Pilkington Fire CD is Hot Favourite

Pilkington Processing & Merchanting UK introduced the first RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) approved self-learning CPD (Continuing Professional Development) course, Glass for Fire Resistance, on CD-ROM just last year. Since then large numbers of the new format material have been requested and found to be extremely well received by architects and other specifiers.

The course covers the full range of information on fire resistant glass and how to glaze it, together with details on the development of the product, regulations and tests relevant to fire control, firescreens and the role of fire resistant glass within them. There is also a comprehensive commentary on all types of fire glass currently available.

Keen to establish the effectiveness of its new learning tool, Pilkington contacted those specifiers who had completed the CPD course to ascertain how useful they had found both the material and the format. The results were extremely encouraging with architects from small practices, and particularly those outside London, who would typically have limited access to on-site CPD presentations, finding this form of learning to be most beneficial.

Gordon Kerr of Gordon Kerr and Associates found the format particularly useful. 'The information contained within the seminar is extremely informative and has cleared up some of the common misconceptions about fire glass,' he comments.

'Time and work constraints mean that I am not always available to attend physical conferences and seminars but the CD-ROM format enables me to obtain essential information immediately from the comfort of my own desk.'

This is a sentiment echoed by John Franks of RHWL Architects in London. 'The content of the CD-ROM is very good,' he said. 'It has certainly helped to clarify certain issues regarding the use of glass in fire situations and it is something that I shall constantly refer to in the future.'

Architects are able to work through the CPD one module at a time. Once all modules are successfully completed, the results can be forwarded to Pilkington for RIBA Certification. Being RIBA approved entitles the user to earn double CPD points.

Joni Tyler, Head of CPD for the RIBA, is keen to develop this form of learning for architects across the country. She commented 'We see tremendous benefits for the future with architects being able to learn at their own pace and in their own time, so we are very pleased to see Pilkington developing such high quality material in this way. Many specifiers work in small businesses and find it difficult to take a day away for training. This is an ideal solution for them and anyone else needing a convenient format for learning.'

The CD-ROM, together with full instructions for use, can be obtained free of charge from Pilkington by phoning the Technical Help line on 01744 692000.

Web: http://www.pilkington.com

Wendland Offers Comprehensive Support with New Styal Guides

As part of the company’s aim to provide effective, comprehensive technical and marketing support at every level of the conservatory supply chain, Wendland has introduced a new suite of technical and product literature for its Styal conservatory roof system.

The new Styal guide booklets have been designed as individual step-by-step guides to the system, encompassing all aspects of conservatory roof design, fabrication and installation. The Wendland Technical Pack includes three separate guides for fabricators, surveyors and installers, each offering detailed information on the factors that are most relevant to that group.

The Styal fabricator guide covers all standard preparation required to manufacture from bar length material, including separate details on each individual component of the system. The surveyor’s booklet offers guidance on system specification, planning permission and measuring, with useful tips on what to look for on site, whilst the installer’s guide includes clear step-by-step illustrations and photos to help assembly. The Technical Pack also holds three colour BBA approval certificates for Wendland’s Styal and Low Pitch Lean-To systems which illustrate many features and benefits.

In addition to these functional guides, a general Styal Product Guide has also been produced, offering an overview of the specific advantages of the system.
The A4 full colour guide includes a full product summary and details on product performance, pitch size and guarantees. The guide also acts as an sales aid for fabricators and installers, itemising the advantages offered by Styal such as its separate eaves beam and gutter, flexibility, strength and simplicity.

Tel: 08706 009 600
Email: mailto:wendlandstyal@cdw.co.uk

Keep on Locking!

Safeware, a new brand of window and door hardware designed to meet the specific characteristics of the Profile 22 system, now comes with its own comprehensive suite of marketing support literature for fabricators, installers and homeowners.

The Safeware branded brochures and leaflets have been crafted to promote the specific features and benefits of the dedicated high-security range to its target audiences.

Available now, the literature is written in easy-to-understand language and illustrated with colourful explanatory images. Of particular interest is a £500 cashback guarantee in the event of the product failing to deter an attempted break-in.

Also included in the suite are leaflets explaining the benefits of high security locks to the homeowners, providing installers with that all-important competitive edge when selling in the home.

Safeware is a division of Profile 22 and offers customers competitively priced and high quality products conforming to Secured by Design, together with all the convenience of sourcing from just one specialist supplier.

The whole range has been exclusively designed for the Profile 22 PVCu system, including a profile-related one-piece keep designed to fit the system perfectly without the need for multi-packers.

First products to be launched under the Safeware brand are three new door locks – all tailored to fit and meeting the requirements of PAS 23 and PAS 24.

