September/October 2022

SEPT / OCT 2022 

CONNECTING THE WINDOW, DOOR & ROOF FABRICATION SUPPLY CHAIN 

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Editor’s Comment 

GEORGE LEWIS 

EDITOR 

GEORGELEWIS@MEDIA-NOW.CO.UK 

WWW.TOTAL-FABRICATOR.CO.UK 

It was great to hear in the latest Business Pilot Barometer that for only 

the second time this year, sales and leads actually grew in the last month. 

Whilst we all know how volatile the market can be and how quickly things 

can change, it is reassuring to at least have some positive news in what 

continues to be tricky times. You can read more about this month’s stats on 

page 10. 

Elsewhere in the news, we report on Reynaers’ significant investment in the 

extension of its UK headquarters which the company says will help ‘optimise lead 

times and to future-proof the business’ (page 6), plus we hear about the Double 

Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme’s (DGCOS) new Fenestration Working 

Group which is looking to tackle sector issues head on and requires representatives 

from all parts of the supply chain to join (page 8). 

Last month I got the chance to visit Coventry-based systems house Jack 

Aluminium. Whilst there, it really hit home that even though there’s no single 

way of being a successful business, whatever size the company is, it’s clear that 

having the right team and personalities in place is a huge factor in how successful 

the business will be. You can read more about my visit on page 24, including Jack 

Aluminium’s plans for diversification into new markets. 

Elsewhere in this issue, the team at DoorCo track the latest door trends (page 28); 

Greg Beachim of First Degree Systems explains how new machinery can make a 

company more efficient, but only when its fed the right information (page 40); and 

we also hear from Edgetech’s Tony Palmer, who discusses the current movement 

which is seeing fabricators opt to make their own IGUs (page 54). 

So read on for all this and much, much more. Enjoy the issue! 

George 

CONNECTING THE WINDOW & DOOR FABRICATORS SUPPLY CHAIN 

Advertising: 

See us at 

London ExCeL 

STAND G101 

30 Sept - 2 Oct 2022 

Harrogate 

Convention Centre 

STAND A348 

4 - 6 Nov 2022 

Cover courtesy of Made for Trade: Find out more about the 

company’s extensive offering at www.madefortrade.co, and read 

about the benefits of the Korniche Roof Lantern on page 38. 

Publishing Director: Andy Dunn 

DD: 01892 732 047 

Mob: 07963 330777 

Email: andydunn@media-now.co.uk 

Commercial Manager: Jake Roxborough 

DD: 01892 732 047 

Mob: 07956 133314 

Email: jakeroxborough@media-now.co.uk 

Registered office: 1 Forstal Road, Aylesford, Kent, ME20 7AU 

roof lantern 

& bi-folding doors 

engineered 

to install 

faster 

priced to 

sell 

Editorial Director: Matt Downs 

DD: 01892 732 047 

Mob: 07963 330774 

Email: mattdowns@media-now.co.uk 

Editor: George Lewis 

DD: 01892 732 047 

Mob: 07715 550 351 

Email: georgelewis@media-now.co.uk 

The content of Total Fabricator magazine (and website) does not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or publishers and 

are the views of its contributors and advertisers. The digital edition may include hyperlinks to third-party content, advertising, 

or websites, provided for the sake of convenience and interest. The publishers accept no legal responsibility for loss arising 

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of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without the written consent of the publishers. 

All rights reserved. 

GLAZE 

TUBE 

PRESS PLAY ON QUALITY 

CONTENT FOR YOUR SECTOR 

Head over to www.glaze-tube.co.uk for the latest video content 

from the key players from throughout the supply chain. 

Packed with how-to’s, installation advice, interviews and opinions, 

Glaze-Tube is an informative and entertaining platform keeping you 

up to date with what’s happening in your industry! 

To showcase your video on Glaze-Tube contact Andy or Jake on 01892 732 047 

INSTALLATION HOW TO’S: 

ALUFOLD DIRECT XENLITE ROOF

Contents 

ISSUE HIGHLIGHTS 40 

24 OUT & ABOUT: JACK ALUMINIUM 

George Lewis recently visited Coventry-based systems 

house Jack Aluminium to hear about its organic growth, 

respected products and future plans 

40 MAKING THE MOST OF IT 

First Degree Systems’ Greg Beachim says machinery 

can help fabricators become more efficient, but only when 

it’s fed the right information 

54 DOING IT YOURSELF 

Edgetech’s Tony Palmer discusses why some fabricators are 

taking the decision to make their own IGUs 

FEATURES 

20 

12 STAYING AHEAD OF THE GAME 

Insight Data’s Alex Tremlett talks about the Salestracker 

software, which is helping fabricators make the right 

decisions when it comes to potential new customers... 

20 WARM TO ITS CORE 

Decalu customer SWC Trade Frames, asks if next generation 

energy aluminium products have stepped into the space previously 

occupied by hybrid PVC-U-aluminium systems? 

30 BECOMING ‘NOTORIOUS’ 

UAP’s Bill Murray discusses the new Kinetica+ K4 3* cylinder and 

explains how it will benefit those throughout the supply chain 

34 INVESTING IN THE FUTURE 

Distinction Doors’ General Manager Nigel Boothby talks to Total 

Fabricator about the company’s recent machinery investments and 

how they’re helping solidify the company’s position in the market 

42 SEEING IS BELIEVING 

Elumatec MD Neil Parton explains why now is the time 

to see all that the company has to offer at its 

new inforcenter in Mühlacker, Germany 

46 HARDWARE PLUS A 

WHOLE LOT MORE 

We hear about Window Ware’s product offering and how it is 

making sourcing quick and simple for fabricators 

48 FOCUSING ON FIRE SAFETY 

Consort Architectural Hardware’s Daniel May explores how 

construction has been affected by global pressures and 

the impact this may have on fire safety and security... 

4 T F SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 CONNECTING THE WINDOW, DOOR & ROOF FABRICATION SUPPLY CHAIN

REGULARS 

16 BEHIND THE SCENES 

The latest ‘Behind the Scenes’ from Selecta 

Systems looks at how the company’s technical 

department assists colleagues and customers 

28 THE DOORCO COLUMN 

 

16 

DoorCo tracks the trends from sales of its 

GRiPCORE solid timber core composite door 

SECTIONS: 

SYSTEMS 

16 

DOORS 

28 

NEWS ROUNDUP 

6 REYNAERS INVESTMENT 

Reynaers Aluminium UK has invested heavily in the 

extension of its UK HQ to future proof company 

10 BOUNCING RIGHT BACK 

In the latest Business Pilot Barometer, Neil Cooper-Smith 

says that despite an obvious slowdown, sales and leads rose 

in the last month for only the second time this year 

AUTOMATION 

40 

HARDWARE & 

ACCESSORIES 

46 

10 

GLASS & 

SEALED UNITS 

54 


SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 T F 5

News Roundup 

ADDING A SPLASH 

OF COLOUR 

Sheerline has invested over £1 million in a 

new state-of-the-art powder coating plant, 

bringing the most important secondary 

process that happens to aluminium profiles 

in-house for the first time. 

This further investment in its fully vertically 

integrated, single site UK manufacturing facility 

helps strengthen Sheerline’s ability to offer its 

customers the very best service and quality 

possible. Ensuring that every Sheerline profile has 

a beautiful, consistent and blemish free finish. 

Greg Grabski, Garnalex’s Powder Coating 

Plant Manager, explained: “In the past, we 

have relied on third party suppliers to powder 

coat our products, using well known and 

well-respected companies to keep up with 

the growing demand for the Sheerline range. 

“Traditionally, this has meant transporting mill 

finished profiles from our warehouse to the 

powder coaters, waiting for them to process 

it, then collecting it back before it’s put into 

stock. This obviously racks up mileage, 

increases the product’s carbon footprint, and 

unavoidably introduces an extra incremental 

opportunity for damage to occur. 

“By investing in our own powder coating 

facility, housed next door to our Hybrex 

aluminium press we have built in efficiencies 

and significantly reduced stock movement 

– taking up to five weeks out of the process 

involved in putting painted profiles into stock. 

“This added agility, ensures we can fulfil 

customers’ orders on time and in full, as 

well as giving us direct control over quality 

checks, with the ability to rectify any issues 

in hours rather than weeks. 

www.sheerline.com/colour 

MULTI-MILLION INVESTMENT FOR REYNAERS 

Having seen significant growth in recent 

years, Reynaers Aluminium UK has invested 

several million pounds in the extension of 

its UK headquarters to optimise lead times 

and to future-proof the business in line with 

its growth strategy. 

Work on the project began in July 2021 and 

successfully reached completion in June 2022, 

which now brings the warehouse space to 

95,000ft 2 . and means that Reynaers can now 

hold approximately 40% additional stock to 

suit its customers’ changing requirements for 

aluminium windows, doors and façades. 

Enhancements to the site will also help to improve 

the thermal performance of the building and 

contribute towards Reynaers’ sustainability targets. 

John McComb, Director of Technical Services, 

said: “We had always planned to extend our 

building, but brought those plans forward by 

around three years due to substantial continued 

growth. We don’t generally sit still as a business, 

particularly when it comes to improving our 

products and service to customers. 

“We accept that a key part of this service is managing 

customer expectations and making sure that we take 

continual steps to improve our efficiency. 

Hardware specialist VBH says 

the greenteQ Clearslide lock 

has been well received by 

manufacturers of Deceuninck, 

Kömmerling, REHAU and 

Veka PVC-U sliders since its 

launch. 

The lock and keep are manufactured from hard 

wearing stainless steel, and both are covered by 

a 10-year guarantee. Eight sliding hooks and two 

anti-lift pins ensure that Clearslide locks provide 

a very strong connection to the frame. The lock 

meets the requirements of all relevant security 

standards, and is covered by Kitemark KM727991 

(Building Hardware used in Windows & Doorsets). 

Above: John McComb, Director of Technical Services at 

Reynaers Aluminium UK 

“The building extension plays a key part in 

improving efficiency. It will enable us to boost our 

warehouse stock bulk and pick faces by seven 

hundred – an increase of more than 46%. 

In addition to the customer benefits, the extension 

project has allowed Reynaers to make important 

improvements in the welfare facilities for its 

warehouse staff, providing new centrally-located 

toilets, canteen facilities and a dedicated rest area. 

“The building now also has the advantage of a 

covered loading and unloading area to provide 

shelter to those working in the area and to protect 

the materials.” 

www.reynaers.co.uk 

CLEAR BENEFITS WITH VBH PATIO HARDWARE 

As a consequence of this, VBH 

has added Clearslide to the 

Approved Hardware list for its 

Q-secure PREMIUM consumer 

guarantee. This means that 

Q-secure installers can offer a 

guarantee of up to £8000 on their sliding doors. 

Clearslide can be operated by the greenteQ 

standard Alpha Patio P-Handle with its 10-year 

guarantee, or by the Coastline stainless steel 

handle set that is supplied with a 25-year surface 

guarantee. The handles are interchangeable so 

upgrading when required is easy.” 

www.vbhgb.com/ 

6 TF SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 CONNECTING THE WINDOW, DOOR & ROOF FABRICATION SUPPLY CHAIN

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News Roundup 

A ‘NEW SOLUTION’ 

When the foundations for the Sheerline 

system were laid, the company says one of the 

weaknesses of existing aluminium systems that 

needed addressing was the sectors reliance on 

polyamide thermal breaks. 

While polyamide did create a ‘thermal barrier’ 

that met older thermal efficiency standards, 

Sheerline says the material struggled to meet the 

improved standards required by the UK’s carbon 

reduction commitments. This need to improve the 

energy efficiency of the nation’s homes has never 

been clearer than it is right now, with the average 

household energy bill set to rise to £3,549 this 

year, with further increases forecast in 2023. 

From the start it was clear that a better solution 

was required, a thermal break designed for 

more stringent legislation, that also overcame 

some of the other inherent limitations of 

polyamide. It was this need that led to 

Thermlock, one of the ‘eureka moments’ for 

Roger Hartshorn and his R&D team, when they 

created the Sheerline system in 2018/2019. 

Thermlock multi-chambered thermal breaks 

are unique to Sheerline and sit at the heart 

of every Sheerline product. Made from a 

special high melting point formulation, which 

is almost half as thermally conductive as 

polyamide, Thermlock allows for wider, 

integrated one-piece designs that add rigidity 

to profiles, eliminating the distortion that 

can occur with separate top and bottom 

polyamide thermal breaks. This means that 

every Sheerline product meets the new Part 

L standards with regular double glazing – 

helping customers supply high performance 

products without adding cost. With Sheerline, 

Part L compliance comes as standard. 

www.sheerline.com 

HAVE YOUR SAY AND BE PART OF THE DGCOS 

FENESTRATION WORKING GROUP 

The Double Glazing & Conservatory 

Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) has launched 

a new Fenestration Working Group. Chief 

Executive Faisal Hussain explained why this is 

such an important initiative that will harness 

the power of coming together for the greater 

good of the industry. 

He said: “As an organisation, DGCOS has always 

believed strongly in collaboration with our 

members’ best interests at heart. We engage with 

and listen to our members so they can contribute 

and collaborate in industry topics and feel heard. 

“This feedback is turned into actions which serve 

purely to raise standards, protect consumers, and 

help our members’ businesses stand out and thrive. 

“We now want to expand this out to the wider industry 

and as an independent body, we are in a good position 

to lead this forward and remain impartial with the 

formation of the Fenestration Working Group. 

“I have seen first-hand all the best practice 

that take place within our sector and want the 

objective of this working group to be about 

promoting the good things that we do to external 

stakeholders, like the government. This isn’t a 

sociable thing. 

Warringtonfire is marking the 50th 

anniversary of its first commercial fire test, 

which took place at a newly completed 

fire testing laboratory in High Wycombe, 

Buckinghamshire, in the summer of 1972. 

50 years later, what is believed to be the UK’s oldest 

existing fire resistance testing laboratory, continues to 

operate. Today, it is one of Warringtonfire’s main sites 

and is a centre of excellence for the testing of timber 

fire doors. 

Mark Cummings, Technical Director at 

Warringtonfire, said: “Since 1972, we’ve 

conducted tens of thousands of fire tests at our 

High Wycombe laboratory, all designed to ensure 

“The meetings will be online and structured to 

discuss what’s happening and where we are 

going. 

“It won’t mean lots of time out of the business, or 

a load of extra work. All you need to do is be part 

of the conversation so that together we can tackle 

issues and make important changes that benefit 

everyone in the industry and make a real difference. 

“The working group is open to anyone operating 

within the glass and glazing sector. 

“I strongly believe that by working together, we 

can shape the future of our industry. 

