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THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 352 24th February2009
Avocet’s Pioneering approach to hardware
Leading Hardware supplier Avocet Hardware has launched a new range of door handles. Pioneer is a contemporary range which offers window fabricators striking and durable door hardware. The new range is part of Avocet’s commitment to supply its customers with hardware which helps them sell.
The Logikal 100
Business Micros (Aluminium) Ltd has just signed up its 100th customer to their flagship LogiKal software solution for aluminium fabricators, after a big year of growth in 2008.
Combilift is The Diplomatic Choice
Gateshead based Diplomat Extrusions is one of the first UK companies in the extrusion sector to opt for a relatively new Combilift product – a stand-on ST model, for the storage, handling and picking of its range of steel, aluminium and U-PVC extrusions which it supplies to window manufacturers throughout the UK.
Now available: the Industry Book of Forecasts
For many in the window and building material industries, just turning the corner into 2009 was a relief, but what does this New Year hold? More doom and gloom and credit crunch headlines, companies going bust, and unemployment rising? Or is there a glimmer of hope out there for certain products or sectors? While none of us has a crystal ball, we can certainly get fact based help from the 4th Edition (February 2009) of the UK PVC-U Windows, Doors & Conservatory Book of Forecasts 2002-2012 out now.
Sensory perception heightened with Fitrite
Sash UK has been involved in the creation of a fabulous sensory garden, located in the grounds of the BUPA care home in Grimethorpe, Yorkshire. The home wanted to create a peaceful space for its 90 residents and called upon Sash’s expertise to see if they could help.
Four seasons grand offer
Fancy a grand to spend on your mortgage, a holiday or even something special for your home? Well that’s exactly what conservatory fabricator, Four Seasons Conservatories is offering to the winner of their latest promotional campaign.
5-day roof and glass from Ultraframe
Due to sophisticated software, detailed manufacturing planning and the support of the UK’s principal flat glass and shaped roof sealed unit manufacturer, Ultraframe is able to offer a 5-day lead time on roof and glass orders.
Train to Gain Providers given money to grow?
Train to Gain Training providers striving for Centre of Excellence status will know how important quality is. If you are part of a Centre of Excellence it is crucial that you are encouraged to increase your learner capacity while ensuring quality standards are maintained.
Raising energy levels in the Orkneys with Sash
With a long and illustrious working relationship with Sash UK, Orkney Builders are yet again reaping the benefits of Sash’s exemplary customer service package, this time through a partnering scheme with one of the biggest names in glazing: Pilkington.
Degree of success for Pilkington Activ™
Leading fabricator, Polar North East, has been supplying windows with the revolutionary Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning glass to one of the most prestigious universities in the country, Durham University. Founded in 1832, the university has built up a reputation as one of the UK’s leading research universities, with world class expertise in science, engineering, technology, social sciences, arts and humanities.
Windowbase gears up for growth with senior appointment
Windowbase, the market-leading supplier of prospect data, has appointed a General Manager to oversee expansion. Neil Parsonson brings over 30 years’ experience in commercial and management roles at a key time for the company. “Windowbase has been compiling prospect data for 15 years.
OBG Glass partitioning promotes daylight penetration
Frameless glass partitions from OBG have contributed to a ‘very good’ BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) rating for daylight penetration at the new Smith Extension at the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST). A light and airy environment is a key feature of the impressive building, which is designed around a central light well.
Dessian products targets England and Wales
Belfast based Dessian Products has appointed a new Sales Manager to help spearhead growth in England and Wales during 2009.
Open to the heavens with Pilkington Activ™
Worshippers at St Therese Roman Catholic Church in Banbridge have a much brighter view of proceedings, thanks to the incorporation of Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning glass in the roof. The building is a monument to successful contemporary design and innovation with Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning glass literally its crowning glory.
New Oak sliding folding pation door released
JELD-WEN’s Canberra sliding folding patio door has been released in an exciting new high quality Oak and will be known as Canberra Duo™.
DGS Group Plc appointed as new Swisspacer distributor in UK and Ireland
Leading warm edge supplier Swisspacer has appointed an additional distributor for the UK and Ireland to meet growing demand – Double Glazing Supplies (DGS) Group Plc. Swisspacer will be stocked at all of the national distributors 11 branches and will be supported by Solutions UK who operate as DGS’s specialist IG Sales and Marketing partners
Vogue Ultimate: The best looking window in Britain?
The launch of the Vogue Ultimate range by Emplas sets a new standard for aesthetic appeal and great performance.
Top Safety Accreditation for Anglian Building Products
Anglian is one of the latest groups of successful organisations to join a leading edge scheme, designed to help industry improve its safety record.
Cornwall Glass & Glazing pick up another award
Cornwall Glass & Glazing were among an array of firms from Cornwall and Devon's business community celebrating success at the Excellence in Business Training Awards 2009.
Cedar Cladding creates an entrance at new Edinburgh school
Panel Systems has been selected by the City of Edinburgh Council, to supply its market-leading timber clad panels to a unique new £1.3m Social Emotional and Behavioral Difficulties (SEBD) school, situated in the city’s western borough of Gorgie.
