus bi-fold doors, vertical sliding sashes, sliding patio doors and conservatory roofs. With the roll-out of our Sheerframe 8000 system, tied closely with the new Masterdor Thermal Composite (TC), we are ready to extend our fabricator network like never before.”

The Litchfield Group is providing technical support for those switching to the 8000 system and this extends to all windowmakers wishing to move from their existing systems. Windows created using Sheerframe 8000 are compatible with the requirements of Green Deal and the highest levels of the Code for Sustainable Homes and Passivhaus, achieving an enviable 0.8 U-value.

Masterdor 0.9 TC is equally well-supported with similarly high performance levels to enable installers to capitalise on energy efficient homes initiatives. In addition to technical advice at the design and specification stage, Manse Masterdor provides installers with a comprehensive online tracking service so orders can be monitored from beginning to end and a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.

REVITALISED LITCHfIELD GROUP ENTERS ExCITING NEW ERA

Paul Herbert, Group managing Director of The Litchfield Group.

The Sheerframe 8000 windows system, available in 36 and 44mm versions, which delivers zero carbon windows and doors with a U-value as low as 0.8 in all mainstream styles, including bi-fold doors.

IT’S yOUR LETTERS...

Glass News wants to hear from you. feel free to get in touch with your views on the industry, legislation, government, or even the newspaper.

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THE THOUGHTS Of THE BASmAN

As I sit to write my thoughts a number of very interesting factors are brought to bear. The current situations in all parts of the country are being reflected by most communities.

There are so many negative responses to even the most mundane requests. As the bosses strive hard to keep their companies going in these difficult times, it is common place that the employees are not always as keen to help as they might be. On two separate occasions during the last month I have heard the same story from different parts of the country. As the work has started to pick up, the proprietors of both companies needed their workforce to do some overtime in able to meet the customer needs. This was a straight forward request to give additional pay in return for a few hours extra work spread over the course of the week. In both companies, the workers requested that if they did work the overtime, they be paid in cash! When told that the additional pay would be paid in the normal way through the company payroll system with their weekly wages, they declined the overtime. When asked why, the almost unanimous reply was it will affect our benefits (working tax credits). What on earth is going on in this country? We have a minimum wage and surely if you have a full time job and are being

paid the minimum wage, that is a wage that you and your family can live on? I fully expect from the conversations I had in both companies, that long standing perk (the Christmas shutdown) may be looked at in a different light in one or two areas of the country.

I have read with interest over the last weekend of the unprecedented success in a number of countries on the continent of Africa. Twelve different economies in the region are reporting growth for the year in excess of 6%. Many of these countries are still benefiting from foreign aid programmes run by our government. I would appreciate any enlightenment on who is benefiting from this. We cannot just continue to pay out without any redress on where the money is being spent.

Whilst you think about that add to it how many charities we are asked to contribute to that are operating in the same geographical region. We must have accountability and be shown the results.

I was pleased to see last month that finally the true account of what happened at Hillsborough and the dreadful loss of those 96 lives will at last give justice to the families. The whole saga of the misleading reports and claims by various agencies was exposed for the truth to go on the public record.

Throughout my life time, in all cases that I can remember

when a particular service, government department or other regulated body has had cause to set up an enquiry of any description, in the cases where that department has handled the enquiry, there have always been questions left unanswered. There must be a shift to independent bodies hearing these complaints and making the decisions. Then the truth will out much quicker without peer pressure.

Finally, I would like to congratulate the outstanding effort of that group of patriotic Europeans who overcame adversity to retain the Ryder Cup last weekend. Jose Maria Olazabal was an inspired leader of the team. I felt for him when he spoke of his inspiration, Seve. For those of us who have lost a friend that is close to you, it is a good feeling to draw comfort from their memory. A special mention for Ian Poulter, for his grit, determination and never say die attitude.

That is an example of how we can HELP OURSELVES.

@TheBasMan for twitter.

If WE WANT THE GOVERNmENT TO HELP WE mUST fIRST HELP OURSELVES

Get in touch, email: [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!

THE BASmAN

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PROfILE BENDING mARKETING & DESIGN

British Plastics federation (BPf) Tel: 0207 457 5000

British Standards Institution (BSI) – Standards & Publications Tel: 0208 996 9001

BSI – Assessment & Certification Tel: 0845 080 9000

BSI – Product Certification & Testing Tel: 08450 765600

BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association) Tel: 01449 780444

Building Research Establishment (BRE) Tel: 01923 664000

Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Tel: 01453 828851

Dekura Tel: 01952 201631

Door & Hardware federation (DHf) Tel: 01827 52337

Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS Tel: 0845 053 8975

fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (fENSA) Tel: 0207 645 3700

Get Britain Building (GBB) Tel: 0870 162 0936

Glass & Glazing federation (GGf) Tel: 0207 939 9101

GQA Qualifications (formerly Glass Qualifications Authority) Tel: 0114 2720033

Health & Safety Executive (HSE) – Glass & Related Industries Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector: 01782 602300 David Appleton, HM Inspector: 0115 971 2800

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GLASS RACKING

TRADE fABRICATOR

Proskills – Head Office Tel: 01235 833 844

Proskills – Glass & Related Industries Neil Robinson: 07917 015 322

Recovinyl (via Axion Consulting) Tel: 0161 355 7618

The Glazing Ombudsman (TGO) Tel: 020 7397 7200

UK Green Building Council Tel: 0207 580 0623

Veka Recycling Tel: 01322 38721

Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Tel: 01295 819 900

Wood Window Alliance (WWA) Tel: 0844 209 261

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Glass News October 2012