“If you want to be part of this future, please 

contact me directly to show your interest and 

join the other forward-thinking organisations who 

have already committed.” 

www.dgcos.org.uk 

50 YEARS OF COMMERCIAL FIRE TESTING 

that the products our customers develop are safe, 

compliant and fit for purpose. However, we’re 

not resting on our laurels and with the significant 

changes we’re seeing in the built environment 

landscape today, we know there’s much to do if we 

are to continue to deliver on our purpose of making 

tomorrow safer than today. 

www.warringtonfire.com 


Find more industry news at: www.total-fabricator.co.uk 

PREMIER ARCHES 

ADDS TO CLIENT LIST 

SUITING UP FOR CHANGEABLE WEATHER 

THIS AUTUMN 

Thanks to ‘outstanding manufacturing 

matched with excellent customer service’, 

arched and angled frame manufacturer 

Premier Arches has seen an influx of 

fabricators wanting to benefit from the 

company’s offering. 

And the latest to come on board is UK window, 

door, and conservatory manufacturer Lancashire 

Trade Frames. 

General Manager Gavin Stoddard commented: 

“We used to have several suppliers of 

specialised frames, but with a reputation for 

excellence, we decided to come on board with 

Premier Arches this Spring, and since then, 

we’ve been very happy with the high-quality 

products they provide us with. 

Snickers Workwear’s body-mapping jackets, 

tops, trousers and accessories work together 

for sustainable working comfort and 

protection wherever and whenever it’s needed. 

Said to be designed for professional craftsmen 

and women who want maximum functionality and 

mobility at work, they reportedly incorporate the 

very latest in high-tech fabric technology for topclass 

performance. 

The new clothing in the Autumn Workwear 

System includes windproof, waterproof and Hi-Vis 

garments for both men and women to keep them 

warm, dry and visible all day, every day. 

So, when the weather takes a turn for the worse, 

make Snickers Workwear your first choice for tackling 

the toughest of jobs and the worst of weather. 

www.snickersworkwear.co.uk 

“This is matched with on-time and in-full 

deliveries every time, as well as clear and 

honest communication, which is something 

quite hard to find in today’s market. 

“Earlier this year, we successfully completed 

an independent audit of our manufacturing 

processes, and were awarded the Gold CMS 

Mark from CENSolutions for our windows 

– it’s a testament to our commitment to 

excellence, and by partnering with Premier 

Arches, we’re confident that their products 

will help us to maintain this high standard 

moving forward. 

“Premier Arches has certainly made our lives 

easier, we’re extremely happy with their service, 

and we very much look forward to a long and 

prosperous partnership ahead.” 

www.premierarches.co.uk 

BE SEEN AND STAY SAFE WITH SNICKERS 

HI-VIS WORKWEAR 

As workplace visibility 

decreases and the 

potential for accidents 

increase, Snickers 

Workwear High 

Visibility garments 

work hard to protect 

your wellbeing and 

safety on site. 

The extensive range of jackets, trousers, shorts, 

toolvests, shirts and fleeces all work together 

to satisfy the requirements of Class 1, 2 and 3 

protection levels. 

These products combine Snickers’ hallmarks 

for Protective Wear with the requirements of the 

EN 20471 standard for high 

visibility warning clothes. 

Said to incorporate 

advanced designs and 

sustainable SORONA fabrics, 

all these working clothes 

have durable, colour-fast 

protection retaining shape 

and comfort throughout the 

life of the garments. 

Added to which, all Snickers Hi-Vis garments 

can be custom profiled to ensure ‘stand out’ 

coverage for your corporate brand. 

www.snickersworkwear.co.uk 


SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 TF 9

The Business Pilot Barometer 

BOUNCING RIGHT BACK 

Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst at Business Pilot, says while the market slowdown is 

apparent, there is positive news that for only the second time this year, sales and leads were 

on the rise in the last month... 

There is little doubt that a slowdown has and 

is happening. Year-on-year sales figures 

for this August are down seven per cent on 

where they were last year. Leads are down 30%. 

What we saw, however, last month was a 

reversal of the downward trend seen in July with 

sales up 16% and leads up 17%. This was also 

significantly up on June. 

It’s only the second time this year that we have 

seen a notable increase in sales and leads. The 

last time was in March, when average sales 

rose almost 15% and leads were also up 14%, 

reversing the falls recorded in February on January. 

We suggest that this is attributable in part at 

least, to the energy crisis. The spike seen in leads 

and sales in March preceded months of media 

exposure on the raising of the energy price cap in 

April from £1,277 to £1,971. 

With homeowners already feeling the pinch of 

the first increase, following weeks of expectation 

the regulator confirmed at the end of August that 

the cap will go up again on 1st October, pushing 

average gas and electricity bills to £3,549 a year – 

an 80% increase on where it was in October 2021. 

A headline analysis of Google Trends also shows 

searches for energy efficient home improvements 

and windows and doors jumped in the weeks 

preceding both announcements, suggesting a 

correlation between the increasing cost of energy 

and increased demand for windows and doors. 

Lender Nationwide has calculated that homes 

in the UK most commonly have an Energy 

Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D. This 

it says means that the average energy cost 

to heat and run those houses will increase by 

£1,250 a year from October, inclusive of the £400 

government discount. 

Bills for E-rated properties are likely to go up by 

more than £1,700 and those living in the leastefficient 

homes, rated F or G, face a £2,700 rise. 

In comparison, Nationwide estimates the cost to 

run a house between an A and C rating will rise 

by a more modest £1,000. 

In this context the case for energy efficient home 

improvements is clear – and based on our own 

sales data and that of Google search, that isn’t 

lost on the homeowner. 

The question is, with rising inflation and broader 

pressure on household budgets, will they have the 

confidence to invest? 

The housing market continues to stand firm, in 

fact exceeding expectations by recording a 0.8% 

price increase in August on July, the thirteenth 

successive increase in a row. 

With many homeowners having seen significant 

rises in the value of their homes, it may give them 

confidence to spend on home improvements, 

particularly those which lower their energy bills. 

There are also growing calls on Government to 

incentivise homeowners to do so in the face of 

the unfolding national energy crisis. 

We’d suggest that right now Government support 

is a little way off, so we’re going to have to 

persuade those who can, to spend. That makes 

it a good time to go back and revisit those leads 

that didn’t convert in the past 12 months. 

The Business Pilot Barometer offers a monthly analysis of the key trends defining window and door 

retail, drawing on real industry data collated by the Business Pilot customer relationship management 

system (CRM). Business Pilot uses cloud-based technologies to give installers complete visibility of every 

element of their operation from leads and conversions to job scheduling, cost of installation, service 

calls, and financial reporting. 

www.businesspilot.co.uk www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer 

10 T F SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 

CONNECTING THE WINDOW, DOOR & ROOF FABRICATION SUPPLY CHAIN

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Financial Performance 

STAYING AHEAD OF THE GAME 

Alex Tremlett, Operations Manager at Insight Data, talks to Total Fabricator about the 

Salestracker software, which enables fabricators to monitor potential new prospects and 

make the right decisions when it comes to taking on new customers. 

During the last few years, 

when the industry saw a huge 

increase in demand, some 

companies raised their overheads. 

Whether business leaders chose to 

expand their teams or premises, their 

monthly expenses rocketed in a bid to 

keep up with the high number of new 

job requests. 

But now, as the market has cooled, Alex Tremlett 

some businesses may be starting to 

feel the pinch as their outgoings are much higher 

than the amount of work being completed. 

One of the best ways for a company to stay 

operating at the same level is by generating a 

steady stream of business. Therefore, an effective 

prospecting strategy is key. 

While targeting the right people is essential, so is 

making sure the business you want to work with 

is financially stable. 

Alex Tremlett, Operations Manager at Insight 

Data, said: “From working with over 700 

companies in the fenestration industry, we’ve 

seen so many salespeople spend a great deal of 

time signing up a new customer, only to have the 

finance department decline the account at the 

last minute due to a poor credit report. 

“In some instances, companies will have signed 

up a new customer, opened an account and then 

not received any payment, leaving them seriously 

out of pocket. 

“The sector as a whole has taken a hit following the 

fallout of the pandemic. In fact, our latest state of 

industry report found that the number of installers 

has decreased by 7.6% in the last four years. 

Alex Tremlett 

“This shows it’s more important than ever that 

fabricators check whether their prospects are 

financially stable.” 

The financial snapshot 

One of the most effective ways to double-check 

the financial position and credit rating of a 

potential prospect is by relying on a relevant and 

up-to-date online platform. 

“At Insight Data, we’ve developed a specific 

element to our existing CRM system. This means 

we can provide our customers with a snapshot 

of their prospects’ financial information to 

make sure they only deal with financially sound 

companies,” added Alex. 

“This business intelligence is priceless and has 

successfully helped hundreds of sales teams 

use their time more effectively, by avoiding 

approaching prospects that simply wouldn’t make 

suitable customers.” 

Save time and resource 

With access to the most accurate financial 

information, a company is guaranteed to get results. 

“We understand the importance of a business 

being able to save time and resources, 

particularly in today’s climate. So, 

we’ve created an effective way to provide 

the breakdown of any limited company’s 

financial information in an easy-tounderstand 

format,” explained Alex. 

“Our system includes details on credit 

status, credit rating, recommended 

credit limit, if there are any County 

Court Judgements against them and 

their network – helping companies to 

make informed business decisions. 

“With the current uncertainty of the market, this 

tool is extremely valuable, especially if you supply 

to the construction or fenestration industry.” 

Designed to help companies supplying into the 

window, door and glazing markets effectively 

target their perfect prospect, Insight Data’s 

fully integrated sales and marketing platform, 

Salestracker, provides in-depth market 

intelligence in real-time. 

What’s more, with access to key information 

on over 80,000 contacts operating in the UK 

construction, fenestration and glazing industries, 

Insight Data customers can pinpoint their clients 

faster and more efficiently. 

Today, Salestracker has over 700 customers 

including major systems companies, fabricators 

and component suppliers. 

Each one utilises the five key Salestracker 

databases to help build a more successful, 

profitable and valuable business. 

Contact Insight Data: 

01934 808 293 

www.insightdata.co.uk/salestracker 

@InsightData 


Total security 

with TOTAL70 

Our timeless TOTAL70 window and door system 

achieves the highest possible energy ratings and 

performance and is tested to the highest security 

standard giving you an added level of security to 

your home and family. 

Windows. Reinvented for modern life. 

www.rehau.uk/windows 

enquiries@rehau.com 

Tel: 01989 762600

Revo Kitchen & Terrace Restaurant. Folding Sliding Doors Fabricator & Installer WD Group, Tamworth. 

Main Contractor AGM Services Ltd . Weston-Super-Mare 

Maximise the view, 

Maximise the space.

Weston-Super-Mare’s Revo Kitchen & Terrace Restaurant has received glowing praise from customers for its alfresco dining. 

The seafront cafe has been specified with high-quality Kestrel Aluminium Folding Sliding Doors that maximise the views and 

bring the outdoors indoors. 

System features include: 

• Ideal for high traffic commercial locations 

• Numerous design configurations 

• Single or dual colour powder coated in a wide range of RAL colours 

• Marine grade anodised finishes to combat severe atmospheric conditions 

• Low threshold option 

• PAS24 security with multi-point locking systems 

• U-values as low as 1.6W/m 2 K 

• Space saving stacking doors 

• Up to 2700mm door leaf height - 1000mm wide. 

For further information, download a datasheet at www.kestrelaluminium.co.uk or call 0121 333 3575.

Behind the Scenes 

In the last issue, our ‘Behind the Scenes’ feature 

at Selecta Systems looked at the many aspects 

of marketing support. 

Continuing with the service and support theme, 

Technical Manager Cliff Prosser, provides you 

with an insight in to the realm of technical service 

and support at Selecta. 

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING 

In the latest instalment of our ‘Behind the Scenes’ feature, Selecta Systems’ Cliff Prosser 

explains how he and his team provide ‘personal, fl exible and comprehensive’ technical 

service to help support both colleagues and customers alike... 

SYSTEMS 

Previous behind the scenes features have seen 

us explain how heavily important we value the 

personal, flexible and comprehensive service 

and support side of the business. It’s an area 

we have always seen as key and it’s no different 

when it comes to the technical service and 

support side of the business. 

We genuinely see our technical 

department as an extension to 

your business, providing an 

array of technical information, 

assistance, on-site training and 

guidance alongside our internal 

and external technical support 

services to customers. 

Co-ordinating and carrying out administrative 

duties within the technical department 

is Michele Statham. Her methodical and 

meticulous approach to the role is key to the 

smooth operation and success of new customer 

conversions and set-ups. 

Michele is responsible for all stock tooling and 

special tooling orders for customers, liaising with 

suppliers and maintaining stock levels. She also 

works closely with customers and suppliers in 

organising and ordering the window and door 

fabrication software package. 

One of Michele’s other key responsibilities is 

managing the technical engineers’ diaries, of 

which we have three permanently based on 

Above: The technical team deal with 

nearly every part of the company. 

Left: Selecta Systems’ Technical 

Manager Cliff Prosser 

the road, with Kevin Clark 

covering the north, Steve 

Belshaw the middle and Kevin 

Mascall in the south of the UK. 

Two further internal technical staff can also 

be called upon to provide support on the road, 

when and where it may be required. Michele will 

make certain that all the necessary paperwork is 

in order, orders are placed and tooling is ready, 

ensuring a smooth set-up or conversion to our 

window and door profile systems. 

Remote and on-site assistance 

Our technical engineers provide remote and 

on-site assistance, guidance and training for all 

aspects of fabrication and installation. 

One of the initial key aspects of their role is during 

the initial set-up and conversion of customers to 

our profile systems. 

Factory layout planning, the fitting of machinery 

“It’s an area that is 

evolving all the time as 

we focus on providing 

a unique, personal and 

informative service 

and support package” 

tooling, window and door fabrication training, 

software instructions and all relevant profile 

system advice is provided from the off, with 

continued support throughout the customers’ 

connection with Selecta. 

We have found that our technical engineers build 

up excellent relationships with our customer 

base, mainly due to their exceptional knowledge, 

experience and flexibility of being able to provide 

a trustworthy and comprehensive technical 

service and support role. 

They are seen as the ‘fabricator’s best buddy’ 

as they see this is an invaluable service, as and 

when issues arise, with their extensive fabrication 

knowledge and ability to assist window and door 

Continued on page 18 

16 T F SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 

CONNECTING THE WINDOW, DOOR & ROOF FABRICATION SUPPLY CHAIN

Innovation comes built-in 

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Ideal for vision panels in doors, the Uni-Blinds ® ScreenView ® integral blind system 

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Morley Glass & Glazing Ltd 

Unit 3 

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Bruntcliffe Way 

Leeds LS27 0HH 

morleyglass.co.uk 

0113 277 8722 sales@morleyglass.co.uk

Behind the Scenes 

SYSTEMS 

Continued from page 16 

manufacturing. 

Couple this with the capability of being able to 

carry out set-ups and minor machinery repairs, 

they quickly become the go to guys! 

