Weather Testing Guidance For Windows And Doors Launched By BWF

The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has launched a new guide for window and door manufacturers explaining weather testing requirements and providing advice to help BWF members to get their products tested.

The publication covers the relevant standards for weather tightness, how to determine what performance level is required as well as what needs to be considered before testing takes place. Weather performance testing is a means of assessing a product’s ability to achieve specific requirements as set out in British Standards and/or European Standards. Windows and doors can be tested for Air Permeability, Watertightness and Resistance to Wind Load.

BWF produces a wide range of publications to support members and the joinery industry. On the BWF website, members can find a wealth of information, including the popular Machine Safety Cards, Heritage & Conservation Joinery Factsheets, and a range of employment guides all supported by the BWF member helplines. The documents can be downloaded from www.bwf.org.uk/publications.

KÖMMERLING have launched a new range of PVCu/aluminium hybrids based on their high performance System 76 platform, that was recently unveiled at the FIT Show, with enhanced technical credentials, new product technologies and boasting Passivhaus levels of performance.

The market for hybrid window and door systems is clearly emerging in the UK with demand from specifiers, house builders and discerning consumers, for products that embrace the best features of each material. Enhanced energy efficiency, acoustic properties and product design are the main three ingredients for this embryonic but important market sector.

For KÖMMERLING, the new System 76 platform sets new standards and an industry benchmark for product performance in PVCu window and door systems. However, one of the most defining attributes is the range of hybrid options including the standard clip on section of the AluClip product, with an impressive thermal insulation of U_f value of 1.2 W/(m²K) as standard. It’s also the same hybrid technology that has been available on the existing C70 and O70 Goldâ systems.

More impressive still is the flush exterior design of AluClip Pro, which uses the external aluminium section as a means of reinforcing, with a U_f value of 1.1 W/(m²K) as standard. When combined with the pre-foamed proEnergyTec profiles, an outstanding U_w value of just 0.69 W/(m²K) can be achieved, easily satisfying the requirements of Passivhaus.

With a wide range of foiled finishes to the internal face or even one of a select number of proCoverTec through rebate finishes, the most exacting of internal detail can also be created. Glazing options can be accommodated up to 48mm with the option for a number of acoustic insulated glass units.

Kevin Warner, head of sales and marketing for KÖMMERLING commented: ‘System 76 is without question the most impressive PVCu system of its kind, with advanced product technologies and enviable performance characteristics. The hybrid options that we can now offer are already opening up opportunities in the residential and commercial markets and with a number of benefits over pure aluminium systems, it’s certainly a sector for the future.’

For KÖMMERLING information on becoming a manufacturing partner, approved installer or as a building specifier, call 01543 444900, e-mail enquiries@profine-group.com or visit the specific product pages at www.kommerling.co.uk. You can also follow them on Twitter @kommerling_uk.

Image Above; Douglas Masterson, GAI technical manager.

A new CPD seminar on architectural ironmongery for fire and escape doors has been launched for architects, interior designers and specifiers.

The RIBA-approved CPD module has been produced by the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and is delivered exclusively by GAI members across the country.

These architectural ironmongery companies play a crucial role, working with architects, interior designers, contractors and others to schedule and specify the hardware for every door and window in a building and to produce a full fixing schedule of hardware items.

This latest CPD module helps specifiers understand the legal, financial and ethical risks around the specification of hardware for fire and scape doors, as well as the correct ironmongery for different types of doors and the best way to check and maintain them once they’re installed.

As the training is RIBA approved, architects will be able to receive double learning points for attending a presentation of this CPD.

Other RIBA-approved CPD modules from the GAI include workshops on the basics of door hardware specification, and on ironmongery and compliance with accessibility regulations.

For further information, contact Douglas Masterson on technical@gai.org.uk.

The UK’s leading provider of CRM software and marketing information for the fenestration and construction industries, Insight Data is celebrating one of their colleagues sixth-year at the company.

Originally starting at Insight Data as a Telephone Researcher Executive in 2011, Jade Greenhow has since risen through the ranks to become the team’s General Manager working closely with CEO Andrew Scott.

