There are several aluminium window brands, designed to replicate the look of old steel windows and to replace them. But what about steel look doors in aluminium? In this article, we take a look at how you can use steel look doors inside or outside the home.

What are steel look doors in aluminium?

Before we explain the features of aluminium steel look doors, it is worth looking at the design features of original metal doors. It is these features that have made the Crittall™ style doors and internal screens so popular in the last few years.

Fashions in interior design, as well as architecture, are always changing. Steel-framed doors are highly desirable as part of a home renovation project.

The original steel door dates back to Art-Deco designs and well before that in some older buildings. Steel doors are ultra slim, very robust and feature the thicker panel where the door handle is usually located. The great thing about original steel doors is how symmetrical they look while letting in lots of natural light. The same now applies to the aluminium steel look doors that is a very credible replacement.

The Smarts Alitherm Heritage 47 System is, in our view, one of the most authentic looking aluminium systems for the replacement of old steel doors. We first worked with the Smart Systems door as far back as 2013 when it was quite new in the market. The system was used to replace the old metal doors in a substantial Surrey house where the homeowner was insistent on retaining the look of her old Crittall doors. They were very much part of the overall house style.

Naturally, if you want the real thing, you have to go back to steel. Nothing beats the authentic product. However, with modern steel residential doors such as those by Crittall™ being a phenomenally good product, the reality is that not everyone can afford the genuine article. Steel look doors are not intended to be ‘Crittall™ replacements’ but offer similar slim sight lines and aesthetics.

Features of steel look doors in aluminium.

If you are thinking of having the steel look in your homes such as french doors, New York style screens or an external set of aluminium steel look doors. There are lots of options available.

The Smart Systems Alitherm Heritage 47 steel look door has some great features:

• Doors are suitable for installation as internal or external doors.
• Can open in or out.
• Can couple to sidelights and top glazed panels.
• Are available with run-through mullions and transoms for a consistent appearance and matching glass pattern.
• Is available in a huge choice of colours.

The steel look is a great way to add a metal screen or door to your home that makes a real statement, especially in the right colour such as black. The other advantage is how much natural light they bring into a room and creating privacy, with a real sense of space. Estate agents call this ‘broken living’, where you can define a zone in the home yet retain the open, airy feel.

Steel look doors with matching screens do not just have to be used for external use or to separate a conservatory. We have helped homeowners create beautiful fixed windows between the hallway and the sitting room. They make great looking room dividers, even shower enclosure screens and glazed partitions. Don’t forget the thermally insulated aluminium and quality glass units that will also make them energy saving.

Security of aluminium steel-look doors.

You may see information on company websites or be told by a salesperson that doors meet the required security standards. There are many badges and labels from Secured By Design and other testing organisations and institutes, relevant to door security but not necessarily to the type and style of door you are about to buy.

It is important we make you aware that not every one of these types of doors has been security tested.  While you may read that residential doors are accredited to say, Secured by Design, always ask your installer for details of the security test.  Not every version of a residential door is tested. By version, we mean:

• The door configuration such as whether it is a single door or double door set.
• Whether the door has a sidelight or just a full frame.
• The type of safety glass fitted – laminated, toughened and the glass/unit thickness.
• The size of door tested.
• Whether the door opens in or out.

Smart Systems tells us that their Alitherm Heritage door is not security tested; this has also been verified by a number of their large and established manufacturers.  This does not mean that your door will be easy to break into or that you are getting a door that is not secure.  What this means is that this product has not been put through official security tests to obtain certification.  This may or may not affect your home insurance policy and we advise that you carry out the necessary checks.

What about steel look sliding or bifolding doors?

If you are looking for sliding or bifolding doors with the steel look, it is a little more challenging than French doors. The main reason is that there are slimline sliding door systems but to re-create the steel look aluminium plant-on bars have to be fitted. This is not a difficult job for a good manufacturer and a competent installer, but cutting, machining and getting the bars absolutely right is key.

Most installers attempt to offer an otherwise standard bifolding door and try to create the steel look with it. In our view it can look very authentic when done right.  It is worth remembering a bifolding and sliding door will have thicker door and frame profiles so getting the slimline look throughout needs careful thought and planning with your installer as to what size bars they intend to use. Many homeowners like it and choose it. Take a look at some products and decide for yourselves if you like the look.

Want to see steel look doors in aluminium? Contact us.

We can put you in touch with a local showroom showcasing the latest steel look doors in aluminium as well as authentic steel look aluminium windows. If you would like further information on these doors, contact us today.

Images are windows and doors manufactured and supplied by Everglade Windows of Middlesex.

The post What you need to know about steel look doors in aluminium appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Buying aluminium windows is about to get easier and a lot quicker. Origin has, for the second time, revolutionised how quickly aluminium windows are made and how fast your windows can be fitted.

Origin are continuing to change the market in their drive to be the very best window & door supplier. Choose to buy aluminium windows from Origin’s nationwide network of Approved Installers, and they will be able to obtain your made-to-order windows faster than any other brand of aluminium window in the UK.

Origin installers can now enjoy the same flexible delivery dates ordering windows from an Origin Dealer that they have experienced for years with the premium Origin bifolding doors; that is, when they need it, not to a set lead time.

Origin’s Your Lead Time Not Ours extends to buying aluminium windows.

Origin pioneered fast lead times on coloured aluminium bifolding doors. Over the years, significant investment in machinery, processes, staff and premises has resulted in some of the leanest manufacturing methods in the fenestration sector. The result is continued faster lead times.

Today, this means Origin bifolding doors are manufactured in 24-48 hours from the time of order as long as they are in a standard stock Origin colour, of which there are quite a few.

What does Origin’s window lead time mean for Origin Dealers?

This manufacturing milestone in how buying aluminium windows are possible with Origin is quite significant taking into account how every home and customer are different. The Your Lead Time Not Ours service has several benefits for homeowners, Origin installers and even the home improvement industry.

• A customer may favour one installer and product over another.
• Installers can secure work over their competition. Getting windows faster places the installer as the better-performing business.
• Faster delivery means a quicker installation, speedier job completion and quicker payment, improving cash flow.

In the summer months, delivery dates for aluminium windows are a nightmare for delivery dates. Schools, colleges and universities take advantage of the summer shutdown to carry out window and door replacements or refurbishment work. Trade manufacturer lead times always get longer between May and September as a result of this. It is the way the window industry has been for over 30 years.

The knock-on effect for installers and home improvement firms, considering they do not make their windows, is their installation lead times have to get longer as well. At this time of year, home improvement companies cannot get your windows and doors as quickly. The reality is as well that installers have no control (apart from a polite or desperate request) to jump the production queue and get their windows for your home quicker.

The Origin manufacturing system means their lead times are unaffected by seasonal fluctuations in demand for aluminium windows. Window installers can now choose Origin windows as their primary or alternative brand at the times of year when their normal lead times will double or treble from other manufacturers.

Finally, this massive leap in manufacturing gives installers the opportunity to perhaps re-shape their own business. We see a chance for window companies to promote to their local customers that they can beat the lead times of their competition at any time, thanks to how quickly they can buy Origin aluminium windows and doors.

What is the benefit of buying aluminium windows quickly?

With so many people extending their homes with a new extension, working to build schedules can be stressful. Knowing exactly when your aluminium windows will arrive is of enormous benefit in keeping to the programme and get the new extension completed on time.

Obviously, it is worth considering that even though buying aluminium windows from Origin is as fast as it can be, your installation may still be affected by your installers’ own installation schedule, glass delivery dates and booking you in for fitting. That said, the process has improved substantially. There are a considerable number of quality window brands on the market, but not available as quickly.

Origin windows come with:

• A 20-year guarantee.
• An A++ energy rating subject to thermal insulation chosen.
• A certified 0.9 U-Value with optional Aerogel.
• Extensive colour choice
• Colour matched window handles.
• The choice of woodgrain aluminium.
• One brand of windows and doors for your home from a world-class manufacturer.

What do better window lead times mean for Origin?

We think Origin can expect more sales of their bifolding doors as a result. Since Origin slashed lead times on bifolding doors, many other well-known manufacturers did the same to compete with Origin. It is normal today to obtain trade-supply doors in about seven days.

The fabricator network put pressure on the aluminium systems companies as well. For everyone to get better, those at the top tiers of the supply chain had to improve their lead times too. The stockholding on coloured aluminium profiles is better than it has ever been. Substantial investment has followed with in-house paint plants also, relying less on external powder coating firms.

Despite improvements across the entire door and window supply chain for bifolding doors, window lead times are still longer than bifolding doors generally for many valid reasons. If you have ever wondered why your doors arrive before your windows, here’s why.

Understanding why bifolding doors are available faster than windows.

From a manufacturing perspective, making a bifolding door is relatively easy. You are making ‘squares’; the bifolding door outer frame and the door sashes. Nothing too complicated in that at all.

Windows are different. Windows do not follow a set style like a bifold. While there are many common window styles, window designs remain flexible.

Unlike bifolds, windows have mitre joints that are more complex than square joints found on doors. Windows will have mullion and transom joints, cruciform joints, dummy sashes, more care in cutting glazing beads and more handles to fit. Windows also consist of more aluminium sections than a bifold meaning stockholding has to be greater compared to the limited suite of profiles on many bifolds. A window can also include bay poles, corners, arched and gabled heads, joining them to other windows and doors as well.

So for Origin to take the well-known complexities that exist in making a window and how they affect buying aluminium windows is indeed significant. Origin can justifiably take the credit for once again making the fenestration sector take notice and encourage other manufacturers to get better. Origin is less reliant on aluminium systems companies as well.

What does buying aluminium windows from Origin mean for you?

If you are planning a new extension, looking to replace your old windows or are in the middle of a build, take a look at Origin aluminium windows and their many features and specifications.

With the impressive support and delivery promise Origin gives to their dealer network, you benefit from British Made premium quality aluminium windows, doors and bifolding doors from one of the best-known brands in the UK.

When your chosen Origin Dealer orders your windows in one of the popular RAL colours or woodgrain aluminium window shades, they can be delivered in a day, a week or a month’s time. All you need to do is work with your Origin Dealer for an installation date that works for you both.

If you have ever had the phone call ‘our supplier has let us down’, you know how frustrating this can be. Often it is not always the supplier’s fault but down to so many businesses being involved in producing aluminium windows. Origin’s brilliant lead times on their innovative flush casement aluminium windows will take away many of the stresses, delays and long lead times associated with buying aluminium windows.

The post The Fastest Way to Buy Aluminium Windows appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

In 2016, Liniar revealed their new aluminium bifolding door. In this Alumina bifolding door review we take a look at the features of this quite different aluminium bifold.  Alumina is now widely adopted by the door industry.  Liniar, one of the best known PVCu systems companies in the UK is behind the Alumina bifolding door.

When we saw the product, we liked the new visual concept Liniar created with Alumina that we will explain in this review. Here’s what we can tell you about Alumina bi folding doors and whether you should consider it.

Alumina bifolding door review.  What is Alumina?

The Alumina bifold is an all aluminium bifolding door with a polyamide thermal break. It has all the strength, quality and craftsmanship associated with a well-designed bifolding door. Alumina folding doors have the pedigree that is behind Liniar’s range of PVCu windows, doors and home improvement products.

With Alumina, Liniar sought to shift from the similarities found in many aluminium bifolds. The first shift from traditional aluminium bifolds is the sculptured line of the product. The second is the warm to the touch exterior, thanks to another new feature by Alumina – a foiled aluminium bifolding door.  Door aesthetics are subjective, however, the Alumina is a very good looking bifold.

Is a coloured foil beneficial on an aluminium bifold?

Powder coating remains the most common method of colouring aluminium, but foils have other advantages. For years, foiling has been used to create some stunning finishes on quality PVCu.  Some of the most expensive and luxurious PVCu windows and timber-look PVCu windows are foiled. The advantages are a better appearance and longer life of the window surface.

When foiling a product such as Alumina, the foil improves aluminium as well.

• Foiling aluminium creates a warm-feel bifold’.
• A foiled aluminium bifold feels different to the touch.
• Foiled aluminium enables a woodgrain finish.
• Foiled aluminium bifolds like Alumina are not subject to very long lead times.
• You can even have plain colour foils with aluminium, just like PVCu .
• Foiled versions of Alumina are supplied with a matching PVCu bead – making them easier to install and further enhancing thermal efficiency.

Therefore, with a product like Alumina that is the only foiled aluminium bifolding door on the market colour choice as well as texture is available, not to mention a very appealing wood effect bifolding door.

If a homeowner desires wood effect outside and a plain colour inside, the lead times with other aluminium systems are very excessive.  The few systems companies supplying bar length profile to their manufacturers can quote up to six weeks or more just to deliver the material.  This can push a delivery date for other aluminium bifolds up to 10 weeks or more.  So a foiled Alumina does offer an advantage to those customers wanting a dual colour bifold without the wait.

Finally, you should get a bigger choice of woodgrain with a foiled product than a sublimated versions.  If you have not seen a foiled aluminium bifolding door before, it is worth checking out. Contact us and we can put you in touch with some showrooms where you can view Alumina bifold doors.

Alumina bifolds match with PVCu windows.