My role, at Selecta, sees me managing and 

supervising the technical department, whilst 

also providing a technical support service to 

customers, specifiers, homeowners and all those 

who require specialist technical assistance and 

guidance. 

From overseeing new customer conversions 

and set-ups or advising a homeowner on how 

to adjust a hinge, to facilitating product 

testing or advising a confused 

customers on building regulation 

changes, every day is different! 

The latest and future proposed 

changes to Document L of the 

building regulations have seen 

further investment in our research 

and development programme. 

“The latest and future proposed 

changes to Document L of the 

building regulations have seen 

further investment in our research 

and development programme” 

With our existing ADVANCE 70 system Above: Michele Statham 

meeting the 1.2 U-value requirements, 

we have been looking at both product and glazing 

capabilities to improve this further. 

By mid-October, I will have completed a training 

course to become a WER / U-value approved 

simulator, thus being able to provide further 

support to our customer base. 

This will aid us further in working towards the 

proposed 2025 Document L changes as we invest 

more resources in to developing our window and 

door solutions. Our company ethos, however, will 

remain. 

Any new developments and improvements shall 

continue to be fabricator and installer friendly, 

whilst also being as cost effective as possible for 

the fabricator and installer. 

Over the last couple of years and within these 

behind-the-scenes features, we’ve mentioned 

that customer service, support and care remain 

high on the agenda. Communication is also key. 

Working with the Marketing Manager, Mark 

Walker, we have introduced and 

launched a number of technical 

information sheets and guidance documents. 

Guidance and support 

We launched two PAS 24 Window and Door 

Technical Guidance documents, providing 

customers with a simplified and detailed 

overview of how to fabricate PAS 24 windows, 

single leaf and French doors. 

The simple and effective guides itemise each 

piece of hardware, its product code and a visual 

guide as to where it should be fitted. Feedback 

from customers has been extremely positive, with 

the main plus point being how simplistic and easy 

to understand the documents were. 

This was followed up with the “What the F & L?” 

Technical Guide, which again was a simplistic 

overview of the recent changes to building 

regulations Document F and L. 

The much talked about trickle vent and U-value 

scenarios and permutations were broken down 

in to bullet points, thus making the requirements 

easier to understand. 

These three technical guides are just a couple of 

instances of what we do ‘behind the scenes’ to 

keep our customers informed and up-to-date with 

industry requirements and how to comply. 

To be perfectly honest, it’s very difficult to provide 

an all-encompassing behind the scenes insight in 

to our technical support and services. 

Again, it’s an area that is evolving all the time 

as we focus on providing a unique, personal and 

informative service and support package. 

Technically speaking, it’s all about providing 

the perfect mix of service, support and 

communication to strengthen and enhance our 

relationship with our customers. 

Contact Selecta Systems: 

0121 325 2100 

www.selectasystems.com/ 

@SelectaSystems 


Aluminium 

WARM TO ITS CORE 

Have next generation energy aluminium products stepped into the space previously occupied 

by hybrid PVC-U-aluminium systems? Total Fabricator hears if this is the case from Decalu 

customer, Scarborough-based SWC Trade Frames’ Sales Director Mark Catchpole... 

Part L makes thermal efficiency an even more 

critical element in window and door design, 

something, which should in theory generate big 

opportunities for hybrid aluminium PVC-U systems. 

So where are they and why aren’t they having a 

bigger impact on the market than they are? 

“We used to manufacture Warmcore”, said Mark 

Catchpole, Sales Director SWC. 

“As a Synseal product it was great. It was a very 

progressive system and it delivered a lot of USP’s 

and ultimately meant that we could manufacture 

a great door. 

“The market at that time was still, however, 

relatively new and retail potential that we saw in 

the product didn’t really translate into sales. I’m 

not sure our customers necessarily saw the value. 

“If you fast forward to summer 2022, it should 

have been a perfect opportunity for us to grow 

market share because of the level of thermal 

performance now required under Part L. 

“For us, however, that ship sailed because of the 

supply challenges that we saw in the last couple of 

years. It simply wasn’t workable for us, so we had 

to bring in an aluminium product to replace it.” 

The current set of market forces lend themselves to 

energy efficient products. On the one hand there’s 

the regulatory ‘whip’ in the form of Part L which 

bring in a notional U-value for newbuild sector of a 

minimum of 1.2W/m 2 k for windows and the same 

for doors with more than a 60% glazed area. 

For the home improvement market, the minimum 

requirement for replacement windows is now 

1.4W/m 2 k or WER Band B, and replacement doors 

with more than a 60% glazed area have to be 

able to achieve 1.4W/m 2 k or DER Band C. 

Perhaps more significant still is the leap seen in 

SWC decided to switch to 

Decalu earlier this year 

energy prices and the lifting of the energy price 

cap in April. These pushed average household 

energy bills for anyone not lucky enough to be on 

a fixed tariff to just under £2,000. 

A further price increase in October could push 

average bills even higher to £2,600 by the autumn 

reaching as much as £2,900 by March next year. 

“The industry doesn’t have a great track record of 

selling energy efficiency”, continued Mark. “We were 

one of the first fabricators to offer double glazed 

units with a centre pane U-value of 1.0W/m 2 k and do 

“We were one of the first fabricators 

to offer double glazed units with a 

centre pane U-value of 1.0W/m 2 k 

and do you know how many we’ve 

sold? Zero” 

you know how many we’ve sold? Zero”, he said. 

“That’s because as an industry we aren’t good 

at selling the benefits. It might only cost the 

homeowner an extra few pounds per frame, but it 

pushes the U-value down and saves them money. 

“It was a little bit like that with Warmcore. Installers 

defaulted to traditional aluminium systems based on 

price rather than upselling performance.” 

These ‘traditional aluminium systems’ are now, 

he argues, exposed. Mark pins this on a failure to 


SYSTEMS 

Mark feels a big part of 

the industry is not ready 

to adapt to the new Part L 

Building Regulations 

invest in product development. 

“The aluminium systems companies were 

investing in growth, in aluminium bi-folds they 

had this product that everyone wanted, but they 

didn’t invest in product innovation and now they 

have been caught out because they can’t meet 

Part L efficiently”, he said. 

This should, in theory, herald the ascendency of 

those pioneering hybrid PVC-U/aluminium-clad 

systems, but for the fact that a new generation 

of aluminium systems have caught up and 

either match or exceed the level of performance 

delivered by them. 

“We now manufacture the Decalu88 Bifold 

and the Decalu163 Lift-and-Slide Door. On the 

Decalu88 you’re looking at U-values of 1.2W/m 2 k 

double-glazed”, Mark explained. 

He continued: “That was really important for us 

because I don’t know an installer in their right mind 

who wants to fit large pane triple-glazed products.” 

This moves Decalu as an ultra-energy efficient 

aluminium system into and beyond the space, 

occupied by hybrid aluminium PVC-U systems. 

“PVC-U/aluminium clad systems generally 

achieve a U-value of around 1.4W/m 2 k doubleglazed 

and maybe 1.0W/m 2 k triple. Well, we’re 

going significantly beyond that with Decalu” 

continued Mark. 

“There are also other benefits as a fitter. The 

adjustable jamb. The pre-inserted gasket and 

knock-in glazing bead. 

“It saves our customers masses of time and they 

fit more doors. 

“Without exception every installer I have ever met 

has hated wedge gasket. With the Decalu88 Bifold 

you don’t have to fight with it anymore.” 

Decalu’s advanced thermal performance is built 

around an ultra-energy efficient and pre-inserted 

foam core. 

The next generation aluminium system also 

uses a single inner frame with an identical midsection 

throughout the range cutting frame and 

sash components from eight in most aluminium 

systems – to only three. This contributes to far 

lower stock holding and delivers manufacturing 

efficiencies of up to 40%. 

Covering Northumbria to the North to Yorkshire 

and Lincolnshire to the South, it was this 

advanced level of energy efficiency alongside the 

knock-in gasket on the Decalu88 that drove the 

Scarborough-based trade fabricator to switch to 

Decalu earlier this year. 

“People aren’t ready for Part L – installers, other 

fabricators – and that stems from the fact that 

traditional aluminium systems don’t profile a 

solution and systems companies have failed to 

invest in product innovation”, Mark continued. 

“As a business, we have a track record of 

innovation. We were an early adopter of Warmcore, 

we were also one of the first fabricators to secure 

a WER A rating, and to supply 3-Star cylinders onto 

our entire door range. 

“We have a passion for what we do and we want 

to get it right. 

“We’ve got a solution for Part L, for Part F. We’ve 

been talking to our customers for months and 

we and they are ready for it. That’s not true of all 

fabricators and all systems companies.” 

Contact Decalu: 

01249 816 969 

www.deceuninckaluminium.co.uk 

@Decalu_UK 



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Out & About - Jack Aluminium 

George Lewis recently visited Coventry-based systems manufacturer Jack Aluminium to 

hear all about its organic year-on-year growth, well respected products and future plans 

for the company... 

Coventry-based commercial glazing systems 

manufacturer Jack Aluminium has a different 

approach when trying to build the company 

into the go-to supplier for fabricators across the UK. 

The company, founded in 2007, manufactures 

thermal commercial doors, windows, low rise 

curtain walling and rooflights for the commercial 

sector, but says it is best known for its TD68 

thermal door, which was developed in 2014 and 

is said to be very well respected in the industry. 

A JACK FOR ALL TRADES 

Despite being strong in the commercial sector, 

the company is now also looking to venture into 

the residential sector in the near future, with the 

products already on offer able to move across to 

residential projects. 

Jeff Pearson, Director at the company, said that 

the reason for going into the residential sector is 

not that the company wants to be “all things to all 

people”, but through high demand for residential 

products from customers. 

Growing organically 

Jeff, along with co-founder Andy Short, wants the 

company to grow organically year on year by as 

much as 15%, rather than have potential peaks 

and troughs in growth, which he points out is 

easier said than done in the current climate… 

but he says Jack Aluminium has been able to 

control this and keep growing steadily. 

Jeff said he owes much of the success of the 

business to his many years of experience built up 

throughout his career, but also feels having the 

right people working for the company is key to 

maintaining a good business. 

Despite a relatively small team of 18 employees, 

most if not all have been chosen due to their 

connections with other employees at the factory, 

giving Jack Aluminium a unique ‘family-feel’. And 

this is highlighted perfectly by Ash Pearson, son 

of Jeff, who is Sales Manager at the company and 

as passionate as his father about the industry, as 

well as the future direction of the business. 

Due to year-on-year growth, in 2019 Jack 

aluminium was able to double its warehouse 

capacity with the purchase of a new factory, 

conveniently sited just next door to its original 

factory, taking its total space to 18,000 sq. ft. 

Jeff said at the time of the purchase: “When the 

property next to us became available, it made 

complete sense for us to buy it. There’s no need 

for us to go through the hassle of moving. We can 

just start filling up new racking next door!” 

But in just three years, Jack Aluminium is said to 

be again close to reaching its capacity and may 

soon look for a completely new space to help it 

diversify into new products, and the company 

says it is also looking to add another rolling line 

and in-house paint line amongst other additions. 

But being based in Coventry is important and Jeff 

can’t see the company moving areas anytime soon. 

He explained: “Being based in the Midlands is 

ideal for us as we have fabricator customers all 

over the country.” 

Jeff Pearson (left) and his 

son Ash who is Sales Manager 

at the Jack Aluminium 

“When the property next to us became available, it 

made complete sense for us to buy it” 

When discussing location and his team, Jeff also 

added: “We don’t want to lose these people so 

staying in the Midlands is important.” 


SYSTEMS 

Along with looking to move into new premises, 

Jeff said there is also lots to look forward to for 

everyone at Jack Aluminium. 

He explained he wants to ‘get on the front foot’ 

when it comes to the company’s future plans 

and that means making sure Jack Aluminium’s 

products are as reliable as ever, with the recent 

Building Regulation changes in June meaning 

rules are tighter than ever. 

“Being based in the 

Midlands is ideal for us 

as we have fabricator 

customers all over the 

country” 

The aforementioned TD68 Thermal Door is already 

said to be one of the most thermally efficient, 

high usage commercial aluminium door systems 

on the market prior to the updated regulations. 

And with the new targets, the company says it has 

seen its reputation increase greatly, as it already 

performs strongly with U-values as low as 1.7 W/m 2 K. 

But whilst the door has been PAS 24 tested, the 

company is a big advocate of its products being 

STS-202 and LPS1175 tested. 

Aluminum profiles 

ready for fabrication 

The rolling machine used 

to combine two pieces of 

aluminium profile 

STS-202 accredited doors provide resistance to 

a variety of attacks associated with opportunistic 

break-ins, while LPS 1175 is a certification used 

to test the resistance to unauthorised access 

offered by physical security products. 

The future for Jack Aluminium 

Asked what the future of the industry looks like, Ash 

said that there is potential for anything to happen. 

He said: “We could possibly see a complete system 

redesign in 2025, with a change of depth mooted. 

“But we work very hard with our new customers, 

making sure we physically go to see them and show 

them all our products both new and old. We need to 

be able to provide them with a total package. 

“We also have the ISO 14000 and ISO 9001 

certifications to make our products more 

environmentally efficient and are always looking 

at ways to be more sustainable as a company.” 

It seems to be an exciting time for Jack Aluminium, 

with a huge turnover increase this year. Whilst Jeff 

and the rest of the team recognise that things are 

settling down and dropping off a bit, they say it 

doesn’t mean it is time to worry. 

Ash feels that despite the slowdown, 

opportunities still exist if you are able to 

provide the right products. And he feels that 

Jack Aluminium can offer those products to 

commercial projects, and to some residential 

projects as well. 

The foundations have been set and it will be 

interesting to see how the company develops over 

the next few years in what seems to be an ever 

changing sector. 

Contact Jack Aluminium: 

024 7646 7449 

jackaluminium.co.uk 

@Jack_Aluminium 



Company Profile 

SYSTEMS 

'COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE ' 

We hear about Metal Technology’s product portfolio which encompasses over 30 window, 

door, curtain walling, brise soleil and louvre systems, with two high performance ‘next 

generation’ products recently certified by the Passive House Institute... 

Since 1985, Metal Technology has 

been defining spaces through its 

architectural glazing solutions and 

has reportedly grown to become one of 

the UK and Ireland’s leading designers 

and suppliers of bespoke aluminium 

window, door, curtain wall and solar 

shading systems for commercial and 

residential applications. 

Said to be committed to excellence 

in all aspects of sustainable product 

design, customer service and technical 

support, the company has become a 

trusted partner of fabricators, developers, 

contractors and architects. 

Product range 

Metal Technology’s product portfolio encompasses 

over 30 window, door, curtain walling, brise soleil 

and louvre systems. Its Thermally Enhanced (Hi+) 

portfolio offers the designer a wide and diverse choice 

of profiles that provide structural integrity, weather 

performance, thermal enhancement and security. 

