The Deceuninck Decalu system brings all the benefits of aluminium with some similar technology used in the well-established PVCu systems Deceuninck has an excellent reputation for.
Deceuninck Decalu Windows and Doors
Comprising a collection of eight different products, Decalu aluminium caters for modern, traditional, steel look, hidden and flush profiles for windows. For the door suite, there are bifolding and sliding doors as well as residential doors.
Created in Europe and well established there, the Decalu system complements Deceuninck PVCu products and offers an aluminium solution from one trusted systems company.
Deceuninck Decalu uses high quality aluminium profiles with an advanced thermal break. Furthermore, Decalu aluminium windows provide excellent window energy ratings and high performance.
Manufacturing Decalu profiles is easy. Simplified design, labour-saving features, hidden gaskets, concealed drainage. These and other technical innovations create a high-tech aluminium system with very pleasing sightlines. The products are also smart, letting existing PVCu fabricators transition easily into aluminium with fabrication features they’re already familiar with.
Products Available with Deceuninck Decalu
Fixed and casement aluminium windows, as well as residential doors, provide a complete aluminium solution for residential and light commercial projects. All aluminium profiles come with a durable powder-coated finish or a choice of special colours.
Decalu Casement Windows.
The Decalu88 standard provides modern-looking windows with slimline profiles. They come with a familiar open out casement with a square bead, groove on the inside and overlapping casement on the outside. Also available is the hidden sash design that’s hidden entirely behind the frame. This excellent feature creates ultra-modern looking windows with added architectural appeal and a sleeker overall appearance.
Retro casement windows come in the form of Deceuninck Decalu94. These have a profiled outer frame and sash internally, typical of classic wood or metal windows. The exterior comes with a flat appearance.
For steel look designs or industrial-styled windows, Decalu110 Steel offers slimline windows. Modern, attractive, functional and capitalising on the current trend for windows in the look of steel. Ideal for modern extensions, old building renovations and other applications without losing the architectural appeal of the building. There’s also the option of the Decalu88 slimline version with reduced sightlines.
Decalu Residential Doors.
Also in the Decalu 88 range are residential single and double doors. These provide a flush-mounted design, low threshold options and suitable for both modern projects or traditional houses. The doors come as fully glazed or combined with plain or decorative aluminium panels.
For bifolding doors, Decalu88 bifolds come in multiple configurations. Choose opening in or out, with standard or low thresholds and the option of triple glazing. The sightlines are square, appealing to the wider market.
Sliding doors in the Deceuninck Decalu163 suite provide lift and slide patio doors with strength and reliability. Decalu163 also comes at reduced sizes creating horizontal sliding windows.
Origin bifolding doors now come as two models, the OB-72 and OB-49, thoroughly reviewed by us. Therefore you now have two products to choose, both with the legendary Origin quality, brand name and guarantee. In this article, we help you understand more about the latest Origin bifolding doors. We also give some advice on practical considerations to help you choose the most suitable model.
First of all, nothing changes in how these two doors come to you. Only Origin makes Origin products in their hi-tech Buckinghamshire factory. The benefits of an exclusive manufacturer are always-consistent quality, reliable lead times and extensive product support to the Origin dealer network. Choosing the best bifolding door comes down to many factors, but for brand reputation, few doors beat Origin.
You get the same insulated aluminium profiles, durable powder-coated finishes and an expertly crafted bifolding door. The paint and manufacturing warranty remains the same too.
Therefore for peace of mind, both the OB-72 and OB-49 products offer you the same. Choosing between these products comes down to configuration, sizes, colours, handle options and aesthetics. Above all, both products remain suitable for replacing old patio doors and especially useful in a new extension.
For clarity, the OB-72 model remains the Origin product with a new name. The OB-49 is new but uses the existing Origin outer frame and hardware.
Bifolding door sightlines.
With bifolding door sightlines being so important it is you’ll want to make a choice. While the OB-72 isn’t the thinnest bifold on the market, it remains one of the best selling doors. The OB-49, amongst similarly-designed and bead-glazed doors is now one of the slimmest bifolds.
The 154mm sightline at the meeting stiles of the OB-72 is drastically reduced to just 110mm on the OB-49. This new slimline bifold beats Schuco, Reynaers, Sunflex, the entire Express Bifolds range and many other brands too. You need to compare the two doors side by side to see the differences in visible aluminium.
Therefore, if the visible face thickness of the closed doors matters to you, the Origin OB-49 is the one to go for. It’s also a worthy contender on sightlines to the other excellent brands we mentioned above.
The Smart Systems Visofold 6000 remains the thinnest bifold door if you want the least visible aluminium. While this is a very good door from a great systems company, the Origin door gives you better components, handles and more customisation options. The lead times are also faster with standard colours on the legendary Origin Your Lead Time Not Ours service.
Classic vs Contemporary looking doors
The next difference between the doors is of overall appearance. The OB-72 gives you a 72mm wide door sash with a chamfered bead. This means the door has a flat aesthetic outside and slightly rounded on the inside.
The OB-49 uses a 49mm sash with the same flat appearance outside and a square flat bead on the inside. For you, this means you’ll get a flatter interior look with the slimmer model, but both doors look great in both traditional and contemporary houses, new extensions and even interiors.
As with any major investment in the home, go see the doors, and compare the aesthetics. In our view, the classic styling of the OB-72 has never affected sales or the product. You may also find the original bifold more suitable if your property has traditional aluminium or even PVCu windows with a chamfered design on the inside.
Your bifolding door configuration and sizes
Both Origin OB-72 and OB-49 bifolding doors work for all standard sizes and different configurations. The OB-72 model will be your only choice when designing open corner bifolding doors and for doors taller than 2500mm high.
The slimmer OB-49 model comes with the same maximum 1200mm width but won’t go as tall. A while back, Origin increased the height of their larger model up to 3m high. For clarity, fixed corner posts are fine with the slimmer door, moving/open corner posts only with the OB-72.
Customising Origin OB-72 and OB-49 bifolding doors
Personalising an Origin product remains one of the strengths of the product. Both products come with excellent options, but the newer bifold understandably has fewer colour and hardware options. It’s easier to explain what you don’t get with the OB-49 that you do with the OB-72. Not available with this door are:
The range of woodgrain finishes
The traditionally styled Yale door handles with a one-piece lever/escutcheon plate or key locking slave handles
The bigger range of colours on fast lead times
The midrail option
Gold door furniture
24mm glass thickness, only 28mm as standard
Generally, the OB-72 provides more colour options and more ways to colour match or contrast the bifold door hardware. That said, for most standard colours and designs, the OB-49 meets your needs just as well. Best of all, both models offer the great Origin feature of colour coded seals, something we’ve not yet seen on any other bifold on the market. Seven different gasket colours let you move away from the traditional black gaskets of other doors.
Steel-look bifolding doors
It’s also worth mentioning that several Origin installers customise the OB-49 as a steel-look bifold. The steel look also applies to the single and double hinged door options too.
Adding aluminium glazing bars to the outside and inside faces of the glass, neatly joining the vertical door sashes, creates a steel-styled bifolding door. Get in touch with us for more information about steel-replacement systems.
Choosing between Origin OB-72 and OB-49 bifolding doors
You’ll get an excellent product with either option. The 20-year guarantee, fast lead times and Origin windows, sliding doors and front doors complete your home improvement project.
Existing OB-72 models could even be upgraded to the OB-49. Both doors use the same outer frame and components. Therefore, at additional cost, you could replace your door panels with the new slimmer sashes and new glass too.
Contact us to ask a question and find out more or use the links on this page for more information about Origin products.
The Deceuninck Aluminium system brings all the benefits of aluminium with some similar technology used in the well-established PVCu systems Deceuninck has an excellent reputation for.
Deceuninck Aluminium Windows and Doors
Comprising a collection of eight different products, Decalu aluminium caters for modern, traditional, steel look, hidden and flush profiles for windows. For the door suite, there are bifolding and sliding doors as well as residential doors.
Created in Europe and well established there, the Decalu system complements Deceuninck PVCu products and offers an aluminium solution from one trusted systems company.
Deceuninck Decalu uses high quality aluminium profiles with an advanced thermal break. Furthermore, Decalu aluminium windows provide excellent window energy ratings and high performance.
Manufacturing Decalu profiles is easy. Simplified design, labour-saving features, hidden gaskets, concealed drainage. These and other technical innovations create a high-tech aluminium system with very pleasing sightlines. The products are also smart, letting existing PVCu fabricators transition easily into aluminium with fabrication features they’re already familiar with.
Products Available with Deceuninck Aluminium
Fixed and casement aluminium windows, as well as residential doors, provide a complete aluminium solution for residential and light commercial projects. All aluminium profiles come with a durable powder-coated finish or a choice of special colours.
Casement Windows.
The Decalu88 standard provides modern-looking windows with slimline profiles.
Retro casement windows come in the form of Deceuninck Decalu94.
Decalu110 Steel offers slimline windows in a similar look to steel.
Residential Doors.
For single and double doors Deceuninck Aluminium offers the Decalu 88 with a flush casement design.
Bifolding doors come served also by the 88 system.
For Sliding doors, there’s the lift and slide Decalu 163 slide version.