Hepworth boss builds for an upturn with investment in Elumatec technology
In its 25-year history, Hepworth Framework of Huddersfield has carved out a niche in the market for quality aluminium doors, windows and curtain walling. To maintain this quality, coupled with the need for speed of delivery, the company has continued to invest in Elumatec machinery in order to improve efficiency, reduce overheads and maintain profitability.
WFM moves in with Omnico in Northampton
Window Fitters Mate (WFM), has opened at the Omnico site in Northampton to create a one-stop shop for all window, door, conservatory and roofline requirements. Northampton is a brand new site for WFM, a SIG Roofline & Building Products (SIG R&BP) company, which was previously based at Kettering.
Innovative Glass Completes World’s Largest State-of-the-Art SPD-SmartGlass Project at Indiana University
Indiana University’s Health Information and Translational Sciences Building the Site of the Electronic Light-Control Glass Technology
Discover a new solar system with GAP
To help installers tap into the profitable opportunities of selling eco-friendly products, GAP has launched a new domestic solar hot water heating system. The Evacuated Tube Solar System is perfect for domestic installation and is highly efficient; far more effective than standard flat plate solar panel collectors.
Emplas celebrates a happy birthday with happy customers
At a time when many companies are struggling to satisfy shareholders, investors and other interests, Emplas is celebrating 30 years of putting customers first.
A ‘Grand Design’ secured by Groupco and Cotswold windows
The owners of a new ‘grand design’ property in the Cotswolds are feeling safe and secure thanks to Fuhr’s latest generation locking system, supplied by Groupco and installed by Cotswold Windows. The large aluminium entrance door of the architect-designed house in Charlton Kings is fitted with a Fuhr Multitronic 881 electronic multipoint lock.
Bystronic glass Success in the Photovoltaic Industry
Roller Laminators Press Thin-Film Modules in 60-Second Cycles. Gunzenhausen, 03.02.2009. At the end of last year, the Bystronic glass Technology Centre Bystronic Armatec commissioned their first pre-nip laminating system for pressing thin-film photovoltaic modules. With this installation at a German PV panel producer, the machine builder has successfully transferred technologies from flat glass processing to the photovoltaic industry.
A great year, now Bi-Folding Door manufacturer Colourline, launches a Retractable roof
During a year when it seemed that the industry was firmly in the doldrums Colourline bucked the trend with record sales figures.
Phoenix launches new composite door range
Driven by customer demand, Phoenix Door Panels has launched a stylish and durable new range of GRP composite doors, which it claims to have the simplest pricing structure in the industry.
Lacobel Wallclad Anti-Bac Glass - Hygiene with Class
Did you know that it takes only 5 seconds’ contact with a contaminated surface to pick up 99% of bacteria? Whilst many of these micro-organisms are harmless to human beings, many can cause a range of infections and diseases, often with serious consequences. In many environments such as hospitals and other areas where there are patients open to infection, hygiene is a must, with no room for errors or sub standard products.
The Performance Window Group acquires fast growing TimberWindows.com
The Performance Window Group (PWG), based in Essex, has acquired the fast growing engineered timber window system company TimberWindows.com. Simultaneously, the Group has increased its capital base by teaming up with Graphite Capital, a leading London provider of investment funds. It is the third acquisition for PWG, which currently owns leading timber window manufacturers Mumford & Wood and Clearwood UK.
THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 351 17th February2009
Another Trada scoop for Kenrick and CWG choices
Well known trade fabricator and Kenrick hardware user CWG Choices Ltd has clinched yet another Q Mark from BM TRADA, this time for its Synseal Shield and Kommerling Connoisseur window ranges. The company gained the BS 7950 accreditation, which recognises the enhanced security of PVC-U casement windows, with Kenrick’s Easi-Fit multi-point locking system.
GAP’s Bury trade counter Refurb ‘more customer friendly’
GAP has continued its depot renovation programme with the completion of work at its trade counter in Bury. The large trade counter has been made more customer-friendly with a wider variety of products available to pick up off the shelves.
GAP buys assets of roofline manufacturer Everwhite Ltd
GAP, the UK’s leading home improvement stockist, has bought the assets of roofline manufacturer Everwhite Ltd from the Administrators. The move will enable GAP to manufacture Homeline, the UK’s most comprehensive range of roofline products and continue to supply all of Everwhite’s customers across the UK and Ireland. The roofline manufacturer will become Homeline Building Products and sends a clear signal of GAP’s commitment to the roofline industry. It will offer a full range of PVC-U products including fascias, soffits, bargeboards, window trims, architraves and cills.
TimberWindows.com bucks the trend with record enquiries in January
TimberWindows.com kick started the New Year with a record number of enquiries in the first week of January. Between 29th December and 4th January, 71 homeowner enquiries were generated via its website, making it one of the best weeks ever for the engineered timber window systems company.