The Management role sees her overseeing all aspects of the business, from overall strategy to sales, trade shows and industry research. This has been a challenging role in the rapidly expanding business which just celebrated reaching 25,000 research calls in June. It has also unveiled its new e-mail marketing platform, STEM, the powerful new email marketing system designed and built for Salestracker.

Jade comments: “It has been an amazing six years here at Insight and I am proud to be a part of such a rapidly growing and successful business. It’s an exciting time at Insight Data with Salestracker growing from strength to strength and the launch of STEM, which revolutionises how businesses in the industry communicate with potential customers. I would like to thank everyone and I look forward to continuing to grow the business into the future.”

“Jade has played a vital role in helping Insight Data become the leading source for accurate prospect data for the industry,” comments Insight Data Commercial Director, Helen Costeloe-Hughes. “Jade has worked incredibly hard to get to where she is, climbing up the ladder to become an integral part of the Insight Data team, all with an unquestionable passion and a wonderful sense of humour.”

Insight Data is the leading supplier of prospect data for the fenestration and wider construction industries. Through Salestracker, their online prospect database, CRM system and integrated email marketing platform, they have helped some of the industry’s biggest systems houses, fabricators, component suppliers and sealed unit manufacturers transform their sales and marketing strategies.

For a demo of Salestracker or for more information, contact Insight Data on 01934 808293 or via email at hello@insightdata.co.uk.

Endurance^® Doors have become one of the first door manufacturers in the UK to introduce the new Yale Conexis™ L1. This brings to market a Bluetooth enabled keyless smart door lock, that can be operated by mobile device and that meets PAS 24.

This revolutionary development by Yale and adopted by Endurance^® Doors, represents a new era in smart home technology in terms of security and is backed by one of the most trusted and recognisable consumer brands. As well as achieving PAS 24, the lock is also fully compatible with the existing and highly regarded Winkhaus Trulock, multi-point locking system specified by Endurance.

The Yale Conexis™ L1 allows homeowners to configure, control and unlock their entrance door via any Android or Apple device through a secure Bluetooth, low energy App. The functionality also facilitates the ability to create and send mobile keys from around the world and also to keep track of everyone entering the property. This smart lock, also benefits from a backup battery and a tamper alarm, for beneficial long-term performance.

There is also a unique Twist and Go functionality, providing users with the option to turn their phone around 90 degrees to unlock the door, in addition to other options of key tag, key card or phone tag. Through the Yale wireless module, there’s also the possibility to integrate the Yale Smart Home Alarm or Smart CCTV range through the App and additionally, can also be connected to other smart home networks with the appropriate module.

Stephen Nadin, managing director of Endurance^® Doors commented: ‘Smart lock technology has finally arrived for the entrance door market and we believe this is an important statement from us, in becoming early adopters for what is a fundamentally embryonic, yet important part of the sector. Entrance door keys are a legacy of decades gone by and whilst the humble key isn’t dead yet, this is an exciting move for us, the composite door market and Yale.’

For further information on Endurance^® Doors, including complete door sets or slab only manufacturing, please visit www.endurancedoors.co.uk, e-mail sales@endurancedoors.co.uk or call the sales office on 01652 462042. You can also follow them on Twitter @EnduranceDoors.

Specialist trade fabricator Mercury Glazing Supplies Ltd will be celebrating 15 years in business in July. Chris Reeks, Mercury’s Sales and Marketing Director says: “15 years is an impressive milestone in this industry and we’re proud to have reached it. We’d like to say a big thank you to our staff, suppliers and, of course, our customers, who have supported us over this time – we’re looking forward to the next 15 years!” Founded by good friends Martin Halford and Steve Cross in 2002, Mercury has built its name on providing specialist window and door products that add value to a portfolio and a commitment to customer service that goes above and beyond. Chris comments: “We believe our success is thanks to our aim to build long-term partnerships with all our customers. We know that the only way to do this is to offer a product range that exceeds customer expectations and is backed up by a service that is proactive and focused on what each business needs. We call it the Mercury difference!”

