Further unglazed approval
15th May 2018

HWL TRADE FRAMES has gained further approval of its non-glass bonded Residence 9 Window, which has now passed independent PAS24 testing to achieve Part Q approval.

The additional accreditation comes less than a month after the product achieved a series of passes under BS EN 6375 - 1 weather testing.

Director Graham Howatson said: “We have had a great response from installers to frame-only R9 supply because it offers them significant installation efficiencies and they can buy-in IGU’s from their usual supplier.

“With PAS24 approval just weeks after exceptionally positive weather test results, the argument for buying in R9 un-glazed is absolutely compelling.”

The trade fabricator has led the development of an R9 frame-only offer, using the application of Timberweld sash-welding technologies in its manufacture. This gives HWL a capability to butt weld window sashes inside and out, replicating the aesthetic of a 90° mechanical joint. This process HWL says increases sash corner strength, which in most configurations eliminates the requirement to glass bond IGUs, which have historically been used in R9 fabrication to give the system structural strength.

Conducted in partnership with the Residence Collection, the HWL window was tested under PAS24 by independent testing house, Exova, This returned a series of clear passes under PAS24 test requirements for mechanical load and manual intervention testing.

Howatson continued: “Manual intervention tests are constructed around a series of three-minute manual assaults on all fixed locking points, hinges, glass and beading. Mechanical load tests replicate the bi-directional loading that you would get if someone was using a pry-bar to force the sash or hinges. The window remained absolutely solid throughout. This is direct evidence of the inherent strength Timberweld and a real affirmation of our decision to go down this route.”

The BS EN 6375 - 1 Weather Test results, completed in April, again by Exova, give HWL’s R9 non-glass bonded window an Exposure Category of 1600, a Class 3 Air Permeability Rating (600pa); a Class 9A (600pa) Water Tightness Rating; and top Class C4 (1600pa), resistance to wind.

“It’s not that we’re saying there isn’t a place for traditionally mechanically jointed and glass-bonded options. We still offer them”, added Howatson.

“We are, however, committed to exploiting innovation in manufacturing technologies to give our customers choice. Timberweld allows us to do that and the installation efficiencies that it offers are allowing our customers to be more competitive and to win more business.

“In reducing weight, cutting the complexity of handling glass-bonded frames and making installation easier, it also removes the barriers which have dissuaded some installers from bringing what is a fantastic window into their retail offers.”

www.hwlwindows.co.uk