Please click on 'THE GL@ZINE' links to view the whole issue, or on 'more on this story' just to see that particular story:
THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 357 31st March 2009
Corporate manslaughter punished
Companies could be fined between 2.5% and 10% of their turnover for committing the new offence of Corporate Manslaughter. For many companies, this will mean fines of several millions of pounds and for some, fines could amount to hundreds of millions of pounds.
Live in it to win it
Reality Radio has now hit the airwaves for the conservatory industry thanks to Carlisle Window Systems and CFM radio. Four lucky contestants will spend their entire working week reality style in a top-end K2 conservatory, and at the end of the week the lucky winner will have both lived in it and won it!
Making a show
AM Profiles will be exhibiting at Interbuild again this year. The company said that the last exhibition was a success with many quality sales leads, and it once again intends to promote its range of timber aluminium composite products.
Supporting growth
Following substantial growth in the UK marketplace over the last 12 months Capstone Doors has supported the growth of its GRP composite door leaf by offering existing customers stock from a UK-based distribution centre.
Sony chooses future glass
The Sony House Of The Future at this years Grand Designs Live exhibition at London’s Excel is to feature switchable smart glass supplied by Leicester-based Reflex Glass. Sony will feature a large panel of Smart-Tint glass in a bathroom area of the house to demonstrate the technology available with switchable privacy glass.
‘World’s first TPA’ – Bystronic
Bystronic Lenhardt Technology Center has delivered the world's first horizontal thermal plastic applicator (TPA). The machine has been developed for the application of highly viscous butyl to semiconductor thin-film substrates.
Tweet me... Please
Do you tweet, poke or get LinkedIn on a regular basis?
If the answer is no then could your business benefit from tapping into emerging client development and networking opportunities in these tough times, according to Rick Osman of the Chartered Institute of Marketing’s Construction and Industry Group (CIMCIG).
Multi-foiled and multi-coloured georgian bars
Thermoseal Group has extended the range of its aluminium surface-mount georgian bar to include foiled woodgrain finishes, and colour-matched (by RAL number) to customers specific requirements.
Window donation
Window Fitters Mate (WFM), is helping a wounded war hero's housing hopes become a reality, after pledging to donate windows and doors for his specially adapted bungalow. The donation comes after Noel Edmonds campaigned for ex-marine Joe Townsend, on his Noel's HQ show on Sky1.
Satisfied?
A new independent customer satisfaction survey commissioned by Profile 22 revealed technical and specification support along with the strength of marketing support, were ranked as the top reasons for signing up to the systems company.
SIG’s new website
A brand new website dedicated to SIG roofline division, with an online ordering facility, has been officially launched. The website, which can be found at www.sigroofline.co.uk, is the first site committed solely to SIG Roofline and Building Products (SIG R&BP), which was previously found on the SIG group website.
Northerm Windows incorporates Super Spacer into quadruple-pane systems
An Edgetech customer for more than 11 years, Northerm Windows’ insulating glass (IG) systems primarily built triple-pane systems until the recent introduction of its quadruple-pane 4000 Series windows.
Packexe gets the Midas touch
The new Glass & Glazing Protection Film from Packexe made its successful debut during the construction of an office block on the Blackbrook Business Park in Taunton by the Midas Group, one of the UK’s largest independent property services providers.
PassivHaus Window from AM Profiles
AM Profiles now offers a composite window that meets the PassivHaus standard. The window complements the timber aluminium curtain wall system that can also be supplied to the 0.8W/m2K required to meet PassivHaus. Both the window and curtain wall have been independently thermally tested at the PassivHaus Institute in Germany.
Gain time by ordering online
Door-Stop International has updated its online ordering facility with extended ordering hours for customers’ three-day delivery promise. “We want to make things as easy as possible for our customers,” said Nick Dutton, managing director of Door-Stop. “So rather than having to place your order before 9am to receive your doors in three days’ time, we are extending this for online orders at www.door-stop.co.uk.
