TruFrame’s flush sash in demand

Since the launch of its 70mm flush sash window, TruFrame says it has experienced strong sales growth, now in excess 200 frames per week, as more installers ‘embrace the traditional timber look and unique hardware options for this new window type’.

According to TruFrame, flush sash windows are the ‘in-vogue’ product of the moment, with increased demand for dummy sashes and equal sightlines.

TruFrame uses Liniar’s multi-chambered Energy Plus profile systems to make these ‘highly energy efficient’ windows, which can be further improved with the adoption of the glazing flipper and thermal dam sections.

The welded flush sash window is hand finished utilising TruFrame’s unique four step process, while the fully mechanical Refine option is hand assembled and is said to offer ‘incredible levels’ of finishing detail in the corners. There is also a dedicated marketing package for the product brand.

Hardware options include contemporary handles, whilst period inspiration comes from the optional key-locking monkey tail handles and peg-stays. There are 14 in-stock colour options from the contemporary look of anthracite grey to the period inspired Chartwell green, ensuring that the flush sash window can be installed ‘sympathetically’ on different types of brick/stone and on various types of property.

David Firmager, managing director of TruFrame, commented: “The flush sash window is more than just a passing fad and I fully expect to see sales grow to 10% of all frames made. With options of fully welded or fully mechanically jointed, we have different price points covered and the considerable benefit of hand finishing on all frames, backed by a single 10-year warranty underwritten by us.”

www.truframe.co.uk

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Six years after Ultraframe developed two ‘industry-changing’ components – Cornice and the LivinRoom insulated pelmet, Ultraframe has revealed its new Cornice range.

The new range includes the original ‘classic’ Cornice and the addition of a contemporary ‘flat’ Cornice available as one, two and three tiers.

Ultraframe design & development director, Andrew Thomson, commented: “The adoption of Cornice and LivinRoom has been incredible. For many of our network partners, the inclusion of both components has almost become standard across their builds, delivering a more refined look akin to a contemporary orangery.”

The addition of the three new Cornice options available in any colour further enhances the opportunity for retailers to ‘bespoke’ every design and builds in a further layer of profit opportunity versus a standard conservatory.

One of the key attributes of the LivinRoom insulated pelmet is its variable internal projection, which allows retailers to choose the optimum width (300mm – 1200mm) to achieve the desired look of the interior space.

Andrew explained: “We’re seeing growth in demand for solid roofs, but for homeowners who want to retain a large proportion of glass and achieve a real-room feel, the integration of a wide LivinRoom insulated pelmet delivers the best of both worlds.”

Coupled with the new range of Cornice, Ultraframe is convinced that this ‘mix and match’ approach will continue to give retailers vast opportunity to maximise the profit opportunity of every job.

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In the latest of its ‘Network Veka on tour’ trips, the installer support organisation, and part of The Veka UK Group is due to visit Veka’s French arm in an excursion organised for this October.

2015 saw representatives from Network Veka and its member companies visit Veka in Germany; the country in which the family-run organisation began before going on to dominate PVC-U systems manufacturing in the UK, Europe and worldwide.

Head of partner programmes for The Veka UK Group, Karen Lund, commented: “We’re excited to visit Veka France later in the year; both for the opportunity to share knowledge, experience and different perspectives, but also to enjoy spending time with colleagues throughout Network Veka, and make the most of the social side of our organisation.

“Each year, we celebrate the shared and individual achievements of the Network and our member companies with a members weekend, including AGM and business centre, gala evening and awards, but there’s something special about sampling a different country’s culture – both in terms of business and hospitality!”

The trip, planned for Thursday 12 – Sunday 15 October, is available to Network Veka members as either a two or three-day package, and includes a tour of Veka France’s factory facilities as well as trips within the local area; leisure activities including golf; and (of course) the best food and drink the area has to offer!

To register your intention to join the trip, or to enquire about membership, phone Network Veka on 01282 473170 or email rjohnson@networkveka.com

www.networkveka.co.uk

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BSI, the British standards company, has revised PAS 2030:2017 Specification for the installation of energy efficiency measures in existing buildings. The updated PAS specifies requirements for the installation of energy efficiency measures (EEM) in an existing building, applicable whether the building is used for commercial or residential purposes.

In response to recommendations from existing users of PAS 2030, the specification has been expanded to include definitive requirements for design aspects to be validated by installers, as well as specific methods, processes and procedures to be employed in commissioning installation and handover of projects.