More information about Deceuninck
Use our contact form for more information. The trade can contact us for more information about fabricating the system and homeowners to view the products and where to buy,.
Deceuninck already enjoys an excellent reputation in the UK and Europe with their range of PVCu windows and doors. New to the UK is the Decalu Aluminium range based on the already successful European Systems. In this article, we give an overview of what you can expect with Decalu Aluminium by Deceuninck.
Information about Decalu Aluminium by Deceuninck
Deceuninck is a long-established company with operations in Europe, North America and elsewhere. Better known for PVCu products in the UK, the Decalu aluminium system has been in Europe since 2017. Multiple production sites, extensive warehousing and distribution centres place the company very well to serve both existing and emerging markets.
With Decalu, the company introduced the system, meeting the current demand for aluminium products. In fact, aluminium sits very well alongside the entire product range. In researching the system we found a lot of window companies all over Europe promoting Decalu and marketing the system very favourably.
There is also what we see as changing trends in windows and doors generally. Our view is that windows will move towards even more insulation and performance. Other than going to higher-performance glass or triple glazing, one way of achieving this is through hybrid windows. These embrace a combination of materials with aluminium.
In the Decalu aluminium system, Deceuninck doesn’t use the conventional thermal break of other systems. The company is using its expertise behind its PVCu product with a visible European slant on the aluminium products. They’re quite different in design too. And we think the will certainly appeal in the UK market too.
Moving to aluminium in the UK is also a logical step. A healthy market, an established system and the backing of the systems company. And with plastics being an integral part of the company, why not integrate these into aluminium profiles providing better U-Values too.
Deceuninck Aluminium Windows Collection.
For the window manufacturer, this Decalu comes with several features designed to simply fabrication and stockholding. Press releases state that dual colour and marine-grade powder coating is to be standard. Very cleverly, Deceuninck has also designed a system that long-standing PVCu fabricators can easily integrate with familiar manufacturing techniques they already use in producing PVCu. An example of this is retaining the PVC-U Eurogroove using the same gearing and hardware.
The obvious benefit is less factory disruption and a more seamless transition for those looking to start making the system. Of course, they’ll also be dealing with a systems company they’re already familiar with.
Other features of the Decalu System.
Deceuninck also says that the system will come with features as standard offering a little more than you get with the current crop of systems like Aluk, Smarts, Origin, Schuco, Reynaers and others. Here are just some of them.
Casement windows, residential doors, sliding doors and bifolding doors within one system.
Colour matching to the current Deceuninck Colorways
The ability to sell both PVCu and aluminium products from one system – ideal where bifolds and sliders remain more popular in aluminium.
Pre-inserted gaskets without the shrinkage associated with conventional manual methods of insertion.
Enhancements designed to offer fabricators savings on production costs and improved margins.
Types of Decalu Aluminium Windows
The aluminium windows series comprises Decalu 88, Decalu 94, Decalu 110. In this range, you’ll find several window options meeting most homeowner or trade requirements for aluminium windows.
The Decalu 88 series provides flush casement top hung or side hung windows. These also provide desirable sightlines that will appeal to both traditional or modern houses, thanks to their even looks and seamless lines. They come with a familiar open out casement with a square bead, groove on the inside and overlapping casement on the outside.
Also available is the hidden sash design that’s hidden entirely behind the frame. This excellent feature creates ultra-modern looking windows with added architectural appeal and a sleeker overall appearance.
Those looking for steel-look windows have the option of two options in the Decalu 110 and Steel look 88. The frame depth match in millimetres the system name. One offers a similar look to the W20 series with a picture frame detail. The other has a more profiled, industrial look. Ideal for modern extensions, old building renovations and other applications without losing the architectural appeal of the building. choosing the Decalu88 slimline version promises a window with reduced sightlines.
There is also a hidden sash design. Choosing the hidden sash model provides the benefit of one sightline throughout, irrespective of whether the window has fixed or opening elements. Few aluminium systems in the UK have this option. Furthermore, we think will appeal to many for its flush look without the obvious sightline where the window opens.
The Decalu 88 hidden sash looks neat, seamless and flush viewed from the outside with the opening light sitting behind an additional profile. The hidden sash window is slightly deeper at 94mm where most other windows come at 83mm. That said, you get very good thermal insulation and acoustics in double or triple glazing. The water-resistance of the window is also excellent at 2250Pa.
Hidden hinges and invisible gasket lines are also nice features of this window.
Finally, the Decalu 94 retro has a similar external appearance to wood windows. Here you get a sculptured look around the window perimeter and a neat groove separating the frame and the sash.
Decalu 88 with hidden sash
Decalu 94 retro
Neutral Flush Casement
Steel-look appearance
All section drawing images from Deceuninck.co.uk
The Deceuninck collection of residential doors.
Also in the Decalu 88 range are residential single and double doors. These provide a flush-mounted design, low threshold options and suitable for both modern projects or traditional houses. The doors come as fully glazed or combined with plain or decorative aluminium panels.
For bifolding doors, Decalu88 bifolds come in multiple configurations. Choose opening in or out, with standard or low thresholds and the option of triple glazing. The sightlines are square, appealing to the wider market.
Sliding doors in the Deceuninck Decalu163 suite provide lift and slide patio doors with strength and reliability. Decalu163 also comes at reduced sizes creating horizontal sliding windows.
More information about Deceuninck Decalu Aluminium
The trade can get in touch for more information about the products whether a fabricator, installer or trade counter. Homeowners can also get in touch for information on where to view the products and a quotation.
In the first Sheerline Windows review, we take a helicopter view of the system and explore some of its features. Full information at this stage isn’t available.
At the time of writing this article, most of the fenestration sector is shut owing to the coronavirus/Covid-19 pandemic.
Garnalex Extrusions Ltd, pushed forward with the initial launch date of 31st March have since announced the launch of the system is postponed until the market re-opens.
The Sheerline Windows review. Background
There is a lot of window industry experience behind Garnalex and the Sheerline windows system. Prior to launch, the company, headed by Roger Hartshorn widely marketed that windows and doors had little innovation over the last few decades, and we didn’t necessarily agree.
Not sure it’s seen “little development or innovation”? Flush casements, curtain walling, hurricane tested, structural glazing, bifold doors, minimal aesthetics, welded doors, more finishes/textures/woodgrains/foils, steel-look, automatic doors, hybrids, bigger sizes….. https://t.co/iKLfwBJ6Db
— AluminiumTradeSupply (@AlumTradeSupply) August 6, 2019
That said, their focus was clear. To design a new aluminium system Garnalex felt addressed the issues faced by manufacturers and installers. The new Stellar aluminium system also has reduced the time spent making windows, as well as glazing and fitting times and brand new design.
Another reason behind the new suite of Sheerline Windows is the growth in aluminium. It is true, consumer tastes in windows over the last decade have changed. Slim lines, contemporary looks, colour options from stock, continued growth in patio doors, steel-look. These remain current reasons aluminium remains desirable with homeowners.
However, any new brand in the fenestration sector faces some common issues, regardless of how good it is.
Getting any manufacturer to change system is never easy.
Installers are similarly hard to convince to change what they sell.
Homeowners are largely unaware of most brands of windows and doors.
You can have the best system on the market, but installers rely on good service from trade manufacturers. If this service is poor, installers will move on. Garnalex will provide the promised service – let’s hope any manufacturers of their product do the same. Systems companies have little control over the service their fabricators provide.
Will the homeowner like Sheerline?
If the last few months building up to the launch today of Sheerline are anything to go by, the company has an excellent team in place. Our belief is that any new system to have ongoing success needs to target the homeowner as much as the fabricator and installer.
Up to now we’ve only really seen trade benefits to Sheerline. The truth is, these apply to the trade only. How quickly a product takes to make or fit is of little importance to the homeowners buying aluminium windows for their home.
Systems companies have, by and large, left the job of getting consumer awareness of their brand to the installer. All of them carry out substantial marketing but the focus of the majority is on the specifier market. There are some exceptions to this such as Reynaers and Origin – arguably two companies that have broken into the consumer market where homeowners and end-users ask for their products by name.
Ironically, brands like Schuco and more recently, Cortizo ride on the back of reputation. Manufacturers and installers love Schuco and some have even replicated the features of their products. So where does this leave Sheerline windows?
Time will tell whether the aesthetics and design of this new window will appeal to the end-user market and whether installers will buy into it. Sheerline has its own unique selling propositions
Benefits for Fabricators and installers
We’ve no doubt Garnalex will be true to their word in providing standout service to their fabricators. They promise a new way of dealing with a systems company and they’ve invested substantial sums in getting every aspect of the process right.
Sheerline tell us that Classic has been designed to be easier and quicker for installers and doesn’t require them to assemble frames on site. The system features unique hinge receptors that hold the pre-glazed sashes in place, allowing for easy 1 person fitting. There are also in-built toe and heel devices included.
They also tell us that the beauty of this patented corner construction method is that its a simple process to deglaze a sash on-site if required for changing damaged glass.
And we’ve had it clarified that the sashes on the Classic system are to be pre-glazed. There will be differing points of view as to whether installers want pre-glazed sashes. There are service considerations too, for instance will the company be happy to provide glass such as integral blinds, acoustic glass or use the free-issue units from the installer.