Despite the popularity of aluminium compared to five or even ten years ago, PVCu remains the dominant replacement window in the UK. For value, energy efficiency, ease of installation and simplicity, PVCu is best for many. Homeowners who replaced their old windows with new PVCu in recent years are perfectly happy with their purchase, expecting their new windows to last a long time – as indeed they should.

Following the installation of new pvcu windows, it is also likely that a homeowner may consider the building a new extension to incorporate bifolding doors, or to replace their old sliding doors with a new bifold.  There are some homeowners who love their new aluminium bifold so much they want to replace their PVCu windows with aluminium.  The reality is the cost can often be prohibitive. Alumina does the reverse in matching a new door to their existing PVCu windows.

Alumina is different again in that while it is entirely fit for purpose as a stand-alone bifold, it is also a great product for matching the sculptured appearance of Liniar and colour of other PVCu windows. It is also a great addition to the many thousands of homeowners that have Liniar PVCu windows in their homes.

•  PVCu products with an aluminium bifold.,
• The exact same colour process throughout the home.
• The same sculptured appearance to match PVCu windows.
• There are even matching colour silicones and window trims.

The complete home solution will be appealing to many homeowners as well as being a selling proposition to installers. Liniar with Alumina, has become the first door and window systems company to offer a full suite of fully matching products for any home.  And by full suite we mean:

• Conservatory and Lantern Roof
• Casement Windows
• Sliding Doors
• Front Doors
• Flush sash timber-look windows
• Single doors and French doors.
• Residential and composite doors
• Soffits, fascia boards and trims
• PVCu Decking and fencing

Comparing Alumina with Origin and Smart Systems.

It makes sense in this Alumina bifolding door review to compare the door with two other bifold door brands.  We chose Origin and Smart Systems’ Visofold 1000.  There are other doors to compare Alumina with such as AluK, Schuco or Reynaers but chose Origin and Visofold because these also come in a wood effect finish, although not foiled.  Sunflex bifolding doors also come in woodgrain but are more expensive than these brands. For foiled bifolding doors, Liniar foil all their own extrusions, where many use external suppliers.

Alumina offers better thermal efficiency than many of the other bifolds on the market when glazed with standard specification thermally efficient units. Typically these achieve 1.6-1.8Wm2K.

How good is the Alumina bifolding door?

The great thing about the current and mature bifolding door market, the calibre of aluminium designers and the broad range of product standards and certification is that there is no ‘bad’ bifolding door on the market. As long as a fabricator makes any bifolding door as the systems company intends and it is correctly installed by a competent installer, they’re good products. This makes the job of reviewing a product harder when all products today are secure, safe, weather resistant and reliable. So what we do is look at the features that made a door stand out.

But where bifolding doors will differ is in their engineering, their components, the range of colours and specifications.  Homeowners doing their research around bifolding doors will see many repetitive messages around security, U-Values, weather performance and quality. This is true of many quality bifolds and Alumina is no different. It is secure, weather resistant, well designed and comes from a company with immense knowledge in the design of windows and doors.

The specifications of Alumina against other leading brands of aluminium folding doors there is no reason not to consider this door with them. In fact, Alumina offers some features the others do not. With seven stocked foil colours for both sides of the door, six colours for the outside face only on dual colour, colour options are certainly a great feature of Alumina bifolds.  Liniar also foil their own profies as well.

Hardware and Security features of Alumina bifolding doors.

Alumina offers discreet hinges, great security features and even folding keys to prevent damage to the frame when doors are opened with the key still in the lock. Study the hinges of the Alumina bifold carefully and you will notice the intermediate door handles are integrated with the hinges.  This gives an uncluttered look to the door and a neater appearance.

Alumina comes with the choice of white, black gold and chrome rollers, the latter looking very eye-catching with matching hinges and handles.  Handle colours are the same as the roller colours but also include a dark chrome option.

With Alumina the locking hardware is what you would expect from a highly-engineered product.  You get bi-directional locking points, shoot bolts that engage into the head and track and anti-lift feature.  There are anti-bump cylinders available as well as optional anti-snap as well.

The locking system from Alumina has won a Queens Award for Enterprise in 2017.  Called ModLok™, this patented locking system provides both a lock and a thermal insert. ModLok™ has a high strength polymer lock body, meaning the lock is also a thermal break.  No other aluminium bifold features this locking system.

We must also mention that Alumina is tested to the stringent PAS24 and carries Secured by Design (SBD) accreditation as well. You have to be very careful with claims over SBD and whether the license for the product exists as a number of doors don’t have the accreditation or hold the license.  Alumina bifolds are also Part Q of the Building Regulations Compliant.

Some reasons to consider Alumina bifolding doors.

• The Alumina bifold does have some significant features over other aluminium bifolds.
• A foiled bifold door with a warm touch finish.
• A matching suite of single or French Doors.
• Weather rated low threshold
• Great looking door hardware in a choice of colours and finishes.

Some systems such as Schuco bifolds, Reynaers or Sunflex are designed to be flat in appearance. The best selling bifolds such as Smart Systems Visofold, AluK and Origin are softer in aesthetic. Ultimately it is the customer that chooses the door they like. There is no reason not to consider Alumina alongside these other brands.

Alumina does go further with more handle options, more door configurations, more hinges and roller options than other systems. What you also get with an Alumina bifold are more threshold options and a weather rated low threshold too.

Finally, with the option of foils, you get a greater choice of colour and texture than other doors on the market offering just RAL colours.  If you’ve not seen the foiled finish, it is worth looking at.  Alumina will appeal to those homeowners happy to choose a quality Liniar PVCu window but understand the benefits of an aluminium bifold.  Visually Alumina is very different, as well as being everything you expect from a quality, engineered aluminium bifold with a bit more thrown in.

The post The Alumina Bifolding Door review appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

When it comes to minimal frame sliding doors or slimline sliding doors, specialist manufacturers offer a choice of several systems. One of the newest products to hit the market is the aïr 20SL sliding door, manufactured by Everglade Windows.

What is the aïr 20SL sliding door?

Everglade Windows’ aïr 20SL sliding door joins the already successful air 500Ls and 600LS range of sliding doors. Look at the home improvement firms that choose to sell aïr doors, and all are top tier installers with a significant product range and excellent installations to their name. Air sliding and folding doors are quality, highly-engineered doors for the discerning homeowner.

Everglade Windows is one of the longest established aluminium manufacturers in the UK. The new aïr20 SL sliding door is their premium, narrow sight line sliding door featuring a 20mm interlock.

Features and Benefits of the aïr 20LS sliding door.

The aïr 20SL sliding door is suitable for large or small openings giving lots of natural light with a very sleek and unobtrusive appearance thanks to the bare minimum of visible aluminium. As well as the impressive 20mm interlock/vertical mullion, a further option exists to recess the perimeter frame into the structural opening to give a near frameless appearance with over 90% glass surfaces. It is impressive.

The aïr 20SL is unlike a conventional patio door where the structural integrity comes from the aluminium sections. With this type of design, it is the glass that is the core component. For this reason, the doors are manufactured around quality glass units instead of being glazed on site after installation. Only the outer frame can come in kit form for site assembly. It is important to assess and understand how Everglade has approached the supply of this product.

Large sliding doors need special handling and installation. Everglade understands the door industry very well, they have been a big part of it for over 35 years. Everglade knows that the majority of window companies are not ‘Grand Designs’ type home improvement firms. Many use standard size vehicles representing the typical sizes of doors, windows and glass they transport around.

For this reason, the maximum widths available are 1500mm wide. The maximum height is 2800mm. Does this matter where other similar doors are bigger? Not really because for the majority of homeowners considering big sliding doors, these sizes are what most people will reasonably have when sizing their doors.

Everglade is right to consider that offering a door at its maximum sizes would affect transportation of the product and how confident the average yet professional installer will be in handling it. More importantly, Everglade wants their customers to have the confidence to sell it as well without considering cranes, glass lifting equipment and the obvious associated Health and Safety considerations. We think to offer this door a maximum manageable size makes it viable for more installers to consider. It is simpler to buy, more accessible to fit and easier to handle.

The Origin sliding door is also a great door but involves Origin providing specialist training and handling.

This new minimal frame sliding door offers:

• Slim 20mm interlock.
• Two, three, four or six panel designs.
• Maximum height of 2800mm.
• Available as a minimalist fixed aluminium window.
• Excellent thermal performance.

How does the air20SL sliding door work?

The aïr 20 SL slides as an inline sliding door meaning the door panels move within the frame and track. Typical of other doors of this type, inline is the only opening and closing method – it does not lift and slide. The door comprises high-tech rollers and mechanisms, meaning even the biggest doors are effortless to slide and move, a feature prominent in Everglade’s other air sliding doors. Air doors are light and effortless in use.

We like how a fixed light is available with this product, giving a similar appearance to modern new extensions that want sliding doors on one elevation and large picture windows on another. We understand the fixed light frame has a minimal frame dimension of under 42mm on the face of the window and is 115mm deep. The fixed window will look great as the glass unit is centrally glazed within the profile and the modern square appearance of the frame overall.

Hardware and colour options.

Handles are an essential part of a sliding door being not only the primary point of contact for locking and sliding but also how they work with the overall look of the door. For the air 20 SL, there is a choice of standard colours available in black, grey and inox. The doors come with multipoint locks and adjustable cams.

The handles themselves are recessed into the frame sections, necessary given the slimline nature of the door profiles. You also get the option of upgraded Ultion door cylinders.

As you would expect from an aluminium door, the full RAL colour range is available with extensive colour choices and the option of different colours inside and out. As standard, the doors are available in Black RAL9005 and Grey RAL7016.

Technical Specifications.

• U-Value down to 1.3 Wm2K
• Windload up to 2000pa
• Ten-year guarantee
• 120kg weight per panel

How reliable are these new minimalist sliding doors to hit the market?

As the market awareness around these slimline sliding doors increases, one question homeowners may be asking is how tried and tested are these doors? It is true there will be manufacturers that have introduced sliding doors into their product range with no previous experience of making them.

Everglade Windows is the opposite, with over 35 years experience in manufacturing aluminium and already with a tried-and-tested range of sliding door systems and brands under its belt. The aïr 20SL comes to market with all the manufacturing and supply know-how that has placed Everglade Windows as one of the most prominent manufacturers, suppliers and installers in the UK today.

Any sliding door new or old is only as good as who makes it and who fits it.

Should you buy the Air 20SL sliding door?

The air 20SL minimal frame sliding door is refined, super slim, has top class engineering and looks fantastic. The manufacturing prestige of the company behind the product also gives peace of mind.

As with their other sliding doors, air 20 SL is built to last, offers flexible configurations and should enhance any home or new extension. In line with the rest of the air range, security is excellent, colour choice is extensive, and the air dealer network of top-class installers should give homeowners peace of mind too.

We know that reliability, performance and durability is what the air suite of sliding doors is all about. Unlike other manufacturers offering a similar product the air20SL also comes with one of the longest manufacturer warranties as well.

The obvious competitor to the air door is Origins’ Inline Slider. Origin’s door is being rolled out to a select group of Origin dealers. Origin’s approach makes perfect sense rather than a full scale-roll out given how different these structurally glazed doors are compared to conventional sliding doors.

Our initial research into the air vs origin sliding door reveals a few areas where the air 20SL has features the Origin sliding door does not.

• air doors are available with dual colour option. The origin is not available with this option.
• air is offering a fixed light option. We do not believe Origin will with theirs.
• air doors are available with a sub-cill if needed.
• air doors come with more handle styles on offer.

When the Origin sliding door is formally launched (as it is not yet on Origin’s website), we will review the two products side by side.

If you want to create a light-filled home with a latest generation, visually excellent sliding patio door, we recommend you take a look at the air 20SL. Contact us for more information.

The post ATS reviews the new aïr 20SL sliding door appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

If you live in a house with old Crittall® windows or other steel casements, what are the options replacing Crittall windows with aluminium?  Is it also possible to improve your existing windows for better appearance, security and energy efficiency? In this article, we provide information on what to consider with steel window refurbishment and the aluminium options for replacing Crittall® windows.

Products for the replacement of Steel Windows with aluminium.

If you do want to explore the aluminium options for replacing Crittall® windows,  we have compiled a list of some of the window ranges for you to consider.  It is worth stressing that these are not really “Replacements” as you are not replacing like-for-like.  These aluminium windows and doors are designed to offer an alternative product.

Smart Systems Alitherm Heritage 47.

The Smart Systems Alitherm Heritage 47 is a remarkably well-designed aluminium window. This window suite creates steel look windows, New York Screens and even has a steel look door.

We have seen many installations using the Smart Systems, and it is a highly credible aluminium alternative. The door, in particular, is excellent for its visual similarity. Thre are several specialist manufacturers of Smarts Systems Alitherm Heritage 47, one of which is Everglade Windows in Middlesex.

Smarts Alitherm Heritage.

Smart Systems also offer another steel look window to give similar aesthetics and an aluminium alternative to steel windows known as W20. Called Smarts Alitherm Heritage, this version is widely used in listed buildings, heritage properties and developments where a replica window is required. Alitherm Heritage is made in a modular form enabling any window design to be created using aluminium couplers. Authentic looking beads, drip bars and other profiles complete the look.

Smarts Alitherm Heritage comes as fixed, side or top hung casements, pivot windows and single or double sash windows.