The company has recently been awarded by the 

Passive House Institute, certifying System 5-45 

Hi+ Window and System 17 Hi+ Curtain Walling, 

with the latter achieving the highest ranking of A+. 

Projects 

Metal Technology has vast experience of providing 

fenestration solutions throughout the UK for the 

commercial, education, healthcare, leisure, retail 

and residential sectors. 

Contracted for many commercial schemes 

throughout the UK, Metal Technology supplied 

its architectural glazing systems for a number of 

recently completed developments: CABI’s new 

low energy headquarters in Wallingford; Brinell 

Building, the BREEAM Excellent rated contemporary 

The Tribeca House 

office development in 

Manchester 

office space in Brighton city centre; the awardwinning 

CDE Global headquarters in Cookstown; 

the Halo Enterprise and Innovation Centre (HEIC), 

part of the £63m brownfield urban regeneration 

project by HALO Urban Regeneration Company 

and Wolverhampton’s BREEAM ‘excellent’ rated 

i9 Building which picked up Best Commercial 

Development at the RICS West Midlands Awards 

and is now home to the Ministry of Housing, 

Communities and Local Government. 

Another recently completed office development is 

Tribeca House in Manchester’s vibrant Northern 

Quarter. Said to be a beautiful combination of 

old and new, the client, Kamani Property Group, 

had the surviving façade restored and sensitively 

combined with its new, adjoining development. 

Through AGF, Metal Technology supplied its high 

performance windows, doors and curtain walling 

systems, the latter of which had a feature that 

enabled an interface with the striking COR-TEN 

(steel) vertical feature fins. 

Metal Technology has vast experience of providing 

fenestration solutions for over a 1,000 universities, 

colleges and schools throughout the UK. The 

company was a key supplier in a number of 

recently completed projects within the 

education sector: the landmark £41m 

Health Innovation One building at 

Lancaster University; the £69m Barony 

Campus, Scotland’s biggest school; 

the 1,480 bed £130m University of 

York flagship student accommodation 

campus; the £29m South West College 

in Enniskillen – Northern Ireland’s first 

Passivhaus Premium Plus education 

facility and Madras College, Fife’s new 

‘Platinum Standard’ sustainable school. 

Furthermore, Metal Technology has been 

appointed to supply its Passive House 

Institute ‘Certified Component’ products for one 

of the world’s largest Passivhaus buildings, at 

26,666m 2 - St Columba’s RC High School and 

Woodmill High School. This is part of a 55 acre, 

circa £220m development for the Dunfermline 

Learning Campus, comprising these two high 

schools and a new college for Fife Council and will 

accommodate up to 2,700 school pupils and 2,500 

college students. 

Metal Technology has applied its expertise in close 

collaboration with designers to deliver financially 

economic yet technically robust solutions for the 

healthcare sector. The company supplied its high 

performance glazing systems for the soon to be 

completed National Treatment Centre for NHS 

Highland, an ‘exemplar’ healthcare facility for 

ophthalmology and orthopaedic surgery in Inverness. 

Metal Technology has also been appointed for the 

£233m Baird Family Hospital and Anchor Centre 

healthcare project in Aberdeen for NHS Grampian. 

Contact Metal Technology: 

028 9448 7777 

metaltechnology.com 

Email: sales@metaltechnology.com 


System 26 Hi/Hi+ 

High Performance 

Enhanced 

Bi-Fold Door 

Metal Technology’s high insulation 

System 26 Hi/Hi+ Bi-Fold Door has 

been developed to offer exceptionally 

low U-values while at the same time 

offering high levels of natural ventilation. 

Slimline profiles maximise the daylight 

into your living space, and with options 

from a single door to seven opening 

panes and up to 6 metres in width, 

design flexibility is guaranteed. 

Door U-values as low as 1.4 W/m 2 K with 

double glazing and 1.0W/m 2 K with triple glazing. 

Stock finishes - 9016 White Semi Gloss, 7016 Grey Matt 

and 9005 Black Matt reducing profile lead times to 48 hours. 

Severe weather tested to BS 6375 Parts 1 and 2. 

PAS 24 Security tested options to comply 

with Secure by Design criteria. 

Glass units 28mm DG - 50mm TG. 

Door energy rating DER A+. 

Sash weights up to 100kgs. 

Sash heights up to 2500mm. 

LogiKal estimating and production software 

for manufacturing, glass and U-value calculations. 

metaltechnology.com 

Bespoke punch tooling / jigs to assist with rapid manufacture.

The DoorCo Column 

GETTING A GRIP ON THINGS 

As GRiPCORE continues to gain traction in the market following its launch last 

year, DoorCo tracks the trends that are emerging from sales of its solid timber core 

composite door... 

The hybrid of cross laminated engineered 

hardwood, LVL timber and hardwood stiles & 

rails, pressed with our signature 4mm skins, 

means that GRiPCORE will not move, bow or twist 

more than 3mm and requires minimal maintenance. 

Both our distribution and prepped customers 

are embracing this new door, which offers a 

competitive alternative that is outperforming 

existing solid core doors on the market. 

GRiPCORE is being easily adopted by all our customers 

as manufacturing and handling requirements do not 

differ from the existing DoorCo door range. 

Something for everyone 

As with all composite door sales, the 

Contemporary / Designer door market is 

particularly buoyant at the moment and many 

of the doors we sell lean towards a more 

contemporary style. 

However, GRiPCORE is popular in the traditional 

market too. The most popular door slab last month 

was the Farmhouse, which is used to create 

popular designs like Sunningdale, Belfry and Pevero 

(see right). Second is the ever-popular Carnoustie 

and third is the Monza II Designer door. 

A modern twist with component choices 

Although the Farmhouse and Carnoustie doors are 

more conventional woodgrain doors, with the right 

combination of colour, glass and FLiP glazing cassette, 

the styles can certainly be made to look more 

contemporary. This is particularly apparent when you 

look at the stats on GLAZiNG from last month. 

The most popular decorative glass design sold 

with GRiPCORE doors is Artemis which, with 

its simple yet extremely effective design of an 

etched glass centre and clear border, offers a 

modern twist popular across all our collections. 

The Pevero door 

The same goes for Louisiana, the second most 

popular decorative glass design sold last month. 

Louisiana has a multifaceted bevelled design with 

stunning textured glass and is available on many 

of our Traditional, Contemporary and Designer 

door styles to deliver undoubted kerb appeal. 

When it comes to colour, greys are still leading 

the pack in the prepped door sales. Anthracite, 

a DoorCo standard colour, remains top of the 

“When it comes to 

colour, greys are still 

leading the pack in the 

prepped door sales” 

chart and there are five other greys in our top 10 

painted colours, including the premium shade 

of Agate Grey. The second popular colour is 

Chartwell Green, another standard DoorCo colour. 

Blue and Black also feature in the top 10. 

In correlation with the door and GLAZiNG trends 

favouring the more traditional style, the most 

popular glazing cassette for both prepped, paint no 

prep, and distribution customers is FLiP Standard, 

our moulded woodgrain glazing cassette option. 

However, this is closely followed by FLiP Flat 

Grained, the perfect partner to Farmhouse and 

Monza II with its flat profile and woodgrain finish. 

This alludes to both the increasing trend of adding 

a modern twist to traditional styles as well as the 

growing popularity of Designer high-end doors. 

The ultra-contemporary Inox cassette, largely 

used on the Flush door is in the top 5, along with 

FLiP Flat Stipple – the perfect partner to Links, 

our aluminium-alternative composite door. 

Designer choices 

The most popular design of GRiPCORE Monza 

II sales is the Augusta, making up over half our 

prepped doors produced last month. 

With its simple, slim glazed panel and parallel pull 

handle, the Augusta has a clean modern style and 

is available in a few variations with left and right 

positioning and a full length glazed panel option. 

When it comes to Designer colour, our Patina 


“A new trend emerging in the Designer door 

arena is TWiNTONE” 

Above: Monza II Augusta Alaskan EtchLines; Right: Monza II 

Square3 - Stone Vetro. Top right: TWiNTONE. 

shades are unrivalled. 

They were designed using the latest in paint 

technology to highlight Monza II’s distinctive 

woodgrain finish. The most popular Patina option is 

Alaskan Birch, followed by the warmer Stone Grey. 

TWiNTONE 

A new trend emerging in the Designer door arena is 

TWiNTONE. Using the standard Anthracite Grey FLiP 

Flat Stipple cassette option against a grey door offers 

some serious contrasting design choices. 

It is available exclusively for the Links door range, 

that includes five different door designs. 

METALLiC 

The concept of TWiNTONE was displayed at FIT 

Show alongside another new designer FLiP Flat 

Stipple cassette option – METALLiC. METALLiC is 

a brand-new colour option created using the very 

latest in paint technology to add a little sparkle to 

Links designer doors. 

Visitors to FIT Show were so impressed with 

the innovation in design and colour that the 

METALLIC and TWiNTONE prototypes offered, 

they were added to our product portfolio with 

immediate effect as a competitive alternative to 

the popular metallic cassette designs. 

With FLiP’s unique Foam In Place technology 

and simple click together installation, customers 

are embracing this new opportunity for elevated 

door sales. 

As GRiPCORE secures its place in the market, 

we are expanding the door’s product portfolio, 

with exclusive new designs, PAiNT and GLAZiNG 

options coming soon. 

We are also developing the initial marketing 

materials, with an aspirational new dedicated 

brochure and suite of imagery for customers to use 

to portray the advanced properties of GRiPCORE 

and its premium collection to the homeowner. 

Contact DoorCo: 

01625 428955 

www.door-co.com 

@DOORCO_Official 



Locking Systems 

BECOMING 'NOTORIOUS' 

Bill Murray, General Manager of Locking Systems at UAP, the door, window hardware and 

security specialist, discusses the new Kinetica+ K4 3* cylinder and explains how it will 

benefit those throughout the supply chain. 

With so many of us working from home over 

the past couple of years and lockdown 

restrictions making it harder for burglars 

to wander around unnoticed, figures for domestic 

break-ins have gone down during the pandemic. 

But this is, unfortunately, a downward trend that 

is not expected to last. As people go back to their 

workplaces and our towns and cities return to their 

usual hustle and bustle, it will be the quality of 

security measures, rather than lack of opportunity, 

that keeps intruders at bay once again. 

Introducing Kinetica+ K4 

Our goal has been to deliver a solution that 

provides robust protection from bumping, picking 

and drilling, while offering an affordable and easy 

to install product suitable for any door or property 

type. 

The result is a product that has achieved a BSI 3* 

Kitemark, Secured by Design approval and Sold 

Secure Diamond Standard accreditation, along with 

durability testing to 100,000 operations to prove 

the cylinder’s security effectiveness and smooth 

operation over years of use. 

The locksmiths we’ve tested it with so far have all 

agreed that nothing else compares with our Fullex 

Kinetica+ K4 for value, security features or ease 

of installation. In fact, we are so confident that 

the Fullex Kinetica+ K4 offers an industry-leading 

standard of security to prevent break-ins that we are 

offering a free ‘cylinder registration scheme where 

customers can receive free maintenance updates, 

key information and access to all registered keys and 

cylinders. 

Harder to break in 

The Kinetica+ K4 has been designed with the 

patent-pending Fullex attack system, which 

Above: The Kinetica+ K4 has been durability tested to 100,000 operations 

“Our goal is that Kinetica+ K4 will become 

notorious within the criminal community” 

prevents would-be intruders from manipulating 

the cam to gain access. 

The cylinder has been constructed to break during 

an attack, protecting the lock from attack from 

the outside while keeping the door locked and 

enabling the cylinder to remain functioning on the 

inside of the property. 

Once the cylinder snaps, the drive bar springs 

forward at high speed, while dual attack rods fire 

sideways to prevent the drive bar from moving 

past a given point. 

The rotating cam also moves forwards 

independently and comes to an abrupt stop when 

the outer defence ring of the Kinetica cam hits the 

defence ring on the side of the barrel. 

Once these protections have been activated, 

the intruder may attempt to release the cam 

by pushing the drive bar backwards. However, 

regardless of the tools in his kit or the amount of 

force he uses, the amount of movement is limited 

by the two attack rods, so the cam cannot be 

released in this way. 

He may then try to grab the drive bar, but the 

shaped end of the drive bar makes it virtually 

impossible to grab it using mould grips or pliers, 

because they will simply slip off the tapered ends, 

pushing it backwards inside the cam wall, rather 

than teasing it forwards. 

As a result, the intruder cannot manipulate or 

remove the cam to gain access. 



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Call 0161 946 1164 to request your hard copy 

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Email: sales@regalead.co.uk | Web: www.regalead.co.uk

Locking Systems 


The cylinder has been designed to resist various forms 

of attack. A strengthening bar reinforces the cylinder’s 

core for added protection against snapping. 

Kinetica+ K4 has also been designed to overcome 

the risk of bumping. UAP has designed the cylinder 

with the patented Fullex anti-bump system which 

does not use trap pins but has nickel-plated, 

hardened steel anti-bump pins to interrupt the timing 

of the locking pins when the cylinder is bumped. 

The cylinder has been designed to prevent 

access by drilling too, with hardened steel antidrill 

pins located either side of the key / key 

cylinder, providing extra protection against lock 

manipulation, and on the exterior side of the key/ 

thumbturn cylinder. Anti-pick pins on each side 

of the cylinder also make it extremely difficult to 

gain access by picking the cylinder. 

Easy to install, easier to use 

We know that what’s important to installers and 

specifiers is a cylinder that looks good, performs 

well throughout its service life and is easy to install, 

that’s why we’ve designed Kinetica+ K4 to offer 

both ease of installation and enhanced security. 

The security features we have combined in a 

single 3* cylinder product have allowed the lock 

to be designed with no ring on the cam. This 

makes installation faster and easier, without 

compromising on the level of protection provided. 

A single sacrificial cut-line on the outside of the 

cylinder ensures a more robust and durable lock 

with improved protection from moisture and dust 

ingress, while aiding ease of installation. 

With reliability and turning forces built in by 

design, the Kinetica+ K4 has been tested to 

100,000 cycles and proven to deliver the same 

level of security and smooth operation throughout 

this rigorous testing, demonstrating excellent 

performance throughout the equivalent of at least 

25 years’ use. 

Supplied in plastic-free packaging in a choice of 

polished brass, polished chrome or satin nickel, 

the Kinetica+ K4 is available with a choice of 

key or thumbturn internal locking. The thumbturn 

variant has been designed with the Fullex, patent 

The cylinder has been designed 

to provide the highest security 

standards available 

“A game changer for 

the home security 

market” 

pending, Helix TT; a highly durable thumbturn that 

is extremely easy and smooth to use, with no need 

to push before turning. This not only makes it more 

convenient for a wider array of end users, but also 

safeguards against the thumbturn being left in any 

position other than the correct, vertical alignment. 