The trade can look forward to fast lead times, easy ordering, service and support and knowing the people behind the business, they’ll a smile too. The factory is state-of-the-art, the people in the business come with a strong background and we are confident they’ll make a success of the product.
Design Features of Sheerline Casement Windows
As we always do, we’ll update this Sheerline windows review in the future with a full comparison with other window brands so you can compare features, sightlines, performance and options.
Consistent with other well-designed systems, Sheerline comes with a choice of frame looks. There’s a flush casement product, widely available on other systems. There’s also a contemporary stepped look you’ll find on steel-look windows and slimline casements. It’s not a dedicated steel-look product, but looking at the section drawing, that stop on the outside of the window is really pretty and neat. Everyone will like this detail and you’ll also find a similar look on the Reynaers SL38 suite and other systems.
Both windows look very attractive. Beware the images on the Sheerline website showing the very slim outer frame. This will look great in new builds but won’t really suit window replacements. Typically these need a deeper frame or frame extenders. This is why the Prestige system, with a deeper frame, better suited for use with existing plaster reveals provides a solution and an additional product here.
The design and construction of the product create really neat corners thanks to the innovation we explain later in this Sheerline windows review. Classic windows come with a full dummy sash design for equal sightlines. Stellar windows went the other way and designed a system giving consistent sightlines without dummy sashes and less material as a result.
As you’d expect from a latest-generation new window is great security, excellent weather performance. U-Values are stated at 1.4Wm2K with a double glazed unit. Typical window prices right now are unknown and we’ll update with these as soon as available.
Both traditional or contemporary window designs come with the same outer frame option, resulting in less stockholding and invariably a lot of common parts across the entire system.
Thermavic® is what the company refers to its multi-chamber thermal break design, insulating the high-grade aluminium extrusions. Multiple chamber thermal breaks aren’t that new, and used on other systems and Passivhaus windows already.
Three-part cill section.
The cill section is really quite clever. It’s a modular system where the back middle and front sections clip together. Therefore fabricators and installers use the back and the middle section as standard and a selection of cill noses at the front.
Cleverly, the cill comes with a co-extruded seal along the deep central section and the front and back. The purpose of this is to provide a good seal and means no more traditional mastic seal on the cill itself. The main centre cill profile will probably come in mill or anodised finishes as this won’t need powder coating.
What it also does is enable the back of the cill to come without an upstand and giving a flush look internally. Essentially the back of the window frame profile sits over the short leg on the back cill profile. No more cill upstands!
We can also see installers holding their own stock of this cill thanks to its modular design. It’ll address some common cill-related headaches on site.
An entirely new window design.
By far the eye-opening feature of their Classic window range is the absence of a glazing bead. Let’s address this surprising design feature first.
The windows come with a wrap-around design where the glass unit is entirely wrapped by the frame rather than set in it and held in place by beads.
The other innovation is the way the windows come together at the corners. We’ve examined the patent behind the system and it was applied for as early as 2018 and invented by Phil Parry. “A joint for a fenestration unit”.
The lengthy patent document stretches to over thirty pages but essentially, the windows have a wrap-around construction with the corners having an ingenious connected corner arrangement. This is an extruded section housing a specially designed connector. The connector design, comprising several component parts brings the corners together.
Small chevrons, several screws on each end and the connectors themselves draw the two mitres together, neatly and without the close scrutiny of the corner before you manually crimp it. As a result, the traditional mitre joint of the window doesn’t rely on the familiar corner cleats but a series of parts instead. It’s simple and yes, better than the traditional method of putting a window together. It also reinforces the claim of fewer parts and not just the omission of the glazing bead.
Our only reservation, albeit small is whether fabricators and installers can get used to the wrap-around design, but full information isn’t available at the time of writing this Sheerline Classic windows review.
Is a bead-less window new?
Bead-less Glostal windows from 1991
No. There are many examples old and new of wrap-around glazing systems. From the Monarch residential doors and sliding doors. Vertically sliding windows.
For casement windows, there are systems from the late eighties and early nineties that came with a bead-less design. Glostal and Baco windows came with a wrap-around option. Even today the structural bonding of slimline sliding doors provides further examples of products without glazing beads.
More benefits with Sheerline window corners
The first benefit is aesthetics. The lack of mitred or square cut beads on a window obviously improves the appearance and reduces the number of visible joints. It looks, neat and creates a better corner seal.
You’ll invariably end up with stronger window joints compared to crimping too. But for balance, the aluminium window sector hasn’t been plagued over the year with issues of splitting window joints either. What is true is poor joints by bad fabricators where the client notices enough to reject the product. But, Sheerline correctly tells us their design creates a genuine material saving in not having to scrap bad corners that a quality-conscious fabricator would probably do, in the same way they reject a substandard paint finish.
Additionally, handle a frame clumsily and window mitre joints do twist, move, split and water ingress issues may then occur. The idea behind this new corner joint is brilliant, even though we’d suggest experienced and quality-conscious fabricators have for years produced clean, neat and well-sealed joints. Credit to everyone behind this design though, they’ve eliminated the risk of a bad joint or ‘grinning edges’ as they’re called in the trade.
Another benefit of this construction method is less reliance on the crimpers whether mechanical or manual to bring window joints together. There’s also less reliance on punch presses too.
Other benefits centre around the transportation of frame joints and kit-form windows. Mitred windows and doors rarely go to site unglazed for site assembly. Square cut joints with brackets such as shopfront or curtain walling sections do. So while this is a benefit in not having to identify a bag of components to assemble a window, the reality is it doesn’t happen with residential casements. They’re already assembled in the factory.
Again for balance, Sheerline appears to offer a solution to the transportation of larger frames. One side of the connector is already in the one corner, ready to receive the other. So invariably there is less reliance on hidden or visible couplers to join a larger (assembled) window together.
We’ll continue to update this Sheerline windows review as more information becomes available.
Bays, bows and integrated ancillaries
And finally, the inventor of this corner arrangement has taken into account that not every window corner is 90 degrees! And there’s a provision in the design where small gap sealant is used and assembly of the corner has to be quick before the sealant sets.
We’ve not seen the technical manuals for the product yet, but it’s logical to assume that this type of window design requires fewer physical operations. Cut the metal, prepare the ends for the connector and assemble the joint with the correct tool. The training of window operatives in assembling windows is less too – Sheerline windows as a system to put together after cutting needs less skill.
Overall, we love this idea from a manufacturing viewpoint. Does it speed up production? Absolutely. Will it entice new fabricators to make aluminium windows without investment in punch presses and other machinery? Yes. The transition into aluminium just got easier for many still only making PVCu.
Installers will need to assemble frames instead of beading them.
Can you de-glaze a Sheerline window easily?
What is unclear as of now, is the work involved in years to come in changing a failed glass unit. We’ll update this Sheerline windows review once we can examine the system fully.
This design means changing a unit is substantially more work compared to removing glazing beads. We know from experience, damaged and lost beads and discontinued systems are an issue on older beaded windows. Does this matter right now? Probably not.
Is a window without a bead more secure?
Of course, the system is tested to the latest security standards and has Secured by Design. The lack of any bead makes for a very secure product indeed. Sheerline call window beads “an area of weakness in traditional window design”. The truth is, for many years now, any weaknesses in window beads systems companies have designed out. Aluminium, PVCu and timber window beads are just fine! They’re easier to work with, easier to clip in and not a weakness.
It’s inevitable and obvious that Sheerline installers will sing the praises to the homeowner of how secure a window without a bead is. We can picture the scenario in a showroom of a salesman next to this new bead-less window compared to the one beside it with beads. No doubt some will even use an unglazed sample to demonstrate just how worryingly easy it is to remove beads. The homeowner will invariably buy into something they can see and understand. They’ll love the security message around it and see a clear perceived benefit to Sheerline. And that’s great.
Once more we need to provide balance. Let’s remind homeowners that beaded aluminium windows, internally or externally positioned, from most systems, are also Secured by Design, PAS24:2016 etc. These windows have undergone and passed the same tests as Sheerline. They have the same badges. Beaded windows remain just as secure and have been for many years already. Of course, there are different classes of security.
The security claims are genuine. Sheerline tell us that the two test houses they used couldn’t break the window, stopping before the rigs were damaged. Hinge protectors, bead-less design and the corner construction do make this the most secure slim aluminium window in its class. And unlike other designs, their lock doesn’t encroach into the bead pocket also a factor in giving extra security.
Colour options with Sheerline Windows.
In this Sheerline windows review, we won’t touch on the colour options too much. You’d expect in the current market any savvy systems company to offer a good range of standard RAL colours in stock.
We are told by Sheerline that 11 of their stocked colours will be available in 5 working days. This benefit will trickle down to installers and homeowners in terms of responsive supply and the ability to get replacement product quickly. Its also the same lead-time on dual combinations of any of those 11 colours. That’s 121 colour combinations available in 5 days! This is great news for coloured aluminium lead times and even better news for dual colour supply.
For us, we are delighted to finally see a systems company brave enough to offer anodised finishes. As a website, we are frequently contacted about this more durable, alternative way to colour aluminium windows.