Latest Elumatec aluminium open house event will provide working solutions from start-up to large scale fabrication
After holding two hugely successful in-house aluminium exhibitions, Elumatec will be staging its biggest Aluminium Open House event to date when the company opens its doors from 12th to 14th May to fabricators considering the move into aluminium frame manufacture, or an increase in capacity. This year’s event will see an extension of the highly successful previous show, with 15 guest exhibitors showing a range of complementary products and services that will enable visitors consider a full range of suppliers. Recent changes in the exhibition calendar make Elumatec Aluminium Open House the most significant window production event this spring.
Door-Stop Offers Installers a Way in Through the Back Door
Door-Stop International, the composite door supplier taking the panel market by storm, brings to the forefront an untapped opportunity for installers in its consumer marketing support. “The sales value of the back door is seriously underestimated in our industry,” explains Nick Dutton, Managing Director of Door-Stop. “And yet it is often the most vulnerable and least secure way in to a home.
5 Star Shower Solutions – From Häfele UK
Häfele UK have launched a new range of high quality fittings for frameless glass shower doors and cubicles in their latest catalogue. Designed to suit all types of applications including hinged, folding and sliding screens, the range also includes suitable seals and support bars. All of the range has been tested to the new European norm, DIN EN 14428, which covers over 500 variations of glass shower cubicles, so they can confidently be specified in five star locations such as hotels or apartments.
New keyless Push VentlockTM from Mighton
Mighton Products, the premium timber sash window hardware specialist, has redesigned VentlockTM to make life easier for customers. The new keyless ‘Push Ventlock’ is fitted simply by screwing the whole unit into a 14mm diameter hole. Ventlock allows a sash to be left open a few inches for ventilation without compromising security. It’s also a great way to prevent children opening a sash window unsupervised.
AGS creates a room with a view
AGS Home Improvements recently proved that you can’t beat a room with a view when it installed vertical sliding windows on Newquay’s Great Western Hotel.
Town and Country (Swindon) Ltd open the door to Deceuninck
Town and Country (Swindon) Ltd recently chose Deceuninck as their bi-folding door systems partner. Six months in, they’re delighted with their choice!
ISO standard for assessing energy efficiency of new buildings
The new International Standard ISO 23045:2008 will help the building sector to contribute to energy saving by providing it with specific design guidelines.
Reduced Testing price for EN 1279 Part 3 –Initial Type Test for Gas Leakage
Everyone has been affected by the recent financial crisis and the recession currently gripping the UK, none more so than insulating glass manufacturers. With significant changes to building regulations due next year (2010) and the increasing popularity of Window Energy Rated windows, this has highlighted even more the importance of being able to supply gas filled units. To comply with these requirements, manufacturers need a pass at EN 1279 Part 3 and to date, this has proved somewhat elusive to achieve. Single seal hot melt i.g.u. manufacturers have found it particularly difficult with hardly any passes recorded.
Only SIG R&BP and Kestrel has the answer for Wulvern Housing
SIG Roofline & Building Products (SIG R&BP), has become the sole supplier of roofline materials to Wulvern Housing Association. SIG R&BP's Summers branch in Crewe was selected by Wulvern Housing to supply the Roofline range of Kestrel building products, after it became one of only 5 housing associations in the UK to adopt the 'Leansigma' working business model. That is, that all work on its housing projects is carried out in house by Wulvern, as opposed to sub contracting out different areas of work.
Tritton Glass achieves EN1279 Part 3 with Swisspacer V
Sealed unit manufacturer Tritton Glass Centre Ltd has achieved EN1279 Part 3 using Swisspacer V. The standard is a legal requirement for all sealed unit manufacturers making gas filled units. It has become particularly important, especially with the growth of Window Energy Ratings. It relates to the mandatory allowable gas leakage rate where many types of unit construction, using both traditional aluminium and other warm edge spacers, have had great difficulty in achieving.
Specialist frame invest in Bi-Fold door showroom
Specialist Frame in Bootle has invested in a new showroom exclusively for bi-fold doors in the REHAU S706 system.
Last chance to register!
FREE ‘Energy Efficiency in Focus – Revisited’ Industry Seminar
Don’t miss out on your chance to attend this FREE industry seminar organised by Edgetech. Registrations are now over 250 so if you are planning to attend but haven’t yet let us know, drop us an e-mail or call us today to guarantee your place.
Locking good - The Hurst composite door
Combining style with strength, the composite door from Hurst Plastics boasts some of the very best security features available in the marketplace today.
Dewgard changes minds with Masterframe
Masterframe’s versatility is helping Craig Dewberry of The Dewgard Window Company satisfy discerning customers who believe all they read about PVC-U windows in the national press. Craig explains: “We can install sliding sash windows that match any style of property and which look as good as the originals – you’d hardly know they are replacements.
Alumet wins Midlands excellence award
Warwickshire based Building façade specialist Alumet is celebrating after landing a coveted Midlands Excellence Award – an award which recognises and rewards business excellence in organisations from across the region. The company was the first to pick up the new special category award for Innovation, for its bomb-blast resistant ABLE Façade System www.alumet.co.uk.