It is worth mentioning that the Smarts Alitherm 600, used as a conventional aluminium windows has also been used in steel look installations. If the profile sightlines and appearance work for your project, Alitherm 600 is also worth considering.

AluK Optio 58BW ST steel replacement

The AluK Optio 58BW ST steel replacement window comes from another leading aluminium systems company.

The slimline profiles enable this window to be used in the home as well as commercially. AluK’s window is designed to replace old steel windows offering very slim sight lines and a credible aluminium alternative with high security and excellent thermal performance.

You can choose between 58mm or 70mm frame depths to suit new build and replacement applications. Other options include double glazed units up to 32mm, excellent security and a choice of what AluK calls Bay, Heritage or Contemporary profile appearance.

Finally, the AluK Option 58BW ST window comes as a fixed, multi-light, casement, bottom hung and multi-light arrangement.

Reynaers CS 24 -SL

Reynaers’ CS24-SL stands for Concept System 24 Steel Look. Windows are casement windows with handsome proportions and another suitable aluminium window to replace old steel windows.

The aesthetics centre around the external sight lines that include sloping glazing beads with a similar look found in old steel casements. The outer frames are only 19mm sight lines and the opening vent sections 31mm. The mullion and transom sections are also thin at just 13.9mm.

You can use the Reynaers CS 24-SL Steel Look window to replace old windows or for new build homes and extensions. They are also suitable for commercial buildings as well. Reynaers CS 24-SL are security and weather tested and even comes with a matching door option.

Reynaers Slim Line 38 aluminium window.

Also available from Reynaers is the SL38 suite of windows offering flexible design options as well as windows that can open in or out.

You have a choice of three different looks with the Reynaers SL38. There is Classic, Ferro and Cubic. Each of these is intended to offer a different visual look to a sliding aluminium window.

Classic offers a sloping detail to the outer frame and the opening sash. Cubic gives you a flat frame and sash. Ferro provides a flat external frame, but the sash features a projecting square nosing. All three are very attractive windows that are entirely different in appearance to the others we mention.

With the Reynaers SL 38, you get excellent weather performance, extensive colour choice, good U-Values and high security. Double and Triple Glazing is also available.

Also recently launched from Reynaers is the Slimline 68 aluminium window.  While not a steel look system, Reynaers SL68 offers very slim frames that would make it ideal for more basic window designs without the many horizontal bars found in metal windows. Reynaers are incredibly well-designed windows and should be checked out with other brands.

SAPA Crown 52mm casement.

While not marketed as a steel replacement window, the SAPA Systems Crown Suite of windows with the slimline vent and square outer frame is an option. We have seen these used very successfully to replace old steel windows, particularly those in hardwood subframes.

The SAPA suite offers a choice of vent, frame and mullion profiles making for a very flexible window to meet most design requirements.

Schuco Window AWS 70.HI

Schuco windows also come in many different styles and options including a slimline steel look window. A Schuco AWS70.HI is a highly insulated aluminium window that creates inward or outward opening windows.

There are four variants available in the Schuco suite such as the Soft Linen Residential Line and Steel Contour. You can mix and match the sections to create a custom window. However, the Steel Contour is the one intended for metal window replacements. It is suitable for new build openings as well. Face widths of the window are 117 mm.

Schuco ASS70 HI windows in steel contour are those specially designed for steel replacements. With the Schuco window, you can expect all the engineering found in their excellent sliding and folding doors. Schuco is also known for windows with low U-Values and excellent security test results too.

Schuco brings automation to their windows giving you a motorised opening option as well, called Schüco TipTronic.

Replacing old steel windows.

If you can afford the luxury and the price premium, new steel windows are the way to go. New windows will retain much of the authenticity of your outgoing windows and steel specialists can advise, with many having an extensive range of products to choose from.

Is the sunshine bay available in Aluminium?

Image courtesy of www.jennyfields.co.uk

If you have old steel windows with one or two curved glazed sides, you may be wondering if it possible to replicate these in aluminium? The answer is yes if your chosen supplier has the skills and the suppliers to do it.

Curving aluminium sections on elevation (to create curved head windows) is much easier than curving on plan such as sunshine bays. Bending the spacer bars that separate the outer and inner pane of a double glazed unit is easy for those with the knowledge and skills to do it. Curved glass is also possible, but you will pay the price for having all these standard sections sent to a specialist section bender.

What you need to do is seek out a specialist company that can create aluminium sunshine bay windows. You’ll find more suppliers of standard windows and fewer that offer curves and shapes. We can help put you in touch with these. The less experienced company will want your work, but offer flat glass and angled bays using bay poles. If you wish to the curved window to match your original seek out a company that can do it.

Current Buildings Regulations are sympathetic to period windows.

If you live in a period property, one in a conservation area or with planning constraints, always check with your local Authority or Conservation Officer.

Many local authorities do make allowances for properties with traditional windows or those of historical importance or architectural significance. Always seek professional advice.

Consider fitting authentic Crittall ™ Windows.

It is worth extolling the virtues of  Crittall ™ windows and just how good they are. The fact remains, that while there are excellent aluminium alternatives you can replace old steel windows with, nothing beats the authentic product. And when it comes to steel windows, we think replacing like for like remains the best and most credible option

The best thing about old Crittall ™ windows is their longevity. Some windows are still working today more than 90 years after being fitted. You cannot as yet claim any PVCu or aluminium window will ever last that length of time; and it is unlikely that they will. Steel windows feature galvanised steel, durable finishes, quality hardware and are built to last. Steel windows are also the slimmest.

Steel remains a super durable material giving these windows great security even when they are as slimmer than aluminium. Choose a steel window today, and you will get all the style, energy efficiency and high security you associate with a new PVCu, aluminium or timber window. The only drawback to steel windows is their cost when compared to other materials. However, given how long they will last, it is a good investment.

Refurbishment of old steel windows.

One fantastic feature of old steel windows is how they work with the overall appearance of a house. Period homes are a favourite with homebuyers because of their character and original features. Windows are one of these. If you want to retain your original metal windows, refurbishment is one option. There are nationwide specialists in the restoration and renovation of steel windows, or you can seek advice and a suitable company from The Steel Windows Association.

Early generation steel windows will not be galvanised and probably worse for wear from corrosion; not helped by many different coats of paint over the years. The window hardware on original windows can be hard to replace if broken, and the putty may have failed as well. We suggest you seek advice from one of the specialists in restoration and get some initial advice.

In considering a repair to old steel windows, it is likely that while the windows may be refurbished, security and energy efficiency will not be the best. There is little you can do to improve it and this will be one compromise.

How can you repair old steel windows?

In deciding whether to repair or replace your old steel windows, your key concerns may be:

• Improving Security.
• Improving Energy Efficiency
• Replacing your old single glass with double glazed units.
• Reduction in noise levels
• Improvement in weather resistance.

Depending upon the condition of the existing windows it may be possible to improve them in many of these areas. New seals, new handles, replacement glass and general refurbishment, are all offered by expert companies.

While you will not get the advantages of brand new thermally insulated windows, any good refurbishment will provide some improvement over the old windows.

So what are your options for new windows in aluminium?

Secondary double glazing for steel windows.

It is worth mentioning Secondary Double Glazing. Secondary double glazing is an excellent alternative to improving the energy efficiency of a house with old single glazed windows. With secondary double glazing, you will usually find little resistance from conservation offers. Secondary double glazing is also substantially cheaper than new windows of any material.

Modern secondary double glazing is fitted behind original steel windows and is available in fixed, swing, lift-out and even sliding windows, meaning you should be able to retain the authentic look of your windows when viewed from the outside.

Conclusion and Next Steps.

It is worth mentioning finally that all of the above systems should work well if you need them fitting in stone mullions or hardwood subframes.

All of the above products will give you all the advantages of new double glazed windows that will improve your home over existing steel windows. For us, the Smart Systems Alitherm Heritage 47 and the Reynaers SL24 and SL38 are the more appealing window residentially.

Alitherm windows especially are widely used, and if you are looking for a door to match the windows, the Alitherm Door is very attractive as a steel look door.

There are other specialist independent companies whose business is aluminium steel replacements. Examples include the Heritage Window Company in London with their Benenden Range, Jennyfields in Hampshire with their great steel windows that also create sunshine bays. Often these are customised existing systems that these companies may market as their own and not available anywhere else.

What these companies often do is take an existing system like the Alitherm and tweak it. They work with the systems company to modify the profile to make it different from the standard product and frequently will get exclusivity to it. There’s nothing wrong with this way of creating a more bespoke window. Aluminium systems companies are in the business of selling bars of aluminium and if they can do this for an independent installer, they will.

If you would like more information about steel replacement windows, and where to see them, contact us today. We can help put you in touch with suppliers and installers and answer your questions about replacing Crittall windows with aluminium.

Crittall® is a registered trademark of Crittall Windows Limited which is unconnected to the Aluminium Trade Supply Website.

Main image shows Smart Systems Alitherm Heritage 47 Windows manufactured and supplied by Everglade Windows in Middlesex

The post Information about replacing Crittall Windows with aluminium. appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

With the recent move to their new premises in Chepstow, AluK is a dominant and strong brand in the UK market. One of their latest products is the AluK Luminia F82 Bifolding Door. We take a look at it.

What is the AluK Luminia F82 Bifolding Door?

AluK’s new Luminia F82 bifolding door follows the recent trend for slimmer, better looking and more feature-packed bifolding doors. The folding door market is very mature now, and until recently bifolding doors did not have much in the way of competition. By that, we mean homeowners desired a bifolding door and didn’t consider that today’s generation of sliding doors could offer a better product in the home as well. There are also far more bifolding doors available to homeowners, with at least forty names to choose from.

What AluK has done with their new bifold is concentrated on aesthetics, better-looking hardware and a focused effort to make this door appeal to those wanting a more premium product. We expect to see AluK busy working on increasing awareness of their products in the consumer market. Origin does this the best, closely followed by Reynaers.

Where to buy the new AluK bifolding door.

AluK’s mainstream products, loved by builders and the broader trade market you will see promoted under the Optio brand name. There have been significant improvements to some of their systems, and some have stayed the same. The Luminia F82 bifold door falls under is premium product offering. As well as Luminia, you will see the Infinium range of products intended for the high-end market. Both Luminia and Infinium will be available via select AluK partners.

A partner or dealer network is a good thing when the brand is strong – again Origin being a great example. Where systems companies like Aluk could struggle is streamlining the dealer network to benefit the consumer.

The buying process for a door like an Origin product is simple and the brand message to the homeowner is clear. You go to an Origin dealer with prominent Origin branding in their showroom. They then buy the fabricated door from Origin. Origin is big on marketing, big on helping their dealers with their showrooms, big on training.

The AluK method of supply is different as AluK provides bar length and accessories to a nationwide network of fabricators. Even if these fabricators are specially selected (and AluK do have some very experienced manufacturers in their network), the homeowner arguably doesn’t have the clarity of who makes their door like they do with Origin, Sunflex, Sunfold, Air doors and others.

Features of the AluK Luminia F82 bifolding door.

The stand out feature of the new Luminia F82 bifold is how it looks. AluK has followed the trend of bringing out a slimline bifolding door with door mullion sight lines of just 122mm. Their existing BSF70 is 140mm. For those comparing bifolding door sight lines, this new bifold is up there with the Schuco ASS70 FD, the air 800LS, Reynaers CF77 and Senior’s Alifold doors. AluK has gone one better with the Luminia bifolding offering consistent sight lines around the door. Both frame and cill sightlines are of 97mm. It is a great feature, and it looks very nice indeed.

With the Luminia F82 bifold, you also get:

• A more attractive slimline appearance than other doors.
• Distinctive hardware, many unique to the product.
• Great specifications.
• Fewer aluminium components.
• Low U-Values at just 1.3WmK depending on the glass specification.

AluK’s new bifold also has reliable, compact and slim stainless steel rollers giving a smooth feel as it slides and folds along its track. You get a choice of hardware and the flush pop out T-Handle, instantly identifying a door as an AluK, has been slimmed down, redesigned and looks very seamless in a slave door.

As with any well-designed bifold you can expect certain features as standard such as traffic doors, opening in or our, anti-finger trap gaskets and a low threshold option.

How good is the Aluk F82 bifold?

Any well-made and correctly installed door is going to be reliable. AluK does have much experience in designing doors and windows. This door is designed to be easy to make and easy to fit.

It is clear from seeing the door that the components are quite sophisticated. The shoot bolt mechanisms, hug the corner of the door leaf snugly. The hinges and rollers are attractive in themselves. AluK has designed this door well. In the square profiled version, the Luminia F82 is a handsome bifold door.

Aesthetics are essential to homeowners, and in many cases over and above security, weather tests and performance. Customers read the same messages across everyone’s doors today, so they expect them to be secure, have low U-Values and not leak. It is how they look that is important.

With the contemporary hardware, the flush nature of the handles, the pretty traffic door handle and greater symmetry than other doors, we think homeowners will like it. It is all about bifolding door aesthetics in today’s market. That said, it is also about the marketing and brand perception when Origin still has a mostly unchanged door for over ten years.

Options available with AluK’s Luminia F82 Bifold Door.

