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New Aluminium Pivot Door from Reynaers

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Reynaers Systems have introduced a stunning pivot door to their portfolio of aluminium sliding, folding and entrance doors.

It is fair to say that when it comes to new front doors for the home, the UK market lags significantly behind its European neighbours.

The Reynaers pivot door is an excellent contemporary alternative where large glass doors may be required.

The Reynaers pivot door is an excellent contemporary alternative where large glass doors may be required.

The market in the UK appears dominated by composite doors. Whilst there is nothing wrong with composite doors, even the contemporary designs available from Solidor, Rocal or Endurance don’t quite function in a high tech way to mimic their appearance. Essentially they remain standard hinged doors.

So if you’re looking to create a truly dramatic entrance, the pivot door from Reynaers is a real find. These are a great departure from any swing or sliding entrance door.

The Reynaers door looks a stunning modern alternative to composite doors, aluminium entrance doors and contemporary pivot doors. So why should you consider one?

Pivot doors move away from traditional doors in many ways.

Most PVCu, aluminium and composite doors are designed to hang from their hinges. In every case this means the door leaf and the door frame must be strong enough to support the weight of the door. It is the door frame that supports the weight of the door.

It is for this precise reason that most hinged doors come with size limitations. A too heavy door will put excess strain on the hardware, will be prone to dropping and compromise on stability.

This is why you’ll often see doors with toplights or sidelights. Even if the homeowner wants a door to fill their entire aperture, its not possible because of the limitations of the door system itself.

With a pivot door the weight of the door is supported by pivots at the top and bottom of the door. Most of the weight is taken at the floor. The result is that pivot doors are great for large and heavy doors. The doors operate easily without any stress on the frame or the hinges as well. So the main advantage for pivot doors is that they can be made far larger and taller than swing doors.

The other advantage of a pivot door compared to a typical hinged door is that far less hardware, structural and strength considerations are required.

In many cases pivot doors don’t actually need a frame or the frame can be completely hidden in the floor, head and sides.

Reynaers Pivot Doors

The Reynaers Pivot Door are predominantly intended as internal doors rather than external doors. However if you desire such a door on the outside of your property, timber, steel, frameless and other metal options are available from other companies. Each will offer different levels of weathering, security and performance.

The Pivot door by Reynaers offers thermally insulated frames, advanced wither proofing. The nature of this door is such that there is no rebate and relies on draught strips and gaskets. But as with any type of door you would consider how exposed it is and how likely it is to be affected by driving wind and rain, just like any other type of large door.

So for an internal door or a covered entrance door, lobby door or door separating any inside space, the Reynaers door is well worth exploring further.

Disadvantages of pivot doors.

A pivot door is not the ideal door for the typical cottage, semi detached house or other archetypal British home. However as a rear door to the garden or as an access door elsewhere in the home, they are worthy of consideration.

Bearing in mind that many homes today feature ultra modern extensions at the back of the house, with large windows, lantern roofs and an overall contemporary design, there’s no reason why a pivot door cannot be used in these extensions.

Another possible disadvantage is for double door apertures you won’t gain the full opening if, for example you wish to move large objects through the door.

You may think pivot doors are expensive. They’re actually very affordable as on a metal for metal basis they’d contain less aluminium than a patio door and far less than a bifolding door. Also, the hardware is relatively simple. A floor spring, floor closer or floor pivot are not expensive pieces of hardware.

Another consideration to some may be whether the closing or leading edge causes a finger trap situation. Our view is that care should be exercised on every type of door. There is not reasons to be any more careful opening and closing this type of door than any other.

Pivot doors are hugely popular in contemporary European homes and are a real pleasure to use. They provide far more light than any type of swing door and of course can be made wider, taller and substantially larger as well.

If you’d like more information about pivoting doors and the Reynaers products, please contact us.

The post New Aluminium Pivot Door from Reynaers appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.


SL38 Suite of slimline aluminium window from Reynaers

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Reynaers have for a while offered their excellent suite of aluminium windows. One of these was the CS38.

This has now been upgraded to the new Slim Line 38 series. It offers better performance than ever before.

SL 38 and SL 38-HI are now available and offer ultra slim profiles and improved market-leading energy efficiency.

What is the SL38 suite of windows from Reynaers?

The iconic Nedinsco building now features Reynaers windows being refurbished to apartments, retail units and a TV Studio.

The iconic Nedinsco building now features Reynaers windows being refurbished to apartments, retail units and a TV Studio.

The new improved system offers even better thermal insulation. This is coupled with a slimline appearance to give the look of original slain steel windows.

Close examination of the profiles shows an aluminium window with all the aesthetics of a steel window.

The range of outer frame profiles available make this Reynaers SL 38 ideal for the replacement of old windows or to new build openings.

There are three unique designed available giving consumers and the trade real choice in what window suits which property better.

Three outer frame and vent combinations with Reynaers

The three variants possible are Classic, Cubic and Ferro. Regardless of which system is chosen, one of the best design features is the lack of draining caps.

Aluminium windows are often face drained to facilitate the drainage of water to the outside. On the Reynaers windows an invisible drainage system has been designed into the system. This avoids the sometimes unsightly presence of drainage caps on the bottom rails of the windows.

Each of the three variants, Classic Cubic and Ferro offer very similar sight lines. The overall frame dimension for each on an outward opening window is 56.5mm.

The Classic systems is a more traditional looking window. At the bottom of each vent and outer frame is a loping section very much like a weather bar. But this does not detract from the contemporary lines and slim aluminium profiles.

The Cubic variant of the Reynaers window is a much more flatline in appearance window. This we think is the best looking of the three products.

The Ferro we think is designed to replicate the old W series Crittall Windows. At the bottom of the vent is a projecting ‘bar’ section typical of windows such as the old W20. The outer frame like the Cubic remains flat in profile.

One clever feature of the system is that a special modification is possible enabling the window to be provided with hidden hinges.

Hidden hinges are commonplace on products such as a Schuco door so we presume this relates to the hinges visible on the tilt and turn variants rather than the casements.

The Ferro variant features flatline outer frame and a projecting bar on the bottom rail typical of old steel windows. The Cubic is a flat contemporary aluminium window which will suit most applications. The Classic features a projecting bar on the bottom of the sash and outer frame.

Specifications of the Reynaers SL 38 Windows.

All features a highly insulated three-chamber system. You can choose from an outward opening casement with the classic variant as well as tilt and turn or turn and tilt options with Ferro and Cubic.

U values of 1.4 W/m²K or more depending on the glass option and window configuration is possible. The system will accept double or triple gazing of up 55mm.

Weather performance as you would expect from a modern aluminium window is on a par with other good systems. The windows will achieve air tightness of Class 4 (600Pa) and water tightness Class 9A (600Pa).

The Reynaers window gives choice for steel replacement windows in aluminium.

It is evident from the design of the window that it is targeted at the popular steel window replacement market. Old buildings featuring steel windows, central London properties, warehouses and any industrial urban type building would certainly benefit from these new windows.

But it is clearly ideal for new builds and any project requirement for an ultra slim and contemporary aluminium window.

If you would like further information on the Reynaers windows or steel replacement windows in aluminium generally, please contact us.

Images courtesy or Reynaers.

The post SL38 Suite of slimline aluminium window from Reynaers appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

The growth of aluminium means new premises for Kestrel Aluminium Systems.

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Kestrel Aluminium Systems was established in 1989 originally as a supplier of commercial doors and shopfront. Kestrel Aluminium now supply a full range of residential and commercial systems.

The Kestrel product range includes thermally efficient windows, folding doors, curtain walling, louvre systems, roof bars and other popular products in aluminium.

Kestrel reinforce growth in aluminium by moving to larger premises.

Kestrel Aluminium have reinforced the general growth in aluminium by moving to larger premises.

Kestrel Aluminium have reinforced the general growth in aluminium by moving to larger premises.

During 2015 a number of new products were introduced by Kestrel with others enhanced and upgraded.  Sales have increased and their customer base has grown.  Our own website works with many aluminium suppliers and manufacturers and we are being told that more of these are looking at Kestrel Systems as an alternative system to add to their existing product ranges.

As a result of this ongoing growth in sales and customers, Kestrel have invested in new premises, whilst still being located close to their original roots and at the heart of the convenient Midlands motorway network.

New 100000 sq.ft warehouse for Kestrel Aluminium Systems.

The investment in a new warehouse and office space is over 100,000 square feet increasing the size of the original premises threefold.  The new premises now has even more space for stock holding but also benefits from dedicated product training, customer areas and product demonstration spaces.

Steven Schute, Managing Director of Kestrel says:

We have significantly expanded our warehouse capacity to ensure we can stock sufficient material to meet the increasing demands of our customers. The extra space enables us to continue to develop our product range and to be able to stock new profiles.

We are incredibly excited by this new chapter for Kestrel Aluminium Systems. The investment in the business shows our commitment to our customers and the industry as we continue to develop new products and work to exceed the expectations of our customers.

A future powder coating facility is also planned by Kestrel.

The Kestrel Bifolding door is a well designed, competitively priced product for the residential market.

The Kestrel Bifolding door is a well designed, competitively priced product for the residential market.

It makes absolute sense for a growing aluminium systems company to consider future growth and how they can serve their network of fabricators better.  One of the ways of improving lead times and service levels is to bring the powder coating of aluminium systems in house.

Senior Architectural, Smart Systems and other major aluminium systems companies have already made this substantial investment and it makes absolute sense.  Lead times are controlled, outsourcing is not required and the company can react quicker to customer demands for coloured aluminium products whether as stock or special colours.

Steve Schute continues:

The expansion project does not only consist of investing in the warehouse facilities, but additional plans are in place for further investment into the powder coating plant which will be on the same site maximising the efficiency of the business.

We have previously worked with many of the aluminium products offered by Kestrel Aluminium and they provide great design and competitive prices, whilst retaining a personal service.  If you’re looking to add a product to your existing portfolio of aluminium windows, doors, commercial doors or framing, we would recommend looking at what Kestrel Aluminium can offer you as a manufacturer.

If you would like more information about the range of commercial or residential aluminium products from Kestrel, please contact us.

The post The growth of aluminium means new premises for Kestrel Aluminium Systems. appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Contemporary Doors in Aluminium

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There are many hundreds of door styles available for front doors. Composite doors as one example can be made in many combinations of colours, glass patterns and designs.

Look on any door brochure and you’ll see a choice of contemporary styles, traditional designs to mimic timber doors and others.

Contemporary Front Doors in Aluminium.

Schuco doors are available with Adeco panels to create excellent contemporary doors.

Schuco doors are available with Adeco panels to create excellent contemporary doors.

Composite doors are a great value product and arguably the best selling type of door.  But what can you provide your customers if you want a contemporary front door in aluminium?

There are many reasons why you’d want to offer aluminium front doors.  First of all if you have a customer who has purchased aluminium windows and doors for their property what choices can you offer them for their front door?

A composite door may be fine, but you won’t get the colour match next to the aluminium windows, the frames are generally PVCu and even if coloured aren’t the same as the powder coated frames elsewhere.

Therefore in these situations and even where the customer simply doesn’t like or doesn’t want a composite door you should be able to offer alternatives.