We urge other systems companies and trade suppliers to take the step and offer anodised colours from stock. Market these colours correctly and they’ll be as popular in time as other colours. Hats off to Garnalex and Sheerline for offering the three popular Anodised Colours those of us with many years in aluminium will recall under Anolok, Sandalor and similar names.
Natural Silver
Mid Bronze
Black Anolok is what’s on offer right now.
Anodising is also the new method of pretreating aluminium before it’s powder-coated for those that didn’t know.
For RAL, you do get the expected popular range of colours with Sheerline windows.
Matt White RAL 9010
Matt Anthracite Grey RAL 7016
RAL 9005 Matt Black
There are colours Sheerline has chosen, some of which the established aluminium systems choose not to offer as standard such as:
Cream RAL9001 Matt
Agate Grey RAL 7038 Matt
Squirrel Grey RAL 7000 Matt
Turquoise RAL 6034 Matt
Brown RAL 8017 Matt.
It’s a minor point but the vast majority of brown windows were painted in the past as BS 08B29 satin or RAL 8080 – rarely were they done in RAL 8017. Presumably, the company has done its research on what colours potential customers would like.
Sheerline Windows Review – conclusion
We wish Garnalex every success with Sheerline windows and especially the unexpected turn of events with a global pandemic. The fenestration sector is closed right now and many potentially face an uncertain future. We congratulate the people behind Sheerline for pushing ahead with the original launch date, given the substantial effort and investment that’s gone into this new windows and doors range. They deserve to do well with this system. And it’s evident they’ve taken the time to look at existing systems and come up with something different and forward-thinking.
The design and aesthetics are new but not a million miles away from other recent windows on the market. The patented corner design and lack of glazing beads are the two things that genuinely set this system apart from others. Time will tell whether this bead-less design will challenge other windows on the market where all of them have beads. But the corner design is excellent with clear manufacturing benefits. The only murky area is how this system addresses the supply of unglazed frames by the trade to the installer and how strict a requirement for pre-glazed sashes is.
Despite our support of secure beaded windows, the reality is that Sheerline can reasonably claim to having one of the most secure slim residential aluminium windows by design. And this security message will serve them well.
It’ll be interesting to see how installers take to assembling frames instead of beading them. The cill section is really good and seeing innovation on these essential but rather staid part of a window is a nice touch. The anodised finishes for us is something installers need to look at but we also appreciate trends in colours are region-specific too and some won’t get why we should sell more anodised products generally.
The trade can look forward to a new and improved way of buying window profile thanks to the UK extrusion base, service and support. Any business striving to improve the fenestration sector and service overall deserves credit and support.
Specialists in High End Window and Door systems inc. Aluminium entrance doors, Large panel sliding systems(inc. automated) aluminium windows and doors from a selection of profile manufacturers.
Solarlux bifolding doors are German-made premium products , available in aluminium, wood and a combination of wood inside and aluminium outside. In this Solarlux bifolding doors review we explain what you need to know about the aluminium versions; the SL82, Highline and Ecoline.
Information about Solarlux Bifolding Doors
Every product made by Solarlux offers product with excellent design, engineering and high specifications.
The bifolding door range comprises 11 different models. The aluminium versions also include the SL35 and SL45, non-insulated models designed to close off patio areas, swimming pools or create internal partitions. Bear in mind, these do not meet current Building Regulations.
While Solarlux products are not the cheapest on the market, you will find a quality, design and overall functionality, clearly demonstrating the higher price. These upper-tier aluminium doors we think are good value when you look at what they give you. It is these many features we delve into in this in-depth Solarlux bifolding doors review.
Don’t just take our word for it. Solarlux mentions architects like Foster and Partners using their products. Established and expert home improvement companies also choose Solarlux as their luxury offering. Some of the best installations on television or award-winning projects often feature Solarlux products.
Solarlux manufacturing and installation quality.
Solarlux designs and manufactures their products. It’s their system, their design and nobody else makes it. For you the homeowner, it’s another clue to what goes into Solarlux doors. Every door is made in Melle, Germany.
The same benefits of sole manufacturers apply to Solarlux. Consistent quality, the same manufacturing processes and no variation from one factory to another. This can be an issue with other manufacturers buying bars of aluminium and accessories from aluminium systems companies. Doors are certified and tested to the security and weather performance standards. The powder-coated or anodised colours are professionally applied by certified applicators. CE Marking and extensive cycle testing also feature prominently. With cycle testing of more than 20000 cycles, using the door a few times a week gives a lifespan of over thirty years.
A bifolding door is only as good as its installation. In the UK, you deal either directly with Solarlux or their network of trained ‘Solarlux Quality Partners’. We tell you more about these later in this Solarlux bifolding doors review.
Aesthetically the doors offer flat profiles, elegant and modern handles and are definitely contemporary-looking bifolds overall.
Ecoline vs Highline. What’s the difference?
The two main products you’ll come across researching Solarlux bifolding doors are Ecoline and Highline. For most projects, Ecoline is ideal. These two products are very similar in look, performance, handles and general components. They’re excellent doors.
The Solarlux Highline bifolding door differs in having a slightly deeper front to back dimensions. Therefore you get four features you don’t get with the Ecoline.
A triple glazed option
Better U-Values
Improved sound insulation should you want it
Larger door panel sizes.
Sightlines are the same as is the same smooth and light slide and fold action.
All glass SL82 by Solarlux
The latest Solarlux SL82 is award-winning and features from an all-glass appearance when viewed from the outside. Few bifolds on the market offer the flush glass design. One product that’s similar is the GG65 by Folding Sliding Door Company. However, you’re not really comparing like-for-like.
The SL82 uses a bonded glass design with the front pane of glass stepped past the inside pane. Glass overlaps the minimalist aluminium profile. Essentially, a layered glass design giving an edge-to-edge, all-glass look. Even better with this door is the 8mm visible aluminium surrounding the glass. Not only does this protect the glass edge but also creates a very pretty picture-frame surround. It’s worth seeing this door for its impressive appearance.
Complete with recessed floor track for barrier-free living, integrated SL lock plus the freedom to open/close glass panes from outside and you have a superior bi-folding system.
Comparing Solarlux bifold door models
Summarising the differences between the three products is our at-a-glance table.
Ecoline
Highline
SL82
Door Panel Sightline
99mm
99mm
104mm
Maximum Panel Sizes
1x3m
1.1×3.5m
1×2.5m
Low Threshold Option
Yes
Yes
Yes
Best U-Value
1.1@m2K
0.8Wm2K
1.2Wm2K
Frame Depth
67mm
84mm
80mm
Glass thickness
up to 36mm
up to 60mm
30-38mm
Standard Colours
30
30
30
What makes Solarlux bifolding doors different?
A consistent message across our website and the product review you read is that there is no bad bifolding door on the market. However, where they differ is who makes them, the overall supply chain and correct installation. Any folding sliding door comes designed for reliability and most meet security and weather performance standards. You also get similar specifications on the aluminium profiles themselves, the paint finish, glass and components.
So what makes these doors different? The answer lies in the things you won’t see on brands such as Aluk, Smart Systems, Origin, Reynaers and even Schuco. It is the finishing touches and engineering. The perception that German cars are better engineered also applies to a German door. Here is what you get with Solarlux.
Innovative door panel catches
Solarlux calls these Comfort Snap Panel Catches. Different from the magnets you see on virtually every other mainstream door, Solarlux uses an entirely different design for the catches holding the panels together.
They come designed for convenience, ensure the doors engage sequentially and just look so much better than a magnet.
An always clean door threshold
Look at most other bifolding door brands and you get the rollers either on or set within the threshold. Cleaning the threshold is rarely cited as factor when living with bifolds day-to-day. That said, Solarlux doors come with a clip-on section designed to make the threshold look better as well as protecting from dirt getting into the track.
Whether this feature is important is subjective. What it does highlight, however, is attention to detail with thoughtful engineering.
Hinges allowing easy cleaning of the doors
A removable hinge pin splits the door hinges in two. Then the door panels turn inwards letting you clean the inside and outside glass panels. This facility also lets you clean the door aluminium edges better too.
This is a great feature especially useful on high-level doors. Furthermore, the hinge is highly engineered meaning the hinge pin doesn’t drop out or get lost. The Solarlux video does a great job of showing some of its many features.
Between the door panels, you’ll find what also look like miniature hinges. These, Solarlux call “TWINX”. Discreet and nice to look at, these make the slim design possible by interlocking together. The benefit is better door sealing and the door seals run continuously. The door seals are another element to study if you get to see these doors. In our view, they are the best looking, neatest seals we’ve seen on any product.
Multiple low threshold options
While any well-designed bifold facilitates a low threshold, Solarlux offers more than just a standard or low option. Schuco and Reynaers bifolds offer several low threshold solutions for bifolding doors. Solarlux goes even further.
The bionicTURTLE®
The bionicTURTLE® name refers to the thermal break insulating the profiles. However, this is more than just regular polyamide.
Centrally located, bionicTURTLE® offers several benefits. One is the strength it offers to the aluminium profiles. The other is the thermal break, helping to give the product its excellent U-Values. The third is its role in providing locking points for the hardware.