As well as the to be expected, excellent choice of colour and double or triple glazing, AluK’s new bifold offers the following options to homeowners.

• Single and French doors using the same profiles.
• The choice of square or chamfered frames and glazing beads.
• Up to 44mm glazing thickness easily accommodating integral blinds and triple glass.
• The option of internal or external glazing (good for commercial installations).
• Anodised aluminium finishes. Available in a range of opening configurations
• Door leaves up to 2500mm high but can go up to 3000mm subject to approval.
• 1200mm door widths.
• The option of a high insulation version of the product using thermal inserts.

What we think of the AluK Lumina F82 folding door.

We saw this door at the 2017 FiT Show, and it looked impressive. It is down to AluK to market the door to the end user, so they ask for it by name and encourage their huge fabricator base to make it. AluK designs some excellent systems but also has a ‘builders favourite’ perception to overcome.

Go to any bifolding door showroom with a range of doors on display and other brands are perceived and sold as more premium. Installers like the existing AluK Optio BSF70 bifold. It is reliable, widely available and well priced. However, many up-sell against it offering other brand names considered more premium. The Lumina F82 should help retain the customer to the AluK brand.

The reality is as well, that many installers buy-in and fit AluK windows and residential doors but offer an alternative brand of bifold. Hopefully, the new Luminia F82 is attractive enough to retain the customer to the AluK brand when looking for a complete installation of windows and bifolding doors.

AluK GB Ltd now operates from a new 350,000ft2 South Wales headquarters that is hugely impressive, demonstrating its strong position in the UK market. There has been a multi-million-pound investment in new premises, new production lines, a powder coating plant, R&D Facility and even a training academy. All this comes with a new product strategy for the trade and residential market, of which the Luminia F82 bifold plays a big part. See the product; it is a good bifolding door.

Image courtesy of resources.aluk.co.uk.

The post The AluK Luminia F82 Bifolding Door review appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

There is now a full range of Doors and Windows made by Origin Frames available to suit just about any type of home.  Starting with the Bifolding Door, Origin have expanded their range to include Windows, Entrance Doors and now Sliding Doors.  So the “Origin Home” is now a real possibility.

In this article we explain the four main benefits associated with choosing one supplier for the full range of home fenestration products.

Other door and window brands are not sub-standard or inferior products. However, Origin doors and windows offer some real benefits, especially when installed together.

Why consider installing Origin Doors and Windows throughout the home?

Origin is not unique in offering a complete suite of doors and windows for the home. Other top brands such as Schuco or Reynaers also provide highly-engineered aluminium doors and windows.

Where Origin differs is that their dealers (who are not tied exclusively to Origin in any way) want to sell the entire Origin Home range. A whole suite of products for the home like Origin’s is different from windows and doors available from other reputable home improvement firms. The reality is that most in the home improvement sector choose to offer one brand of bifolding doors, aluminium windows from another brand, patio doors from another name again and then a different brand of front doors.

For many homeowners, who designs, makes and provides their new windows and doors is important. They want to know the source of their windows and many would prefer the peace of mind of one brand to deal with. Origin products for the home include:

• Bifolding Doors
• Sliding Doors
• Aluminium Windows
• Aluminium Front Doors
• French Doors and Single Doors for the back of the home.
• Gable Windows
• Garage Doors
• Door and Window Blinds.

The combined range of Origin Home products gives homeowners four reasons to consider installing Origin Windows and Doors throughout the home.

Reason 1: The Guarantee.

Origin windows and doors come with a longer product guarantee than virtually any other aluminium window and door on the market. Origin products are designed to be reliable and meticulously well-made. So because Origin themselves only makes Origin products, homeowners benefit from a manufacturer-direct guarantee, not just one that is insurance backed or direct from the installer.

If you are wondering how Origin as a systems company can offer a 20 year warranty when many other brands only come with ten, it is because of the direct supply route of one manufacturer. Other premium brands are made by many different factories and other systems companies do not guarantee their products in this way.

Reason 2: Installers you can trust.

Visit any Origin showroom and what you will see is consistency. Origin installers are:

• Established, professional window companies.
• Businesses with fine showrooms
• Local businesses with a successful trading history and good location reputation.
• Businesses with a lot of door and window knowledge.

The other thing you will find with many Origin dealers is a choice of products from other brands. Product choice is an excellent indicator that your Origin dealer has expertise; not just with Origin products but others as well such as lantern roofs, skylights and orangeries.

Reason 3: Lead Times.

Origin is the most reliable aluminium door and window provider in the UK today. No other business offers the lead times in bifolding doors, entrance doors and aluminium windows. Origin calls it ‘Your Lead Time, Not Ours’.

Why does how quickly your dealer gets their doors important to you as a homeowner? The reason is better project management if you’re building a new extension and less stress for you. Origin can provide windows and doors in 24-48 hours meaning your project has none of the well-known delays in obtaining other doors and windows. Most other door and window providers will typically need from 7-21 days to make and deliver windows and doors. Origin understands who buys their doors and strives to make delivery of their products as fast and reliable as possible.

Origin is credited with a service that helps homeowners complete their projects easier, quicker and smoother.

Reason 4: Product Consistency.

Dealing with one brand and one manufacturing company brings all the benefits of product consistency together. Homeowners considering installing Origin doors and windows throughout enjoy several advantages over other brands.

• All Origin aluminium is extruded in one factory.
• One brand means consistent colour throughout the home because the supplier is the same.
• You benefit from matching bifolds, entrance doors and French Doors.
• All Origin products are made under one roof.

The Origin Home Range of aluminium windows and doors offers the high security, excellent weather performance and product quality found in many premium brands of windows and doors, with the added benefits of peace of mind and reliability that comes from one consistent name in the home.

Contact us to find out more about the Origin Home range of aluminium windows and doors.

The post Installing Origin Doors and Windows throughout the home appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

We have put together this guide to help you understand where you can use Origin Aluminium Windows what types of property that can be suitable for.

A house featuring a variety of Origin casement, fixed, gable and dummy sash windows.

Origin windows are suitable both for the replacement of existing windows as well as new windows for extensions and new-build houses.  While Origin aluminium windows are primarily marketed at the homeowner, they are suitable for commercial buildings as well.

The definition of a commercial contract is anything that is not residential, such as an office, warehouse or factory building.  Commercial jobs can also involve large or small-scale developments of flats, apartments and houses, such as those carried out by construction companies and those specialising in the building of new homes.

Any structural opening that needs a window fitted in it can suit an Origin aluminium window.and not just a dwelling.  Origin windows also come in different window types and styles.

Origin casement windows.

A casement window is one that has an opening light that opens out.  Casement window opening lights can be top hung, where the opening light is hinged on the left and right side, with the window handles at the bottom.  The top hung window opens outwards from the top.

Side hung casement windows have the hinges fitted on the top and bottom and the window handles on the left or right side.  The window opens outwards to the side.

Origin windows with dummy sashes.

Typically an opening window with an opening element also consists of fixed panes as well.  Where the opener is adjacent to a fixed pane a sight line discrepancy can occur between the opener and the fixed panel.  This is because the opening section has additional material making the opening part appear thicker than the fixed part of the window.

When this aesthetic discrepancy occurs the fixed and opening part of the window do not sit level.  This is where dummy sashes are useful.  Dummy sashes or dummy vents as they are also called, are essentially the same profile as the opening element of the window but fixed into the frame.  When dummy sashes are used, a consistent sight line is created.  The window fixed and opening elements look exactly the same with an equal sight line as if all the windows open. Usually, a window with dummy sashes looks much better than one without.

Origin aluminium windows are available with both standard and dummy vent arrangements helping achieve equal sight lines.  Many post and pre-war houses and those with original timber windows feature a dummy sash design.  Therefore Origin aluminium windows help to replicate the original sight lines of older windows.  They are also well suited to modern houses and window styles that require a consistent window sight line.

If you live in a suburban semi-detached or detached house with decorative fanlights in the Fleur-de-Lys or similar style, dummy sashes help these panes of glass look centralised and correctly positioned.

Origin gable windows.

One of the biggest advantages of an Origin aluminium window over other makes of windows is that bigger window sizes are possible.  This includes the very popular gable style of windows and gables above bifolding doors.

A gable window is a triangular shaped window usually filling the shape a roof creates or in a new opening designed in a gable shape.  Origin gable aluminium windows are possible at extensive widths and heights and can incorporate both fixed and opening elements as well as dummy vents if required.

Origin Dormer Windows.

Origin windows are also widely used as dormer windows.

A dormer window is fitted where a roof protrudes outwards and can create great architectural features.  Origin Dormer windows are widely used in attic or roof conversations where the pitch of the roof is lower and headroom restricted.

Dormer windows provide light and extra headroom.  Origin aluminium windows can also be made as Dormer Gable Windows.

Origin bay and bow windows.

By using purpose-designed extrusions, Origin windows can be crafted as both bay and bow windows.  There are many different types of bay and bow windows.

A bay window is usually with angled projections.  Bow windows are more curved in appearance.

Origin aluminium windows in either a bay or bow design can be made as fixed or opening windows as well as with dummy sashes.

Origin bay or bow windows can also be used with leading conservatory and orangery roof systems as well as Origin entrance doors and bifolding doors to create impressive glass rooms.

Origin Picture Windows.

For those looking to create large picture windows and glazed screens, the strength and thermal properties of Origin aluminium windows make them ideal.

A combination of square or gable windows can be manufactured at small or large sizes.

Origin windows create large floor-to-ceiling windows in a traditional or contemporary style.

Origin Windows with entrance doors.

Origin aluminium windows are also compatible with the entire range of Origin front doors and residential entrance doors.

If you are looking to buy an Origin aluminium entrance door, an Origin window can couple to it to create a door with a sidelight or a door with a toplight.  You can also create doors with glazed side panels or create a specific design.

Origin aluminium windows are designed to couple with their door suite giving multiple combinations of front doors, rear doors or side doors.

An Origin window with an Origin Entrance Door can be used as part of a porch, a bedroom door or anywhere needing a door and window combination.

Origin Windows in Commercial Buildings.

Origin windows have been fitted in commercial buildings such as schools, shops and offices.

Windows are the same irrespective of the building type and can be made in any type of fixed, shaped and opening configuration.

Advantages of Origin Aluminium Windows.

There are many great brands of aluminium windows on the market, however, the Origin suite of aluminium windows has features other aluminium systems do not. Here are just some of them.

• Aluminium windows with a 20-year guarantee.
• A unique flush casement arrangment inside and out.
• Aluminium windows manufactured only by Origin.
• Excellent lead times over virtually any other window brand on the market.
• Wood effect finishes.
• Enhanced U-Values with Aerogel upgrade.

Contact us today if you would like more information about Origin aluminium windows and where you can buy them.

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If you are researching Origin bifold door suppliers, you will come across many different home improvement companies all over the UK selling Origin bifolding doors and windows. In this article, we give some insight into how Origin bifold door suppliers work with Origin and how both homeowners and Origin dealers benefit.

How do Origin bifold door suppliers work?

Some Origin bifold door suppliers are set up to only sell Origin products.  Others choose Origin alongside their other aluminium and PVCu home improvement products. Whether you are looking to buy an Origin bifold door, entrance door or window from an exclusive Origin supplier or one that sells other products, there are many reasons why home improvement companies of all types, want to sell Origin doors and windows.

Origin is one of the best known brands of windows and doors.

Many aluminium systems companies leave the selling of their brand to their manufacturers. Others choose not to market their brand to the homeowner at all, choosing instead to concentrate on the architectural specification and commercial market that they consider more lucrative.

Origin from the outset has successfully marketed their products directly to the homeowner. Origin has a slick, focused marketing strategy that has been largely responsible for their tremendous success as a company and why so many homeowners are now aware of their products even before they start their journey to buy new bifolding doors or windows. Origin is arguably now the best-known brand of aluminium windows and doors in the UK today.

Origin bifold door suppliers benefit from working with Origin.

In the key areas of supply, lead times, marketing and product support, Origin dealers get a service that few other systems companies can match.

Visit any Origin showroom and the presentation of Origin products through physical doors and windows, marketing material, accessories and personalisation of an Origin door or window is hard to beat. When you walk into an Origin showroom the branding is prominent.  The support Origin gives to their dealers enhances the homeowner experience from start to finish.

Look at any other good aluminium system such as Schuco, AluK, Smart Systems, SAPA and more and you will not find anywhere near the branding to support these products or the companies that sell them. Origin, their products, their marketing and their dealer network create a professional, quality brand from start to finish.

Origin is also transparent in allowing homeowners to visit their own Warrington and High Wycombe showrooms, with a substantial range of windows and doors installed in real-world environments, demonstrating today’s homeowner tastes and lifestyles and architectural trends for which Origin products are perfectly suited.

The new Origin High Wycombe showroom in particular, features the entire Origin Home range, including bifolding, residential and garage doors and windows. Also being showcased is the soon-to-be-launched Origin Inline Slider.

Origin products are transparent in where they come from.

The home improvement industry for doors and windows is vast with many different manufacturers and suppliers.  Many home improvement companies that do not manufacture, such as a typical Origin dealer, will frequently not divulge where they buy their doors and windows from. Some will of course, but the majority choose not to tell the homeowner who makes their windows and doors.