The development of this revised PAS was sponsored by BEIS Home Energy and supports the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), the government’s energy efficiency scheme to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty currently being updated. The revisions in PAS 2030 were prompted by changes in UK legislation relating to energy efficiency and to meet the requirements of suppliers and users of energy efficiency measures.

PAS 2030 is also recognised in the recently published Each Home Counts Review, which includes a recommendation for development of a quality mark in the domestic retrofit sector.

The revised PAS includes requirements for installation processes, process management and service provision. It also includes criteria relating to installation methods, equipment, tools, product or system and material suitability. The commissioning of installed measures and the training, skills and competence of the people undertaking such installation, is also covered in PAS 2030.

Ant Burd, head of market development for built environment, said: “Older buildings are typically much less energy efficient than newly constructed buildings, increasing costs for home occupiers and business alike. PAS 2030 provides a dedicated specification for anyone who wants to install energy efficiency measures into an existing building, whether that building is a Victorian warehouse or a two bedroom apartment built in the 1990’s.”

As well as installers of energy efficient measures in existing buildings, PAS 2030 is particularly relevant to certification bodies. PAS 2030 – available online and in PDF format – was launched with a dedicated online resource, which includes expert commentary and regular industry updates to keep purchasers of PAS 2030 abreast with developments in their sector.

The revised PAS does not include requirements relating to the certification of PAS 2030 compliance by independent third parties, which is covered by PAS 2031. PAS 2031 was developed in conjunction with PAS 2030, and is scheduled to launch in March 2017.

www.bsigroup.com

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Brian Berry

The latest hike to Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) will undermine ‘good builders who play by the rules’ and encourage the rise of cowboy builders, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has warned ahead of the Chancellor’s Spring Budget.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: “The doubling of IPT over the past two years has troubling implications for construction SMEs and home owners alike. This stealth tax, which is set to rise for the third time in 18 months, effectively provides an additional competitive advantage to unscrupulous and uninsured builders. By driving up the costs of insurance, it punishes those businesses that play by the rules and make sure that they are always covered. This is increasing the danger that homeowners could be tempted to opt for uninsured builders who are able to offer a more competitive quote. This stealth tax may also discourage clients taking out a warranty on building work, which is never advisable practice on a significant building project and could lead to plenty of heartache for consumers further down the line. It’s vital that we get a commitment from the government that this third rise of IPT will be the last for this Parliament.”

James Dalton, director of General Insurance Policy at the Association of British Insurers, said: “IPT is a tax on businesses, especially SMEs that often operate on very tight margins and that do the right thing by purchasing insurance to help manage their risks. At a time of continued economic uncertainty, with many firms facing increasing costs, the last thing they need is a further hike in IPT. Unlike VAT, no element of IPT can be reclaimed by businesses meaning they will have to absorb these extra costs – this could cost jobs, drive up prices or companies may decide to reduce their insurance cover, putting them at risk if something goes wrong. Enough is enough, give firms a break and freeze IPT.”

www.fmb.org.uk

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Velux is offering its customers across the UK and Ireland rewards each time they buy Velux white polyurethane roof windows this March and April.

For every white polyurethane roof window bought during the period, installers can claim £35 of rewards, redeemable at retailers including M&S, Argos, Pizza Express, Thomas Cook, Ticketmaster and Currys PC World.

Installers have until 12 May to claim their rewards from Velux, but can only do so by registering to the scheme online at www.velux.co.uk/rewards.

Originally developed for bathrooms, the Velux white polyurethane roof window has evolved into a vast range of products ideal for contemporary white interiors and ceilings. They comprise a solid core of thermally modified timber encased in moulded polyurethane with a bright white finish.

Typically, installers and customers choose this finish for more humid rooms like kitchens and bathrooms as the windows have no visible joints, ensuring a clean and moisture resistant finish.

Richard McArthur, marketing manager from Velux said: “The Velux Rewards scheme is a great way for installers to get something back each time they choose our products. During March and April we will be offering fantastic rewards for every roof window bought with a white polyurethane finish, which is ideal for humid rooms like bathrooms and kitchens.

“We know that our customers enjoy rewards that allow them to give themselves and their friends and families a treat, so partnering with some of the country’s best loved retailers and restaurants is a great way to say ‘thank you’ for their continued use of our products and service. Whether you are a frequent installer of Velux products or use them just a few times a year, it really makes sense to join Velux Rewards and start earning points with every purchase.”

www.velux.com

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In 2016 the market for domestic replacement windows and doors was estimated to have grown by 3% in value terms, according to the latest report from AMA Research.