Edenex® decking chosen by Lodge Solutions
Lodge Solutions has chosen to stock Edenex decking for installation in a range of luxury holiday park projects throughout the UK and Ireland. Edenex is an innovative, wood plastic composite decking system with a range of very attractive features and benefits. It combines the natural, warm beauty of wood with the durability and low maintenance qualities of PVC.
Cotswold celebrates South American success
Ferbras S.A, Cotswold’s exclusive distributor in Chile, has secured sales of Cotswold’s high performance Friction Stays for a wide range of projects in and around Santiago, from new homes to a ski resort centre. Sebastian Torres of Ferbras S.A. believes the performance of Cotswold Hinges in a region with very high temperatures and salt levels is second to none. “Their renowned quality, plus the backing of a 10-year warranty, has made Cotswold the number one choice for all these prestigious projects,” he says.
AGC aims high with new appointements
AGC Flat Glass Europe is addressing the challenges of a changing market and the credit crunch with the appointment of a highly experienced Sales Manager for the UK and Ireland. Mark Rodgers is heading up a skilled and enthusiastic team of account managers at AGC, dedicated to maximising sales opportunities for the company and its customers.
Liversidge celebrates 40 years in business
Oldham based Liversidge UPVC Windows and Doors has become one of the first REHAU fabricators in the UK to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
H.B. Fuller announces revamped technical support service
Following the launch of its state-of-the-art Technical Centre in Heidelberg, H.B. Fuller Window has announced a newly structured support service that will see all technical product enquiries directed to key senior scientists and advisors at the centre.
Bohle confirms its commitment to Glassex@Interbuild
February 15, 2009 – Dave Broxton, recently appointed Sales & Marketing Director of leading glass tools, machinery and consumables specialist Bohle UK, has confirmed Bohle’s commitment to Glassex@Interbuild which takes place in October, later this year.
Exciting new generation of Roofwright software unveiled
RPS has unveiled the latest generation of its market-leading RoofWright conservatory software package. The most compatible version of RoofWright ever, RoofWright 6-9 is packed with innovative new features, which have been added to further simplify conservatory sales, pricing, manufacturing and installation.
Halspan proves service life performance with Chiltern Fire
Halspan Ltd, one of the UK's leading providers of timber-based fire door products, in partnership with Chiltern International Fire (CIF), has demonstrated that its doors can perform throughout their service life.
Jeld-Wen achieves environmental standard
JELD-WEN’s window manufacturing site at Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire is celebrating achieving the prestigious ISO14001 accreditation, the international standard for environmental performance.
THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 350 10th February2009
Croydon's own SIG R&BP one-stop shop
Window Fitters Mate (WFM), have opened at the Project Plastics site in Croydon to create a one-stop shop for all window, door, conservatory and roofline requirements.
[Read the Rest Here]
Limited Space Left as Over 200 Sign Up for Energy Efficiency Seminar
Only 80 spaces remain on the FREE ‘Energy Efficiency in Focus – Revisited’ seminar being organised by the UK’s only dedicated Warm Edge Technology manufacturer, Edgetech. “220 people have registered for the event just two weeks after the invitations went out,” says Andy Jones, Edgetech Managing Director.
[Read the Rest Here]
SIG's Alltrim Plastics welcomes another expert to their team…
Garry Worrall has been appointed new Branch Manager for Alltrim's Willenhall branch. Garry joined Alltrim in January this year, after over 15 years of experience working within the building products industry.
[Read the Rest Here]
Edgetech Helps a Further Five Customers Achieve Part 3
The only dedicated Warm Edge Technology manufacturer in the UK, Edgetech has helped five more of its customers achieve EN1279 Part 3.
[Read the Rest Here]
VICE PRESIDENT ROLE FOR SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS MD
Dr Alan McLenaghan, Managing Director of Saint-Gobain Glass UK, has recently been appointed as Vice President (Manufacturing) of Saint-Gobain Glass.
[Read the Rest Here]
GLASSTALK – LETS GET NETWORKING!
Whatever people considered about Glassex in recent years, it was clearly a great networking event and that’s exactly what the newly launched GlassTalk intends to give to the glazing industry.
[Read the Rest Here]
MILL FINISH
K2 Conservatories are experiencing an increase in demand for their aluminium conservatory roof system in a mill finish as fabricators look to satisfy the demand for coloured conservatories.
[Read the Rest Here]
REPLACE YOUR EXECUTIVES WITH APPRENTICES!
How many highly paid professionals spend their time doing basic ‘administration’ work because they don’t know how to use technology effectively? Young people leaving school may need training in workplace etiquette but one skill they do have is computer literacy.
[Read the Rest Here]
CURVED PATIO DOOR SOLUTION FOR SCOTTISH MANSION
Balcony System’s innovative curved sliding glass and aluminium patio doors have been used in the extensive renovation and extension of an imposing mansion overlooking Scotland’s dramatic west coast.
[Read the Rest Here]
Clear Thinking at Glass Gulf
Gulf Glass 2009 will take place this year in Sharjah, UAE from 16th-18th March and will be Clear Thinking Software's second showing at the exhibition.