High profile BFRC push
The British Fenestration Rating Council is launching a consumer and trade focused marketing campaign fronted by eco-campaigner and TV presenter James Strawbridge in a bid to help grow the market for BFRC-registered energy-efficient windows (EEWs).
Back to school
Elumatec machinery is helping North Eastern Glass fabricate aluminium profiles for its core business in the retail and commercial sectors.
A family affair
Pilkington has unveiled its new range of Pilkington energiKareT energy efficient glazing – making it even easier to achieve the highest window energy performance and combine it with strong consumer branding to help sales, the company claimed.
Victorian Sliders buys short run profile lamination machine
Victorian Sliders is the latest company to bring profile lamination in house with the purchase of a FUX 83-CLM-300 lamination machine which is designed for larger fabricators which want to foil their own profiles, and companies requiring a machine that is quick to set up for short runs.
Crystal takes on new staff to meet demand
National trade fabricator Crystal Direct has taken on new production staff to support continuing growth, with more planned over the next few months.
National accreditation for training centre
GAP’s training centre has been given accredited status by the Glass Qualifications Authority (GQA) and the Construction Award Alliance (CAA). This means it can now offer, deliver and assess NVQ qualifications in a wide range of topics such as special installation of roofline systems.
Welcome to the range
Jeld-Wen will reveal its complete range of energy efficient timber windows, its extensive range of composite doors, as well internal doors at this year’s Housing 2009 exhibition.
Conservatories with a pinch of Saltis
Ultraframe fabricator and conservatory designer, Connaught Conservatory Roofs, has appointed Paul Saltis as its new sales and marketing director.
Modplan's door hinge switch benefits trade customers
Anglian Building Products, the contracting division of Anglian Windows has pledged to deliver apprenticeships on all long-term public sector refurbishment projects throughout the UK.
Gaining the Edge with EN1279 Pt3
Three more of Edgetech’s customers have passed EN1279 Part 3. Padiham Glass, AT Cowen & Son, and Twinseal are the latest Super Spacer customers to achieve the standard.
Under one roof
Builders, contractors and DIY’ers can find everything under one roof at Eurocell’s latest branch opening in North Hykeham, Lincoln.
Climatec control
Essex-based fabricators, Climatec Windows, has launched new products, marketing support and a new website.
Supreme Installations invests in new showroom
Rehau fabricator Supreme Installations has invested in a new showroom at its premises in Maldon, Essex.
Trojan extends Sparta range
Trojan Hardware and Design has launched a new door handle in its Sparta range.
Roto’s brand new pet project
Never a firm to be caught catnapping, Roto has taken a step in a new direction. In an era when some pet owners are going to increasing lengths to pamper their furry companions, the hardware innovators have launched a new product to take advantage of the market for luxury pet products.
Designs on a prize draw
Fensa will be at Grand Designs Live in a bid to support registered businesses communicate with homeowners.
Ali OK at CBK
Gloucester-based conservatory roof fabricator CBK, is experiencing an increase in demand for large-scale aluminium conservatory roofs, glazed extensions and portal framed solutions, it claimed recently.
Programming profits
A tailored upgrade by Windowlink has helped Firmfix, a family-run manufacturer and installer in Tewkesbury, to get even greater pricing accuracy from its Focus Plus sales and pricing software for doors and windows.
New investment demonstrates success of Eco I-Spandrel panel
TuffX Processed Glass has installed a new screen print facility at its factory in Liverpool to cope with the interest that has been shown by the architectural sector of the industry in its eco i-spandrel panel.
Beaufort scores hat trick
Beaufort’s Advanced Plus aluminium window suite now satisfies three of the building industry’s key environmental and design specification standards.
THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 356 24th March 2009
Rehau exits roof market
Rehau has announced its withdrawal from the conservatory roof sector in response to falling volumes in the consumer market.
Chinese fortunes for Fenzi China
The Chinese branch of the Fenzi group has been awarded as one of the top 20 excelling companies in the Jiaxing District in 2008. Stefano Pozzi, general manager of the manufacturing site, also confirmed a positive outlook for 2009.