More secure and safer too 

Alongside the approach to combining security 

features in a single 3* cylinder to deliver 

improved security, ease of installation and 

smooth operation, the UAP team has also 

considered how safety and hygiene can be 

incorporated into the Kinetica+ K4 too. 

The global pandemic has highlighted how quickly 

and easy germs and viruses can be transferred by 

contact and we have utilised biocidal technology 

to protect end-users from infection and bacteria. 

Issued as standard with all Kinetica+ K4 cylinders, 

our new Bio keys combine a conventional metal blade 

with a chunky, coloured ABS thermoplastic polymer 

bow, which has been treated using Biomaster; a 

biocidal additive that impregnates the grip. 

This technology uses a proven silver compound 

biocide that has effective antibacterial and 

antiviral properties. UAP’s Bio keys have been 

tested to ISO 22196:2011 and shown to reduce 

Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia Coli. They 

have also been tested to ISO 21702:2019 and 

shown to reduce SARS-CoV-2. 

As the Biomaster is an ingredient of the plastic, 

rather than a coating, it will never wear out or 

wear off, providing a permanent and effective 

hygiene measure for those using Kinetica+ K4 

cylinders to access their homes. 

Each Kinetica+ K4 cylinder will be supplied with 

three Bio+ keys and the lock has been designed 

as a one key solution for easy keying alike, 

ensuring spare key availability and affordability. 

Infamy awaits 

A game changer for the home security market, 

Kinetica+ K4 from Fullex, powered by UAP, is 

a best in class solution that responds to known 

vulnerabilities while anticipating potential criminal 

techniques and offering ease of installation and 

excellent performance for the end user. 

At every turn, the intruder is thwarted, defeating 

the objective of gaining access as quickly and 

furtively as possible and making them think twice 

about which properties to attack. Our goal is that 

Kinetica+ K4 will become notorious within the 

criminal community as the cylinder that should make 

you think twice about even attempting to break in. 

Contact UAP: 

0161 796 7268 

uapcorporate.com 

@UAP_Limited 


OPEN YOUR DOOR 

WITH THE TOUCH 

OF YOUR FINGER

Machinery Investment 

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE 

Nigel Boothby, Distinction Doors’ General Manager, discusses the company’s recent 

machinery investments, which includes two new additional CNC machines, an edgebander 

and an extraction unit to help solidify its position in the market... 

certainly been a busy year, and 

we’re not done yet!” said Nigel Boothby, 

“It’s 

General Manager at Distinction Doors, 

speaking of the company’s extensive planned 

investment programme. 

Starting with the expansion of its paint facility and a 

new spray booth in summer 2021, Distinction has so 

far this year commissioned two new additional CNC 

machines, an edgebander and an extraction unit. 

“As a business our common goal is providing the 

very best possible customer service. To achieve 

this, we must ensure our production processes 

are as robust and efficient as possible, keeping 

downtime to a minimum. And so, this year we 

are focussing on reducing single points of failure 

by installing new, additional equipment and 

managing out obsolescence.” 

Two additional CNCs 

By the end of November eight CNC machines will 

be operational. The seventh was commissioned 

four months ago and is already achieving high 

levels of productivity and machine efficiency. The 

eighth is due to be installed in November. 

“Our CNCs are integral to our prepped door service. 

By adding two new machines into our operation, we 

are boosting capacity and reliability which enables 

us to offer our customers even better service. 

“The new machines are also part of our 

obsolescence programme, at some point in the 

future they will replace the oldest machine/s.” 

Increased edge band capacity 

Another machine integral to the prep service is the 

edgebander. One step ahead of the CNC machines 

in the production process, the edgebander edge 

bands the sides of the door blank in PVC (stable 

doors are edged in the middle too). 

This summer, Distinction invested in another 

edgebander, taking the total to four. This will enable 

The new extraction unit installed. 

Inset: Nigel Boothby 

Nigel and his team to create two 

cells of edgebanders – a dedicated 

area which will increase capacity and ensure doors 

are edge banded on-time. 

Additional extraction system 

Critical to the Distinction Doors operation is its 

ability to extract dust and shavings from the 

working environment. Once again, to reduce 

vulnerability and minimise the impact of any 

breakdowns, the door supplier has installed a 

second extraction system. 

After gaining planning permission, the two-storey 

extraction unit was installed in a safe and speedy 

manner by an external contractor. The installation 

took place during normal working hours, plus the 

odd weekend, and did not impact production. 

“This new extraction system affords us greater 

resilience and increases up-time,” continued, 

Nigel. “It is located away from our original 

extraction unit, in another part of the site.” 

As an added precaution, Distinction also invested 

in spark detection technology to protect the 

extraction system from potential fires. 

Planned and preventative maintenance 

For greater peace of mind, Distinction has 

maintenance partnerships with suppliers of both 

the CNCs and extraction system. This regime 

complements the company’s expansion of its 

maintenance team with the appointment of a new, 

dedicated Maintenance Manager, Mark Keeler. 

“Previously, this role was attached to another 

function,” continued, Nigel, “…but we have 

recognised the value that a committed leader will 

bring. Mark’s primary focus is to continue to improve 

our machines up-time to ensure better service. 

“Mark has introduced a proactive maintenance 

schedule which focusses on preventative 

maintenance. His crew work predominantly 

on the night shift, with cover during day-time 

manufacturing hours. While this approach has the 

potential to disrupt production, something which 

we must account for, we all see the benefits that 

Mark and his team bring in terms of up-time.” 

Improved infrastructure 

The company has also invested heavily in the 

infrastructure at its Barnsley-based factory. 

“We have increased our hard-standing external 

storage areas,” said, Nigel. “This has enabled us 

to improve our stock-holding – increasing capacity 

and storing product safely and efficiently. 

“We are a trusted and dependable partner, and 

we are proud to offer our customers the support 

and reliability that they expect from the UK’s 

largest supplier of composite doors, and so, as the 

UK enters another period of uncertainty we will 

continue to plan and invest to the benefit of our 

business and our customers.” 

Contact Distinction Doors: 

0345 2000 816 

www.distinctiondoors.co.uk 

@DistinctionDrs 


This label is not a statutory requirement. It is a voluntary label provided as a customer service to allow consumers to make informed 

decisions based on the noise reduction performance of competing products. 

© Only to be reproduced by permission of British Fenestration Rating Council Ltd 

This label is not a statutory requirement. It is a voluntary label provided as a customer service to allow consumers to make informed 

decisions based on the noise reduction performance of competing products. 

© Only to be reproduced by permission of British Fenestration Rating Council Ltd 

Your customers deserve 

a little peace and quiet 

Noise Reduction 


Window 

Company Logo Ltd 

PVC-U Casement Window 

A Rated Windows 

A++ 

A+ 

A 

B 

C 

D 

E 

A ++ 

Noise Reduction (R w ) 

(In accordance with BS EN ISO 10140-2 or 

BS EN 14351.) Actual acoustic performance for a 

specific application depends on: the type and 

location of the external noise, the location of the 

window or door, and how the elements or fabric of 

the building perform. 

Correction for high frequency and low 

frequency (C,C tr ) 

51 

(-1,-4) 

Licence No. 123456 

Review Date: 03/08/2020 

To verify this licence please contact 

enquiries@bfrc.org 


Door 

Company Logo Ltd 

Composite Door 

A Rated Doors 

A++ 

A+ 

A 

B 

C 

D 

E 

A ++ 

Noise Reduction (R w ) 

(In accordance with BS EN ISO 10140-2 or BS EN 14351.) 

43 

Licence No. 123456 

Review Date: 01/01/2019 

To verify this licence: enquiries@bfrc.org 

British Fenestration Rating Council 

Prove acoustic performance with BFRC ratings 

BFRC Noise Reduction Ratings let you prove the 

acoustic performance of your window and door 

products with our highly recognised ‘rainbow’ 

rating label - independent, impartial, trusted. 

Homeowners no longer select new windows and 

doors simply based on price. They want to know 

what they purchase will improve their home’s 

comfort, so product performance is now a priority. 

Find out more at bfrc.org 

By using the renowned BFRC rating scale to 

demonstrate the noise reduction properties of your 

windows or doors, you can show installers and 

consumers the quality of your products. 

Your products will stand out from your competitors’ 

and you’ll be able to avoid a race to the bottom 

on price. Sell using BFRC proven performance and 

leave your customers in no doubt.

Updates 

HELPING FABRICATORS GET AHEAD 

For further updates, visit www.total-fabricator.co.uk 

Within the arched frame market it can often be difficult to envisage what the exact product 

will look like before it’s been made, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings between 

fabricators and their customers. But thanks to a new full CAD service from arched and angled frame 

manufacturer Premier Arches, customers can easily see beforehand exactly what they’re getting. 

The company manufactures arched, angled, gable, circular and entirely bespoke windows and doors 

in a range of systems, supplying to fabricators, installers and local builders across the UK. 

Managing Director Sean Greenall commented: “One of our core principles at Premier Arches is to 

provide a ‘make life easier’ offering to our customers, and one way we achieve this is through our 

new free and professional CAD drawing service. This allows our customers to see exactly what they 

are getting before the manufacturing process, and also enables them to in turn show their customers 

what the finished frame will look like, thereby eliminating any confusion about the complex products 

we offer. Our CAD service is beneficial to both our customers and our manufacturing team, allowing for designs to easily be changed if needed, and also making 

it easier for our fabricators to collaborate with each other during the manufacturing process. In the long term, this will help our manufacturers work faster and 

smarter, reduce production costs, and ultimately lead to quicker project completion.” www.premierarches.co.uk 

PATIO DOOR MANUFACTURER CHOOSES DECEUNINCK 

Patios Southwest has taken on Deceuninck as a single source for its PVC-U patio sliding 

door profile, in a bid to manage quality and supply. 

The Newton Abbot-based company had dual sourced for a number of years, but found that 

increasing numbers of customers were moving over to the Slider 24+ system from Deceuninck 

to benefit from a number of features on offer. 

“Up until recently, Deceuninck increased its share of our customer base so that it accounted 

for 95% of all the work we were doing,” General Manager Stuart Prior explained. “The key drivers 

are the excellent colour offer and the industry-beating lead times. Deceuninck has more than 30 

colours in stock, all ready to go. So even if we wanted something like Agate Grey we can order it 

and get our products out of the door in two weeks.” 

Above: General Manager of Patios Southwest, Stuart Prior 

The final development that encouraged Patios Southwest to move to Deceuninck for 100% of 

its patio sliding door profile was the introduction of the sculptured sash. “We had a handful of 

customers who relied on a sculptured sash for some of their sales, so when Deceuninck introduced a sculptured sash earlier this year, the reasons for having 

two systems running side by side disappeared,” Stuart said. www.deceuninck.co.uk 

PROMAT UNVEILS THREE NEW FIRE DOOR DESIGNS 

Passive fire protection systems specialist Promat UK has developed two new steel framed glazed 

door systems and a timber door set to provide specifiers with assured fire safety solutions in 

domestic, public and commercial buildings. 

All three door sets are available in EI30 or EI60 specifications, which means they will retain their 

integrity and provide effective insulation to protect people and assets in the event of a fire for either 30 

or 60 minutes. 

The new steel frame doors, PYROSEC Door and PYROSEC SLIMLITE, allow fire doors to be integrated 

into fire resistance screens and partitions with ease. Both are designed to integrate with the Promat 

SYSTEMGLAS Ferro fire resistant glazing system, which provides architects and specifiers with a complete 

glazing solution backed by third party test evidence and Promat’s 360-degree ‘Wheel of Assurance’. 

The new PYROSEC SLIMLITE door 

The third new fire door from Promat, a timber door set, offers the same fire resistance as the two 

PYROSEC options for applications where a traditional timber solution is required. It integrates seamlessly with the Promat SYSTEMGLAS Ligna glazing system, 

which is widely used in all kinds of traditional and contemporary interiors. 

www.promat.com/en-gb 


Recycled 

Material 

Lighter 

Than 

Steel 

Cheaper 

Than 

STEEL 

Improves 

WER ratings 

Reduces 

U-values 

Increases 

Profile 

Chambers 

IMPROVED 

SCREW 

RETENTION 

YOUR BEST FRIEND! VERY GENEROUS WALL 

THICKNESS’S THAT ACHIEVE A SUPERIOR 

SCREW RETENTION COMPARED TO OTHERS. 

IT CAN ALSO ASSIST IN GAINING BETTER 

WER & U-VALUES DUE TO IT’S THERMAL 

ADVANTAGES OVER STEEL OR ALUMINIUM. 

CHEAPER THAN STEEL OR ALUMINIUM, YOU 

CAN ALSO USE PVC SCREWS, SAVING YOU 

MONEY ON SCREWS TOO! IT’S LIGHTER TO 

HANDLE AND CAN BE CUT ON A NORMAL 

PVC SAW. MADE FROM RECYCLED 

MATERIAL, IT’S DOING IT’S BIT FOR THE 

ENVIRONMENT AND CAN ENHANCE YOUR 

COMPANIES GREEN CREDENTIALS! 

FOLLOW @windowwidgets 

Window Widgets: Your Everyday Superhero! 

01452 341 868 | sales@windowwidgets.co.uk | www.windowwidgets.co.uk

Roof Lanterns 

Designed brighter, engineered better; we hear why the Korniche Roof Lantern is still the 

product to which others are compared to in terms of security, construction, aesthetics 

Lighting the project and leading the way since 

2016; the Korniche Roof Lantern was not 

only catapulted straight to the top of the 

desirability stakes for flat roof glazing at launch, 

but its game-changing engineering-led design 

– backed up by experience derived from the 

motorsport and automotive sectors – means that 

this Korniche product still remains a giant leap 

ahead in terms of construction. 

INNOVATE, DON'T IMITATE 

and ease of installation. 

Said to be requested by name from homeowners, 

the benefits of a Korniche lantern are clear to see for 

the consumer, with ultra-slim profiles that maximise 

natural light to flood the living space, yet with 

significant time-saving attributes for the installer. 

Whilst similar products may look to offer some 

of the benefits of that reduced installation time, 

it is said to be the beauty of the design you 

can’t see that hammers home Korniche and 

parent company Made For Trade’s approach to 

fenestration; nothing comes close to matching a 

Korniche under the skin. 

The product stands by its impressive ability to 

be ‘fitted in minutes and glazed in seconds’; 

something that is by virtue of its design from the 

outset using methods and design practices that are 

often an alien concept to the fenestration industry. 

These details might not be on show behind 

the narrow sightlines and hidden fasteners, 

but the unitary construction, fastening system 

and glazing components prevent anything from 

coming close to the same security, weathertightness 

and structural integrity. 

There are no visible fixings on show for example 

on a Korniche and all joints are seamless; whilst 

this means perfect aesthetics as it meets the eye, 

it also hints at the ‘clean sheet’ method of design 

and construction behind. The number, grade and 

size of the carefully specified bolts on the Korniche, 

for example, have been optimised for security and 

rigidity compared with typical self-tapping screw 

fixings, whilst intricate details such as ridge bosses 

using anti-crush tubes for perfect installation 

torque provide a superior, more precise fit than 

traditional glazing fittings such as flat plate. 