The reasons for this are many, but often it is to avoid you knowing what product you are buying and seeking to deal directly with the manufacturer, in an effort to save money by dealing direct. As we explain later, the Origin manufacturing facility, their processes and how you get your Origin doors are arguably one of the best in the window and door industry.  In buying Origin doors and windows you will find a lot more transparency as to who makes your windows and doors, compared to many other systems.

The Origin route to supplying their dealers is also far more transparent. And, unlike other systems companies, there is a clear willingness to communicate directly with the consumer on behalf of and to support Origin bifold door suppliers.

Understanding how Origin doors are supplied to homeowners.

The processes Origin has in place throughout their operation are designed to give homeowners and their dealers the best in service and customer experience.

• Origin windows and doors are renowned for the high quality of manufacturing with some of the best paint finishes, components and assembly methods available.
• Origin has the best lead times in the door and window industry for the fast manufacturing of their doors and windows.
• Origin lead times are based on an understanding that many home improvement projects today involve the building of new extensions, often needing a speedy installation of windows and doors.
• Origin doors and windows are provided fully protected to prevent damage on construction sites.

Even where Origin does not use their own suppliers, any external suppliers are renowned for their quality and reputation.  Examples include external powder coaters for non-standard colours, door hardware, bifolding door blinds and glass in their new Inline sliding doors.

Origin bifold door suppliers all work within the slick Origin framework meaning that from the initial enquiry to the homeowner having their doors fitted in their homes, Origin has played a part, even though the customer contract is with the dealer and not with Origin directly. The Origin method of working, how they move their products to their dealers benefits both the Origin dealer and the homeowner.  The Origin dealer benefits from a service designed to provide quality bifolding doors fast, without delays and with consistent quality.

The homeowner benefits from knowing just what is behind their new Origin doors and why they come with a 20-year warranty. Buyers of Origin doors and windows have the peace of mind that their installers are trained, approved and reputable as well.

Origin supports its Dealers through ongoing training, support, product development and the fastest delivery times. Training and quality products, coupled with a marketing programme designed to ensure their doors are in high demand and desirable ensures both dealers and homeowners benefit from Origin bifolding doors and windows.

Our main image features Origin windows, doors and bifolding doors, made by Origin, supplied and fitted by UK Windows Surrey.

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One of the more recent innovations in refurbishing old conservatories is aluminium replacement conservatory roof panels.  These highly insulated aluminium panels provide an excellent solution for old conservatories glazed with polycarbonate or glass.  If your conservatory is cold in the winter, too hot in the summer, noisy and rarely used, these powder coated insulated conservatory roof panels give old conservatories, and lean-to’s a new lease of life.

Aluminium Replacement Conservatory Roof Panels for old conservatories.

Superior Conservatory Panels based in Coventry are part of a group of companies specialising in architectural aluminium powder coating and the manufacture of insulated aluminium panels.  The insulated aluminium roof panels from  Superior Conservatory panels serve the residential market in replacing old polycarbonate and glass with a solid aluminium roof panel, improving an old conservatory considerably.

These quality aluminium conservatory roof panels offer homeowners looking to refurbish their conservatory several advantages.

• A new conservatory roof in under one day with the majority of installations.
• Panels are made to order to suit every conservatory roof.
• Roof panels suit aluminium, PVCu or timber conservatories.
• Cheaper than other methods of conservatory refurbishments such as an entirely new roof or a hybrid system.
• Works with the existing conservatory roof bars, without additional supports or beams.

Suitable for any shape and style of a conservatory with a rafter-roof design, they provide an insulated roof solution that can once again make a usable room, regardless of the weather, the temperature or the season.

Four immediate benefits by replacing a conservatory roof with aluminium panels.

The fast installation of aluminium insulated roof panels brings some instant benefits to an old conservatory.

Improved thermal insulation and comfort.

The aluminium panels comprise thick insulation that corrects many of the downsides associated with single or twin-wall polycarbonate sheet or early-generation double glazed units. There is an improvement in noise levels with the aluminium roof as the insulation deadens the noise from heavy rain or wind. This provides a useable conservatory in autumn and winter especially.

The thermal insulation also controls the heat loss and heat build-up in the conservatory.  The aluminium panels are substantially more thermally efficient than polycarbonate or glass.  The result is an instantly more comfortable conservatory, losing less heat through the roof and drawing in less solar gain.

Aluminium panels create a warmer conservatory in the winter.

Heat loss through the poorly-insulated roof means many old conservatories are rarely used in the winter owing to the costs of heating.

With these thermally efficient aluminium replacement conservatory roof panels, the room loses substantially less heat in the winter as there is no heat loss through the roof.

A cooler conservatory in the summer.

With U-Values lower than glass units and better UV protection, the room is cooler in the summer and comfortable to use.  It is also more effective than conservatory roof blinds and does away with other methods of cooling the space.

A conservatory that is quieter to sit in.

Walk into the conservatory after the installation of the roof panels and the solid aluminium roof creates a quieter environment.  There is a noticeable reduction in echo and noise, feeling like other rooms in the house.

Specifications of aluminium replacement conservatory roof panels.

• High-density insulation from 60mm up to 150mm thick.
• 2mm thick aluminium skins inside and out.
• Durable powder coated finish available in over 150 colours.

The aluminium replacement conservatory roof panels have U-Values of 0.29Wm2K surpassing even triple glazing, typically offering 0.7Wm2K.

Contact us if you would like to find out more about this transformational aluminium panel for your old PVCu, aluminium or timber conservatory.

The post Aluminium Replacement Conservatory Roof Panels appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

The Comar 7P.i LS+ Lift and Slide patio sliding door enhance the existing Comar range of sliding doors with more features and up-to-the-minute engineering and technology.  Modern design, advanced lift-and-slide door gearing and improved functions are the innovations Comar has made to this sliding door.

Features of the Comar 7P.i LS+ Lift and Slide patio sliding door.

If you are not familiar with Comar, they are one of the best-known UK Systems companies.  Widely specified in the architectural aluminium market, Comar’s windows, doors and curtain walling are consistently installed in residential and commercial developments all over the UK.  So while you may not see Comar sliding doors in the typical quality double glazing showroom, vast numbers of new build dwellings have their doors and windows fitted.

Another reason why so many Comar products are fitted is the service levels provided by the Company to their network of fabricators and installers.  Comar works with their fabricator base to ensure prompt delivery of materials with substantial stock holding.

This modern sliding door offers features and benefits over and above the existing suite of sliding doors available from Comar Architectural Aluminium for both residential and commercial products.

• A brand new lift and slide door product from Comar.
• Improved thermal performance.
• Improved door gearing and hardware.
• A bigger glazing pocket.
• A triple track option.

Ideal for any project requiring a quality patio sliding door, here are the key specifications or this thermally broken aluminium sliding door.

Extensive range of sizes.

Comars’ 7Pi LS+ can span up to 12 metres wide and 3 metres high meeting the needs of projects wanting oversized doors for creating panoramic glass walls.

• Sash Width: 590mm -3000mm
• Sash Height: 1175mm – 3000mm
• Max Outer Frame Width: 6400mm

The door comes with a single, double or triple track arrangement at these doors sizes.

Profile details and aesthetics.

In line with other quality sliding doors on the market, Comar’s new lift and slide door use aluminium profiles to 6063 T5 or T6 to BS EN 755 and BS EN 12020.

Powder coated finishes as expected, again meet all the current standards for Silver, Bronze and Black anodised finishes as well as the entire range of powder-coated colours, to BS6496.

The construction of the doors is mechanical with square cut corners, screws and brackets and mechanical cleats.  The doors are designed to be internally glazed for security.

Inline or Lift and Slide.

For fabricators and installers, the Comar 7P.i LS+ lift and slide patio sliding door allows one system to provide the option of either inline or lift and slide doors. This dual option extends to the standard or slim interlock options, triple track and upgraded thermal insulation.

Door interlock and profile sizes.

Comar has improved on its existing suite of sliding doors by offering a new slim interlock, where previously the 7P.1 Sliding Door had an interlock size of 123mm.  While at 123mm this door could appear dated compared to the sightlines of over fifty sliding doors on the market, it is worth knowing that Comar sliding doors and their entire range of aluminium windows, curtain walling and commercial doors are extensively specified by architects all over the UK.  For these architects and specifiers, product quality and service are more important in large-scale projects than interlock sizes.

However, the new Comar 7P.i LS+ Lift and Slide patio sliding door is redesigned to better meet the needs of the residential market and adequately contend with the heavily promoted sliding doors with slim interlocks. This new door has sizes of 88.9mm for the standard interlock and 51mm for the slim interlock.

Compare this to the sight lines of other doors such as the Smarts Systems Visoglide at 35mm and the AluK product at 45mm and the difference is not that great.  On a two panel small patio door, perhaps the interlock size matter. One a bigger expanse of sliding doors, you’d be hard pushed to spot the difference.

Other profile dimensions are:

• Side Outer frame to glass line on two or three panel door, 114.5mm.
• Top outer frame to glass line 118.5mm.
• Bottom outer frame/cill to the glass line 128.3mm.
• Meeting stiles on a four panel configuration 168mm.

As you would expect with any double or triple track sliding door, the outer frames get bigger the more tracks you have.  A double track door will have a 175.4mm deep outer frame with a triple track door a 266mm frame depth.

Comar has also designed this door to accept fanlights above it with fixed or opening casement windows.  Using the CS920 frame coupler a window can be coupled to the head of the doors and have the Comar 5P.1 window suite fixed above it.

U-Values.

Comar reports that for a standard CEN size patio door set, a U-Value of 1.4Wm2K is achievable with glass units having a 1.0Wm2K centre pane value.  Comar also offers their Enhanced Thermal Foam bringing U-values right down to 0.74Wm2K.

The glass is the biggest component of any sliding door.  The new LS+ comes with the option of double or triple glazing, integral blinds and other glass enhancements.  The glazing range of this product is very impressive, from 15mm right up to 57mm. A simple change of gaskets and glazing beads provides flexible glazing and panel options.

Security, hardware and door performance.

The latest lift and slide gearing or the choice of inline sliding door gives Comar’s new door a smooth operation, regardless of door size. The added benefit of course, to a lift and slide system, is the facility to partially lock the doors in an open position anywhere along the bottom track. For a residential property, this feature is great for people with children or pets that want ventilation with a locking option on the doors.

Comar has extensively tested this door to provide market-leading performance. The door has passed the tests of the UKAS Accredited Test House with impressive results, passing BS6375 Parts 1, 2 and 3 with no water leakage at 1050Pa.

Door handles are cycle tested to 50,000 open and closing cycles as required by product testing.  The door comes with the option of a flush pull handle, a single handle on the one side or a handle on each side.

Comar is already well-known for the security of its products and this door is no exception. With Secured By Design forming part of planning and BREEAM assessments in some UK regions, the doors pass PAS24:2016. The new Comar sliding door also holds a Kite-mark for Enhanced Security. Therefore you can configure and sell this sliding door as an SBD Licensed product.

Want to find out more? Contact us today.

If you’d like to find out more about the Comar 7P.i LS+ Lift and Slide patio sliding door, contact us for information on where to buy this brand new British made and designed aluminium product for the home.

The post Comar 7P.i LS+ Lift and Slide patio sliding door appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

The Comar 7P.i CDE Secured by Design Commercial Door is the latest product to from Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems, part of TPG-The Parkside Group. The new Comar Secured by Design commercial is ideal for schools, apartment buildings, shops, offices or other premises needing a door set with certified security.

What is the new Comar 7P.i CDE Secured by Design Commercial Door?

Comar is one of the UK’s best-known systems companies.  Their commercial systems especially are widely specified, manufactured and installed in commercial developments of offices, apartments, retail parks and other high-use buildings. With the new CDE door, Comar adds to their already broad range of commercial doors.

A Secured by Design (SBD) commercial door is not a new product. However, these have primarily been designed as entrance doors with a high security lock.  What Comar has done with the new 7P.i CDE Commercial Door is created an SBD Licenced Product tested with an electronic lock with access control integration.

This aluminium commercial swing door has electronic locking and using the thermally broken door and framing sections of the widely-specified Comar suite.

The result is a commercial swing door with electronic locking holding an SBD licence and offering effective control over who can enter a building.

Why use a Secured By Design Commercial Aluminium Door?

Any building that is not a dwelling, should be fitted with a commercial aluminium door as it meets Building Regulations, and other complementary standards such as the Equalities Act, BS8300 and Approved Document M.

Commercial doors have for years had a largely unchanged design, relying on the trusted door closer and their robust mechanical construction. Security on commercial doors has been excellent, with these doors having high security locks such as those from Axim, Adams Rite and other fine brands.  However, as building specifications get more demanding, commercial doors have followed the lead of residential doors and windows by now having independent certification.

For architects, building owners or occupiers, specifying a Secured by Design commercial door enables these primary entrance doors to offer not only certified security but to fall in line with other doors and windows in the building independently tested for security.

Top Features of the Comar 7P.i CDE SBD Door.

• Both single and double door sets are available.
• Meets Secured by Design Homes 2016 requirements.
• Works with all types of access control panels such as swipe cards, key fobs or buzz entry systems.
• Ideal for premises needing specific occupant safety such as secure units, education or healthcare buildings.
• A certified commercial door from one of the UK’s best known commercial aluminium systems companies.