Door-Stop adds a second shift
Door-Stop International has added another shift to its Nottingham facility, in a bid to meet existing demand and grow the business.
Partner of Eden
RPS Limited, RoofWright conservatory software developer, has become an exclusive reseller for MpLogic's cutting edge Eden 2009 window manufacturing software. The move is set to benefit customers who want to integrate their window and conservatory fabrication.
GAP in the roof market
GAP has added Ultraframe’s conservatory roof to its product range, setting up a conservatory roof division in the process. Former Ultraframe employee Roger Haycock, who worked in the technical sales and support department, has been appointed as GAP’s conservatory roof specialist. He has 15 years’ expertise in Ultraframe’s products.
Anglian pledges more apprenticeships
Anglian Building Products, the contracting division of Anglian Windows has pledged to deliver apprenticeships on all long-term public sector refurbishment projects throughout the UK.
Stress watch
Managers in construction businesses are being warned to watch for signs of stress among their employees – so they can tackle issues before they become too big.
Leaf awards categories announced
This year’s Emirates Glass Leaf Awards entry categories have been announced. The event will take place on September 4, 2009 in Berlin, Germany.
Rockdoor achieves ISO9001:2000
Composite door manufacturer Rockdoor has been awarded the quality management standard ISO9001:2000. The standard provides a frame for benchmarking and monitoring improvements across a company’s processes and activities to achieve continuous improvement in five key areas.
Off the saddle and into the bank
After cycling over 3000 miles across the USA, the blisters, pain and suffering may have disappeared for the Ride 4 Hope cyclists and support crew. However, the last few months have been focused on bringing in the much needed funds. The result is a massive £91,546.22 thanks mainly to the generosity of the glazing industry.
The new Thermoseal North opens
Thermoseal Group has officially opened the doors of its brand new 20,000ft2 building in Wigan – a warehouse six times the size of its previous depot in Leigh!
GlassTalk walked the walk
Around 160 people attended GlassTalk at the Hilton Metropole, Birmingham NEC on the March 18.
Ratings boost with K glass OW
Pilkington has introduced Pilkington K Glass OW – the first development in the Pilkington K Glass range of energy efficient glazing products designed for use within the new family of Pilkington energiKare products.
Roofline market weakens further
A net 64% of roofline stockists and installers reported a drop in sales in November 2008 to January 2009 compared with August to October 2008, according to the Freefoam Roofline Report, produced by Rigby Research.
Eurocell opens in Essex
Eurocell Building Plastics (EBP) has strengthened its presence in Essex by opening its latest branch in Wickford.
Everglade’s new investment
Everglade Windows has recently installed another Rotox CNC corner cleaner, supplied by Winmac UK.
Sternfenster turns to Jotika
Jotika Software was recently chosen by Sternfenster to install a glass processing system to handle its internal glass processing needs, as well as third party sales.
Mandelson endorses Watsons Glass
West Midlands based glass processor, Watsons Glass has been singled out as an example to the future of UK manufacturing industry, by the business secretary, Lord Mandelson, during the recent CBI manufacturing dinner held in Birmingham.
Security tips online
The new website from Kenrick - www.kenricks.co.uk - showcases a raft of the company’s high security door and window hardware products. It also features Kenrick’s three-minute film on lock bumping and lock snapping and explains how to overcome these increasingly common problems.
Quantal announces 2008 Award Winners
Specialist roofing supplier Quantal has announced the winners of the Quantal Installer of the Year 2008 Awards. The competition, which ran throughout 2008, was held as a celebration of the innovation and creativity in conservatories and conservatory design when using the roofing system.
New year, new member
Plastic Trade Frames (PTF), part of the newly consolidated FCD Group, has become the latest fabricator to sign up to the Zoom dealer network, marking the network’s expansion into southeast England.
Veka backs ‘2020’ call for more homes
The 2020 group of building bodies, councils and trades unions has been praised by pvcu system supplier Veka for its foresight in calling for 100,000 new affordable homes to rent in the next two years.