Following good growth in 2014, the market has reverted to lower growth rates in 2015-16, reflecting the mature state of the market and the high rates of household penetration of double glazing. Future growth in this market remains dependent on a positive housing market, but our forecasts for 2017 and beyond remain muted, with the uncertain economic situation a central factor.

In material terms, PVC-U is dominant in the replacement windows market, with the direct sell route particularly strong. However, PVC-U continues to face challenges in the entrance doors and patio doors sectors where composites and aluminium, particularly for bi-fold doors, continue to take share.

Volume sales of replacement windows have been in steady underlying decline for a number of years with key drivers now focussed on ‘re-replacements’. In terms of market trends, security, acoustic and thermal insulation properties as well as sustainability remain core themes in this market. In addition, in recent years companies have increasingly offered quality products with a wider choice of options –for example, there is now a very wide range of frame colours available right across the market, something that was rare even a decade ago.

In the entrance door sector, the share of composites has grown and in 2016 is estimated to account for nearly one third of the market. This has been mainly at the expense of PVC-U with timber still retaining largest share in terms of materials mix.

Growth for replacement entrance doors has been higher than for replacement windows with key drivers including security issues, wear and tear from climate/regular use as well as the fact that replacing the front or back door represents a significantly smaller investment than would be needed for replacement windows.

The patio doors sector has been boosted by the recent trend for bi-folds as replacements for existing patio doors. In addition, patio doors (including bi-folds) have also benefited from the home extension sector and the trend for increased day-lighting.

Due to its maturity, the domestic replacement doors and windows market is characterised by a highly fragmented supply structure and fierce competition. This is particularly true of the PVC-U fabricator/installer sector where margins are low.

In broad terms, aluminium fabrication/installation companies appear to be doing well, though this is only in part due to the replacement market, as aluminium is used to a significant extent in commercial and new build flats, for example. However, aluminium fabrication/installation business offer higher margins than PVC-U. Major restructuring has been seen in the replacement window and door sector in the last few years, with further rationalisation anticipated at all levels of the supply chain.

Jane Tarver of AMA Research, said: “The likely direction of future development of the UK domestic replacement doors and windows market remains unclear in the short-medium term, largely influenced by the uncertainty surrounding the UK economy, the housing market and the potential effects of Brexit.

“However, our forecasts anticipate modest growth of around 2% per annum, which is likely to be driven by a basic underlying demand for second and third time replacements.”

A return to the volumes seen in the 1990s remains unlikely due to the high penetration level of double glazing and improved replacement products with longer life cycles.

However, new legislation may encourage replacement of windows and doors to some extent, as increasingly stringent regulations for thermal efficiency and security continue to be introduced. Another key driver for 2nd and 3rd time replacement is likely to be aesthetics as householders opt for different colour and glazing options for windows and entrance doors in order to maintain an up to date look. In addition, emerging niche sectors are also likely to continue to offer opportunities – _bi-fold doors have been a recent example as homeowners look to open-up access to their garden areas with large, flexible glazed areas.

The ‘Domestic Replacement Door and Window Market Report – UK 2016-2020 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets.

The report is available now and can be ordered online at http://www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

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Leading VEKA trade fabricator Modplan has built a reputation for being a business committed to building long term partnerships and being at the forefront of product development. The strength of this partnership approach was once again demonstrated in their annual ‘open house’ event held at the company’s headquarters near Newport, Gwent.

The ‘open house’ event was spread over five days in February and customers had an opportunity to see for themselves the latest new products and support the Modplan team can offer. Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director, said, “This year’s ‘open house’ event has been a tremendous success. The informal ‘open days’ showcased a selection of our latest new products including the new FlushSash, the new mechanically jointed VS and the new VEKA M70 window system. The attendance was superb with over 60 customers taking time out to visit and demonstrates just how much the partnership approach we offer is appreciated.”

The new FlushSash, mechanically jointed VS and VEKA M70 windows are the latest additions to Modplan’s comprehensive product portfolio. And with a brand new product being launched exclusively at FIT 2017 its customers will soon have even more to offer. But as visitors at the recent open day discovered, the products are only one part of a complete package designed to help installers to grow their businesses.