Greater accuracy and tighter tolerances 

Made For Trade’s investment is not just in the 

fasteners themselves; Korniche kits use a selection 

of aluminium components such as end caps and 

ridge bosses that have been uniquely die cast to suit, 

enabling greater accuracy and tighter tolerances to 

be achieved to the benefit of the structure. 

During installation of a Korniche Roof Lantern, 

installers will see a system that bolts together 

as a unitary structure rather than box sections 

and plates that flex or distort to the detriment of 

security, structural integrity and weatherproofing. 

Matching the installation speed of the Korniche 

might almost appear feasible, but when 

specifying a glazed product that relies on strength 

and security, that speed needs to be backed up 

with assurances that it is derived from clever 

engineering from the outset, rather than any 

simplification of construction. 

Meticulously engineered to be the strongest 

and stiffest on the market, the lantern supports 

industry-leading maximum glass sizes without 

the need for additional rafters, and the cunning 

design details mean that glazing the structure is 

The Korniche roof lantern can be 

‘fitted in minutes and glazed in seconds’ 

free of tapes and messy sealants. 

And that’s not all; in these days where the 

thermal efficiency of a home is of the utmost 

importance, the thermally-broken profiles work 

alongside a wealth of design features to reduce 

heat transfer, and lower heating bills as a result. 

Finally, any benefits are soon lost if the quality 

and consistency is not there for each and every 

item; from order through to installation. 

Whilst the term ‘quality’ is often seen to 

represent the fit/finish or longevity of a product, 

in engineering terms it is concerned with the 

principles and practice of quality assurance and 

control for both the product and service. 

Made For Trade recently gained ISO9001 

certification – based on continually improving and 

optimising all stages of how the company operates. 

This NQA Certification sets MFT and the Korniche 

Roof Lantern apart as a result, thanks to the 

precise repeatability of every single aspect of how 

a Made For Trade product is designed, sold and 

manufactured. 

Contact Korniche/Made for Trade: 

01642 610799 

www.korniche.co.uk/ 

@KornicheSystems 


FOCUSED ON 

IG QUALITY 

EVERY STEP 

Our 2022 Show Dates: 

Glasstec Düsseldorf 

20 – 23 Sep. 

Germany 

Stand No. D47 Hall 10 

Glasstech Asia 

26 – 28 Oct. 

Singapore 

Stand A05 

The sheer quality of our insulated glass (IG) 

products and service doesn’t just happen. 

PURCHASING 

MATERIALS 

BATCH 

TESTING 

QUALITY 

CONTROL 

It’s our commitment to excellence that feeds into every 

stage of our product and customer journey. 

TECHNICAL 

SUPPORT 

PACKAGING 

& DELIVERY 

From initial design and compounding of raw materials, through the 

manufacturing process to delivery to IG manufacturers, our multiple awardwinning 

team of specialists continue to enhance and develop new products 

for the window industry. We now supply over 2,500 IG components and 

offer industry-leading technical support. 

For Insulated Glass Product Performance that’s built 

by design, talk to us now on +44 (0) 121 331 3950 

or visit thermosealgroup.com 

We now offer a 24/7 online order service. 

OF THE 

WAY. 

Thermobar 

Warm Edge Spacer Tube 

D e dicat e d t o I nsula t e d G lass 

Thermoflex 

Warm Edge Spacer 

EuroSiv 

3A Molecular Sieve Desiccant 

EuroSeal 

Insulated Glass Sealants 

Smart-Slide. The next 

generation patio door 

Available in aludec and woodec 

foils, the NEW premium 

aluminium and natural timber 

effect finishes from aluplast. 

• 4.5m span in two panes! 

• Locks on all four sides of 

the sliding door. PAS24-2016. 

• ‘Part-open’ sliding door locking. 

aluplast PVC-U window 

and door systems 

Call 01684 273401 or 

email info@aluplast.co.uk 

to find out more. 

www.aluplast.co.uk

Software 

MAKING THE MOST OF IT 

Total Fabricator speaks to Greg Beachim, Sales Manager at First Degree Systems, who says 

whilst new machinery is a great way to introduce new efficiencies to a business, it needs to 

be fed the right information. 

As the threat of a downturn looms, many 

fabricators will be looking at the costs in their 

business and either looking for ways to cut 

them, or finding ways to get more bang for their buck. 

Machinery has always been a particular focus 

when enquiries start to slow because many 

benefits can be realised; if you can afford the 

capital expenditure, then new machinery can speed 

up operations, allow you to add new products to 

your range and delay taking on more staff. 

“Automation, while it comes at a cost, is key 

for fabricators looking to deliver market leading 

products in a competitive timeframe,” said 

Greg Beachim, Sales Manager at First Degree 

Systems. 

“And like most things, its advantages can only be 

truly realised if it is used efficiently.” 

Greg Beachim 

Greg argued that in an ideal world, you would buy 

a new welder or machining centre, plug it in, and 

feed it profile all day long. 

But managing that throughput is not the 

responsibility of the machinery – it is either done 

manually or through the right software. 

“All machinery – new or old – can only work as fast 

as the information being fed into it,” Greg explained. 

“And if there is a bottleneck in the design 

processing side, for example, then machinery 

could be standing idle, which eats into potential 

profits.” 

Window Designer from First Degree Systems is 

said to be one of the most widely used window 

design processing software in the industry, but 

many fabricators could be realising extra benefits 

by upgrading their package. 

According to Greg, these upgrades can help 

reduce errors, minimise stockholding, and 

increase the throughput of product in the factory. 

“Many fabricators bought Window Designer years 

ago and haven’t updated or added to it,” Greg said. 

Automated machinery is the first 

port of call for many fabricators. 

but having the right software 

also helps cut costs 


AUTOMATION 

“For them it was a necessary purchase at the 

time, and they have since pushed it to the back of 

their mind. If they were to move to a rental model, 

they could capture many additional benefits 

because these can be added on easily. 

Using software like Window 

Designer allows real-time 

access to parts of the business 

“This is because the Window Designer 

software can follow a design from quote all 

the way through to delivery, which minimises 

errors and introduces extra efficiencies at the 

manufacturing stage.” 

Greg said that sales teams can sit with 

homeowners with Fengo2 to design windows 

that help win the sale, which gets fed into Cloud 

Retailer allowing window installation companies 

to create an instant quote, release the jobs to 

manufacture, and see that an order has been 

accepted in near real time. 

“Once the order is with the fabricator, Production 

Manager offers visual planning for greater 

productivity, and Delivery Manager populates 

delivery routes,” Greg said. 

“Other bolt-on software includes Stock Assistant, 

an integrated stock management system, which 

gives fabricators full oversight of their stock holding. 

It can offer on-demand stock ordering, pre-allocate 

requirements, and even reconcile invoices. 

“This means that fabricators can reduce their 

general stock overhead, and reduce their stock 

levels, releasing money tied up in stock. And what 

it means for the future is that companies are not 

overburdening their stock requirement. 

“I have seen, even from medium-sized 

businesses, around £150,000-worth of released 

capital thanks to effective stock control, which 

can be critical for any business.” 

A significant knock-on effect of this is that 

fabricators don’t have to find extra space to put 

stock in, freeing up additional floor space, which 

can be used profitably. 

“There are other bolt-ons too, but the key point 

is that simply introducing new machinery to your 

operation will not realise the full efficiencies 

without the right design processing software,” 

Greg concluded. 

“And it is quite possible that you are only a phone 

call away from activating those efficiencies 

because you are already a Window Designer user.” 

Contact First Degree Systems: 

01283 808042 

www.firstdegreesystems.com 

@FirstDegreeSys 



Equipment Demos 

SEEING IS BELIEVING 

Neil Parton, Managing Director of machinery expert Elumatec, tells us why now is the time to 

see first hand all that the company has to offer at its new inforcenter in Mühlacker, Germany... 

I’m a major fan of certain indulgences. 

I believe they can be very good for us. 

Especially when they have a lasting benefit. 

This is a brilliant opportunity to get close, get 

answers and go home with the know- how you 

need to get results. 

You might have guessed by now that I’m not 

talking about a blowout at a fast food joint or a 

skinful of ale, or even sitting quietly, savouring 

a drop of finest Malt. 

I’m talking about taking a short break from 

work to indulge your love of engineering. 

While superb engineering exists in all 

developed countries, in Europe, one country – 

Germany – has a reputation that others envy. 

From domestic appliances to motor vehicles, 

from musical instruments to manufacturing 

equipment, 

German designers and engineers have earned 

their respect with consistent quality, outstanding 

design and complete dedication. 

See for yourself 

Full disclosure, I’m a Brit, but I’m also the MD 

of the UK-based arm of a German business, 

Elumatec AG. 

You might think my comments about German 

engineering are, therefore, biased, but if you 

do, I’d suggest that you ask around. Like other 

German products, Elumatec’s machinery has a 

reputation for efficiency, reliability, longevity and 

adaptability both in the UK and beyond. 

But I’d like you to see what I’m talking about up 

close. I’m inviting you to travel to Germany to see 

for yourself. 

We’re extending an invitation to our UK-based 

customers – and potential customers – to visit 

Elumatec’s new infocenter from 25 – 27 October 

2022. 

There are no catches with this invitation. We’ll 

reimburse your travel costs, and we’ll look after 

you for the duration. We’d like to give you an 

insight into a culture where no one thinks a love 

Above: Elumatec is inviting fabricators to 

visit its infocenter in October. 

Inset: Elumatec MD Neil Parton 

of engineering is weird. 

We want to show you the ins and 

outs, the nuts and bolts, and all the 

capabilities of the Elumatec range. 

Mühlacker is easy to reach from Stuttgart, and 

our new infocenter, which has been purpose-built 

for showcasing the range, is the perfect location. 

Whether you’re a fan of high specification CNC 

profile machining centres or simply have a 

fascination with optimising saws, you’ll find 

something to pique your interest. 

The infocenter is the only one of its kind in the 

industry. It’s a remarkable facility with a 4,000 

square metre central hall where the entire 

Elumatec range can be displayed, but it’s far 

more than a sterile shop window. 

All the new SBZ models will be working – the new 

compact but very capable 118, the 125/85 and 

the 155. 

The perfect itinerary: food, wine, Porsche 

and problem solving 

We’ll be offering workshops and demonstrations 

– even solving your problems. 

That’s right, if you arrange to send profile samples 

in advance, our Application Engineers will use 

those for specific machine trials. 

I’ll forgive you for thinking that all sounds a 

bit work focused when I introduced this piece 

with talk of indulgence, but don’t worry, there’s 

plenty of that on the schedule. 

The area around Mühlacker is perfect for 

sampling the very best of German cuisine, and 

when you’re refreshed enough to be craving 

a little more of the engineering the country 

can offer, we’ll head off to visit the Porsche 

Museum. 

We all love a bit of fine automotive 

engineering, don’t we? 

Now, I’m fully aware that there have been travel 

disruptions recently, but the press does like to focus 

on the bad news and things are already settling. 

We’re not expecting any issues. Rather, we’re 

excited about the event. It will be business 

travel as it should be, with a full program 

of demonstrations, visits, hospitality and 

opportunities to get close to our products. 

It’s also a real opportunity to meet others, build 

relationships and do business. We know that for 

our visitors, events like this can be launchpads 

for more efficient, cost-effective production, 

exciting partnerships and all sorts of possibilities. 

We’re looking forward to giving visitors a real 

insight into Elumatec and into the reasons why 

Germany’s engineering is respected the world over. 

That’s why we’re calling this event INSIGHT. We 

hope you can join us to indulge your interest this 

October. Register now by contacting us on the 

details below: 

Contact Elumatec: 

01908 580 800 

Email sales@elumatec.co.uk 

@elumatecUK 


Updates 

AUTOMATION 

For further updates, visit www.total-fabricator.co.uk 

£110K MACHINERY INVESTMENT TO BOOST PRODUCTION 

Aluminium bi-fold hardware supplier AT Precision has invested £110K in new machinery in a bid to ramp up production 

and keep up with growing demand. 

The Durham-based company has bought in a CNC vertical machining centre, an 8-head tapping machine, as well as three 

new saws. 

Sales Director Michael Hewitt commented: “We’ve seen an increased demand for aluminium products across the board, especially 

for bi-folds and patio doors, meaning demand for our products has also soared. 

“Future proofing the business by investing in new machinery is a vital step in meeting this demand and continuing to 

deliver the best quality products our customers are used to, matched with excellent service and competitive lead times.” 

The new suite of machinery is the latest in a series of investments at AT Precision, following the addition of plastic 

ancillaries, espagnolette window handles, security hardware, as well as aluminium profile, to its wide range. 

www.atprecision.co.uk 

ROSEVIEW INCREASES ITS PROFILE 

Haffner has delivered a second SBA-4 VS PVC-U Profile Machining Centre to Roseview Windows. 

Mike Bygrave, Sales & Marketing Director at Roseview Windows, commented: “Roseview has witnessed a sharp upturn 

in demand in the past 18 months as a result of the continued popularity of feature-rich sash windows. Our investment in 

this new machine will give us a big increase in capacity and further support our continued strategy for growth.” 

The second machine arrives on the shop floor just 12 months after the business took receipt of their first 

Haffner VS machining centre. Mike commented: “We invested in our first SBA-4 VS machining centre to replace 

an ageing machine and upgrade efficiencies across the shop floor. It made such a huge difference to our 

fabrication capabilities we had no hesitation in ordering a second machine to support our business growth trajectory and maintain our quality 

sash window output.” www.haffnerltd.com 

JADE PULLS NO PUNCHES WITH NEW TOOL SYSTEM 

Jade Engineering has worked closely with the manufacturers of Guardian Warm Roof to develop a version of 

its ‘Swiss army knife’ punch tool that dramatically reduces fabrication time for its popular solid roof system. 

The Guardian Warm Roof engineers recognised that they needed to provide a more efficient and accurate solution for 

its fabricators to replace the template and power tool system of drilling the various fixing holes for the main aluminium 

sections of its solid conservatory roof replacement. After an earlier company designed a solution that was deemed to be 

expensive and unworkable, the firm contacted Jade Engineering and threw down the challenge to provide an answer. 

Jade’s response was to engineer a multi-tool head that may be adjusted quickly and simply to switch between 

the various aluminium profiles used in the Guardian Warm Roof, mounted on a single punch tool pump unit. Thus, a 

single Jade unit not only replaces the cumbersome hand-prepping, but provides a single, compact punch station when other systems would require multiple units 

to complete the prepping requirements of the various profiles within the system. https://jade-eng.co.uk 

INSIGHT VITAL TO CONTINUED GROWTH 

Roseview Windows has doubled its capacity over the past two years to 750 PVC-U vertical sliders per week 

and says it is already planning to increase that even further to a record 1,000. The company attributes 

much of its ability to cope with that kind of unprecedented growth to the fact that it switched to Business 

Micros’ Evolution manufacturing and EvoNET business management software during the pandemic. 