Total glass gets greener edge
Liverpool-based Total Glass, trade pvcu and aluminium window and door fabricator, is boosting its green credentials by pursuing BS EN ISO 14001:2004 certification; the environmental management standard that recognises a company’s environmental processes and impact.
Easing the load
The Bystronic range of handling equipment using Armatec technology offers a variety of methods to ensure easy and safe transportation of glass lites. The economic handling systems have ‘gripping’ advantages that can be used in every area of flat glass processing.
Blackpool for Network Veka AGM
Network Veka has confirmed its 2009 AGM, Awards and Dinner Dance will be held in Blackpool on the weekend of June 27/28.
Fab & Fix has bigger knockers
Size may or may not be everything. But when it comes to doors, for one Fab & Fix customer, bigger knockers are definitely better!
Solaglas Stratford Eastern Egress
Solaglas Contracting Specialist Facades has completed 1,300m2 of glazing for the refurbishment and extension of Stratford Eastern Egress train station. Solaglas was appointed to handle the glazing by contractors Fitzpatrick, which chose Solaglas because of its experience in handling large projects.
Repair and rescue
Hardware distribution company Carl F Petersen has added Briwax Professional products to its range. Easy-to-use touch up pens, profile repair kits and a heating iron are now featured in the company’s portfolio.
Making the switch
Kömmerling fabricator, HWL Trade Frames is helping fabricators come out of manufacturing to start buying in; assisting with such things as the sale of machinery and human resources support.
A rating for Whiteline Group
Whiteline Group has switched all its energy rated sealed units to EcoClear, supplied by sealed unit manufacturer Solaglas. The national trade and retail window fabricator made the change in January so it could achieve an A rating, which was not possible with its previous sealed unit supplier.
Softview grows sales
Edgetech customer, Softview Windows, Doors and Conservatories continues to grow sales into 2009.
Pride of Manchester
Midland Window Group (MWG) has fabricated and installed Beaufort’s ‘next generation’ aluminium windows, commercial doors and curtain walling as part of the high performance specification of a new 252-room hotel in Manchester’s Greenquarter District. The Park Inn is one of the latest projects to specify Beaufort’s new Advanced Plus ‘A’ WER aluminium window suite.
Students Relax under SIG's bespoke Conservatory Roof
Students at St Paul's Primary School in Bolton are enjoying relaxing in their new bespoke conservatory, topped with a roof fabricated by SIG Conservatory Roofs through Omnico.
Conservatory Solutions Zooms ahead
Conservatory compan, Northeast Conservatory Solutions is celebrating an increase of more than double month-on-month sales since becoming the Zoom Tyne and Wear fabricator.
More support for registered installers
Continued growth across the UK has prompted TimberWindows.com to restructure the roles of three key personnel to ensure registered installers (RIs) have the ongoing support they need to sell its products. Between them Paul Hopkins, Lincoln Brown and Paulina Szolc are now responsible for managing the engineered timber window systems company entire dealer network.
New slimline sashes for bi-fold doors
WHS Halo has introduced a new range of slimline sashes for its System 10 bi-fold doors, following positive customer feedback on the concept at an exclusive product preview event.
All aboard with Pilkington Planar
Pilkington Planar glazing is on the right track following its specification in the brand-new entrance at Salford Central Railway Station.
Tenth anniversary for Central Windows
Central Windows, based in Hamble, Southampton, marked its 10th anniversary this month with a presentation from Rehau of an engraved glass memento.
Top of the class
Brinsworth Whitehall Primary School in Rotherham is in the process of major renovation and restoration work, with architects and specifiers choosing Panel Systems’ Eternit Lamina panels as cladding.
New general manager to drive growth
George Kealy is the new LLumar general manager for the EURMEIAR region (Europe, Middle East, India, Africa and Russia). Under his leadership, LLumar, CPFilms’ global brand of window film, plans strong growth throughout the region.
Profile 22 reinforces its RCM range
Profile 22 has expanded its recycled composite material (RCM) reinforcement range.