[Read the Rest Here]
UK WINDOW SYSTEMS GIVES CUSTOMERS THE EDGE ON BFRC RATINGS
Stoke based trade fabricator UK Window Systems has stepped up its commitment to the BFRC Energy Ratings scheme with an announcement that it is to offer B rated windows as standard with no price premium for customers.
[Read the Rest Here]
CONSTRUCTION GIANT GEARS UP FOR ECOBUILD Stand number 2365
Saint-Gobain - the leading international construction materials company - is to have a major presence at Ecobuild 2009, with its UK manufacturing businesses exhibiting more than 70 innovative products under the core themes of energy efficiency, comfort and aesthetics, safety and security.
[Read the Rest Here]
energiKare™ Partners
Over the past year, more than 300 companies have signed up to be Pilkington energiKare™ Partners. They include Safestyle, Weatherseal, Crystal and SASH UK - helping to spread the energy efficiency revolution across the whole of the UK.
[Read the Rest Here]
Glazerite Windows appoint new Sales and Marketing Manager
Glazerite Windows, a leading Network VEKA trade fabricator, have announced the appointment of Chris Thompson as their new Sales and Marketing Manager.
[Read the Rest Here]
PILKINGTON ACTIV™ BLUE FULFILS SPECIAL NEEDS
Scheduled for opening in January 2009, the new Ivy House School in Derbyshire follows modern guidelines for sustainable construction, utilising advanced materials to provide an ideal environment for learning.
[Read the Rest Here]
NEW MEMBER TO THE PILKINGTON SUNCOOL™ FAMILY
Pilkington has unveiled a brand new addition to its popular Pilkington Suncool™ range to help meet the changes to the Part L of the Building Regulations in 2010.
[Read the Rest Here]
Orangery Solutions
Interest has been steadily growing for Orangery Solutions roof system and several projects have now been completed since the initial launch in November 2008.
[Read the Rest Here]
PILKINGTON ACTIV™ IS ACADEMIC!
A highly unusual window replacement scheme has taken place at Leicester University. Pilkington Activ™ Blue glass has helped transform the Attenborough Tower, a 19-storey tower block built in the early 1970s on the main campus.
[Read the Rest Here]
Regency Glass Ltd, Lancashire, Pass BS EN1279 part 3 – Several times!!
Regency Glass Ltd, one of the largest sealed unit manufacturers in Northwest England have passed the BSI test for gas filled units – BS EN1279 part3, (Argon) several times.
[Read the Rest Here]
‘Security with style’ delivers commercial new build project
Leading manufacturer of PVC-U windows, doors and conservatories, Security with style, has delivered a new build project for M A Young Construction in Preston.
[Read the Rest Here]
SmartBase Puts Installers Back in the Driving Seat
Conservatories and more recently Orangeries are great ways to add space and value to a home, but historically have caused installers problems due to their heavy reliance on other trades people.
[Read the Rest Here]
SUNSHADE BLIND SYSTEMS HIT THE TV SCREENS
SUNSHADE BLIND SYSTEMS OF CORBY NORTHAMPTONSHIRE HIT THE TV SCREENS THIS YEAR WITH THEIR SUNSHADE (2) BLIND SYSTEM IN THE PROGRAM ‘LOVE THE PLACE YOU’RE IN
[Read the Rest Here]
T R Freeman announces five education contracts worth £720,000
Architectural metal roofing and cladding company T R Freeman has announced a series of new contracts in the education sector totalling £720,000.
[Read the Rest Here]
Valentines Day launch for new innovative training network
With the economic climate in turmoil, theTrainingpod has picked the perfect date to launch. As business’s are reducing training during the recession and the government is investing £140 million into it, what a perfect time to introduce an online network that matches companies and trainers/providers to one another for FREE!
[Read the Rest Here]
TECHNAL TO SUPPLY GLAZING SYSTEMS FOR NEW £60m COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
Architectural aluminium glazing specialists, Technal, in partnership with fabricator Norking Aluminium, have been awarded the £1.5m glazing contract for a new £60m community hospital in Pontefract.
[Read the Rest Here]
Affinity from Avocet offers Crystal Direct customers more choice
National trade fabricator Crystal Direct is now using the Affinity range from leading hardware supplier Avocet Hardware.
[Read the Rest Here]
New Spectus Finance Director charts safe course through stormy market
Spectus has promoted Amber Owens as its new Finance Director. Amber has worked at the leading systems company for four years, and was previously Head of Finance.
[Read the Rest Here]
Climatec Windows Ltd embraces 2009 with new products and a new website
Essex based fabricator, Climatec Windows Ltd added to their long list of accreditations by successfully securing Energy Ratings of A, B and C for its range of windows.
[Read the Rest Here]
Increased Production Capacity for Cavitymasters
Cavitymasters, the Norfolk based cavity/former manufacturer has recently increased its production capacity from 700 frames to 3000 frames per week.
[Read the Rest Here]
HART & CO INVESTS IN NEW LIVERIED VEHICLE
REHAU fabricator Hart & Co, based in Skelmersdale, Lancashire has invested £26,000 in a new delivery vehicle for its range of windows and doors in the S706 70mm system.