Tel: 01952 290910

New Package to Conserve Quality

PVCu windows, doors and conservatories brand, James Harcourt has developed a new package to support its conservatory offer.

Installers from the brand's Approved Network‚ across the UK can now take advantage of a series of new guidelines and materials, designed to support them in the customer consultation process and enable quick, professional product installation.

The new package incorporates a conservatory quotation and specification form, giving step-by-step guidance on the sales process from sale through to installation. In addition, a retail price guide and customer brochure highlights the accessibility and variety of applications for the product range.

Jason Currall, Marketing Manager for James Harcourt said: 'We have recently commissioned research that reveals some startling regional differences in how people spend time in their conservatories. This highlights the fact that the key to successful conservatory installation lies in detailed preparation for each individual customer, particularly as there are a number of common pitfalls associated with the process. For example, the provision of power sockets, heating, lighting and telephone points for an effective home office all need to be discussed and agreed with the customer in advance of installation.

'With this in mind, we have created a new support package to simplify the process for customers and installers alike and ultimately, ensure that each James Harcourt installation can be completed both professionally and efficiently.'

Installers will also be able to benefit from James Harcourt's new website http://www.jamesharcourt.co.uk which enables consumers to source and request further information about the conservatory offer. An internet conservatory price guide has also been made available to complement the company's existing online facility for windows and doors.

Further benefits will also be provided with the release of detailed information on cash flow management, a guide to consumer terms and conditions and installation and survey support.

Eurocell Commercial Literature

Eurocell Profiles Ltd, based in Alfreton Derbyshire has launched its new Commercial Brochure. Now one of the ‘major players’ in the PVCu systems market, this latest piece of literature details all aspects of the company’s commercial department.

Eurocell Profiles Ltd is rapidly expanding its commercial division, having brought Eric Gale on board earlier last year to drive the business forward in both the public and private sectors.

Tel: 01773 842100
Web: http://www.eurocell.co.uk

GBW Launches New Range Guides

GBW has produced set of new literature for its Shire door panels, Discovery composite doors and complementary glass collections. Featuring design details, technical data and glazing options, these guides are designed to assist fabricators and specifiers in their selection from GBW’s range.

The new 20-page Shire brochure highlights each of the 16 infill panel designs currently available from GBW, including the recently launched Vienna, which is offered in six glazed and one solid version.

Similarly, the updated Discovery composite door literature features the 12 styles offered in this range. Details of relevant security and performance accreditations are also provided, including PAS 023/024 and Secure by Design.

Tel: 08705 388377

Pilkington Activ™ still Cleaning Up

Pilkington has launched a new Commercial Brochure supporting Pilkington Activ™, containing all the information needed to specify the glass, including information on its use in combination with other Pilkington products, for example energy management or fire glass products. The brochure also contains details of design and full performance data of the glass.

Pilkington Activ™, the self-cleaning glass launched last year, has grown from strength to strength with specifiers recognising it as a suitable choice for reducing cleaning and maintenance costs on residential and commercial applications alike. It is effectively the same as a conventional glass but features a life long coating with a dual action.

Firstly, using daylight, it breaks down any ‘organic’ dirt deposits on the surface of the glass, such as bird droppings or tree sap. Secondly, when it rains the rainwater ‘sheets’ down the glass surface to wash the loosened dirt particles away, ensuring that even the most inaccessible glass stays clean. Bright sunlight is not necessary for the glass to function, it works even on cloudy days and even during the night.

Pilkington Activ™ has proved itself to be suitable for applications where cleaning would normally be difficult or costly, for example high rise buildings, conservatories and roof lights, or where good visibility is important such as sports stadia or external walkways.


To give specifiers a better picture of the pioneering product in use, the brochure also features a range of real life applications showing the product in situ in leisure, residential, education and hotel buildings.

For a free copy of the new Pilkington Activ™ commercial brochure, listing please contact Pilkington on 01744 692000.

Web: http://www.pilkington.com

New Eclipse Brochure Offers a Menu to Satisfy Customer Appetites

WHS Halo has introduced a new brochure for its Eclipse and Eclipse Esthetique range, which its installers can customise to reflect the individual needs of their customers.
 
Individual installers can personalise the 'Improve your outlook' brochure by selecting from a varied menu of prepared pages that carry messages relevant to different audiences. For example, installers working in conservation areas can include information on complying with building regulations, whilst businesses operating in urban areas can insert a section relating to noise pollution.
 
Should further customisation be required, the brochure also enables installers to insert extra pages containing information on additional services or businesses credentials that may be of interest to potential customers along with photography of successfully completed installations.
 
Sam Kennedy of WHS Halo said: 'Our Eclipse installers are operating in a highly competitive market place and effective sales tools are vital in helping them achieve a competitive advantage. WHS Halo recognises that whilst many of the questions customers want answered are the same, installers need to communicate them differently according to the requirements of their local market and our new Eclipse brochure reflects this.'
 