Tough on time
CareyGlass supplied more than 5,000m2 of high performance glass for E02 in Cardiff’s Callaghan Square, a new multi-million pound development that will provide165,000ft2 of office space spread across three buildings.
Northern Irish first
Dungannon Window Company has achieved the security standard BS:7950 and an energy efficient C rating on the Spectus sliding sash window. Dungannon is the first company in Northern Ireland to pass the rigorous BS:7950 on sashes.
Here come the girls
SWC Trade Frames in Scarborough raised money for Comic Relief when staff generously donated their pound coins to vote for one of their male colleagues to dress up as women for the day!
THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 355 17th March 2009
Eurocell acquires Merritt Plastics
Eurocell Profiles manufacturer and distributor of pvcu systems, has today announced the acquisition of Merritt Plastics.
CR Laurence buys Ebor
Rochdale-based Ebor has been bought by American glass consumables company CR Laurence for an undisclosed sum, it was revealed this week.
Euro vote puts VAT pressure on Darling
European finance ministers have voted to remove the final hurdle to a reduction in VAT on building repair and maintenance work. Now the pressure is on Alistair Darling to throw a lifeline to hard-pressed homeowners, kick-start the ailing UK building industry, and implement VAT cuts to save hundreds and thousands of jobs in the UK and ‘get Britain building’ again, said the Builders Merchants Federation.
PAS 23 superseded by BS 6375, but no cause for concern, says Chiltern Dynamics
With the withdrawal of PAS 23 and its replacement by the 2009 version of BS 6375 Parts 1, 2 and 3, manufacturers have expressed some concern about the validity of their existing test evidence.
German foam tapes manufacturer enters UK
National window fabricators, installers and specifiers will be able to take advantage of a new range of impregnated foam tapes following German manufacturer ISO-Chemie’s decision to set up in the UK.
First free property auction
Property auctioneer Pattinson has revealed plans for the UK’s first free national property auction, with interest from national house builders and property owners already filling up the 400 spaces available.
Still at number one, claims Rehau
Rehau has announced that its market share rose during 2008 by half of one per cent. Rehau has also retained its number one status in the market as the largest pvcu systems supplier by volume.
Downturn: blessing in disguise?
Manual, manufacturing and building workers may lose their jobs, but they could keep their life or health as a consequence of the downturn.
CGI forges ahead into Middle East
Fire safety glass manufacturer CGI International is forging ahead into the Middle Eastern market, after a bumper crop of sales leads.
‘Chamfered is back’ – Kommerling
Chamfered or ovolo window system? For Kömmerling more than 70% of new business in 2008 was from their chamfered C70 suite of profiles, which could be the start of a marked trend.
Multi-million pound machinery investment
CareyGlass has completed a multi-million pound investment in new machinery as part of a major growth and development plan over the past two years to support the expansion of its operations in the UK and Irish markets.
Beaufort enhances colour quality control
Beaufort is investing in the latest colour measuring technology to enhance quality control standards for its painted aluminium profile. Beaufort is one of the first companies in the industry to use the new CM-600d portable spectrophotometer from colour specialists, Konica Minolta Sensing, to colour match painted profile and ensure continuity of colour.
Holloseal EN1279 pass best ever recorded
Ely-based insulated glass unit manufacturer, Holloseal, has just recorded the best ever pass for its recent EN1279 Part 3 submission for gas filled insulated glass units with test house TNO.
Evodoor software openings
Business Micros has just launched EvoDoor, a specialist software solution that includes CNC machinery links for companies manufacturing composite doors, and can already boast Door-Stop, Selecta and Veka among its customers.
Elumatec open day
After holding two hugely successful in-house aluminium exhibitions, Elumatec will be staging its biggest Aluminium Open House event to date when the company opens its doors from May 12 to 14 to fabricators considering the move into aluminium frame manufacture, or an increase in capacity.
[Read the Rest Here]
Skip costs to increase
Another hike in landfill tax on April 1 means skip costs will increase again by an average of 20%.