To meet the needs of new apartment buildings with 10 or more separate dwelling, this new Comar commercial door meets the needs of Secured By Design Homes 2016 requirements.

The SBD Homes initiative is designed to provide security of all dwellings and not just new homes. Incorporating the latest security standards, SBD Homes addresses security, community safety in flats as well as houses. It also covers housing estates, high rise apartment buildings as well as assisted living and student accommodation.  Therefore, for commercial door contractors, manufacturers and installers and building specifiers, Comars’ new 7P.i CDE is ideal for multi-dwelling housing projects.

Practical considerations for Secured by Design commercial doors.

Enhanced security is one of the many reasons why commercial buildings may need a certified commercial aluminium door. However, with many office and residential buildings there are practical considerations as well. Comar’s new SBD commercial door is designed to address both user and security requirements.

The new Comar door comes as both single and double door sets.  For shops and smaller entrances, single doors provide a practical solution. For buildings requiring a larger door or for greater flexibility, door designers like Comar understand that in many buildings, the lead door is used more often with the slave door only opened when access is required for large items like furniture or office equipment.

The SBD test is thorough, and double door sets are quite hard to achieve certification on.  As the doors are put through stress and load tests on the locking points, the door frame on a single door fixed to the structure, naturally provides a stronger locking point.  Double doors rely solely on the door stile of the slave leaf.

The Comar SBD commercial door has achieved PAS 24:2016 for a double door set as well as a single door.  The product has resisted a 4.5kN loading in additional to several manual attack tests as defined by the standard.  As a result, Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems has added the 7P.i CDE door to their BSI Kitemark for Enhanced Security.

A heavy-duty door set in a high traffic environment must also be reliable.  Comar has tested the door to BS 6375 Parts 1, 2 and 3, for high traffic commercial entrance doors. This standard involves 50,000 open and closing cycles, that is also required to obtain an SBD Licence.

Hardware used in the Comar 7P.i CDE Secured by Design Commercial Door.

This high security door uses several quality hardware components to provide reliable operation with high security.

The door lock is reliably designed to provide a fail-secure facility, meaning that the door remains locked securely if the power fails. The door lock is a one-piece construction that uses magnetic triggers.  These magnetic triggers are located in the keeps, tripping the sprung loaded locking points. When the door closes, the lock instantly secures the door.

The lock integrates with the broad range of access control systems, such as key-fobs, swipe cards as well as the traditional buzz-entry systems used for residential apartments.

The new Comar 7P.i CDE SBD commercial door also works with the Fuhr Panic Exit Device, therefore providing an SBD door with emergency escape facility.  For buildings with rear fire-exit doors that are out of sight and potentially vulnerable to attack this is a great solution.

Finally, for enhanced user convenience, the new Comar door can also work with lever handles, providing easy exit through the door set offering magnet triggered instant locking for peace of mind.

Commercial door fabricators interested in making SBD doors will find the Comar door offers easy fabrication, reducing costs.  The Comar 7P.i CDE Secured By Design commercial door only need four machined pockets in the lock and keep stiles for the one-piece lock.  A single cable provides power to the lock, ready for a qualified electrician to connect the doors on site with simplified wire-routing in the frames.

Comar doors come with the same high standards of service thanks to the multi-million-pound stock-holding and impressive delivery dates that Comar is well-known for and trusted by their nationwide network of manufacturers.

Contact us if you would like further information on certified security commercial doors or where to buy the Comar 7P.i CDE Secured by Design commercial door.

The post Comar 7P.i CDE Secured by Design Commercial Door appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

The Dutemann Haus entrance door is a contemporary range of aluminium doors entrance doors and front doors, exclusively manufactured by Dutemann Ltd in Kent.

Construction of the Dutemann Haus Entrance Door.

This modern aluminium door uses an aluminium frame and door leaf profiles with a premium aluminium panel.  One of the best features of the Dutemann front door is its construction from Schuco profiles.  If you’ve done your research on bifolding and sliding doors, you will frequently come across Schuco.  Professionals in the door industry know Schuco as the German brand, renowned on a global scale for engineering, design and long-term performance. The frame and door parts of Haus doors use the sections from Schuco ADS70.HI system.

The benefits of the Schuco profiles are numerous, such as excellent certified security, impressive thermal performance and a modern looking door. For consumers and the trade, it is a huge selling point to know that one of the best brands in aluminium feature on the door.

The Schuco door is engineered to allow a range of infills to be used in the door creating the many different designs available with Dutemann Haus doors.  Another feature of the Schuco door is three different panel options.

• A framed option is where the panel sits within the door sash just like a piece of glass with the door sash acting as a border or picture frame.
• The panel covering the door sash on the inside.
• The panel covering the door sash on both inside and outside.

The Dutemann Haus entrance door has the leaf-enclosing door infills on both sides.  The benefit of this aesthetically is the appearance of a smooth door that looks wider and taller giving a solid door appearance that looks very modern without the door profile visible.

Features of the Dutemann Haus Entrance door.

The door panels are two quality pressed aluminium skins with a durable polyester powder coated finish. Between the 44mm thick panels is high-density insulation.  There is a choice of solid aluminium panelled doors or partially glazed in a choice of designs. The glass is triple glazed with aluminium or stainless steel accessories.

Door locks and hardware including the handles is important in a quality front door. Dutemann doors feature a range of architectural pull handles made with marine grade stainless steel. Options include brushed steel, coloured handles or contrasting colour handles.

The locking system is premium German engineered multi-point locks with options for automatic locking or the latest smart-locking. Should you wish to upgrade to the latest technology, proximity devices, fingerprint readers, even retina technology is available with a Dutemann front door.

One of the best features of the Dutemann Haus entrance door is the impressive size to meet customer demand for wider and taller door sets. Here is how Dutemann doors compare with some well-known brand of aluminium, composite and timber doors for sizes.

The maximum door sizes from information provided in product technical manuals. The maximum sizes available for panel styles affects the overall door size possible.

Why choose a product like the Dutemann Haus entrance door?

When it comes to aluminium front doors there is a lot of choice from a number of systems and manufacturers.  There are also numerous benefits aluminium doors have over composite doors. Some brands of aluminium front doors will make statements about aluminium compared to PVCu, timber or composite front doors. They imply that that integrity, security or resistance to forced entry is “far better”.  It’s good, however other materials deserve fair representation.

Aluminium as a material is stronger than PVCu, timber cored composite doors and solid wood doors. When both composite doors and aluminium doors go through the same independent security tests and achieve a pass result, then to state that an aluminium door is superior risks misleading to the customer.  Aluminium is, of course, stronger as a material compared to a PVCu door frame found in composite doors.

Choosing an aluminium door will give you a secure front door like all the others but an important reason for choosing an aluminium door over other materials is down to appearance, close up details and aesthetics generally.

• A door from aluminium is thinner yet creates substantially wider and taller doors than other materials.
• Aluminium front doors offer more creative scope for door designs than other doors.
• Aluminium front doors look very impressive when coloured and coated to achieve a woodgrain or textured powder coated finish.
• A bigger choice of colour comes with aluminium front doors provide than composite or PVCu doors.
• Dark colour aluminium front doors are less prone to thermal expansion than other materials.

The appearance of aluminium front doors like a Dutemann.

To really appreciate a front door like the Dutemann Haus, it is close up examination that sets aluminium front doors apart.  It is close up that you can understand the differences between aluminium and other materials.

The powder coated finish and the choice of colour has a more consistent appearance than composite doors as an example. Composite doors rely on other parts to the glazing cassettes, leaving an inconsistent colour match at times.  Aluminium doors and all their colour matched components have a more consistent colour match.

Choose your door supplier carefully and there should be little restriction as to the colour choices available. This is down to the 150 or more colours that come with aluminium.

Dutemann Doors. What we think.

The front door is often the last item to be changed in a property renovation. Homeowners tend to focus a lot of the budget on the other windows and doors in the house first.  Composite doors provide solutions but we know many installations where homeowners, impressed with the finish and appearance of aluminium windows, bifolding doors or sliding doors want the same at the front of the house.

Many front doors can stretch into thousands of pounds making it hard to justify so much money on a front door. Our research shows Dutemann doors sit well at a reasonable price for a quality aluminium front door. Bearing in mind the Schuco profiles and design, the made-to-order nature of the doors and Dutemann is a viable proposition. Compared to far more expensive doors such as Spitfire Doors you get great features.

The Dutemann Haus range gives a home a premium door in aluminium, made to your specification and built to last.  Top quality locking systems, impressive U-Values, concealed hinges and triple glazing are great reasons to take a look at the Dutemann door for the home.  Best of all, Dutemann Haus doors give a home an impressive style with an impressive statement-piece aluminium front door.

For further information on Dutemann doors and where to buy them or to ask a question, contact us.

The post ATS Reviews the Dutemann Haus Entrance Door appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

There is now a new range of integral blinds for front doors available from Morley Glass & Glazing.  The new Screenline SL16 integral blind system improves front doors, such as composite doors. It even enhances vertically sliding sash windows.

Slimline integral blinds for front doors and sliding sash windows.

The new slimline ScreenLine® integral blind system manufactured by Morley Glass and Glazing provides integral blinds for front doors such as composite doors. Examples of the many composite front doors include:

• Solidor Composite Doors
• Door Stop Composite Front Doors
• Rocal Endurance solid core front doors.
• Distinction composite doors
• Truedor composite front doors and many other brands.

We recommend you check to ensure that the integral blind will work with these and other brands of composite doors.

Current generation aluminium and PVCu windows and doors use 24mm or 28mm glazing cavities. These work for both for energy efficiency and to simplify window design.  Another reason is that consistent glazing cavities give systems companies and manufacturers simplicity in manufacture.  A good example is access to the industry-wide range of glazing gaskets and wedges, glazing tapes and packers.  These and other components manufacturers use to glaze a window.

Integral blinds have historically only been suitable for a 28mm glazing cavity. Widely used for bifolding doors, sliding doors, windows and hinged doors, now they suit front doors and sliding windows.

Certain products like composite doors and vertically sliding windows often have thinner glazing cavities.  Therefore a slimmer integral blind is required.  This is where the Screenline SL16 integral blinds for front doors and sliding windows provide a great solution.

The benefits of the Screenline SL16 slimline integral blind system.

The SL16 integral blind is the first integral blind that can be used within a narrower, 16mm glazing cavity. There are also other benefits.

• 10mm slimline slats provide all the benefits of an integral blind with a reduced sight line.
• Ideal for use in many brands of composite doors.
• Can be used in vertical sliding windows.
• Blinds are available in white, beige or silver colours.

For vertically sliding windows, the integral blind should suit the many PVCu brands such as Rehau, Masterframe, Spectus, Roseview, KAT UK and others. Again we recommend you check for suitability with these providers first.

Like all Morley Glass integral blinds, as standard comes quality glass, first-class manufacturing and warm-edge spacer bars. These new integral blinds for front doors come in the choice of the SL16 Venetian blind with a slider control or the SL26C Venetian blind with cord control.

Screenline Integral blinds for the complete home.

The one advantage of the new SL16 Screenline integral blinds for front doors and sliding windows a complete home solution. You now have access to integral blinds in all the window and doors in a house.  Here is an explanation of many features and benefits of blinds housed between two panes of glass. 

Therefore. taking a very typical house today with a traditional front elevation and a modern extension at the back as an example.  The facility exists to have integral blinds throughout.

Contact us if you would like further information about integral blinds for front doors, bifolding doors and windows.

The post Screenline SL16 integral blinds for front doors appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Inline and lift and slide patio doors are two different designs of modern sliding doors.  These two different types of doors and how they work often confuse consumers, especially what they are and which is the better door?  We explain the differences between inline and the lift and slide patio doors.

Why buy modern inline and lift and slide patio doors?

There are many advantages sliding doors have over French Doors and bifolding doors.   Both inline and lift and slide patio doors offer the same benefits in the home.

• Sliding patio doors save space as they do not hinge inside or out like bifolding doors or French Doors.
• Some sliding doors are slimmer than many bifolds. Take a look at the mullion sightlines of virtually all UK sliding door systems.
• The latest generation of minimalist sliding doors provides a virtually frameless appearance.
• A big colour choice just like all aluminium doors and windows.
• A door that is modern, desirable, secure and very weather resistant.
• No other door provides the expansive views like a patio door.

Are inline and lift and slide patio doors the same door?

It is the operation of the doors that differentiates inline from lift and slide. The profiles, sight lines, weather performance and security is the broadly the same. As a result, both types of doors look the same.  In the closed position, you would be hard pushed to tell the difference.  In the open position, the differences are more obvious. The outer frame and door sashes or inline and lift and slide doors differ with many brands, but the differences are hard to spot.

Understanding inline sliding patio doors.

Inline sliding doors sit within their frame held in place at the top and bottom, closing into the frame. The patio door rollers sit directly underneath the bottom that are in permanent contact with the bottom track.  Inline doors use the weight of the doors to slide them open and closed.

An inline patio door you will be familiar with as the traditional sliding door. This is the door you unlock with a key or from the door handle. The door is unlocked, ready to slide open and closed. e door to your desired position.

Inline sliding patio doors come in two, three and four panel configurations and available with double or triple tracks. The more tracks, the more flexibility in where you can slide the panels.