Where can you purchase ready made front doors in aluminium?

Available from companies such as Dutemann, GRP Designs, Aluprof, Duration or Hallmark as well as others are a range of contemporary panelled doors in aluminium.

The products from Dutemann in particular but from other suppliers are excellent products and well worth looking at.  However if you’re a manufacturer you many not want to buy a door in and sell it on again. If you’re looking to offer contemporary front doors in aluminium to your own trade partners, there are other options.

How are aluminium contemporary doors made?

To manufacture a panelled front door in aluminium is actually quite simple.

These typically feature a standard door leaf from one of the main systems companies with a panel fitted from another supplier. For example Schuco door leaves are used by Dutemann. Hallmark Panels offer their doors with the Comar 7Pi ECO door. GRP Designs have a range of panels glazed into a Smarts or Schuco System as well as Aluplast. The Duration Premium Plus Aluminium Doors are made using the AluK system.

These are then enhanced with a range of aluminium decorative panels to create a contemporary front door.

As a window or door installer you’ll already be familiar with PVCu and aluminium panels. These are fitted in the same way as glass units. They’ll be either 24mm, 28mm or other thicknesses to suit your product.

If you install aluminium panels commercially, you’ll also be aware of stepped aluminium panels, those with a stucco tray on the back and other types.

Therefore to create an aluminium panelled front door. There are three types of panels available and each give a different look to the aluminium door.

Double Sided panels.

The double sided panel is a panel in a required thickness to suit the door. The inner and outer skins of the panel extend past the glazing line to cover the stiles and rails of the door leaf. The result is a flush looking door with a smooth surface inside and out.

Single sided panels.

The single sided panel is similar to the double but only the outside of the door has the flush smooth appearance. On the inside the door looks like any other type of door with a visible bead.

Glazed Panel.

The glazed panel is similar to doors you’ll already have glazed. It is fitted into the door just like a double glazed unit with a rebate visible on one side and the bead visible on the other.

The more traditional method where the panel is glazed into the door like a glass unit. With double sided panels, the whole door looks flush and smooth inside and out. The single sided panel is flush on the outside and a visible bead on the inside.

Where can you source aluminium panels for aluminium doors?

Adeco is one company that manufactures premium quality aluminium decorative panels in a huge choice of styles.

These panels are made in Germany and Adeco is a long established and well known company in the field of steel and aluminium panels for doors.

Typically lead times are about four weeks but this is actually in line with the lead time on many coloured aluminium doors from your typical trade suppliers.

Hallmark are another company that can offer either a fully fabricated panel or a complete door and frame.

Other considerations with aluminium panels in doors.

Many contemporary front doors feature architectural hardware as part of their design. Handles such as full height pole handles, D Handles, Cranked Handles and other types all work together to give a modern door.

As the hardware is part of the door leaf and not part of the panel, this should not be an issue. Your systems company should be able to provide you with a variety of locking systems such as automatic locks, turn locks and other options if you have to move away from the traditional lever/lever handle arrangement.

What about colour matching?

As you may be buying your aluminium doors and aluminium panels from a different supplier, ensuring an exact colour match is essential.

Our advice is to establish which powder manufacturer your door and panel providers use. Examples include Syntha Pulvin, Interpon, Tiger Paints, Axalta and others.

It is tempting to assume that as long as the RAL colour is correct then so should be the colour. However there can be variations in even the same RAL colour from manufacturer to manufacturer.

If your doors and panels are painted by a Qualicoat Approved powder coater and the powder is from the same powder manufacturer, there should be no reason why the colour should not be an exact match.

Putting the theory onto practice.

Adeco panels feature in purpose-designed Schueco door profiles. Schuco offer a range of door options such as 65mm and 90mm doors.

These are marketed with the Adeco range of panels. The Schuco doors themselves all feature the standard fittings. These include concealed hinges, handles and locks. The result is a contemporary looking door that is distinctive, secure and very well insulated.

Therefore if you currently buy in from your trade manufacturer AluK, Smarts, SAPA, Schuco or any other type of unglazed aluminium entrance door, there is absolutely no reason why you can’t source your own aluminium panels and create your own front doors.  Or you can ask your trade supplier to source and fit these for you.

The point is, if you’re already competent enough to glaze a unit or a solid aluminium panel in a door there is no reason why you can’t glaze one of the decorative types as well.

If you’re a trade manufacturer of aluminium doors you can also add contemporary aluminium doors to your product range.

If you would like more information about aluminium doors with decorative panels please contact us and we can help.

(Images courtesy of Adeco, Schuco and Dutemann)

The post Contemporary Doors in Aluminium appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

New slimline commercial door from Technal

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Look at any typical commercial door or framing system and you’ll find they use a 100mm frame. These were designed from the outset to accommodate the standard concealed overhead closer, or transom closer as it’s otherwise known.

Commercial doors have largely remained unchanged since their introduction over thirty years ago. Originally designed as either nib and bead, double bead or pocket glazed sections there have not been many innovations in commercial doors.

In recent years systems companies introduced a polyamide thermal break, an anti-finger trap hinge stile as well as an anti-finger trap hinge stile to accept a panic bar.

New SOLEAL High Traffic Door from Technal.

The SOLEAL commercial door from Technal is slimline, robust and very attractive.

The SOLEAL commercial door from Technal is slimline, robust and very attractive.

Technal have completed one of the first installations of their new SOLEAL high performance commercial door. It has been installed in a very prestigious building at Clifford’s Inn in the City of London.

Clifford’s Inn has been refurbished into high specification offices and top quality apartments. The Technal door was manufactured by Everglade Windows and differs quite a lot from even the most up to date commercial door and framing systems.

Technal have designed the SOLEAL door to meet the demands of high traffic installations such as retail, education, healthcare and office buildings. Where many double glazing installers also incorrectly install domestic doors as an entrance to dwellings, the Technal door is also ideal for these too as is any commercial door.

A slimmer framed commercial aluminium door.

The first different feature found in this commercial door is that the front to back frame depth is nearly half that of a typical commercial door. At only 55mm, the door is super slim front to back.

The advantage of having a robust commercial door this thin is that it can be integrated into slimmer framing systems. This first installation saw the doors being installed into the Technal structural silicone curtain walling system.

Therefore if you’re looking for a commercial heavy duty door that can integrate with slimmer front to back framing or curtain walling products, this appears ideal.

To overcome the narrow frame depth of this door, a special door closer is required. Here there are products suitable such as the Dorma ITS 96 Door Closer which is designed for doors with a narrow frame.

Other features of the Technal SOLEAL commercial door.

The new SOLEAL commercial door can be made as a hinged door opening in or out as well as a centre hung or centre hung anti-finger trap door that can open in and out.

It features a crimped double polyamide thermal break. This achieves very low U Values as low as 1.4W/m2K.

We have always questioned the benefit of low U values or indeed thermal breaks on main entrance doors in high traffic buildings. Our reasoning for this is that any perceived benefit of insulation or energy efficiency is negated given how many times a commercial entrance door is opened and closed in a shop, office and school letting cold air in and warm air out.

We know of course that other commercial doors situated elsewhere may remain closed for longer periods such as doors with panic bars that are fire exits only and it is perfectly logical that these closed doors need to be energy efficient.

However aside from making frames thermally efficient, polyamide thermal break technology finally enabled commercial doors and frames to be powder coated different colours inside and out. This gave architects more design flexibility to doors that was always available with windows.

Security and performance on the Technal SOLEAL Door.

SOLEAL as a high security door meeting Class RC3 for burglar resistance to BS EN 1627–30. It has also successfully passed the stringent PAS24:2012 standard. However it’s important to bear in mind that whilst passing these tests are credible, only a single door with anti-finger trap bulb stile has been submitted for testing. The double door has not been tested to this standard.

In 2013 Metal Technology achieved an industry first by submitting for testing not only a PAS24 double door but one with panic bars as well.

Technal Soleil offers a more versatile anti-finger trap

One advantage of this particular door is that the anti-finger trap option is available not just on centre hung doors but also on rebated doors.

Technal don’t say whether they actually use a centre hung door with applied rebates on the lock stile and frame head. Nonetheless an anti-finger trap door whilst not a legal requirement forms the ‘standard product’ for many commercial door providers.

Specifications of the SOLEAL commercial door.

The threshold is a two part drained threshold and can be removed for repair, replacement or maintenance without having to take the door leaves apart. Rebated as well as double ramped options are available.

Concealed drainage does away with unsightly cover caps and is available on the thresholds, the midrails and bottom rails.

Glazing beads can accommodate from 6mm single glass up to 39mm units.

The door has been extensively cycle tested in accordance with BS EN 12400 (2002) at up to one million cycles.

With the Technal door you can also choose black or grey gaskets. We don’t know of any other commercial door that offers this option.

The Technal commercial door looks very well designed, aesthetically very attractive and offers all the features required of a reliable heavy duty commercial entrance door. If you would like more information on this products and where to buy it, please contact us.

The post New slimline commercial door from Technal appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Inductaflex changes the game in curving aluminium window frames

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The curving of window sections calls for specialist machinery and a lot of skill.

Many people assume that in order to bend a profile simple machinery is used. In fact quite specialist machinery is used and each section reacts differently to bending.

Aluminium bifolding doors with cured window above.

The curving of aluminium sections gets more difficult the smaller the curve. Here is a set of Origin bifolding doors with curved toplights.

A typical open back box section such as a pocket outer frame used on shopfront systems is actually quite easy to bend. The clip in plate used to close it off is also easily shaped. When you move onto more complex sections such as window sections or curtain walling sections that have the front nose for the pressure plate and cappings, things get more complicated.

Factor in other elements of window sections such as upstands and rebates, odd and equal leg profiles and things get far more complicated. When you are faced with these issues not only is there a risk that the curve won’t come out to the require radius but also that the accompanying curved bead will not clip in correctly.

The ordering of curved windows has always been complex.

Anyone ordering and installing curved windows will have faced the extra work involved in creating templates. The vast majority of glass suppliers, aluminium panel manufacturers and metal section benders require templates to be provided. This is done to cover themselves understandably.

Then we come to the finishing of extrusions. In the case of aluminium sections are curved before they are painted. This is the sensible approach as the powder coated finish can be marked or have lines as it passes through the bending machine.

However, the biggest issue facing section benders, architects and window installers is how small a curve can be created and the complexities of them.

Gothic curves for example are notoriously difficult to create but many older properties feature small porthole windows in timber or steel that are quite difficult to replicate in modern materials. Look at any property with a new window installation and you’ll often see the original small curved windows are not changed.

Inductaflex changes the game in curving aluminium window frames.

Inductaflex are a UK bending machine manufacturer. They have reported that a brand new technique by them now solves the well known difficulties of curving aluminium sections. They claim sections can now be shaped to very tight radii.

Their Inductaflex AL–1 aluminium bending machine is reported to have created a curve with a 165mm radius external and a 120mm radius internally. This was achieved using a 45mm wide x 65mm high section.

“A significant innovation for the window industry”.

The curved aluminium section appears to be window profile and has been curved to a very tight radius.

The curved aluminium section appears to be window profile and has been curved to a very tight radius.