JB Antislip prevents shuffling on the deck
John Brash has supplied its European Redwood structural timber decking fitted with JB Antislip Plus inserts to the new £10m Pioneer School in Essex, which caters for children with special needs.
Carl F wins green standard
Carl F Petersen has achieved ISO 14001:2004. The environment award reinforces the hardware distributor’s commitment to environmental issues.
Open all hours
Tradelink, the trade supplier with 16 years’ experience of understanding installers’ businesses, is now open all hours for customers.
Sierra brings composite door business in-house
Fabricator Sierra has launched a new in-house composite door business, bringing a new product range to the burgeoning composite door market.
Glass bridge plan collapses
Designs by Thomas Heatherwick for the world’s first all-glass bridge at the entrance to London’s £2bn King’s Cross Central have been scrapped on cost grounds, developer Argent revealed this week.
WFM Unveils ‘Supplier of the Year’
At a recent presentation ceremony, Window Fitters Mate (WFM) presented Supplier of the Year certificates to a group of key supply chain partners.
Comfort goes through the roof
Solaglas has launched Comfort+excel. The multi-functional glass is a premium product in its existing Comfort+ range of conservatory glass, and the company claims it leads the way in four key areas: solar heat reflection, thermal insulation, self cleaning and warm edge technology.
Glazing’s like a box of chocolates
Architectural glazing systems company, Technal, has supplied 600 aluminium window and door systems for a new £25m mixed tenure affordable housing scheme in East London.
CE marking updated: free information from Chiltern Fire
Chiltern International Fire, working with sister companies Chiltern Dynamics and BM Trada Certification, has revised its technical information sheet CE Marking – Doors and Windows.
New products won new business
Everglade Windows has celebrated a sales increase of 45% in 2008.
Radway wins sustainability accolade
Radway Door & Windows, the fenestration division of the Radway Group, has won the One Planet Products Award for Sustainability at the recent LHC Awards in London.
Record enquiries for Saint Gobain and Solaglas at Ecobuild
Glass processor, distributor and installer, Solaglas, notched up a record level of enquiries at Ecobuild for its glass products, displayed on the Saint Gobain Group stand, the company claimed.
New internal folding door from Jeld-Wen
Jeld-Wen has revealed a new internal sliding folding door, called Room Fold.
New running mate for Cornwall Glass
Promising young Cornish athlete Annabel Gummow, who made her England debut as a cross country runner in 2008, has been given a big helping hand by Cornwall Glass & Glazing on her road to potential future Olympic glory. Annabel, 15, has been awarded a sponsorship package, initially worth £1,000, by the St Austell-based glass company.
Can you afford not to sack your resin?
Demineralising resin is an unnecessary manufacturing cost, which can easily be eliminated from your IG manufacturing process and save thousands of pounds, claimed Thermoseal recently.
THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 354 10th March 2009
Reynaers launch Reynapro System
Reynaers Aluminium has launched ReynaPro, new software designed for the calculation and manufacturing of windows, doors, sliding systems, curtain walls and peripheral systems.
[Read the Rest Here]
Glazerite in Veka first
Glazerite Windows has recently launched the Veka vertical slider in its new Origin white woodgrain foiled finish – the first Veka fabricator to do so.
The green shoots of recovery?
The government must do more to support green innovation in building to help the sector climb out of recession, according to the findings of a new survey.
Glaston closes Tamglass Lempäälä
The Glazine has learned that Glaston Corporation is closing Tamglass’s glass processing facilities at Lempäälä, Finland, choosing instead to focus its building glass production on Tampere. The Lempäälä plant will be wound up on June 15, 2009, which will result in 35 redundancies.
Door-Stop’s real light oak door slab
Door-Stop International, the composite door supplier, has launched a new Light Oak door slab.
Ahead of the curve
Interbuild has evolved, its organisers have claimed, and 2009 will see the launch of two new shows: Interbuild Specifier and Interbuild Onsite. Glassex will form part of Interbuild Offsite.
Leap into Spring with Vicaima Doors
Vicaima has launched its April 2009 merchant distributor price list.
