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Ultraframe, the designer and manufacturer of conservatory roofing systems, has unveiled a new product development. The company says that Framelock is the only dedicated conservatory side frame system which, when joined to the Ultraframe roof, guarantees the structural performance of the entire conservatory structure.
The Framelock system consists of aluminium pillars and rails that form a series of structural frames which attach to the cill, frames and Ultraframe roof. Traditionally manufactured PVC frames, from most window systems manufacturers, can be fitted with Framelock to create the required conservatory design.
The
structural integrity of conservatories has come under scrutiny recently
with the desire to tighten industry standards. However it has remained
difficult to prove design integrity when based on a conservatory as
a collection of individual elements. The combination of an Ultraframe
roof and robust Framelock structure ensures the structural integrity
of the complete conservatory by integrating the load bearing capabilities
of the roof and walls. Framelock provides vertical support for the roof
and transfers any roof load directly to the conservatory base. It also
delivers the required stiffness within the wall structure to resist
horizontal wind loads.
Cross Section through the Framelock System
Framelock eavesbeam and corner
Framelock
rail and cornerpost detail
Marketing
Director of Ultraframe, Linda Doughty said: ‘With the creation of
the Framelock system, Ultraframe has taken further steps to place its
customers in a great position ahead of any impending conservatory legislation.
Until now there has been no specific guidance for installers when designing
conservatory side frames and they have simply followed the same rules
as for PVC replacement windows. Framelock is the first dedicated BBA accredited
complete conservatory system to be underwritten by one provider, giving
the installer and homeowner maximum peace of mind and ensuring the structural
performance of the entire structure’
The Framelock system finally gives professional home improvement companies
the confidence that the product they are selling is 'fit for purpose'
and this is further underwritten by Ultraframe's Certificate of Structural
Assurance, which will be issued to the installer. The certificate of assurance
is also an effective selling tool for the homeowner and can be passed
on with the house deeds if they ever sell their home.
The customer simply specifies the conservatory they are designing to Ultraframe,
who then supplies them with dimensional drawings to pass to their frame
suppliers. Ultraframe then factory fit the clips onto the Framelock rails
and pillars. The factory preparation minimises the potential for site
errors, ensuring consistent quality installations, a great benefit for
conservatory companies with several fitting teams, or those who use sub-contractors.
The
new side frame system incorporates Ultraframe's Clicklock boltless technology,
a firm favourite in the conservatory market place because of its ease
of installation. Clicklock simply locks into place, virtually eliminating
the need for tools and fixings. Not only does this significantly speed
up installation on site, it also ensures that all the joints are structurally
secure and further removes the room for error on site.
As Framelock is factory prepared, a further quality control benefit of
the system is that windows and doors can be delivered to site fully glazed,
the glass can therefore be protected during transit and installers are
saved from having to deglaze and rebead in order to fix the elements together.
Linda Doughty concluded: ‘Ultraframe has a reputation for investing
in technological advances and the launch of the Framelock system marks
a great step forward for the industry. With the design freedoms offered
by the new approach to purchasing, Framelock offers the additional reassurance
of total structural rigidity. Combined with other Ultraframe products
and initiatives, such as Ultraframe's BBA approved roofs and Ultra Installer
Scheme approved by The Guild of Master Craftsmen and the BBA Fabricator
Scheme, Framelock offers a powerful differential advantage for installers.
It will also appeal to homeowners by offering total security and peace
of mind.’
The Framelock system will be launched at Glassex on Ultraframe's Sunroom,
Classic and Elevation roof systems
http://trade.ultraframe.co.uk