We agree. Where typically it was very hard to bend anything smaller than 400mm typically, achieving such a tight radius would normally be considered impossible.

Craig Barnshaw, Managing Director says:

The key to success was very careful design of the specialist machine tooling for AL–1 that we designed and manufactured specifically for this task. The end result is an affordable and reliable solution for more extreme bending of profiles that has the capability of introducing new design possibilities for aluminium glazing system manufacturers.

As you can see from the picture, there is indeed a very tight curve on what appears to be an odd leg window section.

For any company specialising in section bending, this new machine from Inductaflex not only enables them to offer smaller curves than before, but addresses finally the many limitation faced by aluminium sections when it comes to curving them.

The post Inductaflex changes the game in curving aluminium window frames appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

The first in-depth review of the Synseal Warmcore Door

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In mid–2015, Synseal Extrusions launched the Warmcore folding sliding door.

Now this product has had time in the marketplace, it’s time to carry out a further review of this recent product into the already competitive bifolding door sector.  We have seen several variations of the Warmcore folding door in showrooms and residential installations.  So what is the Warmcore door all about?

Who’s behind the Warmcore folding door?

The Warmcore folding door brings better U Values and great design to a healthy bifolding door market.

The Warmcore folding door brings better U Values and great design to a healthy bifolding door market.

Synseal are a long established and highly reputable company behind some of the best known products in PVCu. Originally the Warmcore name was teased into the market place whilst Synseal worked behind the scenes on creating a radically different bifolding door.

The result was the launch of the Warmcore bifolding door in aluminium from Synseal, a PVCu focused company.  Synseal are definitely marketing the product as an aluminium bifold.

Moving aluminium thermal efficiency up a gear.

You will see on our website and elsewhere that the Synseal Warmcore door is marketed as the latest generation ‘warm aluminium’. Synseal say in their promotional material that this is the 3rd Generation of thermal break aluminium.

The first generation being pour and cut thermal break, the second generation being the current polyamide thermal break.

As well as good design and an overall attractive appearance, the thermal performance of Warmcore is what is heavily marketed by Synseal.

Does high thermal efficiency matter to consumers?

In designing any door product systems companies have to strike that fine balance between not only an energy efficient door, but one that is also aesthetically pleasing.

There is little point in designing a highly insulated product if this essentially hidden feature makes for an ugly door.

Consumers are generally guided by aesthetics first and foremost when choosing a bifolding door. If they’re happy with how a product looks they can then move onto other reasons to by such as security and thermal performance.

The vivid orange core found in Warmcore doors.

The substantial non metal core of the new Warmcore door.

The substantial non metal core of the new Warmcore door.

Study the product closely as we have and the first thing that is evident is the warm orange core of the product.

On the small samples provided by the company this orange heart of the extrusion is very evident. It is worth noting though that this will normally be invisible on a closed door and when the door sashes are in place.

So it is this vivid orange core that is behind the impressive thermal performance of the Warmcore door. On many bifolding door systems a U Value of 1.8Wm2K is typical. Warmcore doors improve on this further with a low U Value of 1.4Wm2K when using 28mm units.

Glass specifications for the Warmcore Door.

It is Celsius Glass that Synseal recommend is used on the Warmcore door. Celsius is designed for vertical glazing applications. However this is really just like any other high specification quality glass unit. It uses a Low-E and Solar control coating as well as Argon gas fill between the panes of glass. Celsius also contains Easy Clean technology as well.

When used with triple glazing a U Value of 1.0 Wm2K is achieved.

Therefore if you’re looking for a highly thermally efficient door Warmcore presently is one of the best in the market with standard double glazed units.

Design Options on the Synseal Warmcore Door.

As you’d expect from a modern day bifold, you can choose from a large number of configurations for the folding doors. Doors can open in or out and come with up to 7 leaves in a 6 metre width bifold.

If you’re looking for taller than average doors, the Warmcore product can be manufactured up to 2400mm high and a maximum sash width of 1000mm high. This surpasses the typical 900mm width found in a PVCu door but still falls well below the 1200mm maximum width you can enjoy with a Schuco door as one example.

It is normal that many modern extensions also feature other types of doors. Therefore you can add single doors or French doors to the mix that are also available as a Warmcore door.

Better still and unlike many other bifolding doors, there is also a midrail option. We can’t see the value of a midrail in residential installs but there is certainly scope for doors with midrails in commercial applications.

Colour options with the Synseal Warmcore bifold.

Synseal have cleverly considered their other products with the Warmcore. The standard white and cream finishes available are designed to match the Synseal PVCu and orangery systems. Also on offer is RAL 9005 black and Grey RAL7016. Both of these are very popular colours with homeowners.

Special colours are available as are dual colours. Both of these options will be on special order.

The Warmcore Door is aesthetically excellent and works very well. Four standard colours area available. Special & dual colours on request. Warmcore hardware has an excellent finish and feels robust and well made. Three glazing bead options are available. Four frame designs more than many other bifolding door brands. Warmcore doors can enhance any traditional or contemporary home.

Why we recommend Synseal Warmcore for external styling.

Many best selling bifolding door products are only available with either one or two profile choices. Synseal have considered the diversity of the homeowner market and this is where their PVCu experience is evident.

With the Warmcore door you can choose from four different external features. These are Pencil Round, Chamfered, Square and Decorative.

Having seen the Warmcore door this is a great move on behalf of Synseal. Our view is that many bifolding door and window providers forget the complete home solution. This is being able to offer a product to meet most customer requirements.

The Origin bifolding door for example is an excellent product but is only offered with one frame and sash option. Their new Twin flush window is also excellent amongst aluminium windows. However it only offers a slimline slimline option when fitted to new openings. Where it’s used for replacement windows an add-on needs to be provided.

The point here is that bifolding door providers must remember that bifolds (and windows) don’t only go into new extensions and new openings. More often than not a bifolding door is fitted as a replacement to old French doors and sliding doors. A homeowner should have choice in what frame types are possible and this should be no different for bifolding doors.

Therefore if you’re looking to offer a bifolding door with up to four different frame designs, Warmcore will meet your needs.

Better still, Warmcore will offer you three different bead types as well. You can choose form Square all round, Chamfered or beads for triple glazing.

Finally, you’ll find a low threshold option. Interestingly this doesn’t feature a warm core but chooses to retain the polyamide thermal break instead.

Other features of the Warmcore bifolding door.

We won’t delve to deeply into the security and construction elements of the door. Suffice to say the door has been tested to Secured by Design/PAS 24 standards, offers great weathering and the hardware we can tell you is of exceptional quality on the finished product.

The installer benefits as well. The gaskets feature a great corner moulding helping sash to sash and sash to frame situations giving a really neat and tidy appearance. This does away with the overlap often found on gaskets that have been glazed on site.

Some bifolding door providers fit hinges to their doors, others don’t. Warmcore doors come with clip fit hinges making site fitting a breeze. The double pivot rollers, bearings and other hardware on the doors have a really good solid and quality feel to them.

In operation we have found the doors easy to open and close. The main door handles and intermediate leaf handles look great, have a real quality finish to them and the operation of the doors is superb.

Do we recommend the Warmcore door?

We have had experience of virtually every bifolding door on the market from some of the best known names. We regard the Warmcore door as a real contender at the quality end of the market but at lower prices.

Whether the Warmcore door is an aluminium clad PVCu door or a true aluminium door is not really the issue. It is true other aluminium systems offer far more metal in their construction. However, thermal breaks are getting larger and aluminium profiles getting less as both windows and doors strive for greater thermal efficiency.  This does not mean that the Warmcore door is a lesser product. Synseal have chosen to market the energy efficiency of the product as one of it’s key features and there is no better insulator than a thick core separating the inner and outer aluminium profiles. You’ll arguably find the Warmcore door warmer to the touch as well perhaps.

The cladding of PVCu with aluminium is not new. WERU do it, Smart Systems for years had a really great Duotherm range which was similar.  For folding doors there are also the Panoramic Doors from Panoramic Doors UK but these operate on a slide swing and fold basis rather than the traditional way. However these too have a similar construction in their profiles.

But above that, the Warmcore door looks really good, performs great and is backed by one of the leading Systems Companies. Therefore if you’re looking to add another bifolding door product to your range, we recommend it.  We can also confirm that Warmcore windows are shortly to be made available as well which will enhance this product still further.

If you’re a homeowner or an installer and would like further information on the product and where to buy it, please contact us.

(Images courtesy of Synseal Systems).

The post The first in-depth review of the Synseal Warmcore Door appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

What is the right way to sell double glazing?

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Is there a place for the traditional sales tactics employed by the national and other double glazing firms?

Speak to any salesman working for smaller or medium sized companies and they will tell you that they find it easy to sell against the big firms and the sales tactics they employ.

Engage in discussions with other independent window businesses and you’ll see a common agreement that there is no place for pressure selling, being in someones home for hours on end, telephone or door canvassing, buy one get one free offers and so forth.

Has the double glazing buying process changed?

Double glazing discounts are one area that gives the industry a bad reputation

We all perceive value differently.

The internet has brought a huge amount of information to consumers. Rewind 25 years or so and the general purchasing process of double glazing was vastly different. It was commonplace to get a salesman to come round your home because that was the way windows were sold.

  • The customer had no idea what system they were buying.
  • The customer was replacing their windows for different reasons than today.
  • The product availability was far more limited.
  • The consumer rarely did their own research.
  • The availability of information was far less.
  • Systems companies never marketed their brand directly to consumers.
  • Our lifestyles have drastically changed.

We have long advocated that the traditional sales tactics of many double glazing salespeople are employed simply to secure a sale. Our view is that the reason these sales tactics came about is because of the commission only nature of double glazing sales that is still commonplace today. Also these sales tactics are an integral part of companies that really heavily on lead generation and extensive follow up calls.  What is also true is that we remain in a hugely competitive market with no stability or a common theme in window and door prices.

It is right to question whether anyone should be pressured into buying a product, whether there is any logical reason for a salesman to spend hours in the home or whether huge discounting and incentives to buy really work? Does this tactic still work for many companies? Clearly it does if it secures sales.  The ethics of it are another subject altogether.

Do high pressure sales tactics work?

Those of us working outside the large double glazing firms continue to question how in today’s information age and with more information available to consumers these sales tactics could possibly work.

By nature of the £100m+ turnover of Anglian, Everest or Safestyle consumers surely are quite happy with the buying experience. If not these companies would not sell the sheer volume that they do?

Is there a point of view that even with the buy one get one free offers, “manager” discounts, “valid only for today” offers and seemingly permanent discounting that customers are actually happy that they have received good value?

Look on social media and you’ll actually see a mixture of consumers tweeting delight at the products and services they have received from the national window firms as well as highly negative experiences.

What is a typical double glazing sales process?

For the large companies, sales training is far more important than product training.  For many window firms, the traditional method of selling still works.  It is all about focusing on the opposite to what the customer expects.  Examples include focusing on customer emotion, customer needs, and problems.  Other examples of how double glazing is sold includes focusing on benefits not specifications, focusing on value not price.  There are still a large number of businesses that do operate this way.  They will confirm established sales tactics, drop closing,  telesales, door to door canvassing and huge discounting works for them and generates them sales.