You may think inline sliding doors are old.  Far from it.  Inline doors span bigger widths and heights than ever before. In fact, some of the premium sliding doors such as the Dutemann Glide-S goes to 6.7m wide and over 3 metres high with only two sliding panels.  Most of all, inline sliding doors are flexible, versatile and ideal for both small and large openings.

An explanation of lift and slide patio doors.

First of all, the concept of ‘Lift & Slide’ is not new.  This type of opening for a patio door has been around for many years already and in PVCu doors as well as aluminium.  However, old lift and slide sliding doors did suffer from long-term reliability issues.  This is no longer the case and you can buy lift and slide doors with confidence. The components and gearing used in lift and slide doors are unlike the previous generations, hated for their unreliability and persistent service calls.

Unlike an inline door sitting within its track, lift and slide doors sit directly on the track.  Instead of using the weight of the doors sat on the rollers, lift and slide doors raise the sliding panel onto the rollers. To get the doors to lift onto the rollers, allows us to explain how these doors work. One significant difference is the role of the lift and slide patio door handle.  On an inline door, it is a fixed push and pull handle.  On a lift and slide, the handle does much more.

1.  Turn the handle 180 degrees.
2. You will see the sliding panel raise itself onto the rollers.
3. The raising of the door results in substantially reduced friction and a lighter door.
4. Slide the door to the desired position.
5. To close the doors, slide to closed, rotate the handle the other way and watch the panel drop down into position.

Lift and slide gearing is a system of wheels, levers and clever engineering.  Large and heavy panels lift off the track allowing big doors to move with ease.  This is not to say that inline doors are heavier, but lift and slide doors appear lighter to move.

When an inline door slides there is some friction as the inside and outside faces of the aluminium rub against the seals and weatherstrips.  This can cause friction. You can often hear a door rubbing against the brushes and rubbers as it moves.  Lift and slide doors make less contact with the weather strips, reducing friction.

Which is best? Inline or lift and slide patio doors?

We hope our explanation of inline and lift and slide patio doors helps you to understand the differences in how these two modern sliding doors work. Both types are slim, both are secure and both are built to last. Therefore, which is the better door?

Lift and slide patio doors will be slightly more expensive than inline doors yet offer the same benefits. Therefore budget and personal preference may influence your buying decision.  It is worth mentioning that the latest generation of minimalist sliding doors is available inline only.

One key feature found in lift and slide patio doors that may convince you to buy them.

Lift and slide doors are lockable in the open position. Simply slide the doors to where you want them, turn the handle and the door rests back down onto the frame and locks.  Locking a partially open inline door is not possible.

We do not recommend any locked open door should be left unattended. The ability to prevent the door being moved when open will appeal to many. It is useful for stopping children playing with the doors, prevents accidental operation and allows a partially open door to be locked and provide ventilation.

Contact us for more information and where to buy aluminium sliding doors in your area.

The post What are Inline and lift and slide patio doors? appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

The Ali Vu Window is new, launched in early 2018 by Senior Architectural Systems, targeted at the residential market.

We take a look at this new slim aluminium casement window in our review.

Slimline Ali Vu Window for the residential market.

First of all, Senior Architectural Systems deserves a more visible presence in the residential market.   By this we mean more domestic installers being aware of Senior products for the home.  Senior products are widely specified in the residential and commercial market.  Examples include developments of flats, apartments, student accommodation care homes.

The product range from Senior Systems is significant.  Anyone considering Senior gets a range of aluminium windows and doors, curtain walling, bifolding doors and commercial door systems. The range of hybrid windows and doors is available at Express Bifolds in their Leeds and Reading showrooms.  You’ll also find Senior Systems does excellent secondary double glazing.

Talk to any Senior fabricator, and they will say how easy to make their products are as well as easy to fit.  We would encourage residential installers to check out the suitability of Senior windows and doors.  In a market with AluK, Smart Systems, Origin, Reynaers and Schuco, (as good as these systems are), the Senior name could give installers something of a niche.   The reality is everyone’s aluminium showroom has these favourite brands. Technically and aesthetically Senior windows and doors are good. The Ali Vu Window is one of their latest additions to the residential market.

Features of Senior Systems Ali Vu Windows.

Focusing on the suitability of this new casement window for the residential market, there are many features.   The most notable being the slim sight lines. Senior Architectural Systems is marketing Ali Vu as a super slimline aluminium window. It indeed is thin, but worth comparing to other brands.

Here is how the Senior Ali Vu Window compares against other well-known residential systems for fixed light and opening sash dimensions.

The dimensions are from the outside of the frame to the glass line.  The dimensions shown use the widest front to back frames on the system., not the short leg frames. We have also taken the dimensions using standard and not the extended leg versions of the outer frame.  These dimensions suit new build openings, but for replacement window applications, you will need frame extensions.   Consequently, the above dimensions increase as a result of having a frame extension.

Aesthetics and Window Options.

In line with other quality window systems on the market, the new Senior Ali Vu comes in a range of window profiles and options.

There are two types of window frame comprising a standard and an extended as well as ovolo style.  The sash profiles consist of a radius vent for the more traditional looking window, a flat vent section for the more modern and even a stepped vent where customers want the pencil line detail.  An externally beaded sash option is useful when windows need the beads on the outside. Mullions and transoms feature both screw-port and shear block versions depending upon the configuration of the window. There are also the expected rebate adaptors for internal glazing beads.

The remainder of the window suite utilises both individual and system-wide profiles such as the glazing beads, corner posts, couplers and window cills. Fabricators will advise on which beads are not available with some vent sections such as a clash can occur with the gearbox side of the profile.

Regardless of the section chosen, this new Senior Systems aluminium window offers a modern, slimline appearance that makes it suitable for the replacement of old windows or into new openings. Also available with this window are Georgian bars, astragal bars and a choice of window handles both locking and non-locking, operating multi-point window gearing.

Colours.

Senior Systems has a state-of-the-art powder coating facility and offers Ali Vu in the full range of polyester powder coated colours.

Like the Senior Ali FOLD and PURe® doors, stock profiles in single and dual colour RAL 7016 Grey and White RAL 9910 Gloss offer the new window range on faster lead times.

Window performance.

As you would expect from a latest generation aluminium window, Senior has ensured their new slimline aluminium window meets or exceeds the required standards for thermal performance, security and overall weathering.

• Using a domestic CEN Standard window, U-Values as low as 1.1 W/ m2K.
• Triple glazed windows achieve A+ Rating, double glazed window A Window Energy Rating.
• 28mm to 44mm glazing cavity readily accepts all types of glazing including integral blinds or triple glazing.
• Thoroughly security tested to PAS24:2012 Enhanced Security and Document Q for new build homes.
• Weather tested to BS6375.
• The full range of RAL powder coated colours.

Senior Systems Ali VU Multi Frame option.

Added to the Ali Vu window is the Multi-Frame option. What Multi-Frame does is give greater flexibility to the aluminium system.  It provides a wide range of internally or externally beaded window designs.  The benefit of this applies to multiple panel windows or screens with combinations of fixed lights and opening sashes. Multi-frame uses the Ali VU SPW700700 multi-frame outer frame profiles converting external beaded profiles to internal and vice versa. As a result, Ali-Vu Multi-frame is a very flexible window system.

Senior Systems should market their windows better to the end user.

The Senior press release on this new aluminium window said:

Commenting on the new product launch, Senior Architectural System’s sales director James Keeling-Heane said: Along with Senior’s established Ali FOLD aluminium doors, the new Ali VU aluminium window has been specifically developed with the trade fabricator and installer in mind, offering a range of benefits that can be passed on to the domestic end-user.

It seems like Seniors should say “developed with the end user” in mind because:

• Trade fabricators focus on and prefer supplying ready-made unglazed windows. They are not interested in marketing to end users or installers for that matter. As a result, they do not pass on the benefits of any product to the domestic end user.
• Commercial fabricators (the majority of Senior manufacturers) are not interested in the residential market. Consequently, there can be a shortage of residential fabricators and installers.
• Installers decide on what product to offer homeowners differently from trade and commercial fabricators or systems companies. Therefore it is installers systems companies must target to reach the homeowner.
• End users and homeowners marketed to effectively are more likely to ask for your brand by name. Another reason is system company service levels are of little interest to the end user. Neither is ease of fabrication and installation.  It’s the product they desire and request.

Finally, to Senior Systems, we think the effort in targeting the end user better directly would pay dividends. Origin, for example, is arguably the one company that has successfully got its brand across to the end user. Other examples are Centor, Sunfold and Sunflex to name just a few.  To rely on your trade fabricator base (when many of them are in the commercial market) to sell your products to the installer and, in turn, to the end user is not going to promote a good product like this to the end user effectively.

Senior Ali Vu Windows. What we think.

To conclude, close examination of the Senior technical manuals as well as other data, reveals that the Senior Architectural Ali Vu has all the features of a slimline, modern aluminium window. This is especially relevant for the growing residential market.  This window, alongside the range of single doors, double doors bifolding and sliding doors, therefore, offers installers a complete one-brand product for the home.

Homeowners looking for aluminium windows in their new extension, the Ali Vu window is worth considering.  You can comfortably place this window alongside AluK, Smart Systems, SAPA or other brands.  On a like-for-like basis in virtually all areas, it is comparable.  It is suitable for new extensions or to replace your existing windows and doors. It’s slim, it’s attractive and complemented by some good Senior door products as well. If you want to use the new Senior Ali Vu window to replace your old windows you will invariably need to use the extended outer frame which will increase the overall sightlines of the window. However, this is no different from other slimline windows on the market.

Finally, for installers, we think there is an excellent sales opportunity in checking out the Senior range of windows and doors. The UK residential market has some very strong brands for windows. Offering the Senior suite could give your business a  competitive edge. In addition to this new slimline window, take a look at Senior’s hybrid range. It’s very capable indeed.

Contact us for more information and where to buy the new Senior Architectural Systems Ali Vu window.

The post Senior Architectural Systems Ali Vu Window Reviewed appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

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Synseal’s new Warmcore inline patio door joins the many aluminium sliding doors available today. It is another contender for homeowners and the trade to consider when choosing a new sliding door.  We take an in-depth look at this new sliding door joining the Warmcore bifold, entrance door and windows family.

The new Warmcore inline patio door faces stiff competition.

The patio door market is growing and the Warmcore inline patio door faces a lot of competition. Visit any trade show, renovation exhibition or home improvement showroom and there is a huge choice in patio sliding doors.  Smart Systems and AluK continue to dominate the mainstream ‘builders favourite’ market with their Visoglide and Optio BSC94 patio doors.  Available with 35mm and 45mm interlocks, they join the other trend in sliding doors. That is slimmer doors with thinner interlocks or mullions.

Then we come to the other growing trend in aluminium sliding doors. That is the minimalist or slim-framed sliding doors.  Origin, Air, Infiniglide and several other brands use the Spanish Cortizo product.  The Infiniglide 6 by Arkhay Windows uses the Greek Orama system from Exalco.

With the new Warmcore sliding patio door, Synseal is not out to take on the ultra-premium door market. Their new door is attractive but thick compared to much slimmer systems on the market.  We will examine sight lines and where this product can sit further on in this review.

Everyone knows that the monetary savings to be made between a super energy-efficient product and a standard C-Rated window are not substantial.  We don’t see homeowners choosing a product solely on the back of how energy efficient it is.  Homeowners expect energy efficient windows and doors as standard, even if the sales messages around energy efficiency remain as confusing as ever.

Features of the new Warmcore sliding patio door.

Synseal’s new Warmcore sliding door is a latest-generation aluminium slider with PVCu thermal core and aluminium extrusions inside and out.

It is only an inline door with no lift and slide option available. You also only get a single track.  This is another reason why the door sits in the middle market rather than the high end.  To create a lift and slide as well as a multiple track sliding door exceeds the capability of the Warmcore system.

You can buy the Warmcore door in the following configurations and size limits.

A surprising limited choice of colour with Warmcore sliding doors.

As you would expect from an aluminium sliding door it is powder coated. However, it appears only to come as a white or a grey door. You only get Grey RAL 7016 and what Synseal calls “Pure White’. There is no mention of any other colour availability.

Given it is already powder coated and the colour availability across other Warmcore we see no reason why the RAL colour range is unavailable. A probable reason for this is lead times and stockholding but a weak reason nonetheless.  A system company of Synseal’s calibre can comfortably accommodate other powder coated colours. All they need to do is work with a reliable powder coater.

We would love to hear from Synseal on why a door brought out in a competitive market offers such little colour choice.

Warmcore sliding doors will appeal to homeowners for their safety features.

Up to now, we see a new to the market patio door that only has panels up to 2metres wide and 2.4 high.  Many other door brands go bigger.  Warmcore only comes in two standard colours.  Other brands offer more standard stock colours and at least 150 other colours.  However, the Warmcore inline patio door excels in its operation and its clever safety features.

We tried the beta version of Warmcoore at the 2017 FiT Show finding it smooth as butter to open and close.  The door uses a highly-engineered wheelset having 10 self-levelling rollers on each sash.  And it works.  The sliding action of the door is super-smooth and very light.