An adjustable frame
While you won’t see the benefit of an adjustable frame as a homeowner, you certainly will as an installer.
Cleverly designed, the adjustable frame is different from how Schuco and other brands compensate for tolerances and adjustments when fitting bifolding doors.
Door adjustment happens in the subframe. This means only one adjustment point rather than having to work with every door panel. Another benefit is consistent sealing across the entire door set. The door also looks much neater at the frame jamb compared with other adjustable jamb bifold doors.
About the Solarlux Quality Partner
Are Solarlux bifolding doors exclusive? Locating a dealer isn’t difficult but fewer than stockist of brands like Origin, Reynaers or Schuco. Like Sunflex, Solarlux takes care in choosing their partners. We understand they fall into two categories. One is a Dealer, the other is a Quality Partner.
The Dealer is an arrangement where a reputable window company can sell and install Solarlux products. Quality Partners need more product knowledge, an exceptional showroom, more product training and the ability to finance, manage and execute more demanding installations. Importantly for the homeowner, in the event of a Quality Partner going out of business, Solarlux steps in. They’re not alone in doing this as Origin has also done the same although it’s rare.
Therefore, while every Dealer or Partner of top brands is an independent business, they nonetheless must meet the criteria set down by the systems company. After all, it’s their reputation at stake.
A look on the Solarlux website shows just six Solarlux Quality partners in the UK.
Other Products to compare with Solarlux
For us, there are only three comparable models with a Solarlux bifolding door. Whilst all bifolds, well-made and properly fitted will serve you well, we’ve chosen three other brands to compare with Solarlux based on design features, sightlines and overall engineering. The other reason we’ve chosen these is, like Solarlux, they’re only made in one factory, not by many different fabricators.
Centor Bifolding Doors
Of all the bifolding doors on the market, Centor is our favourite and you can find out why. The attention to detail on a Centor product is outstanding. From the different way it’s made, door edge finishing detail, the luxury handles, to the advanced seals, easy-clean thresholds and flyscreen systems. Centor seems to have it all.
They are by no means the slimmest bifolds on the market. However, for sheer quality, these are certainly worth comparable with Solarlux but go even further. We’ve seen just about every major bifold brand there is. Few compare to Centor.
Sunflex Bifolding Doors
Also made in Germany, Sunflex is probably a direct competitor to Sunfold. They offer the same combination of aluminium and hybrid products and have similar aesthetics. We really like Sunflex bifolding doors for the way they look, the impeccable slide and fold action and the same large door sizes.
Duteman FD85 or Alumil SF85
While not necessarily falling into the category of a single manufacturer, the Alumil product we think is an excellent bifold. Bold hardware details, modern design and the impressive 1.5m wide door panels. Importantly, Alumil doors are good enough for Express Bifolds, arguably one of the best businesses in the UK today, to adopt it within their product range as the XP Vision.
You’ll also find the same product, the FD85 bifold, made to a very high standard by Dutemann, supplied through their network of installers. Worth checking this door out too.
Buying Solarlux Doors. Conclusion
Both Solarlux Ecoline or Highline products are desirable, luxurious and technically advanced. Moreover, with excellent thermal insulation, impeccable attention to detail and a prestige name, as a homeowner, you really are putting one of the very best door brands in your home. As an installer, selling Solarlux is one way of demonstrating reputation, service and trust.
We’ve not mentioned much about colours and options in this review as there are numerous. Solarlux goes beyond regular RAL/Interpon powders offering all manner of colours and finishes. Security is excellent, performance is top-notch and reliability is guaranteed when properly fitted.
Finally, the only way to appreciate why Solarlux doors look, feel and genuinely are different is to see one. Study the detail and when you open, close and fold a Solarlux door, you’ll understand why these doors more than justify their higher price.
Contact us for further information about Solarlux doors.
In this article, we set out a point of view that it could be possible to return to work, nor should we criticise or guilt-shame those systems companies, manufacturers, installers and the related supply chain that continue to do so, under new even safer methods of working and an entirely new set of challenges for us all.
What’s happened up to now?
During the week of 23rd March, fabricators, installers, systems companies and others in the supply chain made the decision to close. Some made quick decisions and ceased operations. Others understandably took slightly longer to close down.
It’s important to remember a small business is able to close its doors faster than a large organisation. Sizeable companies with substantial operations, logistics, plant and transport cannot just shut the doors with an uncontrolled shutdown. A few on social media chose to criticise businesses taking longer to shut down – all they had to offer by way of meaningful debate was accusations of profiteering.
Emotions and feelings during the last three weeks have run high. Some hold the view that absolutely no work should be done until it is safe to do so. Others are respecting the need to continue to provide work to NHS and essential contracts.
Fenestration covers Residential and Commercial work.
The Government has not placed construction, including fenestration, under the same restrictions as bars, restaurants and leisure. The Government guidelines are available to see, even if they are open to interpretation. We respect and understand anyone’s decision to cease operations entirely too.
Industry bodies such as the Glass and Glazing Federation, Certass and FENSA have all repeated Government advice and guidelines. So have construction bodies and trade organisations. It is clear from this guidance that the intention is that construction and manufacturing should be continuing wherever possible.
It is a personal or business decision whether to follow these guidelines and continue trading or cease operations until business owners feel it is right to return to work.
How are installers adapting?
Installers quickly adapted to change. Installation businesses adopted online quoting and remote working. Some came up with innovative ideas to keep their customers engaged such as video chats using their showroom. We helped with setting up live chat for the first time, helpful hints for consumers to measure their windows at home, advice on helping them continue with their home improvement projects and more.
Others have done excellent work reaching out to potential customers through social media and we’ve seen incredible examples of genuine consumer engagement on social media.
We’ve seen installers securing work online and placing this business with their suppliers via their online ordering systems. We’ve been contacted routinely by installers asking where they can buy fabricated windows and glass as they have orders to place and contracts to carry out. You cannot blame any business for making the right decisions for them.
What we also know to be true is installers continuing to sell and take deposits for work. So we should not assume, as some do, that there is no retail work being done. Aside from essential maintenance and repairs to dwellings, there is plenty of self-build and complete home renovation continuing to happen. Again something those with less knowledge of our industry forget – it’s not just local replacement window work.
Bearing in mind also, that plenty of installers do work in commercial settings and non-dwelling environments. So they could very well be continuing to work.
With a further three weeks of restrictions, what is crucial is installers engage even better with potential customers. Even professional home improvement magazines, events and websites (yes they’re part of us) are doing what they can to keep the engagement going with potential customers.
How are trade manufacturers and suppliers adapting?
The trade manufacturer, systems company and component supplier face a different challenge. Can you run an operation while ensuring safety and social distancing advice?
What do you do if you have orders and contracts to fulfil? Particularly contracts for hospitals and accommodation for key workers. Once again some systems companies and manufacturers came under fire mainly by those that don’t know some basics.
Systems companies also have related products supplied to other sectors, not just construction.
Powder coating businesses don’t just paint window and door profile.
Hardware companies don’t just supply window people.
There are group companies serving other sectors and the entire group needs to remain open.
Extruders extrude anything in aluminium or plastics for all manner of things not just for windows or construction.
We’ve seen several trade manufacturers over the last few days reaching out to the wider industry in an effort go gauge feeling and decide whether they should reopen. It’s been brilliant to see communication between the supply chain and even competitors. It’s a shame that this good work is not recognised by one or two industry opinion websites.
The fenestration and related industries are coming together. Everyone is wanting to do the right thing for their business, customers and their staff. Companies are seriously looking at how they can return to work while putting in the changes needed to keep everyone safe.
Some systems companies who closed have re-opened to service essential construction. Others have remained open because their work is providing profile to manufacturers and contractors involved in essential work and construction.
We’ve even been contacted by UK suppliers of products made abroad telling us they are open for business, albeit with showrooms closed. Do your research and you’ll also find installers saying they are open and very much trading.
The sad thing is, some of those working have chosen to remain quiet for fear of backlash and accusations of profiteering. Others hold the view that nobody is forcing them to close, orders are there to be fulfilled and remaining open for business, doing their best while observing Government advice and the advice of their trade bodies.
The other reality is there are installers with orders that would dearly love someone to make them. They have not stopped selling and are keeping their businesses going.
Manufacturers should listen to their customer base and the entire sector outside of their customer base and region to get the best possible picture of what’s going on and help them make a decision.
Has consumer demand dried up?
The subject of residential installations and consumer demand has created some heated debate. Our view is no two residential installers are the same and that the key is to carry out a continuous risk assessment to evaluate what work can be carried out.
There is a distinct difference between the local predominantly replacement window installer and those specialising in extensions, high-end work and architectural glazing.
It would be wise to remember that an installer mainly doing local replacement window work and rarely working with new extensions is not going to give you the same feedback as an installer predominately working with new extensions or high-end glazing. They serve different markets and as a result, see things differently.
The same applies to a manufacturer making mainly residential products compared to the one making windows for many other sectors. Their feedback won’t be the same either.
Emergency or Essential Work
The regulations make it clear that work can be carried out in residential properties for essential repairs. This exception applies for urgent work even if the occupiers are shielding (e.g. an elderly household). If the entire supply chain has completely shut down who will carry out this work?