The closing technique or phrase is still used by many. If you’ve had a salesman visit or been a salesman before, are any of these phrases familiar?

Is there any reason, if we gave you the windows at this price, that you wouldn’t do business with our company?

If we could find a way to deal with [objection], would you sign the contract today?

If we throw in [freebie/incentive], would that convince you to sign the contract today?

If you sign the contract today, I can guarantee we can do [special request homeowner asked for]. How does that sound?

Will you commit to doing business with us today?

Everyone perceives value differently.

The designer clothing and accessories market is a great example of brand loyalty and extensive marketing. However dig deeper and you’ll find that often it is not what it seems.

There is vertical integration in the sunglasses sector. There are huge factories manufacturing many designer clothing or fashion watch labels under one roof. There are even high end, iconic British and international brands having some their goods made in China.

The point here is that we all perceive value and brands differently. Large double glazing firms after so many years trading are cemented in people’s minds as the people to go and get a quote from. And let us not forget the multi million pound marketing budgets that these large companies have.

There may also be the issue of trust. The large companies have been trading for several decades and Everest of course has the  “fit the best” slogan. You’ll know marketing slogans can be embedded in our minds for generations.  Is this excellent marketing for Everest continuing to serve them well?

Therefore whilst some criticise the way the larger double glazing companies choose to sell windows, we have to respect consumer choice and perceived value. Some us may know what aluminium system Everest sell under their well known slogan. We in the window industry might not perceive it as the best, but the consumers may well do thanks to excellent marketing over many years and how the salesman ultimately presents the company and the product. The same could be said for any product.

The window industry has knowledge that consumers don’t.

It is also right to point out that we in the window industry have access to information that consumers don’t. Knowledge is power and knowledge often cements our point of views.

We bemoan the large double glazing firms selling a basic composite door for three thousand pounds to an unsuspecting homeowner. We all express our disgust at how anyone can get away with selling a door for this amount of money.

But what we have is insider knowledge at what it cost us to buy this door, our labour rates, profit margins and so forth.

The consumers don’t!

If the sales process of some is to quote several thousand pounds for a door, discount it and the customer perceives this as getting fantastic value we have to respect that as well.  If by sheer size, these companies must sell at a high price in the hope they may get away with as much as possible to cover extensive overheads then that is not just double glazing that does this but many other large firms with huge wage bills, administration/operational costs and marketing budgets.

What is the right way to sell double glazing, and what is misleading?

This very website helps many consumers on a daily basis contacting us to ascertain whether what they’ve been told by a salesman is true.

“I’ve been told by my salesman that externally beaded aluminium windows are illegal, is this correct?”

“My salesman has informed me that I don’t need trickle vents if I leave my windows in the locked ventilated position”.

“I’ve been told to avoid aluminium windows because they can’t achieve the window energy ratings of PVCu?”

In many walks of life we rely on the knowledge of others to help us make a buying decision. It is unfortunate that sometimes this knowledge can be false or misleading. This is frustrating for us in the window industry that sell honestly where some salesmen choose to grossly mislead or criticise the competition in order to sell their own product.

Local window firms are changing double glazing for the better

Via the Aluminium Trade Website we receive enquiries from the general public about home replacement products.  As a consequence of this, and our work creating websites and digital advertising solutions, we are fortunate to come into contact with many window companies.

The window industry is investing in showrooms and marketing like never before.

The window industry is investing in showrooms and marketing like never before. Here the Eden  Windows Showroom in Kent.

What we have seen after nearly 30 years in the home improvement and construction sector is change. Today’s ethical, modern and progressive window companies are vastly different from those of years ago.

  • They offer a terrific product range that is varied.
  • Window companies are ethical professional and hard working.
  • There is a focus on customer service and satisfaction like never before.
  • There is huge investment in high quality showrooms and marketing.
  • They’re shifting from the traditional method of selling double glazing.
  • Window companies are working to educate the consumer.

But even whilst the smaller local firm will often offer a bigger and better range, a more personal service and better prices, a buyer has the right to compare one to another, large to small.

Ultimately the buying decision of any consumer is up to them. If they are happy with the price, the perceived quality, discount or incentive to buy, then that decision has to be respected surely?

Selling any product will always be competitive, varied and open to question. However it’s not just double glazing.  PPI firms and Injury Claim companies are marketing to us via text messages and other methods. It’s either the new frustration for consumers or now another tried and tested method of securing sales.

We would really like to hear what you think about the modern sales prices, share your views on social media or via the comments below.

The post What is the right way to sell double glazing? appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.


The Aluprof bifolding door reviewed

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Aluprof folding doors are little known in the residential market. The Systems company Aluprof, markets it’s product through its network of fabricators that largely carry out commercial contracts. Therefore it’s unlikely to be found in most double glazing showrooms.

However if you are buying a new build property constructed as part of a larger development of flats or houses, you may have the Aluprof bifolding door fitted in your new home by the developer.

Aluprof targets fabricators and architects not consumers.

The Aluprof folding door has a strong European design but the company provides little information to appeal to homeowners.

The Aluprof folding door has a strong European design but the company provides little information to appeal to homeowners.

In our view, the website and literature by Aluprof for their folding door system does not give it much of a retail slant.

It is written in a very technical format with a strong slant towards the fabricator. No information is given about hardware, styling or other information that a homeowner would want in order to consider the product alongside others.

In addition the Aluprof website is largely translated from Polish and the incorrect use of English and spelling mistakes describing the product can make for difficult reading.

Nevertheless what we can tell you is that the Aluprof folding sliding door is a polyamide thermal break system with a very strong European slant in its design.

The door in line with others offers a 3 chamber polyamide thermal break, opening in or opening out options and offers a range of thermal properties and even acoustic insulation if required.

Technical Details on the Aluprof bifolding door.

The product is available with a range of frame and sash dimensions. This makes is compatible with the wider range of Aluprof window or door systems and we understand the system integrates with them.

You can choose from a 50mm, 60mm or a 70mm outer frame depth. However it is understood not all frame options are available in both inward and outward opening folding doors.

The Aluprof technical data sheet also states that door leaf sizes of 1600mm wide up to 2400mm high are possible. If this is correct that a folding door panel can be made up to 1600mm wide, this is quite a technical feat. In addition the intrusion into the inside or outside space when the doors are folded would be quite substantial.

However other literature on the product states different figures. We have found technical literature that states recommended size limits for door leaves or 480mm minimum up to 930mm maximum widths and 2430mm maximum heights.

In addition you’ll find the door described as having a silent, smooth operation, three different bead options available and varying threshold options. Again little information is provided on these.

The Aluprof folding door is marketed as being very easy to fabricated. It features eurogrooves to accommodate multi point locking systems.

The quality and well known Roto range of fittings is provided. Where there appears to be a difference to other folding door systems is that the Aluprof bifolding door can be made either top hung or bottom hung.

The door will accept glazing thicknesses of up to 60mm making it suitable for either double or triple glazing.

As you would expect from a powder coated product the full range of RAL colour is possible, including metallic finishes and dual colours. Aluprof also offer the Decoral range of wood structure finishes giving a wood effect door in aluminium like those on offer by Origin Doors and Smart Systems.

The Aluprof door brings a heavy European design to the UK consumer and commercial market. It is not the slimmest door on the system where the folding panels meet in the closed position. The overall dimension is 166mm to the glass line, making this quite a thick looking door.

Disappointingly there is little information on the range of handle options possible to enable us to carry out a review of these.

Aluprof needs to improve how it markets it’s products generally.

The lack of information and the way current technical and other literature is marketed really needs improvement.  There is very little information about the product to be able to look at it in detail in the same way we do with other.  However, if you can gain access to an Aluprof installer it is worth seeing the product and deciding whether it would work in your own market.  We say this because Aluprof overall do have a very advanced range of aluminium doors and windows across their entire range. We recommend you give them a closer look.

Image Courtesy of MDM Stolarka

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Are externally beaded windows safe?

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A tweet was recently posted on social media from Homes Secured of Leeds with the comment “the dangers of externally beaded double glazed windows”.  Attached to the tweet were pictures of a PVCu window that appears to have been used to gain entry by burglars into a property.

At face value, pictures and a perception that externally beaded double glazed windows pose “dangers” to security would be alarming to any homeowner. So is this true? And given that many modern aluminium windows are actually externally beaded does this carry forward that these too could be broken into easily? Here is the tweet an pictures from Homes Secured.

Are externally beaded windows a security concern?

Rather than make such a general statement about externally beaded windows, it is worth considering several important points regarding window security, PVCu windows and the whole externally beaded debate.  And this is not a new debate.  As far back as 2011 we were writing about the security of externally beaded aluminium windows.

In factual and simple terms, an externally beaded window today is not a security risk.  However it’s worth examining why it could be.

No reputable window company would knowingly sell a homeowner windows that are not secure.  And in any case it is almost impossible to with today’s modern double glazed windows. Whilst we don’t possess the facts about how this specific PVCu window was broken into,  we can explain the situations where a window could be.

Window security has improved through the years

As with any product that has undergone improvements, innovations and enhancements, so the same applies to double glazing and windows, whether PVCu, aluminium or timber. Older PVCu windows were fitted with externally glazed beads, had simple cockspur locking handles and in short were basic windows designed to address the early need for replacing old original timber or metal windows.

Speak to any home improvement professional and they’ll tell you that the first generation of double glazed windows were remarkably simple.  Therefore what this picture doesn’t tell us is how old this window is and what the level of security for this window would have been at the time it was current. However there are clues in the pictures.

One of the first things a window professional will notice is that it appears the glazing rebate (that the glass sits against) uses glazing tape.  Glazing tape is widely used in PVCu windows so this is nothing out of the ordinary.  Modern externally glazed windows have moved away from tapes choosing secure internal wedge gaskets that do a far better job.

What closer inspection of the picture does show is a very basic frame profile. Compare this to a modern externally beaded window and there are many more grooves and channels that are designed into extrusions for many reasons and one being security.

So we would guess from the tweeted images that this is a very early generation externally beaded window that lacks the design or glazing components to keep it secure.

A brief history of PVCu windows.

The early generation PVCu windows were in fact externally beaded as were the very first aluminium windows.  In these first generation windows fitted in the 1970’s and 1980’s design was at it’s basic form.  The main advantages of  ‘double glazing’ then was the advantages of two pieces of glass and the low maintenance properties of PVCu.

Move forward to current PVCu windows and the message of these products is still low maintenance but now it is also about security, thermal efficiency, aesthetics and window style choices. This was lacking on early double glazing.

One of the reasons why PVCu windows quickly moved towards internal glazing was the physical weakness of a plastic glazing bead.  These early externally beaded windows were actually quite brittle and it was commonplace for external plastic beads to simply snap when removal by a glazier (rather than a burglar) was attempted.

The PVCu industry quickly spotted the design flaw in a plastic bead that was so susceptible to breaking and being easy to remove and moved the beads to the inside of the windows. This then created the marketing opportunity to promote internally beaded windows as more secure.