WHS Halo installers can find out more about the new Eclipse brochure by contacting their business development manager or Louise Tirre on 0121 749 3000. 

Email: mailto:louise.tirre@bowaterwindows.com

New Product Catalogue from Everwhite

Everwhite, manufacturer of PVC UE fascias, soffits and accessories for window and roofline applications has published its new product catalogue and price list.

Fully illustrated, the 8-page publication details Everwhite's 700-plus range of products as well as 200 new components introduced in 2003. Roofline products featured include full replacement boards and fascias and new Bullnose full replacement boards and Ogee full replacement boards and fascias.

Window Line products include hockeynose boards, architraves and window trims.
Products are available in a range of colours including standard or blue white, brown, black and wood finishes.

For copies of the new catalogue contact:

Tel: 01685 882 447
Email: mailto:sales@everwhiteplastics.com
Web: http://www.everwhiteplastics.biz

Technal Launches Specifier's Guide for its FXi Casement Window Range

Architectural aluminium systems specialist, Technal, has published a new technical guide to specifying its recently expanded FXi casement window suite.

The literature provides architects and building contractors with clear and concise information about the three window systems now available in the FXi range, and is illustrated with CAD drawings and a selection of photographs of recent applications.

The guide outlines the features of each window system, examples of U-values for different window sizes and configurations, weather performance test results, size and weight limitations, and options for safety and security.

The FXi suite has been developed by Technal to offer enhanced thermal performance, helping specifiers to deliver finished buildings which heat up more quickly, stay warmer longer and cost less to run.

Technal claims that with the right combination of frame and glazing, the requirements outlined in the revised Building Regulations for England and Wales, Scotland and Ireland, can be met across the FXi range with no compromise on quality, aesthetics, weather resistance or long-term durability. Technal has recently expanded this range with the addition of a 65mm module designed to give specifiers more choice and flexibility for improving thermal efficiency.

As with the other systems in the FXi suite, FXi65 uses quality components and can be supplied in a full range of configurations to suit most situations. The system also shares many common accessories with the FXi46 and FXi52 windows to simplify specification and fabrication.

For a copy of the new guide, call 0113 296 1400, email mailto:info@technal.co.uk or visit http://www.technal.co.uk. Downloadable specifications for all the systems in the FXi range are also available on the website.

Comprehensive New Catalogue from Newdawn

Newdawn & Sun has published its new 26-page catalogue incorporating its fresh logo and more comprehensive product range to reflect its stronger presence within the conservatory roof market.

Each section is illustrated with photography of domestic, commercial and local authority sector product applications and sectional diagrams of each component.
With introductory sections on the main components comprising Newdawn's range of conservatory applications, the new catalogue contains advice on the construction of its various roof systems.

This includes sections on the hip, glazing and ridge beams, as well as wallplates, spiders and the recently-introduced Bolster Bar to increase spanning ability, plus the Speed Fix Ring Beam and box gutter with easy steps on how to install a ridged roof.

Newdawn's Resale, Fabricator and Component Packs are also described in detail allowing fabricators and installers to select the package of their choice to suit their individual requirements.

Advice is also given on system usage depending on the size of roof and span required. Specialist technical advice on loadings and structural calculations is also available from Newdawn's expanded technical department.

Newdawn can also supply accessories aimed at any company that has part or all of a roof system. Newdawn's range of accessories suits any make or construction of glazed roofs.

Copies of the new Newdawn catalogue may be obtained on tel: 01789 764444.

Email: mailto:sales@newdawn-sun.co.uk

Expertise for the Trade from K2

K2 Conservatory Roof Systems has announced the launch of a new and improved Trade Brochure.

Revamped and expanded to 28 pages, the brochure has been published to serve the needs of K2's trade customers.

Addressing everything they need to know about K2's products and services, the brochure gives an insight to the history behind K2, information on the extensive support services available and detailed information on the company's latest product design innovations.

The brochure also features K2's sister low pitch roof system, L2 in a Pack, and the company's new commercial division, launched specifically to demonstrate the technical capabilities of the K2 roof system for use on larger span structures.

Iain McInnes, K2's Marketing Manager, explained: 'More and more of our customers are continuing to generate strong sales activities as a direct result of their participation with K2.

'The new trade brochure will help K2 to maintain customer confidence and give them a competitive edge by raising the standards in an aggressive marketplace.'

Tel: 01204 554554

Hurst Launches Ground-Breaking Literature

Hurst Plastics has launched a new suite of brochures for the UK and export markets.