Home improvements and why they’re not the same for everyone
It’s incredibly important that a continuous risk assessment is carried out and that nothing is done that could compromise someone’s health.
It’s difficult to imagine that two installers working in a two-bedroom mid-terrace property occupied by a couple with children could work in a way that follows the PHE guidelines. So you can see why there is a restriction on working in people’s homes. But what does other ‘window and door’ work look like in practice?
An empty property being fully refurbished (i.e. not lived in) can be worked on.
Construction sites (presumably including self-build residential projects) are explicitly mentioned as being ok to continue working. (presuming that everyone is following the PHE guidelines).
Other types of housing such as council property, new/refurbishment for social housing, student accommodation.
Why does this matter? If the above scenarios are taken as examples then there will inevitably be a drop off in demand for work that can be completed during the shutdown period.
More likely, any drop in demand is going to be caused by uncertainty in the minds of consumers. Probably driven by concerns about their household finances. But this is not true of every homeowner.
But there is nothing to say that a home improvement business can not engage with consumers, even to the point of carrying out a survey and confirming an order.
Therefore, it is irresponsible in our view to consider all installers as the same and therefore presume they’re all in the same boat. Their customer base, the nature of their work, the products they supply, the quality/price point of the market they serve are all different.
Again on social media especially, there is a message coming from some in our industry that all ‘windows are windows’ installers are the same with an at times, aggressive narrative from some with little understanding or experience just how broad-based fenestration truly is.
While it is true many people have put spending on hold for employment reasons, others have every intention of continuing as soon as possible after restrictions are lifted.
It’s important to draw a distinction between general replacement window work and the new extension market. These customers are different as are the companies that service them.
Windows and doors also go elsewhere
We’d also be wise to remember other businesses needing windows and doors as well as related suppliers to these industries. Our systems companies and related suppliers are needed by:
Manufacturing of temporary homes
Windows for park homes, boats and caravans
Secondary glazing
Fire screens and partitions
Plant room doors, steel and commercial products
Fire/Bomb/Protection systems
And many many more
What does the data tell us?
Any business monitoring their website analytics during the last week of March will have seen a cliff-edge drop in their traffic and enquiries. Even more exaggerated than the usual declines over Christmas and the recent political / Brexit related events.
However, there’s undoubtedly been a slow return, not quite to “normal” levels but the volume of search traffic has definitely increased. We have seen this on this site, as well as broad-ranging websites that we manage. Insight Data has also reinforced this view in a post recently shared on LinkedIn and mentioning a consensus amongst manufacturers of wanting to return to work.
Some trade fabricators operating online ordering systems tell us they have so many orders backed in their systems that they are considering a return to work to handle these orders. And let us not forget the amount of stock some businesses piled up during the Brexit uncertainty. Yes, we need our supply chain but some have ample material to get through.
Is it possible for installers to return to work?
During any sort of crisis situation it is understandable that the ill-informed might retreat into a bubble and start using simple arguments to address complex issues; often based on a small sample of self-selected data.
For any installer, fabricator or manufacturing business there are decisions to be made that are difficult and complex. And ought to be based on as much fact as possible without being confused by misplaced emotional pressure. These are difficult times and it should be possible to make business decisions without having to worry about baseless accusations of profiteering or insensitively.
There is no one size fits all here. Every window factory or general manufacturer is different. Window manufacturers and trade suppliers face different constraints. Factory size, layout, manufacturing setup and their own material supply chain are all considerations.
Also worth considering just because a particular fabricator or systems company has closed production, it could be a decision based on the volume of business that makes it viable to operate a production line. Which may of course change if the volume of business changes, just like it would for any manufacturing business.
Government has given guidance on what it feels manufacturing and construction businesses should be doing at the moment. As a collective, we should all respect the right of businesses to make decisions based on that guidance without making assumptions about individual motivations or presume to know better than them.
The question of when or how to open for business is something for business owners/managers and their employees to reflect on, and for customers to decide who they trust to do business with.
And for those that can work from home they must, restrictions observed and everyone continuing to stay safe.
What do you think?
The point here is to engage in constructive and informed debate about the current situation and the best way out of it. Please add to the discussion and leave a comment below:
Many of us involved in the fenestration sector will have seen from around 20th April, the intention of fabricators, suppliers to fenestration and services to re-open. Businesses are updating their website, their social media statements and also contacting their customers directly.
The opinion of whether this is a good idea continues to provide debate and we repeat our message of understanding and respect for those making the decision to open their premises or remain closed. But we also need to look at those choosing to open their doors objectively.
The purpose of this article is to look at the measures those planning a return to work are taking even if operating at reduced capacity. We also look to see what these businesses are doing by way of new processes to keep safe and keep producing.
Who decided to close first?
At the start of the lockdown businesses in fenestration started following a trend. Most did what they believed to be right in closing their businesses down for the protection of their staff and the public. But it’s also reasonable to consider others weren’t sure what to do. After all, order books were healthy, customers wanted their products. Did they even need to close? With exceptions, most made the decision to close their doors. Others as we know, serving essential sectors remained open.
For some businesses cashflow will have decided the issue. With a serious reduction in sales looming hitting the pause button to evaluate what impact government assistance is going to have, as well as using the time to take stock of all the news and advice coming in.
Looking back at the general message during that time, it was very much closing for the safety of our employees and the public
The reasoning behind reopening
Fast forward to today and the ‘reasoning’ for opening companies now give will invariably be any of these messages
The government wants us to keep business/construction going
We need to open to service essential sectors
There is no restriction on manufacturing under the current rules
Our customers are asking when will we re-open
We are putting in new measures and/or here is what we are doing
The Government’s guidance and their clear statement that business should carry on, are repeated and also cited as a reason by many for planning a staged, careful and safe return to operations.
We created our own page on the status of fenestration businesses during the lockdown. This page is now showing more names and more businesses opening their doors.
So what’s changed?
Nothing. Nobody is bending rules neither are they being relaxed. And just like the rules haven’t changed, neither has the virus. What has happened over recent weeks is greater and better absorption of information, guidance and ever-improving advice.
We’ve simply had an evolution of understanding not a change in the rules.
Whether we agree with their purpose or viewpoints, The Glass and Glazing Federation, The Construction Leadership Council and many others have done their best to offer their members guidance and advice. Ultimately it’s professionals and experts most of us choose to rely on.
As a result, these business choosing to open have carefully and responsibly put measures and strategies in place to minimise the risk.
It’s also important to stress once again the diversity of the windows supply chain. Those businesses essential for the construction sector, new build homes and non-NHS work recognise a need for their products and services, even if their personal feeling is to stay home. Their solution is careful thought, planning, facing facts and coming up with safe systems of working.
Seeking advice from Health and Safety professionals and doing even more risk assessment and mitigation than ever before, we now see more and more opening their doors week commencing 20th April, 27th April or early May.
If, as it appears, the way we are living and working right now and the way we will live and work in the weeks and months to come is going to be different, then there is a point of view that businesses, manufacturing, processes and services need to adapt accordingly. Some are doing it now, others are waiting to see. However, it’s here for the foreseeable future and are those remaining closed going to be too late to make the necessary adaptions?
Are we forcing employees back to work against their will?
The question of what happens if an employer says “come to work” and an employee thinks that it’s unsafe to do so raises all sorts of employment law issues. And there’s no sign that Government departments intend to step in, when challenged about this issue ministers have repeated the mantra about PHE’s advice.
Hopefully, a concerned employee would be able to offer constructive points of view that can lead to discussion and implementation of better practice. Whether the lockdown continues as-is or changes, this is likely to be an issue that comes up.
Assessing whether to get back to work.
Even well-known businesses are now looking to get back to work and one of the most recent examples was B&Q.
Fenestration businesses large and small should watch what larger concerns such as B&Q and indeed the bigger organisations in our supply chain are doing. Why? Because the responsibilities they face, the planning, the deployment of new procedures and planning to re-open are arguably far more complex than a small-medium sized firm. Not to mention the bigger headache to deal with should it all go wrong. They are better placed than most to get the best advice and do things the right way.
Are new systems, processes and procedures realistic?
As we see it, B&Q like fenestration businesses choosing to open, assessed, considered, ran a trial, studied the guidelines and developed a system. The conclusion reached was they could responsibly open their business.
What is being done?
The ability of a fenestration-related business to open depends on a number of factors. The size of the factory, the proximity of benches, machinery, goods in/goods out and all manner of considerations.
For window and door manufacturing, there are ways one fabricator can make smaller products such as reasonably sized windows and single doors. Anyone who’s ever made, for instance, a single commercial door leaf will accept it can be put together by one person. Curtain walling, large sliding doors, bifolding doors and screens need a different approach to fabrication as does glass, extrusions and larger items.
People will rightly ask, how can you put these larger (2-man) products together while maintaining social distancing? One of the answers could be, the responsible fabricator has looked at the process and changed it. Every fabricator is different as we cannot assume they all work in the same way. Speak to systems companies setting up fabricators of their system and they’ll tell you no one factory is the same.