Richard Burrells, Roseview’s Managing Director, said the new software is helping to revolutionise the business, 

enabling it to work towards achieving market leading levels of efficiency and customer service, without sacrificing 

any of the traditional craftsmanship which distinguishes Roseview from its competitors. He said: “We’ve gone from 

paperwork and whiteboards to a fully digitised factory with a dashboard facility which lets us see everything from 

production volumes to product mix, sash to frame ratios and individual fabricator output at a glance. That kind of insight has been vital as we’ve expanded, and 

obviously gives us the platform we need to plan how we move forward in the future.” www.businessmicros.co.uk 



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Sourcing Products 

HARDWARE PLUS A WHOLE LOT MORE 

Window Ware is making sourcing products quick and simple for fabricators – not just door 

and window hardware, but of essential manufacturing tools, machinery consumables and 

accessories too. We hear more about the company’s offering here... 

Window Ware has successfully served 

fabricators’ needs for over three decades 

with a product offering that has grown 

and evolved over the years to fulfil almost every 

requirement. 

“If I’m going to spend time raising a purchase 

order, it makes sense to try to order everything in 

one go” - Nick Loades 

That includes, not least, the massive range of 

fenestration hardware it’s well renowned for – 

such as locks, hinges, vents, and accessories to 

suit most window styles and operation types, plus 

multi-point locking solutions, furniture, handles 

and panic exit devices for every conceivable type 

and composition of door – but a vast range of 

fabricating equipment and machinery spares too! 

In fact, everything a fabricator needs to maintain 

manufacturing productivity, minimise downtime and 

satisfyingly tick off most of their parts list all in one go! 

Nick Loades, Director of Options Glazing, explained: 

“We needed a one-stop shop for trickle vents, 

window handles, locks – the lot! 

“If I’m going to spend time raising a purchase order, 

it makes sense to try to order everything in one go. 

“Window Ware offers the convenience and the 

comprehensive product range I was looking for, so 

I can quickly and easily source everything I need to 

run my business.” 

Gemma Deegan, Commercial Estimator at KCW 

Windows, agreed. She said: “Window Ware has a huge 

range of products in stock, so we don’t have to waste 

time shopping around. In fact, if Window Ware doesn’t 

have what we need, then no one will have it!” 

An ‘unbeatable product offering’ 

Fabricators are said to be spoilt for choice with 

Window Ware’s extensive collection of professional 

power, air and glazing tools from the industry’s top 

names, including Xpert, Kendo, Stanley, Bahco, 

Silverline, Faithfull, MaxiFlex, and more. 

They can also choose from a wide range of 

indispensable machinery spares and consumables 

such as Teflon, groove knives, cutters, triple drills, 

clamp pads, and thermocouples, as well as air tools 

and accessories including air drills, sanders and 

saws, burrs, router bits, blades, fittings, and hoses. 

Specialist bench tools including chisels and chisel 

knives, moon knives, shears, snips plus lifting and 

handling tools, including gloves, suction lifters, 

ropes, straps, and grippers are always fit for the 

job and ensure fabricators can work faster, smarter 

and safer. 


HARDWARE & ACCESSORIES 

Image shows a selection of the tools 

and consumables available from 

Window Ware 

“The hardware is really just the tip of the iceberg! With our wide range of 

fabricating tools, machinery consumables and accessories, alongside 

everything else, we are a dependable one-stop shop for time-pressed 

fabricators” - Richard Bryant 

An unbeatable service 

Dependable deliveries and service are said to 

have always been critical parts of Window Ware’s 

mission to delight its customers. 

The company says it isn’t just about stocking 

a great range of products, it’s about making 

sure those products are well-supported, readily 

available and shipped out to the customer right on 

schedule. 

That constant focus on excellence, coupled with 

significant investment in stock and a hugely 

successful warehouse expansion project has enabled 

Window Ware to meet increased demand and almost 

regain its pre-pandemic monthly OTIF despite the 

supply chain challenges of the last two years. 

As a result, in March this year, 97.04% of order 

lines arrived with the customer in full as promised 

the very next working day. 

Likewise, customer enquiries are responded to with 

equal diligence. 

For the last three months in a row, more than 

98% of calls were picked up in three rings or less 

and in March, 96% of sales emails received a 

same-day reply. 

An unbeatable supplier 

With their all-encompassing product offering and 

trusted high levels of service, it’s no wonder more 

and more fabricators are making Window Ware 

their favourite source of fenestration essentials. 

Richard Bryant, Window Ware’s Commercial 

Director, said: “The hardware is really just the tip 

of the iceberg! With our wide range of fabricating 

tools, machinery consumables and accessories, 

alongside everything else, we are a dependable 

one-stop shop for time-pressed fabricators. 

“Thanks to our extensive product choice, ample 

stock levels and climbing post-COVID OTIF, our 

customers can be confident they’ll find exactly 

what they need and have it delivered to their door 

right on time with fast and flexible delivery options 

to suit their timescales. 

“Everybody is busy these days, so if we can save 

fabricators precious time and hassle by helping 

them tick off their parts and materials list in one 

go, that’s a huge win in our books.” 

Contact Window Ware: 

01234 242 724 

www.windowware.co.uk 

@WindowWare 



Health & Safety 


FOCUSING ON FIRE SAFETY 

As the global supply chain continues to face vast challenges, Daniel May, Director at 

Consort Architectural Hardware, explores how construction has been affected and the 

potential impact on fire safety and security. 

Since early 2020, the volatility of the global 

supply chain has plagued industries far 

and wide. The construction industry has felt 

the full force of it, with a lack of materials and 

long lead times inflating construction costs and 

placing constraints – and unavoidable delays – 

on projects large and small. 

Despite many predicting economic recovery to 

stabilise, new challenges such as a surge in 

consumer inflation and HGV driver shortages (to 

name a few), means construction is still facing a 

disparity between supply and demand. 

As a result, year-on-year costs for building work rose 

by 24.5% from March 2021 to March 2022, with 

raw material costs for work involving steel, concrete, 

timber and glass rising by 23% in the 12 months to 

September 2021, according to the Department for 

Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. 

This cause and effect looks set to continue 

throughout the remainder of this year, with 

a substantial rise in costs and a decrease in 

production output documented as recently as 

February 2022. This follows predictions from 

the Builders Merchants Federation and the 

Construction Products Association who raised 

concerns that the demand for construction 

products would exceed supply well into 2022. 

The weakened supply of key building products 

becomes even more problematic when you 

consider life safety and security. 

Whether a new project, or the upkeep of an 

existing building and its hardware, the stable 

supply of quality materials, components and 

hardware products must remain a critical priority, 

albeit one that is currently met with several 

setbacks. 

Daniel May 

“Amongst many things, 

the coronavirus 

pandemic taught us 

how fragile the supply 

chain can be” 

The industry is seeing the cost of 

raw materials and transportation 

growing exponentially 

Yes, external factors can create uncontrollable 

circumstances, but the industry must continue 

to focus on quality control, so to not lose the 

progress that’s been made towards a safer 

construction infrastructure. 

Daniel May of Consort Architectural Hardware 

explained:“From a construction standpoint, a 

supply chain begins with raw materials, contains 

up to thousands of companies, and ends with 

finished goods for the industry and end user – of 

which many are vital components to the way our 

buildings safely and securely operate. 

Amongst many things, the coronavirus pandemic 

taught us how fragile the supply chain can be, 

with various cogs in the machine being caught off 

guard by the circumstances. 

In turn, this has created a backlog and led to a surge 

in demand for key materials and products which 

supply hasn’t always been able to keep up with. 

“As a manufacturer, two core elements have 

encumbered the fire safety and security hardware 

sector, those being cost and production output. 

Crucially, almost all organisations possess links 

to an international supply chain and regardless 

of where products are manufactured, the scarcity 

of raw materials has had a knock-on effect, 

especially when you consider pricing. 

“The cost of raw materials has surged and so too 

has the cost of transportation, where a shortage 

of containers and increased freight times has 

fallen short of demand. 

In turn, and when paired with a disjointed 

production output, we have seen a backlog of 

orders leading to project delays that can incur 

additional penalties for those involved. 



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Health & Safety 



“Ironmongery, for example, is a key ingredient to 

fire safety, and despite time pressures, decision 

makers must continue to recognise the necessity 

of trusted solutions. 

“For time critical projects, those who face delays 

may fall into the pitfall of opting for cheaper, 

substandard products to move projects along 

and avoid any subsequent late penalties. This 

is where the future safety of projects may 

falter. Meticulous decision making is now more 

important than ever, choosing the solutions 

that provide greater quality and therefore 

predictability, as opposed to inferior products 

that are chosen out of convenience and that may 

cause issues later down the line. 

“Keeping this in mind, the global supply chain must be 

met with caution and advanced planning to safeguard 

the integrity of the built environment moving forward.” 

As we encounter these issues, it’s vital to 

recognise the significance of decisions and how 

they may directly impact construction projects 

and ultimately, the safety and security of our 

buildings and the people within.” 

On the future of the supply chain and responsible 

resolutions, Daniel continued: “Realistically, there 

are several reasons why the supply chain may 

“Fire safety, security 

and sustainability will 

always remain key” 

continue to alter for some – even after costs and 

material production has stabilised. The Building 

Safety Bill is set to pass this year and will change 

the way many projects are run, starting with 

product procurement. Similarly, new frameworks 

such as the Environmental Act 2021 and Net 

Zero targets will also change how some consider 

sustainable construction, and thus the onus to 

source responsible solutions will deepen. 

Daniel says that hardware manufacturers now need to plan 

inventory well in advance to stop any potential stock issues for 

customers later down the supply chain 

“Throughout this period of instability, for 

hardware manufacturers, it is now imperative to 

plan inventory well in advance in a bid to remove 

any potential stock issues for customers later 

down the supply chain. Doing so will help to 

support customers, ensuring they have access to 

hardware products that meet the necessary strict 

levels of safety standards – therefore removing 

the risk of using inferior solutions. 

“However, maintaining life safety and security 

standards is a collective effort, one that must be 

met with a collaborative approach. 

“From industry innovation to decision makers 

making safety conscious choices, we all have a 

part to play, even when the external environment 

presents us with difficulties. 

“Although economic decision making plays its part 

in the construction process, fire safety, security 

and sustainability will always remain key recurring 

ingredients to successful building projects – 

and the risk of using an unsuitable product far 

outweighs any obligation for quick turnarounds.” 

Contact Consort Architectural Hardware: 

0121 359 8189 

www.consort-hw.com 

@Consort_HW 


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Hardware Protection 

PROTECT AND SERVE 

In an industry first, Vanquish Hardware Protection has recently secured third party certification 

for both its hardware protection products. Below, Mike Sutcliffe, the company’s Business 

Development Manager, talks to Total Fabricator about this ‘game-changing’ scheme... 

TF: Mike, what is intumescent protection? 

MS: All hardware installed on fire doors must be 

fitted without compromising the integrity of the 

assembly and this is critical where hardware, 

such as hinges, locks and latches, flush bolts, 

door controls and letterplates, is rebated into the 

doorset. 

Adding intumescent protection greatly reduces 

the rate at which heat transfers through the door 

as it expands upon exposure to it, preventing heat 

transfer on the rebated hardware and sealing 

voids created during the rebating process. 

TF: What is the new third party certification? 

MS: We have secured IFC (International 

Fire Consultants) certification specifically 

for hardware protection under the SDP20 

Intumescent Seal and Hardware Protection Kits 

scheme for both of our hardware protection 

products – FlexiFire graphite-based and Fire 

Protectors phosphate-based intumescent. 

It covers initial testing and includes audits 

to assess the consistency of production, 

and certified products are printed to ensure 

traceability throughout the production process. 

TF: Why is third party certification so 

important? 

MS: Hardware protection products are not CE 

or UKCA marked, and as a result there is too 

much ambiguity in the test data. The problem is 

intumescent materials are not made consistently 

across manufacturers. Also, seemingly 

identical intumescent materials can behave 

very differently from one another, so there is 

no minimum requirement for graphite content 

in graphite-based intumescent. For example, 

activation temperatures vary greatly, so one 

might expand five times and the other 20. 

Third-party means a consistency in 

manufacturing the same product every time. 

Another problem has been a lack of traceability 

if something goes wrong with a product, but with 

our third-party certification there is a paper trail 

from each batch to the end product, so even after 

a product has been installed the manufacturer 

can be contacted if that product has failed to 

function as specified. 

TF: What impact will it have on the 

industry? 

MS: The Grenfell tragedy was a huge wakeup call 

and people are following guidelines much more 

closely now. Quite rightly, there is a greater sense 

of responsibility and caution when specifying and 

using materials on buildings and an increase in 

requests for third-party evidence to prove the 

suitability of them. 

Left: Mike Sutcliffe. FlexiFire is a 

graphite-based intumescent material 

that offers high levels of expansion and 

insulation, preventing heat transfer on hardware. 

Customers demand traceability and peace of 

mind that manufacturers enforce rigorous quality 

control measures. 

All our products can be manufactured with 

traceability print that includes the material 

brand, time and date of manufacture, the batch 

number of raw materials and the IFC certificate 

number, allowing the product to be identified after 

installation and ensuring it has been tested to the 

relevant standards. It really is a game-changer for 

the industry. 

TF: How has it been received so far? 

MS: As the only UK protection manufacturer to 

offer third party certification, as you can imagine 

it has had an incredible reception from our 

customers. 

It now ensures our hardware protection products 

perform as intended, ensuring life and property 

are kept safe at all times. It’s something we’ve 

been chasing for a considerable amount of time; 

it has been a long and challenging process and 

we are delighted that the IFC understood the 

importance of including these products under a 

third-party scheme. 

With more than 30 years combined experience 

in the passive fire protection industry, and as 

the first standalone company dedicated to 

intumescent hardware protection, we have 

always led the way and been at the forefront of 

the industry, and our third-party accreditation 

scheme shows our continued commitment to 

keep doing that. 

Contact Vanquish Hardware Protection: 

01725 578020 

www.vanquish-hp.co.uk 

@Vanquish_hp 


Updates 


CARL F GROUPCO HELPS SUPPORT NORTH EAST PROJECT 

Social housing specialist The Sekura Group has just completed the manufacture and installation of 133 windows for 

a refurbishment project in the Doxford Park area of Sunderland. When it came to the hardware for the project, The 

Sekura Group worked with its longstanding hardware supply partner, Carl F Groupco. 

The hardware selected for the project was the Roto FRH UNI Top Swing Reversible system and the Roto TSL Espagnolette. 