TuffX launches new eco-i spandrel panel
TuffX has launched a new spandrel panel for the architectural market, which the company claims is the first of its kind in the UK.
Homeline enjoys a successful start
Sales at Homeline Building Products have enjoyed a fantastic start following GAP’s recent acquisition of roofline manufacturer Everwhite’s assets, the company recently claimed. From a standing start in February it has already broken the £1m barrier.
[Read the Rest Here]
Unique products boost Mighton sales by 25%
Sash hardware specialist Mighton Products has announced that sales of its EcotiltT Secure up 25% in October-December 2008 compared to the same period in 2007.
New business boost for Spectus
Systems company Spectus won £3.1m of business in 2008, attracting more than 25 new customers.
Trojan launches new letter plate
The Trojan Group has just launched a stainless steel letter plate.
Recent win for Solaglas Contracting
February has been a strong month for Solaglas Contracting with more than £4m worth of new orders secured.
LDG Contracts project is an award winner
LDG Contracts has announced that a project completed at Devonshire Primary School in Blackpool was an award winner.
Solar panel presentation at GlassBuild America
Executives from several of the world's leading solar panel manufacturers and supplier firms have agreed to participate in a high-profile, interactive panel discussion at the year's GlassBuild America on October 1.
Through the round window
EAS Windows has demonstrated its expertise in the commercial sector with an installation of circular pvcu windows at the newly refurbished and extended Foundry Campus at Leicester College.
Free tickets to the Home Building and Renovation show
Reflex will be exhibiting at the Home Building & Renovation show at Birmingham’s NEC on March 19-22. Free tickets are available on a first-come first-served basis.
Another TV airing for Reflex Glass
The directors of Reflex Glass, Scott Nicholas and Rachel Owen, will be the subject of a nine-month documentary produced by Shine TV for Five’s Build a New Life in the Country.
Network Veka cracks the crunch
Network Veka has claimed its members are measurably less vulnerable to the economic downturn than unaffiliated installers.
Door ‘specialists’ on the up
Composite door manufacturer Rockdoor says it has seen a growing trend for installers becoming door ‘specialists’.
Veka’s man in the North and Ireland
Systems supplier Veka has employed a familiar industry face to work with customers in Scotland, the North of England and Ireland.
Ahead of the curve
Balcony Systems returns to the Grand Designs Live Exhibition 2009 at London’s Excel with a full range of curved patio door and balustrading systems.
New TuffX sales manager
TuffX Processed Glass has recently appointed Peter Smith as sales manager.
Sealing with ease
Tremco illbruck has launched two nozzle grade PU foams – Tremco Maxx and Tremco Flex.
Potty about recycling
Ian Gibson, owner of Denbigh-based Artisan Windows, and a member of Masterframe’s Bygone approved installer network, has found a novel use for old sash weights. He’s been handing them out to local fisherman to use in their lobster pots – in exchange for the occasional complementary crustacean!
Thumbs up for new Polish factory
TimberWindows.com’s registered installers recently gave the company’s new Polish production line their seal of approval.
Fireproofed learning at Wakefield college
Fire resistant safety glass manufacturer CGI International has supplied a range of bespoke glass panels for the new atrium at Wakefield College in West Yorkshire.
Cladding better by degrees
The £31m phase one campus development at University Campus Suffolk (UCS) is making a splash at its waterfront location helped by the dynamic visual effect created by Natura panels, supplied by Marley Eternit.
A stable offering from Force 8
Arch and composite door company Force 8 developed a composite stable door.
Astraseal achieves SAFEcontractor status
Rehau fabricator Astraseal has achieved SAFEcontractor status, an independently accredited endorsement of its commitment to health and safety on site.
Hard wearing technology for the hardware industry
Winkhaus has introduced nano-technology to the hardware fittings sector which, the company claims, will help conserve resources.
Dremel Driver for accuracy
The new Dremel Driver is targeted at anyone doing drill/driving work in a variety of detailed applications, including medium and light duty DIY. It measures just 12.5cm and has a T-handle design and precision variable speed trigger.