Modplan manufactures and provides a comprehensive range of products that includes Matrix 58, Veka Matrix 70 and 70FS, Veka Vertical sliders, a dedicated painting facility, PVC-u patio and bifold doors, conservatories, the Vertex Open Canopy, the Vertex roof

system for polycarbonate, glass or tile effect, Wendland roofing system and the newly added Ultrasky, Livin room and LEKA Warm Roof. For more information on any of the Modplan’s products and support, simply Ask the Man from Modplan.

www.modplan.co.uk

Picture above: Reynaers Aluminium

When outstanding Oxfordshire double-glazing specialists Andy Glass wanted to expand into aluminium, they were afraid it could be a headache. Over twenty-five years of hard work and commitment to quality, they’d established themselves as the region’s leading provider of uPVC windows, doors and conservatories – but aluminium was a new challenge, and one they feared would prove stressful, expensive and time-consuming to master.

Fortunately for them, they contacted the Window Outlet – the dynamic aluminium fabricator that’s grown from Bristol start-up to one of the industry’s biggest and most respected suppliers off the back of its signature short lead times, quick quote turnarounds.

The firm has extensive experience helping installers expand into aluminium – and an in-depth understanding of the common issues uPVC companies face as they make the change, as Managing Director Ben Warren explains:

“For the first ten years of my career, I worked in uPVC fabrication and would spend hours talking to uPVC installers every week. I know how daunting switching materials or expanding your range to include another one can be – and that’s why we offer comprehensive support to customers in that position, including a training day that covers both the products we provide, and how to properly order them.

A pen and paper sketch might feel like the quickest and easiest way of submitting an order, but in the long run that’s often not the case. They can be vague and unclear, and, in the worst cases, require a lot of back and forth between us and the customer to get it right – and the longer that process takes, the longer it is before the customer gets the product. By taking the time to sit down with our clients and show them the most efficient way to order at the very start, we make everyone’s lives easier.”

The firm also familiarises customers with its online bifold builder – an intuitive application that allows users to quickly and easily enter their size and hardware requirements, then send them through to the Window Outlet for a quote.

“We’re absolutely delighted to be working with Andy Glass,” Ben continued. “They’re an incredibly experienced, respected installer, and it’s been a pleasure helping them establish themselves in the aluminium market. We’d encourage any other uPVC installers looking to enhance their offering with stylish, high-quality aluminium products to get in touch, and we’ll do our utmost to help them make the transition.”

For more information visit www.the-window-outlet.co.uk or call 0117 405 8488

Firing from all chambers, the brand new Secured by Design aluminium bi-fold door now available from Sternfenster is set to completely enhance door performance, durability and most notably, home security. By becoming a Sternfenster Approved Installer you’ll benefit from doors that simply offer more to your customers, guaranteeing satisfaction throughout. The Secured by Design aluminium bi-fold door has proved itself to be a rarity amongst the double glazing market, with few suppliers offering them as an option for their customers. This lack of availability sets them up to be an incredibly popular choice for Sternfenster Approved Installers, promising the potential for keen interest and financial return. Not only this, but these doors also allow Approved Installers the opportunity to expand their range with a unique product, resulting in access to more markets which allow them to appeal to wider demographics. This, in turn, will allow Network Members to gain a razor-sharp competitive edge on their competitors in the double glazing industry. Nothing says product quality like customer satisfaction, which is exactly what these new doors promise to achieve. Secured by Design, a police backed initiative, specialises in crime prevention and allows you to offer your customers the peace of mind that only high-performance, intelligently designed home security can bring.

Additionally, these sleek aluminium bi-fold doors feature an enhanced standard of security that has proved itself against a comprehensive, intensive testing process. This sought-after product also features an aluminium profile that has been tailored to the upmost security, seamlessly combining a multi-point locking system to ensure unrivalled standards. This rapid expansion of what Sternfenster has to offer has been the direct result of their continual improvement policy. 2017 is set to be a big year for Sternfenster and the Approved Installer Network, with Secured by Design aluminium bi-fold doors illustrating an impressive indication of what’s to come.

Mike Parczuk, Managing Director of Sternfenster, commented: “We are very proud to launch this new product, we think it will not only allow all of our Approved Installers to expand their market, we also see it is as a powerful, strong statement to begin the new year with. We’ve got our eyes set on big things over the next twelve months, making tomorrow better than today across the Network.” In keeping with this expansion, Sternfenster also plan on rebranding their aluminium ranges under ‘myALI Frame Solution’, which will include myALI bi-folds and myALI patio doors. This range will be accompanied by a new selection of consumer-based brochures for Network Members to use, becoming more user-friendly as they utilise more generic branding as opposed to the Sternfenster mark. Got your eyes set on the cutting edge, Secured by Design aluminium bi-fold doors? It’s never been easier to offer your customers the best in class. Become a Sternfenster Approved Installer today by giving us a call on 01522 512 525 or by visiting www.sternfenster.com for more information.

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