[Read the Rest Here]
EcoClear sales forecast bucks recession in 2009
Last year leading sealed unit manufacturer Solaglas Ltd, launched EcoClear, one of the most technically advanced double glazed units on the market. Since launch, sales have increased dramatically month-on-month and are forecast to grow by over 300% year-on-year in 2009.
[Read the Rest Here]
EMPLAS AT A FAB-STORE
Leading trade fabricator, Emplas is enjoying the benefits of dealing online with Fabstore for the supply of double glazed units and a complete hardware range that now includes a matching set of window and door handles, letter plates, knockers and numbers.
[Read the Rest Here]
Members travel 8,400 miles for Network training
Network VEKA members travelled from all over the country to take part in a second sell-out sales training event.
The event drew companies from far and wide following the previous sell-out session in October.
[Read the Rest Here]
LTF ON THE OFFENSIVE TO BEAT THE CRUNCH
It’s been a promising start to the year for trade fabricator Lancashire PVC-U Trade Frames, despite indications that 2009 will be a challenging time for the window industry.
[Read the Rest Here]
INNOVATIVE NEW PVC-u THERMAL INSERTS FROM EUROCELL
OFFER UP TO 25% GLAZING COST SAVINGS
Eurocell has launched an innovative new range of recycled PVC-u Thermal Inserts for window profiles, which offer better fabrication processes, improved thermal performance and up to 25% cost savings on ‘A’-rated window glazed units.
[Read the Rest Here]
SARNAFIL’S NEW NETWORK
Flat roofing systems specialist Sarnafil Roof Assured has become an affiliate of Network VEKA and will be offering their nationwide network of installers a proven additional revenue stream.
[Read the Rest Here]
THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 349 3rd February2009
Mila hardware launches new kitemarked anti-manipulation cylinder
Mila Hardware has launched a Kitemarked anti-manipulation cylinder to give its customers a high quality solution to the very real threat of lock bumping. The cylinder, which sits within Mila’s premium product tier branded Evolution, meets the stringent requirements set out by both Secured by Design and PAS 024.
250% Increase in enquiries received via Rehau website
REHAU’s new consumer website, www.rehau.co.uk/homeowners, which went live in November 2008, has already delivered a 250% rise in enquiries for fabricators and installers listed on its free dealer finder service.
Camden Composite opens its Security Enhanced Doors
As the market remains strong for composite doors for both refurbishments and new builds, Camden Group is pleased to announce the launch of their new Camden Composite range.
Now available to order, the Camden Composite range offers aesthetically pleasing traditional style, timber effect doors that are produced in modern, virtually maintenance free materials.
Launch of new BFRC website completes first stage of 2009 marketing campaign
The British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) is launching its new look website from today 15 January 2009 at www.bfrc.org. This marks the completion of the first stage of its 2009 marketing campaign that aims to grow the market for Energy Efficient Windows. This redesigned site not only supports BFRC registered users, it also provides householders with a definitive guide to Energy Efficient Windows.
PVC-U – helping to save the planet and to save money
Double savings on PVC-U double glazing is the new message from PVCaware.org in a new campaign to be run by the British Plastics Federation Windows Group in the spring with the aim of demonstrating the material’s environmental and budget-friendly advantages to specifiers and end-users.
VEKA doubles door sales
Sales of VEKA’s new Amulet composite more doubled in the first six months since its launch quarter last spring.
Fab & Fix launches high security lock cylinder
Leading hardware specialist Fab & Fix has enhanced its Security Conscious range of door products with a new anti-bump, anti-snap and anti-drill security cylinder that offers a competitively-priced solution to concerns over current cylinder vulnerabilities.
Solaglas contracting - Key project wins, monthly update
Solaglas Contracting has had a positive start to the New Year, securing several prestigious contracts. Key wins include:-
a £1.4m contract from BAM Construction Ltd to supply and install 4,500m² of curtain walling, windows and doors for the new Severn Trent Centre in Coventry.
Door-Stop Updates Website with More Installer Benefits
Door-Stop International, the composite door supplier taking the panel market by storm, is pleased to announce more developments on its interactive website www.door-stop.co.uk. Nick Dutton, Managing Director explains: “The Door-Stop website attracts a lot of visitors because it’s a practical resource to make ordering easy, but we’ve recently given customers even more reasons to log on.
Eurocell adds another string to its bow in East London
Eurocell Building Plastics, one of the UK’s fastest growing national chains of building plastics outlets for trade and DIY customers, has opened its latest branch in Bow, East London.
BWC achieves BBA and A-C energy ratings for Spectus Elite 63
Spectus fabricator, BWC (I.O.W.) Ltd, has achieved A to C Window Energy Ratings and BBA certification for the fabrication of Elite 63 window and door system, with the option of enhanced resistance to intrusion. Established almost 20 years ago, BWC is based on the Isle of Wight, and has recently re-branded.
Who is today’s conservatory buyer?