However. The early design flaws in internally beaded PVCu products are all to evident when you look at how easy it is to kick in a PVCu panelled door. On the video by Distinction doors, one of the most noticeable things is how quickly the PVCu beads simply fall away from their glazed positions.

What is most important about modern double glazing?

Regular readers will know that we promote the strength, aesthetics and other advantages of aluminium windows.  But in the interests of fairness and balance, all modern double glazed windows and doors now have something older generations of windows did not – certification to recognised security standards.

Early double glazing was sold on features  that old metal or timber windows did not possess such as multi point locking.  But rarely was there official documentation to prove that windows were secure.

Today’s modern windows and doors whether internally or externally beaded have been tested to current security standards such as Secured By Design, PAS 24, BS7950 and others.  Indeed specific testing institutes have been set up that test all types of windows in many different materials on a daily basis.

These tests are carried out with expertise and knowledge.  In the case of Secured By Design, this is a Police Preferred Specification.  The Police work with these institutes sharing their knowledge of how burglars break into windows, the methods and tools used as well as the knowledge gained from former burglars turned advisors.  On a typical test a series of tools, attack methods, timed attack tests and much more is carried out to test the security of a window.  But do your research and any window can be broken into if the opportunist thief has ample time to do so.  Some windows will be harder to break into than others depending on how they’re designed.

Therefore our view is that older generation windows have security flaws that those in the know can exploit.  But this is actually no different from cars that had simple locks on the doors that could easily be picked with a coat hanger.  As flaws in products have come to light so these have been enhanced over time.

So what makes an externally beaded window secure if the beads are on the outside?

Modern technology as well as great engineering and design is the reason why modern externally glazed windows have passed current security tests and are secure.

When glazing an externally beaded window the very last component to be put in place is the internal wedge gasket.  After the windows are glazed and the beads are put into position, this internal wedge gasket effectively locks the bead into place.  Each glazing bead has an extended leg that sits under a purpose designed rebate.  This enables the bead to sit in place.  On the rear of the bead you’ll find a further leg designed to be pushed into position when the internal wedge gasket is fitted.

This secures the bead and it cannot be removed without the internal wedge gasket being removed first.  The only way to gain access to this internal wedge gasket is either to break the glass  on a fixed light window or spend a huge amount of time trying to prise an opening vent open.  This is shown on the below diagram on a typical aluminium window with an external bead.

An externally beaded SAPA Crown window showing the bead locked into the profile. An Aluprof Externally beaded window showing the bead locked into position. The sophisticated Reynaers aluminium windows with high security testing also externally beaded.

Why are windows externally beaded?

There are actually many valid reasons why windows continue to be externally beaded. The first is that combinations of opening vents next to fixed lights often use frames in reverse meaning the sashes are sometimes internally glazed and the fixed elements externally glazed. Many aluminium systems adopt this method. One of the key reasons why is that is helps create a much slimmer looking window.

For those wishing to have internal beads on the inside of their windows there are specific internally glazed windows available.  In the case of the combination window a dummy sash can be fitted to the fixed element. This would be internally beaded but it adds to the cost of the window (as more material and fabrication time is needed) and it adds to the visible bulk.

You can read a more detailed explanation about externally and internally beaded windows last year.  But in summary:

  • Externally beaded windows provide a slimmer looking window. Some people also prefer the look of the window from the inside as there are no visible bead lines.
  • Internally beaded windows make installation easy from the inside without requiring scaffolding and are the preferred option for windows fitted in tower blocks or high level generally.

In the interests of being balanced the below two tweets from Homes Secured of Leeds also show the flaws in an internally beaded product that has been broken into.

This image shows that access was gained simply by smashing the glass.

This image shows just how easy it was to prise open an early generation PVCu window with espagnolette locking.

In summary, there is no security disadvantage to a modern externally glazed window.  Any reputable double glazing firm will tell you this.  Importantly they’ll also have the certification to prove that their windows such as those by SAPA, a popular residential aluminium window have undergone current testing in accordance with established industry standards.

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Origin Windows for commercial buildings

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The Origin aluminium window is one of the newest products to hit the home improvement market. It offers a host of innovative features such as the Aerogel Technology, colour matched handles, a flush casement arrangement and available on ultra fast lead times.

Whilst the Origin Twin Flush Window is certainly marketed at the new build domestic market, there is no reason why this window cannot also be used commercially as well. So if you’re a window installer that carries out commercial work, should you consider the Origin Twin Flush Windows?

Are aluminium windows any different for commercial buildings?

Origin windows have been successfully installed in this commercial building used by a local Scout Group.

Origin windows have been successfully installed in this commercial building used by a local Scout Group.

For commercial buildings (anything that is not a dwelling), aluminium windows are largely much easier to specify. There are other more popular types of ‘commercial’ opening windows such as tilt and turn, top swing reversible, parallel opening and pivot windows. These come in many different frame depths, sash and bead options.

Casement windows for commercial buildings are basically the same as for houses. Options can include heavy duty vent sections as well as a choice of outer frames. It is also worth mentioning that whilst a contract for a block of apartments can be deemed commercial, ultimately the end product remains a private dwelling upon completion.

Origin Aluminium Windows for commercial buildings.

Origin were recently involved in the construction of a brand new building for the 17th Reigate Scout Group. This type of project whilst a low use building is very much commercial. Origin windows and French doors were installed.

The project came about after a huge fund raising effort on behalf of the Scout Group and thanks to the generosity of local businesses as well, including Origin themselves.

The specific Origin aluminium windows featured their direct fix outer frame, high security multi point Yale Encloser locks and their robust quality window handles.

These were also provided in the desired polyester powder coated colour.

The benefits of the Origin Aluminium Window commercially.

Commercial contracts have a huge amount of choice in aluminium windows so are there advantages to offering the Origin aluminium window as a viable option?

Having examined the window in detail we can see no reason why the Origin Window cannot be used commercially. For applications where a quality outward opening casement window is required, the frame depth is certainly adequate. Additionally, the ultra slim sight lines make it ideal for new build applications with optional frame extensions available for replacement window application where a deeper frame may be required.

New build projects make the specification of new aluminium windows easier in that there are not existing plaster lines to consider.

Origin windows can overcome long window lead times elsewhere.

For contracts on a tight lead time it is also worth giving the Origin window consideration. Origin market their lead times on fabricated windows in their standard range of colours at a one week lead time.

This standard range of RAL colours is 7015 Matt Slate Grey, 7016 Matt Anthracite Grey, 7021 Matt Black Grey, 9005 Matt Jet Black, 9006 Metallic Light Silver, 9007 Metallic Dark Silver and of course RAL 9910 Gloss white which remains every popular commercially.

It’s important to highlight that unlike other trade fabricators, Origin have never extended their lead times whatever their order book. This would certainly be advantageous during the summer months and school holiday periods. Historically this is always the time of year that other trade fabricators typically extend their lead times up to 8 weeks or more because of the sheer volume of work from installers carrying out refurbishments and construction in schools.

As most school work has to be carried out when the schools are shut for the holidays the availability of aluminium windows at fast turnaround times would certainly benefit many commercial installers. Furthermore even if non standard colours are required, the Origin lead times are typically only three weeks.

What are the constraints of the Origin Aluminium Window?

Commercial contracting will often call for special size cills, aluminium pressings, trims and other bespoke fabrications. It is often the case that commercial windows will also need installing into Kingspan cladding, inset into curtain walling or to integrate with doors.

Each system has to be considered on it’s own merits and where relevant in accordance with architect specifications. The Origin window meets the requirements for quality, finishing, security, quality of aluminium extrusions and other required standards.

Depending on the installation requirement you many not find the range of frame extensions, adaptors for glazing within other systems, cladding profiles and other accessories.  This should not necessarily pose an issue.  Deepening upon the installation there are many fabricators of bespoke cills, pressings and architectural fabrications.  This means you can have any special extrusions made to suit the windows. They will also suit the many commercial available cill sections from specialist suppliers as well.

However for buildings requiring new windows in standard openings, for large floor to ceiling windows and for casement windows with oversize vents, the Origin window should be perfectly suitable.  Aesthetically it offers something different from a standard casement window with overlapping vent.  As with any sales process the installer or the systems company can do the work required to sell the advantages of the Origin window for a particular commercial project.

Are you an Origin Installer using Origin windows commercially?

If you’re an existing Origin installer and have fitted these windows commercially please contact us or leave a comment with your experiences of the window and it’s suitability for the project you carried out.  If you’re currently considering offering aluminium windows and would like further information on this or any other aluminium system, please contact us.

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What are the best blinds for bifolding doors?

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The Houzz Website is one of the largest and best known home improvement websites on the internet.  With over 35 million unique visitors across their global websites Houzz is now used daily by home improvement enthusiasts, designers and anyone passionate about design.

As a valued information resource about aluminium products, fenestration and glazing, we were recently asked to contribute to one of their features about choosing the right patio door for the home.

Providing privacy and shade to bifolding doors is important to homeowners.

Kitchen Bifolding Door Blinds

How important is shading and privacy on a bifolding door? There are several options available.

And it was flattering to see so many favourable reviews on the Houzz website about this feature.  It was once again reinforced by those commenting on the website that large glazed doors such as folding or sliding doors remain popular with homeowners. However the questions yet again arose about how you provide privacy or shade to folding and sliding doors.

Useful article. Would love to read one about window dressing options for contemporary glass doors or how to retain privacy when a whole wall is glass … Any ideas or articles to point me to?

I notice that in lots of the pics, the large windows remain undressed, lovely during the day but the feeling of privacy at night is important. I would be interested to see solutions for this also.

There are several options when considering blinds for bifolding and sliding doors.  If you’re looking for suitable shading for folding, sliding or any type of glazed door you do have options.  What you choose will depend on a few factors.  For example the door configuration will affect your choice of door blinds as well as budget and overall aesthetics.

Conventional Manual Blinds

Vertical blinds can be cost effective but consideration should be given to opening in doors.

Vertical blinds can be cost effective but consideration should be given to opening in doors.

If you have doors that open inwards there is a good chance that the doors could foul on conventional blinds such as those available in DIY stores or companies specialising in window coverings. If you are looking to fit conventional blinds to your bifolding doors outward opening doors may be better. But if you must have blinds and doors that open in, we offer some solutions below.  Ultimately there is no best system but there are several options available.

Automatic Roller Blinds

There is a wide choice of automatic roller blinds available for bifolding doors. Several leading brands are on the market such as Silent Gliss.

motorised Bifolding Door Blinds

Origin blinds feature motors discreetly housed and do not interfere with the visual glass area.

Automatic roller blinds are available with either a wall mounted or remote control switch and come with a variety of programming options whether you want to open and close just one blind or several at the same time.

Origin Doors also offer a selection of electric roller blinds. These come from one of the biggest bifolding door companies in the UK. Whilst they are there to accompany their own Origin bifolding door, the Origin blind can actually be fitted to any make of door.  Just like the after market brands, all that is needed is some simple dimensions and any older door can be fitted with the latest Origin blinds.

Integral Glass Blinds.

Close up of doors with blinds in glass showing reduced glass area

Integral blinds need a perimeter frame that can take up and reduce the glass area but are a popular choice.