The robust Roto FRH UNI Top Swing Reversible system has been designed with multi-storey public and commercial buildings 

and high-rise domestic applications in mind. It is ideal for situations in which safe control of the opening is necessary. The Roto 

TSL Espagnolette has been designed to provide a high level of security for outward opening windows, with specific protection 

against jemmying. Derek Sumner, Installation Manager at The Sekura Group, commented: “Carl F Groupco is one of 

the industry’s major stockists of Roto hardware and these two products combine the durability, longevity and price 

point projects of this nature demand.” www.carlfgroupco.co.uk 

Philip Gregg, Managing Director of Fortus Hardware, 

with Paul McAuley, Rapierstar’s Technical Consultant 

A SECURE NEW PARTNERSHIP 

Fortus Hardware has partnered with Rapierstar to ensure its fabricator and installer 

customers can depend on a secure, reliable supply of high quality fasteners. 

Fortus Hardware works with many of Ireland’s windowmakers, large and small. It has developed a 

portfolio of quality products from the fenestration industry’s major brands, including ERA and Maco, and 

now through its supply partnership with Rapierstar it has added a renowned fastener brand too. 

Philip Gregg, Managing Director of Fortus Hardware, said: “Partnering with Rapierstar is a great fit for 

our business and our customers as their team shares our approach. Like us, they have always focused 

on being a solutions provider, rather than just being a sales outlet, supported through an experienced and 

technically knowledgeable team, backed with first class customer service.” www.rapierstar.com 

SETTING THE STANDARD AT ERA 

ERA has launched a dedicated suite of certified hardware that has been independently tested to the 

latest standards and is available in a wide range of unique finishes. 

The complementary portfolio of high-security hardware has been launched to support fabricators in reflecting 

the latest design trends for timber, composite, aluminium and PVCu entrance doors, whilst simultaneously 

providing homeowners with the highest standards of protection. The range includes the new TS 008 Shield 

letterplate, TS 007 Berwick High Security 2* Door Handle and the TS 003 Door Restrictor and Door Chain, which 

are available in a range of patented Hardex finishes that perfectly match over 200 hardware and door and 

window furniture products within the Fab&Fix range. www.eraeverywhere.com 

UAP AIMS TO UNLOCK THE AMERICAN MARKET 

UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, will be exhibiting at GlassBuild America for the 

first time as the company prepares for potential growth across the Atlantic. 

UAP will be showcasing its core range of door hardware at the GlassBuild America event in Las Vegas from 18 – 20 

October 2022, including its intelligent locks and cylinders, letterplates, handles, numerals and viewers. 

Barry Halpin, National Sales Director for UAP, said: “UAP has ambitious growth plans both within the UK and 

overseas. Exhibiting at GlassBuild America is a chance for us to learn more about entering the US market and will 

enable us to identify key trends, opportunities and challenges. 

The event also provides an ideal platform for us to demonstrate the breadth and quality of our range. We’re hoping 

to speak with potential distributors to explore how we could work together and what UAP products could meet the needs of their customers now and in the 

future.” https://uapcorporate.com 



IGUs 

DOING IT YOURSELF 

A growing number of fabricators are returning to making their own IGUs. Tony Palmer, 

Head of Sales at Edgetech, comments on the phenomenon. 

It feels like we’ve been through more crisis 

situations in the last few years than you see in 

the average decade. 

Each time things seem at risk of getting back to 

normal, some new challenge emerges that the 

market and society in general have to scramble to 

adapt to. 

That’s brought huge changes in fenestration 

and beyond – and in our sector, one of the most 

surprising we’ve seen has been a movement 

towards fabricators opting to make their own IGUs. 

For years, the trend seemed to be going in exactly 

the opposite direction – companies seeking to 

streamline their operations by just focusing on their 

core products, while buying in the rest of the end 

product from specialist providers. 

Tony Palmer 

“A number of these 

fabricators appear to 

be deciding that now, 

on balance, it’s better 

to bring it back in 

house” 

So why the turnaround? From the companies 

we’ve spoken to, it seems to be driven by 

fabricators who made their own IGUs in the past 

but then shifted to outsourcing. 

A number of these fabricators appear to be 

deciding that now, on balance, it’s better to bring 

it back in house. 

When we ask why, most reply with one of two 

responses, or a combination of both – quality 

and supply. 

These companies believe they can provide a more 

consistent, higher quality service if they begin 

manufacturing units in house again. 

Super Spacer’s performance 

At Edgetech, we know our IGU manufacturer 

clients have worked phenomenally hard to continue 

providing excellent quality and service during these 

unprecedented times and are continually investing 

in their businesses. 

Despite the enormous challenges, they’ve 

kept their quality up, and their lead times as 

short as possible given the highly challenging 

circumstances they’ve found themselves in. 

When you have the right supply partners in place, 

outsourcing can be the better option. However, in 

other cases, in these exceptionally busy times, 

for fabricators who are struggling to source the 

quantity and quality of units they require it may 

make sense to begin making units themselves. 

If you’re in either position, Edgetech can help – we can 

recommend trusted unit manufacturers we’ve worked 

with for decades, or our experts can work with you to 

cost effectively set up manufacturing yourself. 

For over three decades, our Super Spacer product 

has been the leading foam warm edge spacer 

on the market, offering easy application, 100% 

memory and exceptional thermal efficiency and 

condensation resistance. 

Thanks to its flexible construction, Super Spacer 

makes manufacturing units quick and easy, and 

can significantly streamline your operation. 

Super Spacer units can be manufactured in under 

twenty seconds using high-speed automated 

applicators, and even using our most basic, entrylevel 

manual application tools, we’ve seen some 

people assemble a fully finished unit in under 

ninety seconds. 


GLASS PROCESSING & SEALED UNITS 

Edgetech has its own 

automated IGU line 

With its durable edge seal and continuous vapour 

barrier, it offers outstanding all-round performance. 

Its low thermal conductivity means it’s able to 

offer excellent thermal efficiency, while its high 

desiccant content and moisture-absorbing flexible 

foam matrix reduces the risk of condensation. 

“Each time things seem at risk of getting back to 

normal, some new challenge emerges that the 

market and society in general have to scramble to 

adapt to” 

Super Spacer also offers superior UV-light and 

oxidation resistance thanks to its high-quality 

materials, as well as delivering excellent shape 

retention and colour stability. 

Speak to the experts 

At Edgetech, we’ve been striving to help businesses 

make high-performance, energy efficient insulated 

A number of fabricators are 

opting to make their own IGUs 

in-house instead of outsourcing 

glass units since 1989. 

Our internationally respected Super Spacer 

product has been installed in millions of homes, 

businesses and other commercial buildings in the 

decades since. 

Today, we’re a part of billion-dollar building 

products powerhouse Quanex, where we work 

with colleagues all around the globe to push the 

boundaries of warm-edge excellence. 

If you’re considering returning to IGU 

manufacturing – or are entering the sector for the 

first time – we’re therefore excellently positioned to 

help you get off to the best possible start. 

Contact Edgetech: 

02476 639931 

www.edgetechig.co.uk 

@EdgetechUK 



Updates 

GLASS PROCESSING & SEALED UNITS 

NSG GROUP PAVES THE WAY WITH SUSTAINABLE TARGETS 

New carbon pledges by international glass manufacturer NSG Group have been certified as science based, 

as its UK subsidiary Pilkington UK completes a string of world-first trials towards achieving decarbonisation. 

The NSG Group will reduce its carbon emissions by 30% compared with 2018 levels, by 2030. It forms part of 

a wider plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, from emissions directly associated with its manufacturing to 

carbon produced in its supply chain. 

The glass giant’s carbon pledge has been certified as science based by the Science Based Targets initiative 

(SBTi), meaning it will effectively help to limit the average rise of global temperature to well below 2°C on 

pre-industrial revolution levels. Pilkington UK in St Helens, Merseyside, is pioneering the Group’s efforts to 

decarbonise its manufacturing operations after completing several world-first trials of low carbon biofuel and 

zero carbon hydrogen fuels to fire its glass furnace. Pilkington UK has worked with HyNet, a decarbonisation project working across the North West, to manufacture 

architectural glass using hydrogen instead of natural gas. www.pilkington.com/en-gb/uk 

A NEW ERA FOR INAGAS WITH RELOCATION 

Sarah 

Inagas has announced its production partner, John Ellison Electronics (je2), has relocated to 

the Culham Science Centre in Oxfordshire. 

Fitting with Inagas’ strategy of innovation in electronics and technology in gas filling, the 

Culham Science Centre is said to be a hot spot for enterprise and the home to the United 

Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, a global leader in fusion energy research. 

Inagas Director Chris Kemp commented: ”The opportunity to relocate production to the Culham 

Science Centre fulfilled our demand for a larger, better equipped facility to manufacture the 

UK’s most comprehensive range of high-performance manual gas filling machinery. The 2022 

relocation means that we can continue to build on Inagas’ trusted reputation to deliver reliable 

gas filling and testing equipment across the globe.” www.Inagas.com 

TUFF-X INVESTS IN THIRD SUPER SPACER LINE 

Lancashire IGU manufacturer Tuff-X Processed Glass has invested in a third Super Spacer 

application line as part of a wider capital investment worth £2m. 

The Prescot-based firm, a loyal Edgetech customer for 15 years, makes extensive use of the 

company’s celebrated Super Spacer product for conservatory roof glass. 

“The period since the pandemic has obviously been extremely hectic, but we’ve been flat out for 

the best part of ten years,” Commercial Director Paul Higgins said. “That’s why we’ve decided to 

implement an 18-month expansion plan, that’s not only seen us invest in the third line, but also 

commit to a 30,000 square foot factory extension, and purchase new cutting equipment and other 

machinery. It’s a £2m investment overall, and represents our commitment to continuing to offer our 

customers the very best products, backed by the very best service.” www.edgetechig.co.uk 

INTEGRAL NEW ADDITION FOR MORLEY GLASS 

Morley Glass has launched a new system designed specifically for hospitals, medical schools and 

other health and social care facilities. 

ScreenView balances the need for patient privacy and observation, allowing for easy switching between the 

two at different times of the day. Unlike any of the Venetian or pleated blinds available in the current Uni- 

Blinds range, ScreenView has two layers of wide slats arranged in a ladder style, which move up and down to 

provide an open view for observation or complete closure. 

Being permanently sealed within the glass unit, the ScreenView blind is never exposed to dirt or germs, so 

it stays pristine over its lifespan. And, as an additional safeguard, the blind’s control mechanism is protected 

with a Sanitized antimicrobial coating to help with infection control. www.morleyglass.co.uk 


PURPLEXED 

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In a world where marketing and customer behaviour is constantly 

changing, you could be forgiven for being in a state of confusion 

when it comes to your own marketing. 

As a fully integrated marketing agency, Purplex is powered to 

alleviate this stress and help ambitious companies like yours build 

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With more than 35 years industry experience our specialist teams 

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HQ: 200 Worle Park Way, Weston-super-Mare, BS22 6WA

People 

Find more industry news at: www.total-fabricator.co.uk 

A NEW BEGINNING FOR COTSWOLD 

Friction stay maker Cotswold Architectural 

Products has appointed long-serving employee 

Tim Ferkin as its new Managing Director. 

Tim, who joined the business in 2002, had risen 

through the ranks to become General Manager by 

the time it was acquired by Caldwell UK in 2014. 

He then spent the next eight years in various 

senior roles across the wider Caldwell group, most 

recently as Market Development Director, where he 

led the establishment of Caldwell South-East Asia. 

However, in June this year, Caldwell’s owners 

announced that they would be disposing of the 

business by selling it to Assa Abloy. 

Despite this, they will be retaining control 

of the long-established and internationally 

respected Cotswold brand, which will become an 

independent business not owned by Assa Abloy. 

Tim was quickly appointed Cotswold’s new 

Managing Director. 

“I’m absolutely delighted to be leading Cotswold 

into an exciting new phase in its history,” Tim 

commented. “I’ve been passionate about this 

business since I first joined in 2002, and as its 

MD, I’ll be seeking to build on its global reputation 

Above: Tim Ferkin (middle left) has been appointed the new 

MD of Cotswold Architectural Products 

for excellence and innovation. I’m also extremely 

pleased to be joined by Ian Greaves, our new 

Finance Director, who also previously worked at 

Caldwell, and will form a crucial part of our highly 

experienced management team.” 

www.cotswold-windows.co.uk 

A SAFE ADDITION 

The Glass & 

Glazing Federation 

(GGF) has 

appointed Lauren 

Mawford as its 

new Health, Safety 

and Environmental 

Manager. 

“I’m thrilled to be part 

of the GGF team, providing advice to members 

about health, safety, and environmental issues,” 

explained Lauren (above). 

“My experience not only lies in ensuring 

compliance but going above and beyond to 

identify trends within businesses to help 

prevent problems and achieve best practice. 

“I can help design and deliver staff training 

and provide HR support, as well as more 

traditional health and safety duties such 

as the production of fire risk reports and 

company wide risk assessments. 

“I am passionate about helping companies 

provide the best possible workspace for their 

employees, so to be able to offer this support 

to all the GGF’s members is a fantastic 

opportunity.” 

www.ggf.org.uk/ 

SMITH AND TAYLOR JOIN KENRICK 

Hardware supplier Kenrick has bolstered its 

team with two senior appointments. Martin 

Smith has returned to the West Bromwich-based 

Business as Design and Operations Manager 

after a decade away, whilst Nick Taylor has joined 

the firm as Technical Manager. 

Commenting on Martin and Nick joining the 

business, Steve Jones, Kenrick’s MD said: “We 

are absolutely delighted to have such an enviable 

level of skill and experience in Martin and Nick. 

Both are seasoned engineers and are extremely 

well qualified to help us develop innovative new 

products and enhance our existing products. We 

have ambitious future growth plans at Kenrick 

Customade has strengthened its 

senior management team with the 

appointment of Rachel Smith 

(pictured) as Group Marketing 

Director. 

Rachel said: “I am very happy 

to be joining an innovative and 

forward-thinking business at a very 

exciting time. 

“By conducting market research, closely 

monitoring trends and analysing new market 

Above: Nick Taylor (left) with Martin Smith 

and Martin and Nick will both play a key role 

in helping us stay ahead with a wide range of 

hardware solutions that meet the needs of today’s 

market.” 

www.kenricks.co.uk 

A CUSTOMADE APPOINTMENT 

opportunities, I aim to ensure our 

products and solutions remain at the 

cutting edge of the sector for the 

benefit of our valued customers.” 

Nick Roberts, CEO of Customade, 

added: “We are delighted to 

welcome Rachel to the Customade 

team. She brings unbeatable skills and 

experience which can only bring enormous 

benefits to the business as a whole.” 

www.customade.co.uk 


Fabricators 

Grow Your Business! 

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MAY/JUNE 2019 

PRACTICALCONTENTFORTHEGLAZINGINSTALLER & HOMEIMPROVEMENTSPECIALIST 

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September/October 2022

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