Although a business-to-business supplier, Ultraframe takes great pride in its desire to understand what the ultimate buyer (i.e. the consumer) thinks of its products in particular and their conservatories in general. This desire to understand conservatory buyer behaviour has helped Ultraframe to shape its product range and marketing support offering over the years, ensuring that the needs of the consumer, as well as their trade customers are always met.
Marley Eternit launches new hydropanel website
Marley Eternit, the UK’s leading fibre cement building board supplier, has launched a dedicated website for its innovative new Hydropanel fibre cement board.
Total Windows are beautiful in black
Top quality black and white PVC-U windows supplied by Total Glass, one of the UK’s leading trade fabricators, have transformed the appearance and thermal efficiency of a former doctor’s home in North Wales.
Ecobuild sparks rooftop demonstrations
Every day at Ecobuild next month, Schüco International will be staging roof top demonstrations… showing visitors how to install solar panels on a specially-built roof rig as part of the Solar City attraction.
Alastair Campbell at Ecobuild: Marketing Sustainability
Alastair Campbell, New Labour’s Director of Communications and Strategy until 2003, will share his views on marketing sustainability and bringing about behavioural change in the Arena at Ecobuild on 03 March 2009. In a discussion chaired by Roger Harrabin, BBC Environment Analyst, Campbell will tackle the political, behavioural and marketing obstacles to our adopting a greener way of life.
How to Survive in a Downturn with Ultraframe Products
As the UK works its way through the well publicised ‘credit crunch’ the fallout in consumer confidence has been catastrophic. Figures show that whilst November 08 showed a marginal improvement, consumer confidence is still close to record lows. In November ’08 the major purchases measure rose by four points, from -43 to -39, this is thirty two points lower than in November ‘07. Hardly surprising when the news continues to bombard consumers with tales of woe about the state of the economy, and many are now ‘treading water’ as they wait to see when the economy will stabilise before rushing into any major purchases, such as conservatories.
Cavalok and loaded for this year's Ecobuild
Cavalok Building Products, the UK’s leading manufacturer of sustainable cavity closers, will be demonstrating its latest innovative products at this year’s ecobuild.
Engineering pays off as sales of Thermix-TX.N warm edger spacer double
Thermoseal Group Limited, the UK’s exclusive supplier of Thermix-TX.N warm edge spacer bar and leading supplier of double glazing machinery and components, reports that sales of TX.N and compatible fittings (including unique duplex fittings) has doubled in 2008 and is set to increase in 2009.
Saint-Gobain Glass adapts to the economic climate
Faced with the continuous rise in cost of some raw materials (sand, soda ash, etc.), Saint-Gobain Glass will increase its prices in Europe as of February 2009. Furthermore, due to the worsening situation in the automotive and building markets, Saint-Gobain Glass will make capacity adjustments bringing them into line with customers’ requirements.
Crystal Direct’s new composite door range really pulls
National trade fabricator Crystal Direct has won many new customers thanks to its latest mailing sent in November promoting Crystal’s new range of composite doors. The range comes with all the main specifications as standard, including PAS 23/24 and Secured by Design.
Reflex takes the heat out of conservatories
While South Australia is currently enduring a literally explosive heat wave where temperatures are ‘only’ nudging 43 - 46?C, in July and August even in chilly old England, temperatures inside a south-facing conservatory can easily reach 50?C if glazed with standard glass units.
Acreharrow is first choice for Castleoak
Bridgend based Acreharrow has now installed Synseal’s Shield windows in its twentieth care home for Castleoak, the leading name in the development, design and construction of care homes and other supported housing for older people.
Euroglaze proves the perfect advertisment for Mas
When the Yorkshire & Humber Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) was looking for a cover star for its latest advertising campaign, it chose Barnsley-based REHAU fabricator Euroglaze.
Three steps to zero carbon homes with the Litchfield Group at Ecobuild
UK building products manufacturer The Litchfield Group, will be showcasing its range of sustainable and energy efficient windows, doors and structural wall products for low carbon buildings at EcoBuild.
Superglazed secures certification with Beaufort
Superglazed Ltd is the latest fabricator of Beaufort’s ‘A’ rated Advanced Plus aluminium system to achieve BSI Kitemark and Secured by Design (SBD) accreditation. The North West London company benefited from Beaufort’s Approved Certification Scheme, set up to help its customers ‘fast track’ to accreditation, subject to replicating the systems company’s submissions. As the Beaufort System is already Kitemark and SBD approved, only the manufactured window has to be tested which makes the process quicker and less costly.
New addition to Glazerite’s portfolio provides installers with a value-added product
Coloured conservatories have been around for some time, but Glazerite looks set to have a major impact on the market with the introduction of its complete coloured conservatory range with matching coloured foiled Ultraframe roofs.
TimberWindows.com credit card helps installers beat the crunch!
TimberWindows.com’s Compliments Credit Card has been declared a great success by its Registered Installers, one of whom is using it save up for a new bicycle! Registered Installers get 0.5% of the net trade value of each TimberWindows.com order paid onto their credit cards. The scheme was launched in October and has already paid out over £7,000 in commissions.