Integral blinds are very popular with bifolding doors.  These are horizontal blinds fitted within the hermetically sealed unit. The advantage of these blinds over automatic or conventional fabric blinds is that they don’t need cleaning, they are less vulnerable to dirt or wear and tear. The other obviously advantage to integral blinds is that they can retain the clean lines of slimline and modern looking doors as they don’t obstruct the doors themselves.

The blinds are housed within the glass units meaning even when closed the bifolding doors remain in full view.  This is an advantage if you’ve coloured doors that are a feature of the home.

Smart Glass or Switchable Glass.

Bifolding doors such as these premium Schuco Aluminium bifolds fitted with Morley Glass integral blinds presently do not fall under the Window Energy Rating requirements.

Smart glass can instantly change from transparent to opaque and is a new trend for doors.

One of the latest technologies to hit the door market is Smart Glass.  This is glass that is transparent as normal but at the flick of a switch can become obscure.

Liquid crystal layers are applied to the glass that changes it from frosted to clear instantly. This technology can be applied to any type or thickness of glass.  It creates a great solution for privacy whilst retaining the original door aesthetics with no obvious sign that there is a system in place.

The post What are the best blinds for bifolding doors? appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Senior Systems launch brand new aluminium window.

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Senior Architectural Systems has been long established in the UK and offers a great range of windows, doors and curtain walling systems.

The Senior Systems Series 2 window is another aesthetically excellent window that is easy to fabricate and install.

The Senior Systems Series 2 window is another aesthetically excellent window that is easy to fabricate and install.

Part of their innovation includes their excellent Hybrid Windows, the very thermally efficient PURe range of windows and even fibreglass windows that are making great headway in the social housing sector.

Senior Architectural have now launched a new aluminium window to further complement their existing range.

The new Aluminium Series 2 casement window is now available and we are pleased to review and provide further information on.

Senior say that this new window gives new and enhanced aesthetics, improved thermal performance, is adaptable and flexible.

A new type of aluminium window.

Despite the many sections that go into making this window, it's easy to make and install.

Despite the many sections that go into making this window, it’s easy to make and install.

In October 2015 we reported on the second generation Origin Twin Flush Window that remained at the time unique. It was and remains the only all aluminium flush casement window.

The Senior Aluminium Series 2 window is window that whilst not a flush casement offers another alternative. For anyone seeking a product that moves away from the traditional vent that overlaps a frame, an inline vent is on offer.

The Senior Aluminium Series 2 window is now a real contender for one of the slimmest aluminium windows on the market. A window with an opening vent offers an overall edge of outer frame to the glass line dimension of only 54mm. This easily positions it as a viable option alongside the many Crittall replacement windows in aluminium.

Examination of the section drawings on this new window reveals an outer frame that is very much like a cill in its appearance. The rear outer frame comprises more than 9 different components including seals, capping pieces and adaptors. The sash section sits against the back of the frame and is also quite a complex section with several profile/adaptor components. Despite this the window is very easy to fabricate.

Another great feature of this window is that the sight lines replicate those of the Hybrid System. This makes two complementary systems of identical external sight lines and appearance. For commercial buildings a combination of hybrid windows and the new aluminium window can be used without compromising on the exterior aesthetics.

Is Senior’s Series 2 Aluminium Window a residential or commercial window?

Senior Systems are very successful in the specification market. They have an experienced team that works with architects and it’s commonplace to see Senior Systems frequently specified in some of the best commercial developments all over the UK.

Many commercial projects whilst regarded as non domestic work are actually new flats, apartments and housing in general. So whilst you will rarely see Senior windows in a typical double glazing showroom, what you will see is Senior windows often fitted in dwellings.

For new build applications the Senior Series 2 window is ideal and theres not reason why it could not be used in residential work as well.

As with any new product the question arises as to how it would work in a straight replacement window situation. Typically, domestic windows will be 70mm or 75mm frames front to back. The Senior window offers overall frame sizes of either 141mm.

Therefore the window we deem suitable for any commercial or domestic installation.

U Values of the Senior Aluminium Series 2 Window.

  • U Values are quoted as low as 0.95 W/m2K when calculated as a CEN standard commercial window. On close examination of the window you can see the polyamide thermal break as well as quality gaskets and seals.

By using the optional EPS011 Foam Insert and EPS010 Foam Strip, the thermal performance can further be improved. Fabricators will need to be aware that with this option vents must be face drained only.

Senior windows make site installation easy

The glazing method of the new Senior Systems aluminium window makes it ideal for site installation. It can be fabricated and delivered unglazed. All glazing is carried out from the inside.

Should site conditions require glazing of the windows after other trades have finished on site the design of the window makes it possible for later stage glazing. Furthermore should glass need replacing in the future there is no need to remove the vents beforehand.

Other features of the Senior Aluminium Window.

Double glazed units can be glazed in 28mm standard thicknesses and can also accept 32mm, 36mm and 44mm glass.

Aluminium once again demonstrates that it is superior to PVCu windows when it comes to vent sizes. Side hung vents of 1000x1584mm are possible and top hung vents can be made at nearly 1600mm square. This large vent design may not suit the average domestic property but certainly works well for contemporary extensions with large glazed panels and commercial buildings as well.

The full range of powder coated colours are available as are anodised finishes as well.

The Aluminium Series 2 window system is tested in accordance with the latest performance standards. It will meet in accordance with BS 6375: Part 1, Part 2 & Part 3:2009 for Weathering & Performance

  • Air Permeability 600
  • Water Tightness 600
  • Wind Resistance 2400
  • It is also security tested in accordance with PAS–24:2012.

What we think of the new Senior Aluminium Window

In our view it’s a great shame well designed aluminium systems such as Seniors are not more widely seen in domestic double glazing showrooms. We have worked with Senior products for nearly two decades and know them to be well designed, easy to fabricated and great to install.

The Hybrid Windows as well as the SPW300, SPW600 and PURe are also great looking windows that feature the same simple yet advanced design.

We know this window is going to be successful commercially thanks to the great work Senior do in the architectural specification sector.

The slimline aesthetics of this window and it’s unique design make it completely different from the mainstream and we wish Senior Architectural every success with it.

If you’re a trade fabricator looking to add a really good system to your portfolio, we can recommend the products and service levels offered by Senior – such is our experience having worked with them.

We would love to hear what you think of the new Aluminium Window by Seniors, you can leave a comment below.

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Opening Options on Integral Blinds

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Quality and reliability are key factors in any integral blind system.  The number one system in the world is called ScreenLine®, and in the UK these are manufactured by Morley Glass, who are the UK’s biggest manufacturer of integral glass blinds and blinds in glass.

What is Screenline?

It is not just large glass panes that can be improved. Integral blinds also enhance windows.

It is not just large glass panes that can be improved. Integral blinds also enhance windows.

Screenline is manufactured by Pellini Industries who specialise in shading systems. The Pellini system is the largest and best known type of integral blind product.  These are manufactured by specialist glass manufacturers such as Morley Glass. There are various types of Screenline blinds available each having different features to open, close and control the blinds which we explain below.  Regardless of the method of opening the blinds themselves, all glass units feature a warm edge spacer bar and the best quality glass.

The C System with Magnetic Manual Control.

Magnets are becoming a very popular method of operating integral blinds. The Patented system used on the C System Integral blind offers manual operation of the blinds with both a raising, lowering and tilting action.

The Venetian blinds are housed within an insulating glass unit that is available a choice of thicknesses.

The specially made magnets house a robust cord which is tension set to keep it rigid and in place. The cord is used to control the operation of the blinds.

SV Systems Cordless Slider.

Also referred to as the ScreenLine® SL20SV, this is a manually operated integral blind system using a slider magnet to control the opening and closing of the blinds.

On the inside of the door or window is a slide guide. This is the mechanism that via a cordless magnetic slider enables integral blinds to be raised, lowered or slanted as required.

S System Slider.

With customers moving away from traditional conservatories, does this long standing product have a future?

Modern glazed extensions can benefit from integral blinds in the roof glass for added comfort.

Where blinds are required in rooflights, conservatory roofs, dormers or skylights, a solution is offered with the ScreenLine® SL20–22S integral blind.

This is manufactured slightly differently to conventional door or window blinds. A 14mm pleated blind is housed within the double glazed unit. In addition a further internal magnet is located in the head section of the glass and blind. This is intended to absorb possible glass deflections in a horizontally positioned glass unit.

In the same way as the vertical integral blinds it can be raised, lowered or tilted as required.

MB System Motorised Integral blinds.

Where automated operation of integral blinds is required, Morely Glass offer their Motorised Brushless System.

The motorised blinds enable either individual or groups of blinds to be operated simultaneously or in synchronisation. A separate control unit is provided meaning there are no face applied controls on the blind itself. A wall unit or remote control is available. For large banks of screens or folding doors an automated system offers a real solution to operating several blinds all at the same time.

A further option is available whereby blinds can be operated with a solar control panel. Here a small solar panel is applied to the outside of the blinds that can be fully programmed to operate the integral blinds. No wires or electrical contacts are required.

Integral blinds are suitable for any residential or commercial application and can provide effective shading and privacy solutions for any large glazed window or door.  If you would like further information about integral blinds, prices and suppliers please contact us.

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Tips and Advice about floor to ceiling windows.

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Look at most modern commercial buildings and even the latest trend in home extensions and the floor to ceiling aluminium window will be a feature.

So is the floor to ceiling window the design trend of the future? If you’re and installer advising a customer or if you’re a homeowner considering large glazed fixed panel windows what should you know?

Floor to ceiling aluminium windows.

The good news is that virtually all window systems can accommodate a floor to ceiling design.  Every aluminium window system will be different but there is no reason why if you’re looking for large aspect windows these cannot be done.

Most systems companies give minimum and maximum sizes for their systems.  With a fixed window these will typically be constrained by the maximum glass panel possible.  Generally most sizes of large aluminium window should be possible.

Advantages of floor to ceiling windows.

bifolding doors

For large extensions large floor to ceiling windows can complement sliding and bifolding doors.

The first obvious advantage of a floor to ceiling window is that they can be a great design feature that allows for maximum light.  With large window spaces you can make the most of any views and make a small space instantly feel brighter and larger.

As modern houses are sometimes criticised for their lack of space, designing a large aspect window can help.  Look at any modern house and small windows are often a feature.  French doors are also quite narrow.  Therefore changing a door where possible to a large window will certainly give a more open feel to a room as there are no door mullions and bulky frame and door profiles obstructing the view.

Another consideration is that you may find large fixed glazed windows cheaper than opening casement windows.  Assuming there are other windows that can be opened in a room you’ll find that the less profiles, no hardware, less manufacturing time and other factors result in a window that can be quite competitive compared to smaller windows with lots of opening sashes.

Disadvantages of floor to ceiling windows.

It’s important to consider that a floor to ceiling window won’t be disproportionate with the rest of your home and it’s overall design.  Having said that a modern extension on the back of a traditional home does work aesthetically and here large windows are ideal.

With any large glazed window comes an issue of privacy.  However this consideration would be exactly the same if you’re having bifolding doors or large sliding doors installed.  There are various options for shading the window whether you opt for internal fabric or roller blinds or the latest in integral glass blinds.