It is also true that owners of smaller factories will carry out their own assessments and conclude they cannot observe guidelines and social distancing. It is therefore best they stay closed.
Others have the benefit of space, changing the layout of the production spays and also seeing the advice of professionals. Above all, it is responsible, measured and careful consideration that allows a business to re-open in a safe and responsible way that’s most important.
In a factory environment these are just some changes businesses are making
People
Investment in infrared equipment for taking staff temperates every day
On arrival, self-certification related to symptoms and strict record keeping
Changes to breaks, how they’re taken, when and by how many.
New/ongoing training so members of staff understand at all times processes in place
Photographic evidence and record-keeping of usage of PPE, of workstations and working practices
Not shaking hands and more frequent hand washing
Equipment
The purchasing of PPE equipment for employees
The placement of new information signs throughout the premises
Additional hand sanitisers at frequently visited areas, canteens, washrooms, receptions, clocking-in areas etc
Each work-station with its own cleaning/sanitising including desks, keyboards and computer equipment
Frequent cleaning of high-traffic objects such as doors to WC, canteen, kettles, etc
Processes
The creation of new Risk Assessments and the adoption of safe working practices and policies
Increased and routine cleaning, disinfection or professional cleaning of high traffic areas and frequently contacted surfaces
Clearly marked distance points or lines throughout the production area
Changes to hours of work, shift patterns.
Batch cutting, machining or assembly to reduce the number of people involved with each separate process.
Communication with/between factory staff using technology instead of face to face
Keeping to the 2m safe distance
Procurement and Delivery
Pre-despatch checks with the customer ensuring the delivery location also have suitable risk mitigation measures in place.
Ensuring recipients are not displaying any symptoms
Asking to see evidence of their procedures before making deliveries
Investment in equipment to handle off-loading in place of staff
PPE and cleansing equipment fitted out in delivery vehicles
Enhanced cleaning of shared delivery vehicles
The implementation of all these new processes and procedures is challenging and daunting for many business owners. There is nothing to compare with this present scenario facing owners of any manufacturing and supply chain business. However, they’ll also be aware of how they’ve constantly needed to adapt to changes in regulation, health and safety and procedures generally throughout their business live.
Importantly, nobody has a patent or trademark on the above mentioned measures. They’re there for us all to consider using or even improving.
What about showrooms?
The retail slide of our industry faces bigger challenges given the public facing side of it and restrictions for working in people’s homes.
We are starting to hear from those with showrooms considering how they may plan a return to work. Once again there is no one size fits all. Showrooms by companies such as Express Bifolding Doors bear little relation to a small shop on the high street.
The intention of many installations businesses is to work on new-builds and unoccupied properties. There is no intention to carry out replacement window and door work right now. A reminder that not every installer is the same and some do very little replacement window work in the first place.
Conclusion
Communication is crucial. There is a strong argument for the manufacturing and logistics chains to come together and share information for the benefit of the entire sector. And we urge companies to consider this seriously.
Right now, it’s the sharing of information that will help many get back to work. We’ve seen incredible examples of businesses sharing and making available their operating procedures, risk assessments, guidance from industry bodies and even templates for those with a 3D printer to print visors. This sharing of information must also extend further, be it to colleagues and friends, suppliers, sub-contractors, and even industry experts and professionals.
Businesses planning to re-open need to consider government guidance, consider the opinion of experts and seek the advice of professionals they trust.
If ever there was a time to be sceptical of loud social media voices or double glazing opinion websites it is now. Unfounded predictions of doom and gloom or overuse of emotive sentiment and images add nothing to the debate and should be read with an inquisitive mind.
Airflow is an essential element of all buildings but with the growing need to build on brownfield sites, there is an increasing level of external noise. Our acoustic vents offer effective sound insulation to help to minimise noise from traffic, railways and machinery. As well as external noises, our acoustic air vents can also help to reduce noise flow between rooms and can help work with a broader soundproofing installation.
Our range of trickle vents and window vents are designed to provide an acoustic reduction of between 33 and 55 decibels when in the open position. Sound reduction is even higher in the partially closed and fully closed positions.
At DBA products we distribute acoustic vents for windows, doors and walls that help developers and specifiers comply with acoustic requirements as part of the new build process. Our vents are available in a full range of RAL and Interpon finishes to help them fit in with a huge range of applications. Visit our Data Sheets section for detailed product performance data.
Stellar aluminium comes with the security expected by homeowners and giving installers confidence to sell the credentials of the product. Already winning industry awards, the residential and light-commercial Stellar aluminium system, also has three desirable security credentials.
Understanding Stellar Windows Security
The Stellar casement window systems come as standard with quality espagnolette window locks having several locking points including shootbolts. These engage in secure window keeps. The window handles are also of a high standard with key locking facility. Adding to the overall window security are internal window glazing beads.
With this locking combination and other enhancements, the system now meets the following security specifications.
Secured by Design
Widely known and understood by the trade and public, Secured by Design is the official UK police security initiative. This certification does not just apply to windows and doors but other elements of buildings and developments where crime is designed out. Any Secured by Design-accredited windows, like Stellar, undergo specific attack tests. These tests are certified by independent third-party bodies responsible for certification and accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).
Updated in 2016, BS4873 covers the design, construction and performance requirements for aluminium windows as well as external doors. This standard applies to broad range of opening options such as hinged opening or fixed windows, double or single doors as well as sliding and bifolding doors.
The BS 4873 / PAS24 Kitemark is another third-party certification. For end users it is an extra security indication that the product comes with the right components and design and high security. This standard also confirms that Stellar products meet the more recent requirements of Document Q for new build. As a result, Stellar windows security suits both the replacement of existing windows and anyone building brand new dwellings.
Adrian Crutchley, Accreditations Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said:
Delivering outstanding security and quality was an essential part of Stellar’s remit and built in from the start. These new accreditations prove that we’ve more than achieved the high levels we set ourselves.
Stellar windows security benefits for installers and homeowners
The security of windows and doors remains a key selling point. Stellar joins the ranks of other premium-brand windows offering independently certified security across their entire range of windows and doors.
Installers can sell the security merits of the systems with confidence. Homeowners get reassuring peace of mind. Even better they can see the products and the company listed on the Secured by Design website. All these security features combine with the slim lines, profile strength and clever design found in Stellar casement windows, residential doors, bifolding doors and sliding doors.
Use our contact form to get in touch and find out more about Stellar Aluminium Systems.
This aïr MOD windows review takes a closer look at the trade benefits of the new aluminium system from Everglade. And explains why this unique design and concept provides sales and business benefits for installers buying in fabricated aluminium windows.
The philosophy behind the aïr MOD system windows is to make specifying, selling and installing aluminium windows significantly easier. Understanding aluminium windows also just got easier.
aïr MOD windows background
Everglade Windows is one of the best known trade fabricators in the UK. Trading over forty years, multi-award-winning and with one of the most high-tech factories, this London-based fabricators has made aluminium from day one. Over the years, Everglade has dealt with multiple systems such as Smarts, Reynaers and PVCu.
In creating aïr MOD windows, Everglade set out to create a simpler system with fewer options. At the same, the system offers all the choice in several different window types while removing all the complexity involved with aluminium systems. aïr MOD windows come in:
Contemporary and traditional window styles
Flush casement windows
Steel look and a brand new Heritage steel look
Tilt and turn windows
Overall aïr MOD windows for the trade use about 45% less components than other systems offering multiple variations of product.
aïr windows make aluminium easy to understand.
Study the market, and you’ll see multiple aluminium window systems. In the early years of aluminium, products were simple. Externally beaded casement windows with a basic set of extrusions, gaskets, seals and accessories.
Over the years aluminium systems evolved into multiple product types. Many of these use their own series of sections, gaskets, seals and accessories. Fabricators understand the complexities of aluminium systems better because they make the products. Installation companies buying in windows have a different learning process. This is especially the case for surveyors having to understand the options available within a system and the profile combinations needed at the property.
Then installers have a different learning method understanding the gaskets and seals needed and loose sections such as cills and add-ons.
The result is that every aluminium system has its own set of ‘quirks’ meaning the more systems a business sells, the more they need to know.
The aïr MOD systems has simplified this entire process with a fully integrated and holistic system of windows, taking the head-scratching away.
Well-known issues solved by aïr MOD windows
Every installer, surveyor, order processor and even technically-trained salespeople will be familiar with any of these scenarios where their business sells one aluminium window version. And pretty much everyone does. Most installers sell casements, a flush version and steel-look product.
Understanding U-Values
When it comes to U-Values on multiple systems they’ll be aware different versions of a system come with their own set of performance figures. aïr MOD windows come with the same U-Values regardless of the version chosen.
So when it comes to selling one model for one customer and other version for another, U-Values are the same. Homeowners today understand and are aware of energy efficiency. Giving them the figures is now consistent across one system.
Mixing window products
Residential installations often call for one type of window at the front of the house and a different window style at the back if there’s a new and modern extension. In this scenario, installers may use a combination of systems. For a surveyor, this means knowing the ins and outs of different systems.
Take the Smart Systems Alitherm System. The Alitherm 300 system is different from the 600 or 800 and different again from the Alitherm 500 flush casement. Fixing positions, thermal break locations and more all differ. These window products are essentially separate products.