The company bought into the Spectus ethos from the start and today is proud to be one of the UK’s largest fabricators of Spectus Vertical Sliders. Its manufacturing portfolio has extended from its early days to now incorporate an impressive array of aluminium products including bifold and patio doors, windows, doors and commercial solutions as well as timber vertical sliders, and PVC FlushSash casements. It’s certainly a formula that has proved successful: the company has grown every year since it was founded and is currently in the middle of a three plan to achieve 35% growth in the next 36 months.

Mercury will be marking its anniversary with a factory family fun evening later this month as a way of not only celebrating its success to date but also to thank staff for their support and hard work over the years. Mercury Glazing is a specialist supplier celebrating a special anniversary. Based on the company’s track record to date, it will only be one of many such milestones to come.

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Mike Davis, managing director of CDW Systems

The number of installers offering aluminium products has grown by 41% over the past five years and this number is expected to continue to increase. This is according to a recent report by the Council for Aluminium Building (CAB).

Once seen as a strictly commercial material, aluminium has reportedly achieved great success in the residential market as more homeowners become aware of the benefits of aluminium windows and doors such as slim sightlines, high performance and a wide range of colour finishes.

According to aluminium specialist, CDW Systems, aluminium is now considered ‘superior or at least equal’ to PVC-U in terms of energy efficiency, which has seen the material appeal to energy conscious consumers.

Spurred on also in part by aspirational home improvement shows such as Grand Designs which showcase the aesthetic qualities of the material, CDW maintains that there has been a surge of premium aluminium products hitting the market.

Mike Davis, managing director of CDW Systems, commented: “There are plenty of opportunities for aluminium in the UK, both commercially and residentially. Our customers are taking on more high-end projects such as installations in restaurants and blocks of flats.

“We have identified aluminium bi-fold and patio doors as particularly hot products and earlier this year we introduced Reynaers Aluminium lift and slide patio doors to help installers capitalise on demand. The doors have proved a big hit with installers and homeowners alike.”

Mike says reduced lead times on aluminium and more flexibility on colours and configurations means more installers are turning to offering aluminium to help boost sales.

However, he warns that it’s important for installers to choose a supplier who can offer the expertise and support they need.

He comments: “Lots of companies were quick to jump on the aluminium manufacturing bandwagon but they won’t necessarily have the skills or knowledge to meet customer expectations.

“Installers need to ensure they are working with companies that have the expertise required to fabricate aluminium, otherwise this could lead to problems such as poor quality and slow lead times later.”

www.cdwsystems.co.uk

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Intelligent Glass says it can offer ‘a new level of convenience and style’ with ‘instant switchable privacy’ activated by a ‘simple voice command’.

With a multitude of ‘virtual assistants’ emerging in recent years, from Apple’s Siri, to Google’s Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa, Intelligent Glass says this growing trend has an ‘inevitable correlation’ with the demand for smart home and smart office voice activation and automation products.

Intelligent Glass is described as a ‘futuristic technology’ that, even without automation, is said to be ‘as simple as a light bulb to operate’. It is not only able to be integrated with voice controlled speaker devices, but, according to Intelligent Glass, it excels in such an application.

An uttered phrase commands your glass to switch state from clear to frosted, and vice versa and according to Intelligent Glass, the applications for this ‘cutting edge’ technology are endless, from switchable glass stairs, to partitions and projection screens, windows and even shower screens.

One of Intelligent Glass’s recent projects saw voice activated switchable film installed in a residential environment. Chris, the end user of this application, commented: “We were looking for a product to provide some extra privacy in our dining room, as we have large windows which face other properties. We had investigated other films (mirror and tinted) but none were suitable as they blocked too much light. I then found Switchable Smart Film from Intelligent Glass.”

He added: “The team at Intelligent Glass were very helpful, explaining the benefits of the product and also providing advice about DIY fitting of the films to existing windows. Now we have the films installed, they are a great success. Installation was quite straightforward with easy to follow instructions. Being able to switch between clear and frosted in an instant means that we can have the view when we want it but also the privacy when required, without reducing the light in the room.”

vimeo.com/227053758
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www.intelligentglass.net

The post Just say the word… appeared first on Glass & Glazing Products Magazine (GGP).