We mentioned earlier that large windows should work out cheaper than opening windows because they’ll have less aluminium.  This is certainly the case when costed correctly and taking the extra pane of glass into consideration.

Depending on the location of your window and particularly if it’s on an upper floor there may be access considerations, glass handling issues and general transportation of the larger glass panels.  Most installers will have the capability on their vehicles to carry glass units typically fitted to patio doors.  If glass panels are likely to be larger than this there may be an extra cost involved for a cherry picker, a tower or even scaffolding.  You may also find additional labour charges as naturally more people may be required to handle the glass and ensure it’s glazed correctly.  But none of this should be beyond the skills of an experienced window company.

Solar gain may also be a consideration as the larger glass panels will let in more heat than a smaller window.

Other considerations with floor to ceiling windows.

There are a wide variety of aluminium systems available to suit simple window replacements and the high end home.

There are a wide variety of aluminium systems available that can create brilliant floor to ceiling windows in aluminium.

With such large windows it goes without saying that safety glass is not only a must but also a legal requirement.  British Standards and Building Regulations are very clear of the areas where safety glazing is a legal requirement.  This includes low level windows, doors and floor to ceiling windows.

Here you have the choice of either toughened safety glass or laminated glass.

In theory a floor to ceiling window can be made as large as the glass pane itself will allow.   There are generally few manufacturing design or installation constraints.  If you’re considering these windows and would like further information please contact us.  Our featured image on this post shows the excellent seamless windows from Apeer.

 

 

The post Tips and Advice about floor to ceiling windows. appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.


Origin unveil new bifolding door software for Origin Installers.

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Origin Bifolding doors already offers exceptional dealer support to it’s nationwide installers of their folding doors. Part of their marketing support includes literature, showroom products and point of sale material. In addition Origin dealers have also benefitted from van livery.

Origin is a great example of a company helping their dealers though van signage, and excellent point of sale materials.

Origin is a great example of a company helping their dealers though van signage, and excellent point of sale materials. Now there will be software as well.

Origin are now making further changes to their support packages for their dealers. Many of these will be revealed at the FiT Show 2016. These will include its new innovative ranges of blind systems, previously unseen in the UK.

New Sale Safe estimating software from Origin Doors.

At the FiT Show 2016 Origin will also be unveiling its Sale Safe software.  Sale Safe has been designed from scratch by Origin to streamline the process of obtaining quotations and ordering products. In addition the software will deal with general administration involved in the sales and ordering process with Origin for their doors.

Why is software beneficial for the window industry.

Software that enables door and window fabricators or installers to price products has been available since the mid 1980’s. Windowlink were one of the first companies to provide this on a DOS based system over 25 years ago. Even though the system was basic it enabled prices to be obtained as well as cutting lists and material optimisation schedules for fabricators.

Window and door estimating software has now evolved to benefit from the latest technology offering enhanced designer software, ordering, administration and end user software for those demonstrating products in the home. Therefore it’s a natural progression for any business to offer their dealers a software solution that can benefit the estimating, sales and ordering process.

What does Sale Safe from Origin offer?

Origin say that their new software has been designed to streamline and improve the processes involved for their dealers that buy fabricated bifolding doors from Origin.

The software takes care of quotations, ordering of bifolding doors and administration. In addition it can create projects, send quotations and makes the ordering process with Origin easier.

This should help many of Origin’s dealers that presently rely Origin themselves to provide a firm quotation and who’ve not set up their own price lists for bifolding doors.

Indeed, any window business will know that obtaining prices quickly is very important to providing a good service to their own customers. PVCu products have historically been far easier to price than aluminium. Once again Origin are improving the estimating and sales processes involved in obtaining quotations for aluminium products and bifolding doors in particular.

Sale Safe will be demonstrated at FiT Show 2016.

Origin are again exhibiting at the hugely successful door and window industry trade show, FiT Show, held at The Telford International Centre on 12 – 14 April 2016.

New and existing Origin door installers will be invited to experience the software first hand, with Origin on hand to provide assurance where required.

Ben Brocklesby, Sales and Marketing Director at Origin says:

We have designed the brand new Sale Safe system in house with the absolute intention of making the lives of our trade agents much easier. The simplicity in design and streamline of processes means that the faster they can place orders, the more projects can be completed quickly and accurately, allowing installers to improve their overall customer service and satisfaction levels. We feel that the FiT Show is the perfect place to demonstrate our system, allowing visitors to get hands-on, using the technology for themselves. We very much look forward to meeting everyone once the doors open.

The introduction of Sale Safe by Origin is a welcome addition to an already excellent marketing and support package that Origin Doors offer to their dealers nationwide.

The post Origin unveil new bifolding door software for Origin Installers. appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Features of frameless glass doors and bifolds.

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Frameless bifolding doors differ in many ways when compared to conventional bifolding doors. Aside from the visual differences between the two products, there are differences in the way the doors open and how they can be used compared to a conventional type of door.

So what additional features can a frameless folding door provide?

Additional Features of Frameless Glass Doors.

A frameless bifold can offer more uses in the home as well as being available larger and taller than most other types of doors.

A frameless bifold can offer more uses in the home as well as being available larger and taller than most other types of doors.

Frameless bifolding doors are specially designed and engineered to give you the maximum glass area with the bare minimum in frame.

With a conventional bifolding door you’ll notice a much thicker frame.  Even with the slimmest of bifolding door systems such as Schuco, Smarts, AluK or Warmcore, a frameless folding door only utilises a frame where needed. This is the main outer frame for the doors and a slim frame at the top and bottom of each door leaf only. Other features of these doors include:

More Flexible Opening Options.

Just like an normal aluminium bifolding door, frameless doors can open in, out, slide to the left or right as other combinations.

Which a conventional bifolding door, all the panels are hinged together meaning they all work together.  With a frameless bifolding door you have more versatile opening options.  The first feature is that you can choose which side and door leaf to open as each folding panel works independently.  The other benefit is that you can create air gaps to bring fresh air into the room without having to fold all the doors back. This is unlike standard bifolds that have all the leaves joined together and must all slide and fold together.

Frameless folding doors take up less space when folded back.

When slid back frameless doors take up less space.  Whilst all types of folding doors will encroach on the inside or outside of the home (depending upon whether they open in our out) when stacked together the visible bulk of the folded doors is far less.  Frameless Glas Curtains as one example have folding panels of only 45 mm thick.  On a typical four pane door it only takes up 180 mm.  A conventional four pane folding door will take up over 300mm.

Frameless Folding doors have other uses.

Depending upon the individual system, folding doors can be custom made to offer other solutions in the home.

If your home has a large canopy or facade, you may be looking at options to close this off, to create a glazed area or a warmer less exposed part of the house.  Frameless glass doors whether swinging or folding have virtually no visible hardware, hinges, or frame sections vertically.  This means the original design intent of the home can remain the same with minimal impact to a facade or elevation.

For flats or houses with balconies, a frameless glass door can reduce outdoor noise. Urban properties can transform their balconies into comfortable glazed corners that can be used throughout the year.

As room dividers inside the home, a frameless door will offer less visual bulk than even the slimmest aluminium folding door.

For commercial buildings frameless glass doors can create slimline partitions, room dividers, as separators for large halls and conference areas and much more.

Frameless doors can create larger and taller doors.

Many aluminium bifolding door systems today can be made at quite large sizes with published door widths of up to 1200mm and heights of up to 3000mm with many systems. However, many of these folding doors cannot be made at the full range of maximum sizes.  For example a 3 metre door will normally need to be narrower and wider door panels may have height restrictions.

A frameless folding door can be made up to 1.5metres wide and over 3 metres in height per door panel.  This takes full advantage of the frameless nature of the doors maximising the glass area.  It is also a solution for those constructing a contemporary extension with floor to ceiling doors at larger than normal sizes.

Frameless doors, particularly bi fold doors, can add a real “wow” factor to any home.  However the information available can be confusing as not every door that is advertised as being “frameless” is truly frameless.  You are welcome to contact us for more information if you are interested in these fantastic doors.

 

The post Features of frameless glass doors and bifolds. appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Why has triple glazing failed to gain market share?

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Why hasn’t triple glazing won the hearts of the window buying public? It’s an issue often talked about within the door and window sector.

Understandably the glass manufacturers, spacer bar makers and others involved in the glass supply chain are all extolling the virtues of triple glazing. Many window and door websites will all largely state that their products are available triple glazed but rarely do you see a really concentrated approach to market triple glazing at the forefront of a website and as the must have latest generation window of today.

Look at any new product launch in aluminium or PVCu windows. It is virtually the case with every new product that the glazing range will state that it can accept triple glazing.  But installers and the wider window trade have not embraced triple glazing in the way it was originally marketed.

Is the window industry or the consumer to blame?

Even in the finest homes, triple glazing is not making an impact? Why have we not fallen in love with triple glazing?

Even in the finest homes, triple glazing is not making an impact.  Why have we not fallen in love with triple glazing?

A survey carried out by one of the established trade fabricators, Emplas, in 2015 reported a slow general uptake on triple glazing. They said:

Of those polled, 92 per cent said triple-glazing sales had accounted for less than five per cent of their turnover in 2014. Seven per cent said that it had made up five to 10 per cent of sales, while only three per cent said that it had accounted for a tenth or more of their turnover.

This carried through to installers’ analysis of future triple-glazed sales with 67 per cent of respondents predicting that they would never exceed those of double-glazed products.

So why has the take up of triple glazing been so slow by the buying public? Here we give some possible scenarios.

Lack of Education about Triple Glazing

Perhaps the grass roots of the double glazing industry has simply not had the education and training about triple glazing. Whether this is the fault of the glass industry or the systems companies is open to debate.

In the work we do it is rare for clients to want to promote their triple glazed products. It simply does not get mentioned.

There is also a thought amongst some salespeople that adding extras to windows can often detract from the real buying process. Some want the sales process to be kept simple so why complicate it talking about triple glazing?

We are over-marketing A rated double glazed windows

Look on any double glazing website and one of the most prominent messages will be about the energy efficiency of their windows. The A rated window is pretty much to be expected nowadays with all types of windows.  Indeed many window companies regard the energy efficiency of their windows as one of their key drivers of sales. Therefore, does it not go hand in hand that for a customer wanting to save the most money on their heating bills, triple glazing is surely the way to go?

Well no. Whilst triple glazing is a better insulated glass than double glazing it is not substantially better. Therefore the cost of the glass versus the savings to be made simply don’t make it viable. The case for triple glazing is not helped with window systems marking their already very good double glazed windows as very highly energy efficient with only two panes of glass, argon gas fill, low e coatings and warm edge spacer bars.

So perhaps the message for window industry marketers is to work towards creating a clear, tangible and obvious benefit in having triple glazing. Presently the homeowner is arguably getting a confusing message?

Cost is still an issue for homeowners

Despite a seismic shift to the window industry creating and marketing latest generation products at the ‘high end’ market, the reality is many homeowners remain on a budget.

For many they simply want new windows in their home because they’re needed. Cost is an issue. This is a different kind of consumer to the one that is building the dream home with no expense spared.

Triple Glazing is simply not worth it.