Advanced Aluminium adds ISO 9001 and 14001 to certification credentials with BM TRADA
Advanced Aluminium in Wymondham, Norfolk has achieved certification to ISO 9001:2000 quality management and ISO 14001:2004 environmental management with BM TRADA Certification. Last year the company, a Sapa Systems fabricator, was awarded the BM TRADA Q-Mark for Enhanced Security Windows and Doors.
Marley Eternit Cedral weatherboard is just the wicket
An old village hall has been given a new lease of life thanks to timber-frame designers Suffolk Timber Construction and Marley Eternit’s fibre cement Cedral Weatherboard.
Quality Roofing Systems becomes The QRS Group
Quality Roofing Systems, based in Hartlepool, is celebrating its tenth anniversary by rebranding to become The QRS Group. Dave Buttery, The QRS Group’s Managing Director said, “We’ve had a very successful ten years and have expanded our product range to become a one-stop shop for the trade installer. Our new corporate branding better reflects our wide product range and our excellent position in the market. We’re in a strong position to take the business forward under it.”
Mila Hardware launches new website
Mila Hardware has launched its new website at www.mila.co.uk , following on from the publication of its latest product catalogue The Key 6 last year.
Astraseal delights tenants in Monmouthshire
REHAU fabricator Astraseal is delighting many of the tenants of Monmouthshire Housing Association with the replacement of deteriorating timber, steel and aluminium windows in their homes with energy efficient PVC-U.
Eurocell's new brochures help fabricators and installers create wow factor with consumers
Eurocell, the UK’s market-leading manufacturer and distributor of quality PVC-u profiles, has introduced an exciting new door brochure alongside a new conservatory brochure, both designed to help fabricators and installers to create a wow factor with consumers.
Freefoam appoints Technical Operations Manager for state-of-the-art plants
Freefoam Plastics, the market leader in environmentally friendly and UV protected roofline and rainwater products, has appointed Geoff Barnett as Technical Operations Manager for its UK operations. Geoff joins Freefoam from Chemix and has over 30 years of technical and operational experience in the PVC industry having previously worked at Brett Martin, Polypipe and Premier Profiles. In addition, Geoff is a member of the organising committee for the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining’s (IOM3) international PVC conferences.
Window Wise make wise move
Window Wise Trade Ltd, based in Hertfordshire, is delighted to announce it will be exhibiting at the Ideal Home Show for the first time this year. Window Wise will be on stand IN54 at the show, which runs from 20 March to 13 April at Earls Court in London. It will be showcasing the new Deceuninck white woodgrain foiled casement window alongside other home improvement products, including Deceuninck Twinson decking range.
Making marketing work
K2 Conservatories has built an enviable reputation for its marketing and branding and this has been extended to a comprehensive package for its fabricators and installers that’s designed to increase leads and close more sales.
Over 100 People Sign Up To Energy Efficiency Seminar in the first Week
Over 100 people have already booked their place on the FREE ‘Energy Efficiency in Focus – Revisited’ seminar being organised by the UK’s only dedicated Warm Edge Technology manufacturer, Edgetech. “Just a week after the first invitation letter was sent out, we have had registrations from 126 people and many more pledging their support and interest,” says Andy Jones, Edgetech Managing Director.
FrameXpress Now Offers Ice-Cream
Leading window, door and conservatory manufacturer, frameXpress is now producing cream on white foils as a standard product option alongside the existing white, rosewood and antique oak standard colours. With quality and durability being of the utmost importance for the company production on products is always foiled and never painted.
Creative Resins Libel Suit Against Glasslam Europe Finished
The libel suit Creative Resins brought against Glasslam Europe and its primary shareholder Stephen Howes came to a close in December with Glasslam Europe Limited settling out of court prior to the case going before a judge. The third defendant named on the case, Stephen Howes, chose not to settle the case, and a hearing was held in the United Kingdom on December 1 during which Justice Eady ultimately ruled in favor of Creative Resins for £15,000 ($29,267.58 USD).
Everseal proves perfect choice for prestigious project
High performance sealed units from FGI’s Everseal IG range have met the exacting insulation demands of Juggler’s Yard, a dynamic mixed use scheme in a fast developing area to the north of Liverpool city centre. Superb sound and thermal insulation were top priorities for the new seven storey building by the Iliad Group, which combines 57 apartments on the upper floors with commercial and retail space at ground level.
Bystronic glass to attend Photovoltaic Technology Show 2009
At the Photovoltaic Technology Show 2009 in Munich, the Bystronic glass group will present new machinery for the efficient encapsulating and sealing of photovoltaic modules. As well as the TPS® applicator for encapsulating filmless thin-layer modules, visitors at the approximately 150-sqm stand F4 in hall C2 will also be able to view the Glass Plate Washing Machine GW-D, which is being used in the production of thin-layer modules and in the field of wafer-based modules.
International rescue down under
When Western Australian fabricator and installer, DuoGlass, ran into problems with their software supplier it was Business Micros that provided an international rescue service. Furthermore, they received more support than they ever imagined...