Sales Director Mark Atkinson said: 'With this new suite of literature Hurst is once again going beyond the boundaries of what the industry has seen before. This is a bold, highly-creative and totally unique approach which we believe will set the standard for the rest to follow.'

'Today choosing doors is as much a lifestyle choice as the style of a kitchen or bathroom, and Hurst believes that the public should be in a position to make a choice of door and glazing options from a brochure that is every bit as good as those you would get from any big name kitchen company. Our new suite of literature will meet those needs,' he added.

Highlighting the selling points of the Hurst product line-up, including new fused glass designs and triple glazed designs, the literature features the following brochures:
•The Favourites collection of Hurst's most popular PVCu door panels
•Arrivals, the complete collection of Hurst PVCu door panels
•Sterling, showing the Hurst Sterling low maintenance, high security polymer door range
•Artisan, a definitive guide to Hurst's classic and contemporary glazing options
•Homestyle, PVCu interior doors, conservatory panels and GRP products

'This is a radical new overhaul of our brochure suite but is only one part of an ambitious and innovative sales and marketing strategy that Hurst are launching during the coming year,' said Mark.

Tel: 01482 789000
Email: mailto:info@hurst-plastics.co.uk
Web: http://www.hurst-plastics.co.uk

Shepley's Newsletter - Hot Off the Press

The latest edition of Shepley's SquareOn newsletter is available now. Aimed at independent installers throughout the UK this edition gives advice on how best to approach the replacing the replacements issue, how to be health and safety conscious, and how to build a bigger and better showroom to boost sales - all hot issues facing window and conservatory retailers in today's highly competitive market.

Gary Torr, managing director of Shepley comments: 'Over the past few years Shepley has grown bigger and stronger and the Visage® network of independent, reputable installers is now £100m strong. Today a Visage® conservatory is fitted every 80 minutes and over 1000 homes have Visage® windows and doors replaced every month. This is great news for Shepley and our customers, and SquareOn ensures that all of this good work doesn't go unnoticed'.

To receive your copy of SquareOn please call Shepley on 0161 339 2433.

Web: http://www.shepley.com

New sdea Directory has More Pages, More Articles and Increased Circulation

Readers of the new sdea Directory of Shopfittings and Display can look forward to a bumper edition with more pages and information than ever before. The Directory's circulation has also been increased to 15,000 to ensure that there are sufficient copies to satisfy the demand from retailers, designers and shopfitters throughout the UK, Europe and beyond. Priced at £lO, the new Directory is available from 20th June by calling sdea on 01883 348911, or by ordering online at http://www.sdea.co.uk.

lncluded within the Directory is editorial from leading journalist, Mark Faithfull, and from sdea marketing manager, Heidi Easton, who between them cover the latest store designs and fitouts from supermarkets to fashion. Mark also investigates new media and technology instore, whilst Heidi reviews retailing in the Surrey town of Reigate.

Comprehensive details on the Association's 200 members can be found within the alphabetical index while the showcase gallery offers a visual guide to many of the thousands of products and services available. The quick reference guides help the reader to locate specific suppliers by product, service, retail trade, location and trade name. A free reader enquiry card is included for requesting further information.

sdea also offers a package of sales leads, savings and services to help members increase their sales, cut their business costs and keep up-to-date with the latest industry developments. Infoline, a telephone information service, helps retailers source particular products, services and suppliers - call 01883 348911, while http://www.sdea.co.uk contains full details on sdea member and retailer services, as well as a product locater and search facility.

Screwfix Direct Lowers Prices in New Catalogue

With 560 new products and over 400 lower prices, there is now more value for money to be found in the latest Screwfix Direct catalogue (issue 71). Offering screws, tools, fixings and accessories for next day delivery to the trade and serious DIY enthusiast, this 360-page edition also features a number of new power tools as well as new building accessories, networking products and an extended plumbing section. In addition, there is a chance to win a Nissan Navara 4 x 4 Pickup worth over £19,000 in a free prize draw.

Notable additions in the power tool section include a new 1/2" Erbauer Router which, at £99.99, features a soft start 1650W motor and a dust extraction facility. Other Erbauer additions include a 12V Drill Driver at £79.99 and an 18V Combi Drill for only £139.99. Combining high performance with ergonomic design, these heavy-duty drills offer the same specifications associated with leading brand names but at a lower price.

The new, Bosch 14.4V Combi Driver is priced at £229.99 and will withstand drops of up to 2m, whilst the only drop that can be found with the DeWalt 14.4V Combi Drill is the price, with a £10 reduction down to £229.99. At the other end ofthe price scale is a 12V Ferm Drill/Driver for just £17.99 which, like the Erbauer range, is also exclusive to Screwfix Direct and carries a full manufacturer's warranty.

For a free catalogue, call Freephone 0800 3170004
Web: http://www.screwfix.com

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