The Green Age website is a very well known energy saving website. Even they don’t consider triple glazing to be worth it. And we have to agree.

Window companies may market the energy saving properties of double glazing but the reality is that double glazing doesn’t pay for itself. The payback time for standard double glazing is way too long already so why extend the payback period still further with triple glazing?

The Energy Saving Trust gives their estimates on money saved by installing double glazing in a property previously fitted with single glazed windows.

Not taking into consideration regional variations, the average price of replacing all the windows and doors with PVCu in a typical home is approximately £9500. With aluminium windows the price would be nearer £13000. With an average saving of £85-£110 pounds on heating bills, it would take many decades to get the payback in energy savings based on these figures.

The long payback time on double glazing is rarely a consideration with today’s consumer. This is because windows do much more than save you money on heating bills.

New windows, bifolding doors, a lantern roof and a contemporary glazed extension add value to a home, not just in the monetary value of the property but value to how we use our homes. This value far outweighs the cost versus money saved on bills issue.

Anyone looking to buy a house will have double glazing fairly high on their wish list. However it’s unlikely triple glazing will ever have that same appeal.

The British Climate does not need triple glazing.

In recent years we have enjoyed much milder winters and this is reinforced by the Met Office’s assessment of winter 2014/2015.

As our weather becomes even more unpredictable is the case for not needing triple glazing stronger if homeowners are generally adopting the new that the UK is simply not cold enough to warrant triple glazing. Triple Glazing is the norm in Scandinavian and other much colder counties.

Triple Glazing had disadvantages.

Despite the obvious benefit of three panes of glass compared to two, there are disadvantages to double glazing. These include:

  • It is more expensive
  • The more panes of glass the more obscured the view.
  • Opening windows are heavier
  • Window components often need upgrading to accommodate triple glass
  • A home with already good double glazing won’t see the benefit with triple.
  • Whilst triple glazing will reduce noise so will acoustic double glazing and secondary glazing.

In the same way that ‘upgrades’ are available in all sorts of consumer products so triple glazing is a current upgrade on windows and doors. The choice to have it is very much there but it is up to the consumer to decide, with the right facts to hand, whether it would benefit them.

The window industry itself adapts quickly enough to changing trends and customer expectations. It’s accepted that any new window or door today must have the facility for triple glass. The decision to have it remains with the consumer.  However what we do see is the window industry itself failing to promote triple glazing opting instead for the already excellent credentials of modern aluminium windows and PVCu.

Triple glazing does have advantages for the right consumer and the right property.

  • In exposed locations and for passivhaus projects its ideal.
  • Specified correctly it can provide sound insulation for properties near airports or other sources of noise
  • With the right outer frame it can create highly energy efficient windows

Have your say.

If you’re a window installer, what is your experience of triple glazing? Are you actively promoting it to your customers or are you making no mention of its availability? If you’re a consumer, are you aware of triple glazing and would you consider it? We would love to hear your views.

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Will Augmentory redefine the conservatory and glazed extension?

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The window and door industry has over recent years come up with new ways of making the modern day conservatory better, more thermally efficient and more useable.  Importantly recent innovation has focused on making modern glazed extensions much easier to install. This installation involves the modular conservatory system.

There are already modular or kit versions of modern conservatories such as the Livin Room from Ultraframe, the Skyroom from Atlas and the Loggia from Ultraframe. One of the more recent developments is a company based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, called Augmentory. They are marketing a new hassle and stress free way for the homeowner to extend their home.

What is the Augmentory Extension?

The Augmentory glazed extension is completely constructed off site and installed in one day.

The Augmentory glazed extension is completely constructed off site and installed in one day.

The Augmentory Extension offers a completely new way to add a glazed extension to the home.  It is literally a brand new extension added to the home that Augmentory say, takes only one day.

The Augmentory glazed extension takes construction methods to an entirely different level.  Gone is the mess and upheaval associated with traditional built extensions.  Everything is built off site at their factory. Every aspect of the extension will be carried out there including the fitting of windows, bifolding doors, skylights or lanterns and all the internal decoration and finishes.

What does the Augmentory extension provide?

The company says that whilst the extension is constructed off site, the ground works are prepared.  On the day of installation the Augmentory is simply lifted into position.  The result is a new finished glazed extension that is in place and ready to be used when the homeowner returns home from work!

Augmentory came about from the company wishing to provide customers the extra space needed in the home in a simple process and using the latest advances in building technology.

The home is transformed exceptionally fast with a new quality extension that moves away from the traditional construction methods and associated trades involved such as plumbers, electricians and decorators.

All Augmentorys are bespoke built to your specific requirements and can match any stone or brickwork in the home.  There are also the options for render and even cedar cladding. A variety of roof styles can also be provided such as apex, lean-to or flat.

A new glazed extension that is not affected by weather or other delays.

The huge advantage of the Augmentory product is that it appears to be never affected by typical delays that can occur during the build of an extension.

Weather in the winter can often affect works.  Incorrect material, wrong size doors or windows, incorrect roof tiles and other mistakes happen that can often delay the construction.  Of course, most installers are also reliant upon good service from their own suppliers.

The Augmentory extension seems to do away with any of the issues than can occur as everything is carried out off site.  This means less disruption in the home during the construction process and we would imagine, few delays as well.

For the windows and doors, all of these are provided in powder coated aluminium. Also provided are a choice of wall finishes and a range of soffits and fascias, heating options and skirting board choices.  There is also a choice of interior finishes as well.

What is the process for having an Augmentory conservatory?

Augmentory market the conservatory as being the most simple process possible, from the initial enquiry up to installation.

Upon the initial enquiry being made, a surveyor visits the property and carries out the measuring, specification, survey and quotation for the new extensions.  Upon all being agreed a contract is signed.

During the construction process the homeowner is kept informed of progress and there is even a sign off process in place before installation.

The only works carried out in the home beforehand is the preparation of the necessary ground works to install the product.

What rooms are possible with Augmentory?

A new living space, new kitchen or new bathroom as well as other rooms are possible with Augmentory. All arrive with the fixtures and fittings in place.

Light fittings, TV points, plumbing, windows and doors, plug sockets and more are already fitted when the extension is dropped into place.  Even the decoration is completed in advance.

The sign-off procedure ensures customers are involved in every step of the way without any surprises when the conservatory arrives. Importantly there is ongoing communication where customer input is required during the construction of the extension.

Taking the home extension to a whole new level.

The Augmentory process really does take building an extension to a completely different level. Importantly it addresses the issues of traditional conservatories that are too cold, too hot and for many are used as storage rooms rather than functional all round rooms.  This of course is the purpose of the alternative products such as Livin Room and Skyroom but this process appears to be a hole lot faster on installation.

And with the recent changes in planning, there are generally no planning restrictions involved.  In addition Augmentory says that it offers far more than the other glazed extension products.  It is also a lifestyle focused product and being bespoke built to a range of sizes, it offers more.  Upon completion is an immediate space, a product that also adds value to the home, an overnight transformation and short lead times. But by far the advantage of this product is a build that does not rely on weather, other trades and the associated works involved.

The Augmentory also comes with a 10 year guarantee and meets the new build standards under Building Regulations for insulation and energy efficiency.

What else should you know about Augmentory?

One of the leading bifolding door providers in the UK, Express Bifolding Doors has partnered with Augmentory.  Express Bifolding Doors are unveiling a brand new showroom that they say is one of the biggest and best of its kind in Europe.

As part of this new showroom Express have announced corporate partnerships of which Augmentory is one. Augmentory will be building two of their modular extensions in the Express bifolds showroom, which it is reported is having houses built inside.

Have your say?

If you’re a provider of Glazed extensions and the present systems available, what do you think of Augmentory? Can you think of any cons to what appears a highly innovative and unique way of having a glazed extension in the home? We’d love to hear your views.

(Images and video courtesy of Augmentory).

 

 

 

 

 

The post Will Augmentory redefine the conservatory and glazed extension? appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Integral blinds for sterile and particle free environments

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Specialist commercial buildings sometimes contain special environments and rooms.  These include sterile and particle free environments.

There are many types of buildings where clean environments are essential. Commonly we associate sterile areas in hospitals, operating theatres and similar locations where a clean environment is essential to safe medical techniques.  But there are also other areas of manufacturing that require these types of clean areas.

Examples include watchmaking factories, contact lens manufacturers, science laboratories, pharmaceutical businesses, component manufacturers and food areas. In these types of buildings it’s essential to provide a super clean environment but it’s also important to offer privacy and security.

Integral Blinds for commercial sterile and clean environments.

Integral blinds are ideal for clean environments because they're sealed into a double glazed unit.

Integral blinds are ideal for clean environments because they’re sealed into a double glazed unit.

Integral blinds are commonly marketed for the domestic sector and in particular for bifolding doors and large glazed screens.  The benefit of these blinds is that they maintain the aesthetics of a bifolding door whilst at the same time providing privacy and shade when needed. Integral blinds also offer a great solution in high tech buildings as well.

Integral blinds such as those manufactured by Morley Glass and Glazing can also assist in clean, sterile and particle free environments.  These types of work spaces, testing centres and other facilities call for clean rooms.

A clean room is commonly used in testing, research and manufacturing facilities.  These areas offer a low level of pollutants in the air. Dust, small particles, vapours and other airborne matter can affect these types of rooms.  In additional these ultra clean environments constantly monitor the levels of ‘contamination’ in the air.  Measuring devices are used such as devices to calculate the number of particles per cubic meter at a specified particle size.

As an example, the typical external environment in a typical city can contain over 3o million different particles within a given size range. A clean room in accordance with ISO standards must contain less than 20 particles per cubic meter.

These rooms will often have windows, partitions and screening as well as doors.  Often these areas are restricted, high security and strictly private.  Integral blinds can provide protection here as well.

Why are integral blinds suitable?

All kinds of clean areas in public or commercial buildings can benefit from integral blinds.

All kinds of clean areas in public or commercial buildings can benefit from integral blinds.

The manufacturing process of a double glazed unit is already a sophisticated one.  In manufacturing a standard glass unit without blinds specific cleaning and assembly processes are used, obviously to make sure that there is not dirt or particles between the glass. This process lends itself very well to clean environments. Not only is the glass unit hermetically sealed but it’s also ideal for blinds that cannot be position externally to gather dust and dirt in these types of rooms.

Integral blinds therefore offer an economical, practical and clean solution to existing and new windows and doors in clean areas. Furthermore they can provide effective control of light as well as privacy and security.  The nature of a sealed unit means that most glazing thicknesses can be accommodate.  The integral blind can also be custom made to any dimension as well as being suitable for any type of partition, screen, door or window frame material.

Commercial buildings are therefore suitable for particle free and sterile environments. Vision screens in hospitals are also ideal areas for integral blinds as they enable viewing areas to remain clean without compromising the clean area, sterile environment or particle free areas.

You’ll find integral blinds can be fitted in:

  • Windows, doors and screens
  • Curtain walling
  • Office Partitions
  • Security doors
  • Vision panels and many other products that accept glass.

If you would like further information on commercial uses for integral blinds, please contact us.

 

The post Integral blinds for sterile and particle free environments appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

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