Rarely seen on a patio door is the safety brake system. Safety Brake is an option that prevents the doors from being slammed shut. It also works as an anti-finger trap device. This will appeal hugely to families choosing bifolding doors on the back of their finger safe gaskets. The safety brake slows down the door to a soft final close, dampening the closing force significantly. The door offers this safety feature on either the lock side or opening side as well as both sides.

What we think of the new Warmcore Inline Patio door.

What the new Warmcore inline patio door does is offer another new product to sit in the general patio door market rather than the high end.  It is hard to know just how successful Warmcore has been as a concept.  Synseal markets the entire Warmcore suite on the back of the full-width PVCu thermal core giving better U-Values with less expensive glass.  We say aesthetics matter far more to homeowners than energy efficiency.

That said, many established trade fabricators and manufacturers sell a lot of Warmcore. Examples are Total Glass, TWR Bifolds, Quickslide and others.  Aluhaus in Nottingham has taken the Warmcore bifolding door and substantially re-engineered it, creating a rather special folding door as well.

We have not focused much on the security and weather performance standards of the Warmcore patio door. The reason for this is any new door today will come with good security and weather performance credentials.  It is as secure a door as any other. The Wamcore sliding door is upgradeable to a Secured By Design specification with a simple laminated glass upgrade as well.

The handle is a one piece, lift to lock arrangement only having a grey or black colour option. As a result, this limits the personalisation options some more.  For installers, there is a 35mm add-on for a trickle ventilator as well as 25mm frame extensions. You also get a big choice of cills. The low threshold and DDA compliant threshold is avery useful thing on a sliding door.

It is great to slide open and shut and the safety brake is a great feature of the door making it family friendly.

So is the Warmcore sliding door worth buying?

If you want a highly insulated aluminium door that is flush and modern in appearance, if a little chunky, then the Warmcore inline patio door is a good proposition.  The interlock is 84.5mm making it twice as thick as the Smart Systems Visoglide door with the slim interlock. That said, slim interlocks are widely marketed but some of the best looking doors are reasonably thick in appearance. You can see how Warmcore compares in sightlines to other sliding doors on the market.  The new Comar sliding door we recently reviewed appears a better proposition.

The limited colour choice we think is an issue even though white and grey are two very popular colours.  Black would be a good third option.

Finally, the Warmcore door gives a one-system solution in the home with an entire suite of Warmcore aluminium products that also includes the Stratus Lantern Roof. If you like the door, the price is agreeable and you are confident in the company supplying it, then buy it.

The post ATS reviews the new Warmcore Inline Patio Door appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

Slimline aluminium windows are one of the fastest growing trends. They are great for replacing old steel and other metal windows. They are also very popular in new extensions and home renovations.  So the obvious question is, how much do steel replacement windows cost, and are they a good investment?

In this article, we explain how prices are worked out and offer some guide prices on several product types.  In a previous article we explained how to compare aluminium windows with Steel.

Background information about steel replacement windows

First of all, aluminium steel replacement windows are not exact Crittall® style windows.  This 160-year-old company has a worldwide reputation for windows fabricated from quality steel and built to last.  The authentic window only comes from the company that designs, makes and trademarks it. What aluminium steel replacement windows do is offer a cheaper alternative. They are not the same, but they meet what is presently a strong consumer demand and growing trend.

Steel-look Schuco doors with AluK Optio 58BW ST Windows. Supplied by UK Windows Surrey.

To find out how much steel replacement windows cost, you need to seek out the right brand from some of the aluminium systems on offer.  Most of the major systems companies have an aluminium suite designed and intended to replicate old steel windows.  The reality is that any knowledgeable window company can create a product in the old style. What they need to do is be aware of the right system with the appropriate sight lines and dimensions. , the right glazing bars and the right hardware.

Factors affecting the price you pay for steel replacement windows.

Several factors in buying steel-replacement windows will affect the price you pay. We explain some of these.

Buying the right steel replacement window product.

The cheapest steel replacement window will be any window (even PVCu) with glazing bars planted on it. Anybody can do this, and many do. If you like this option in your home that is your choice.  We say you need to look at the better options to see the difference.  We have seen installations of products like Origin windows and bifolds with applied glazing bars to create the steel look. The result is an outstanding (if thick) aluminium window and a door that, in reality, has none of the features of old metal windows.

The attraction behind steel replacement windows is their slim lines. Therefore if your window company intends to apply glazing bars to an otherwise standard window or door, you will not get the best look. Although we respect, this is subjective.  So what product you choose affects the steel replacement windows cost. The same applies to doors.

Who makes your windows.

It is easy to assume that you will save money if you buy directly from a manufacturer. Some manufacturers make and install their windows.  An installer buying in your windows and doors can also buy well and be competitive in their selling prices. Therefore it does not really matter whether your windows are purchased in from a good trade supplier or made for you by the same company.

It is also worth remembering that overheads, fitting charges, profit margins and even regional fluctuations will affect the price. Finally the aluminium extrusions many come from Europe as well as the UK.

The colour of your windows affects the steel replacement window cost.

Black polyester powder coated windows and doors are the most popular as it replicates the style of the original metal window. Many systems companies today offer a range of standard colour at the same price as white.  If black is in the standard range, then you will not pay the surcharge typically applicable to individual colour windows. Your installer will guide you accordingly.  Also, bear in mind that a non-standard colour affects the lead time.

Window extras and accessories.

For steel replacement windows and doors in new extensions, think about if you have any special cills for your windows, aluminium corner posts, aluminium trims and other accessories. A good window supplier can source these for you, have them painted at the same time or alongside the windows and help to keep the cost down.

For windows, you can expect a good supplier to offer bulb end, art deco and monkey tail handles.  Peg stays and external traditional hinges also come with many products. Bear traditional style handles come in a limited choice of finishes such as black, brass or pewter.

For doors, the handle makes all the difference to the aesthetics of the product.

Why steel replacement windows cost more than standard windows.

When you buy a regular aluminium window, it usually comes unglazed from the manufacturer. Your window supplier tends to buy their own glass direct which helps to keep prices lower.

With steel replacement windows having applied aluminium bars, it is often the case that the windows are bought in glazed. The reason for this is so that the bars can be correctly applied in a factory environment for the best fit and finish. Especially relevant is a neat and seamless bar applied to the window frame and window beads. Some window companies choose to fit those on site, but factory glazing is preferred. As a result, the labour costs in making steel replacement windows tend to be higher. Steel replacement windows will be more expensive than standard aluminium windows.

Doors and windows below 800mm from finished floor level require toughened or laminated safety glass as well.

Approximate prices for steel look windows and doors.

Open the gallery to take a look at some typical systems and products with indicative prices of what steel replacement windows cost. We have also incuded doors and screens as well. Please bear in mind prices are guide prices only, including VAT and fitting.  Always get a quotation from a specialist.

What to consider when buying steel replacement windows and doors.

If you are looking for credible aluminium windows that are slim, with the right colours and hardware options, then seek out an installer that knows the product. As mentioned earlier, we do not think a basic window with the plant-on bars achieves the effect you require. Always go for a product designed from the outset as a Heritage or steel-replacement window.

A well-designed window with the correct type and style of applied bars achieves a great appearance. You will find various sizes of bar, but typically at 25mm, 41mm and 48mm. You will find some products; particularly doors suit the thicker bars better. This is for technical reasons concerning the lock and to line through with the primary transoms. Fixed windows and screens look great with the slimmer 25mm astragal bars. As a result, you may not get exactly the same size of bars throughout your home.

Looking to buy steel-replacement windows? We can help.

Contact us for more information or to ask us a question.  We can also put you in touch with specialist suppliers of steel-replacement windows, doors, bifolding doors, internal screens and sliding doors. Our help and advice are free.

The post How much do steel replacement windows cost? appeared first on Aluminium Trade Supply.

The front door to a home needs to be attractive, secure and reliable. In this article, we explain the main features of aluminium front doors and some pointers on who we think makes the best aluminium entrance doors.

Often the front door is the last item in a substantial home improvement project.  Composite doors are a cheap and high-quality alternative to a front door. Some of the best aluminium entrance doors provide all the advantages of a composite door with even more features and benefits.

Features of the best aluminium entrance doors.

To choose the right aluminium front door for your home, it is worth looking at their construction and design. There are three common types of construction for aluminium doors.

• The aluminium door with an inset decorative panel.
• An aluminium door manufactured with the panel as an integral part of the structure.
• A structurally bonded aluminium front door.

All types of aluminium entrance doors provide security and reliability.  Where they tend to differ is in their appearance and their price point.  The aluminium door with the inset decorative panel is usually much cheaper.

Whichever of the two types of aluminium entrance doors you look at all will come with the following specifications as standard:

• Durable powder coated finish in a big selection of colours.
• Extensive options for handles, locks and door furniture.
• Secure multi-point, manual or electronic locking systems.
• Single or double door options.
• Thermal efficiency.

Advantages of aluminium front doors.

Aluminium entrance doors we consider superior to plastic PVCu doors as well as composite doors.  While composite doors such as the Solidor or the Endurance are solid and secure, aluminium front doors provide some key benefits. These benefits are enhanced when there are other aluminium products in the home as well such as bifolding doors, sliding doors and aluminium windows.

• Higher thermal insulation
• Even better security as aluminium doors accepts substantially more locking points.
• Exceptional acoustic insulation
• Very stable front door sets.
• An exact colour match to other aluminium products in the home, not a near match like composite doors or foiled PVCu doors.

Understanding the aluminium door and frame system.

It is worth knowing that often the panel and the door profiles are two different products, frequently from different manufacturers.  There are companies that specialise in making panels for aluminium entrance doors. These panels are integrated within aluminium residential door systems, for example in the Dutemann Haus entrance door that uses the renowned Schuco system.  The aluminium system used is very important when choosing some of the best aluminium entrance doors.  The reason for this is the design, testing and engineering of the door profiles irrespective of whether it is panelled for a front door or glazed for a back door.

So one consideration in choosing some of the best aluminium entrance doors is knowing the system that is behind it. Ask what system is behind the overall product.

Dutemann Haus, Hormann, Internorm, Spitfire, Pirnar doors and many others all utilise sophisticated aluminium systems and a high quality construction. Other quality front doors use profiles such as Comar Architectural Systems or Smart Systems.

Understanding aluminium panels in front doors.

The other important component in some of the best aluminium front doors is the door panel. A quality aluminium door panel will comprise:

• A thick aluminium panel. Over 40mm is ideal.
• Internal and external aluminium skins that have a good thickness, typically 3mm.
• A thermally efficient inner core as well as suitable reinforcement within. U-Value of about 1.2Wm2K are typical.
• A door panel that feels weighty and solid.  A good test is to knock on the door and see how it feels.

By nature of the panel construction, thermal efficiency will come as standard.  If your door panel has glass elements, these should be precise in their detailing and fitted from the inside with hidden fixings or an internal bezel.

There are several ways to construct aluminium entrance doors around the panel.  These are typically:

• The glaze-in arrangement.  This is where the panel is glazed into the door just like glass. The door leaf is stepped away from the panel creating an attractive border.
• The door panel having an extended leg covering the inside, outside or both sides of the door. This creates a flush looking door without the ‘picture frame’ detail of the glaze-in method.
• More expensive doors that are built around the door panel or structurally bonded.

The technology used in aluminium entrance doors.

Technology in aluminium door construction, security and design have advanced significantly in recent years. As a result, modern aluminium doors offer high engineering, clever features and high insulation the maximum in security and thermal efficiency just like their PVCu and timber counterparts.

Aluminium doors have far better hardware solutions compared to plastic or composite doors being available with a wider choice of locks and handles owing to the absence of a ‘eurogroove’ upon which so many plastic and composite doors are based.  There are other benefits not available with PVCu such as completely concealed door hinges, a far wider choice of pull handles, greater ironmongery options and much more.

When it comes to appearance, gadgets, security and customisation there is a lot of choice with some of the best aluminium entrance doors on the market. Aside from a huge choice of colours, textures and fine detailing, accessories are on-trend.

The upper-tier of aluminium entrance doors come with a lot of technology built-in. Examples include:

• Top quality materials including all aluminium, hybrid aluminium-timber or aluminium and steel.
• Automatic or manual closing.
• Features such as integrated LED lighting.
• Automatic door locks, fingerprint scanners and connection to home automation systems.
• Electromechanical locks also offering access control.
• Quadruple-glass units.

What you want on your door depends on the product and your budget.  It is possible to spend upwards of £10000 on a high-specification, technology-laden aluminium front door.

Choosing contemporary or traditional front doors.

Every quality door panel manufacturer and supplier will be able to demonstrate a range of both contemporary door sets as well as the more traditional designs.  As a result, whatever style you want for your home won’t differ very much in construction.

To modern or traditional doors comes a choice of glass options, locking systems, door accessories and a choice of door handles.

Understanding door sizes and designs.

One of the main reasons to choose an aluminium entrance door over the composite door is more flexibility in panel sizes and overall door sizes. For example, composite doors can be unsuitable for cottages and older houses with narrow doorways owing to panel size limitations. While aluminium entrance doors are can also be restricted by size, there is usually more flexibility for smaller doors.  For large door sets, aluminium has the biggest advantage.  Here is how door sizes compare for and double doors. Also included are some composite and timber doors to provide a comparison.

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