The aïr system is the same regardless of window option chosen. With aïr, all the surveyor or salesperson needs to do is ‘swap out’ one type of frame and sash combination for another. You’re working with one system not several.
Fitting different window systems
Speak to a good installer and they’ll tell you not every aluminium system is fitted in the same way. Screw positions, the location of fixing screws, where the thermal break is located and the overall method of fixing differs between a casement, a fixed light, a door/window combination or steel-look window.
All six aïr MOD window versions use exactly the same fixing method.
Getting hold of parts
Installers buying in a variety of products from different suppliers are all too aware of just how many different parts their fitting teams need. Then there is the added headache of figuring out the wedge and captive gaskets, brackets, screws etc. There are better-integrated systems available today, however, most still have parts unique to that particular window series.
Of course, a good trade supplier puts systems in place to help installers identify which parts go with the different window types. The reality is not every fitting team is as diligent on site. Gaskets are a great example. Installers and office staff needing to replace gasket will be all-too-aware of identifying the type of gasket. Is it 2mm, 3mm 4mm? What’s the colour of the stripe on the back? Is it a wedge or a flipper, does it have a tear-off strip or not?
Using the familiar scenario of additional gaskets, the aïr MOD windows for the trade has just five parts to work with across all window versions.
The same applies to window handles. One window system often comes designed to work with different brands of handles. Hoppe, Fab n Fix, VBH, and many more different handle brands are all designed to work with multiple systems. aïr windows come with a simplified range of accessories and essential items making life much easier for the installer.
aïr MOD windows compared
We’ve taken eight of most popular bought in systems and compared them to aïr MOD windows. Only Stellar and Sheerline offer a streamlined simplified system but they don’t come with as many window versions. All the other systems come as different window versions depending on the look you’re after. Some systems even offer more than one version of products like steel-look.
The purpose of this table is to illustrate that popular aluminium systems remain separate when it comes to choosing different window versions often with lots of frame, mullion, vent and accessory combinations for the installer to decipher.
Brand
Versions
Casement Types
Steel-Look
Flush Casement
Tilt & Turn
aïr MOD
1
Smart
7
Alitherm 300,600, 800 Eco-Futural
Alitherm Heritage
Alitherm 500
Alitherm 600
Aluk
6
58BW 77IWE
58BW ST
58BW Flush
58BW TBT
Stellar
1
Stellar
No
Stellar
No
Sheerline
2
Classic
Classic
Classic
No
Comar
5
5p.1 Eco LT
No
No
5P.1
Reynaers
8
MasterLine SlimLine 38 & 68 CS77 & 68 ES50
CS 24-SL Slimline 38
Yes
Yes
Origin
2
OW70
No
OW80
No
Schuco, as usual, goes beyond the standard requirements of most installers having 12 different types of windows this number gets even bigger when you take in the specialist versions.
aïr MOD windows – conclusion
The design of the new aïr system is very much targeted at installers buying in fabricated aluminium windows looking to offer multiple types of window styles without needing to learn different systems and versions within systems. Gone is the complexity but retained is the range with casement, flush casement, steel-look and heritage windows all under one product.
The simplicity of the system makes it ideal where different types of windows are needed, say on the front elevation of a house compared to the back. It’s as simple as a change in sash and frame profile while retaining the same accessories. Gone is the head-scratching figuring out the many different versions available with aluminium systems and what’s the best product, combination and profiles required.
For the salesman, surveyor, installer and even the order processor, understanding an aluminium window product just got easier.
Look around most trade-focused systems and the benefits don’t really resonate with the end-user. However, window aesthetics, performance, quality and several window types under one system are good sales propositions.
aïr MOD windows also form part of the aïr brand, supplied by high-end home improvement companies in the South of England. Everglade Windows as a trade manufacter is well-known for lead times and service as well as providing their trade client base with other business services to support them and help them sell more.
The Made in Britain organisation now has new extrusion aluminium company Garnelex as a member. Garnalex supplies all manner of aluminium extrusions to industry.For aluminium windows the company is shortly to introduce the brand new Sheerline door and window system, promising to offer new innovative design and service levels.
What is the Made in Britain Organisation?
Made in Britain is an organisation bringing together British businesses united as authentic British manufacturers. To gain this accreditation, businesses undergo an assessment process giving an assurance of a truly British product and manufacturer. The Made in Britain organisation also provides support when needed relating to exports, sales, marketing and public relations.
To qualify for the Made In Britain membership, Garnalex has demonstrated themselves as a manufacturer in the UK. Specifically, the materials Garnalex uses under Made in Britain rules, must undergo “a substantial and transformative change” as a result of their production processes.
Furthermore, the Made in Britain organisation checks the legitimacy of their members via the SIC code. The Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) registered with Companies House is a four-digit code classifying the nature of the business.
Roger Hartshorn, the CEO of Garnalex says:
Currently 190,000 tons of extruded aluminium is consumed in the UK, but only 110,000 tons is made in the UK. We plan to make a big dent in those import statistics! The raw aluminium comes from Wales, so this really is your chance to reduce Britain’s carbon footprint and buy British. We’ve spent over £9m on Garnalex’ state-of-the-art aluminium extrusion facility and we’ve integrated manufacturing, logistics and SAP with our in-house GarnerSys software for improved efficiency and outstanding product quality.
Garnalex is proud to invest in British manufacturing – our new Sheerline aluminium window and door system is designed in Britain and made in Britain. Garnalex is one of only a few aluminium companies to extrude in Britain and supply both trade extrusions to other companies and our own Sheerline window and door systems to fabricators. This investment gives us full control of the supply chain, enabling us to offer shorter lead times and first-class service.
Garnalex, therefore, joins a growing British community in the fenestration sector including SE Controls, Anglian, Epwin, Cantifix, Crittall®, Mumford and Wood, Masterframe and many others.
Why the Made in Britain logo is important
Consumers wanting genuinely British aluminium windows and doors have confidence when they see the official Made in Britain mark. The trade also benefits. Not only do they support British manufacturing but also get the sales benefits from customers wanting products made here. And with so many European extrusions in the UK market, we see this as a genuine way to set the business apart now that the UK has left the European Union.
The new Sheerline system launches in March 2020. It promises an advanced aluminium system with a completely new design, fabrication methods and an improved way fabricators get material.For installers, the product promises an appealing product range and desirable aesthetics, options and colours.
Garnalex offers interested manufacturers and installers the opportunity to attend Sheerline Ambassador Workshops. Get in touch to find out more about these.
The Made in Britain organisation now has new extrusion aluminium company Garnelex as a member. Garnalex supplies all manner of aluminium extrusions to industry.For aluminium windows the company is shortly to introduce the brand new Sheerline door and window system, promising to offer new innovative design and service levels.
What is the Made in Britain Organisation?
Made in Britain is an organisation bringing together British businesses united as authentic British manufacturers. To gain this accreditation, businesses undergo an assessment process giving an assurance of a truly British product and manufacturer. The Made in Britain organisation also provides support when needed relating to exports, sales, marketing and public relations.
To qualify for the Made In Britain membership, Garnalex has demonstrated themselves as a manufacturer in the UK. Specifically, the materials Garnalex uses under Made in Britain rules, must undergo “a substantial and transformative change” as a result of their production processes.
Furthermore, the Made in Britain organisation checks the legitimacy of their members via the SIC code. The Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) registered with Companies House is a four-digit code classifying the nature of the business.
Roger Hartshorn, the CEO of Garnalex says:
Currently 190,000 tons of extruded aluminium is consumed in the UK, but only 110,000 tons is made in the UK. We plan to make a big dent in those import statistics! The raw aluminium comes from Wales, so this really is your chance to reduce Britain’s carbon footprint and buy British. We’ve spent over £9m on Garnalex’ state-of-the-art aluminium extrusion facility and we’ve integrated manufacturing, logistics and SAP with our in-house GarnerSys software for improved efficiency and outstanding product quality.
Garnalex is proud to invest in British manufacturing – our new Sheerline aluminium window and door system is designed in Britain and made in Britain. Garnalex is one of only a few aluminium companies to extrude in Britain and supply both trade extrusions to other companies and our own Sheerline window and door systems to fabricators. This investment gives us full control of the supply chain, enabling us to offer shorter lead times and first-class service.
Garnalex, therefore, joins a growing British community in the fenestration sector including SE Controls, Anglian, Epwin, Cantifix, Crittall®, Mumford and Wood, Masterframe and many others.
Why the Made in Britain logo is important
Consumers wanting genuinely British aluminium windows and doors have confidence when they see the official Made in Britain mark. The trade also benefits. Not only do they support British manufacturing but also get the sales benefits from customers wanting products made here. And with so many European extrusions in the UK market, we see this as a genuine way to set the business apart now that the UK has left the European Union.
The new Sheerline system launches in March 2020. It promises an advanced aluminium system with a completely new design, fabrication methods and an improved way fabricators get material.For installers, the product promises an appealing product range and desirable aesthetics, options and colours.
Garnalex offers interested manufacturers and installers the opportunity to attend Sheerline Ambassador Workshops. Get in touch to find out more about these.