A Grand Design to support registered businesses
Fensa will be at Grand Designs Live in London on April 25 to May 4, 2009, in a bid to support registered businesses. The association plans to communicate the benefits of using a Fensa installer to consumers.
THE GL@ZINE ISSUE 353 3rd March 2009
“Doing ok... Comparatively speaking”
Heard that lately? In amongst the doom and gloom the most optimistic companies and individuals are falling back on that measure so beloved of the Hedge Fund Manager – Comparative Performance. But comparative performance is no way to measure yourself, it is a false God !
[Read the Rest Here]
Changes afoot at Spectus
Brian Kennedy, founder of Spectus parent Latium Group, has appointed a new group chief executive and group finance director for all Spectus Group companies in the UK and Europe, with immediate effect.
Wagner becomes VBH
Wagner (GB) Ltd, the independent branded hardware distributor, has officially changed its name to VBH (GB) Ltd, bringing it in line with parent company VBH Holding AG in Germany.
Avocet proves that good looks sell
If Avocet’s sales are anything to go by, good looking hardware is becoming increasingly important. Despite the market being down, the leading hardware suppliers’ sales were up in January compared to the same month in 2007. In recent months Avocet has launched a range of new products which offer cutting edge design as well as top performance to help its customers add value to their windows and doors. As a result, throughout January, Avocet’s daily sales rate was up on the previous year.
Veka 'steels' the show for a greener FS
Users of VEKA's fully-sculptured frame system can now go for the BFRC 'A' label on a double-glazed casement without compromising on reinforcement, thanks to a redesigned steel.
Associate yourself with energiKare
In response to demand, Pilkington has widened elements of its valuable Pilkington energiKare scheme to include companies that have not yet registered their windows with the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) but can still see the benefits of selling the energy efficient glazing. The Pilkington energiKare Associate scheme ensures energy efficiency is available to all.
Mila's blogging boss
Richard Gyde, managing director of Mila Hardware, has started a blog on the company's new website at www.mila.co.uk which he hopes will become a fast and effective way to communicate with customers.
Bohle Launches New Kilns for Autoclave-free Lamination
Bohle, the UK arm of the European manufacturer and supplier of tools, machines and accessories for glass processing and finishing, has introduced the Verifix Airstream series, an range of kilns for manufacturing laminated safety glass in an autoclave-free process. Bohle has significantly revised and improved the process used in its new kilns, which is similar to that used in the manufacture of display or photovoltaic modules and in the structural and automotive glass industries.
Anglian Home Improvements Intercepts
Anglian Home Improvements has taken delivery of a GED Integrated Solutions spacer line to produce Intercept Blackline Warm Edge sealed units for its popular range of windows.
Understand scope of test evidence and avoid extra costs
Chiltern International Fire (CIF) has expressed concern that some fire door manufacturers new to the industry may not fully understand the scope of their test evidence or assessment - and are incurring unnecessary extra costs as problems come to light at building handover.
WFM Weston-Super-Mare has moved
WFM Weston has moved to larger premises on the Westside Industrial Park, Weston.
Double R invests again
Double R Glass & Roofing Systems, supplier of glass sealed units and conservatory roof kits, has made a further significant investment in glass machinery by purchasing a GED automatic cutting facility.
Crunch your costs
Thermoseal Group, exclusive supplier of Thermix-TX.N warm edge spacer bar and double glazing machinery and components, has introduced two brand new online calculators which have been designed for sealed unit manufacturers to calculate the material costs of each sealed unit produced.
Mila's financial support
Mila Hardware is set to benefit from new funding arrangements put in place by its parent company Heywood Williams Group.
New Mighton kit helps joiners get SBD with own-design windows
Sash hardware specialist Mighton Products has launched the Securibead and SBD Kit, successfully tested to BS: 7950. Joiners can use this kit with windows of their own design to achieve Secured by Design (SBD) certification.
Energy efficiency seminar a success
The 'Energy Efficiency in Focus - Revisited' industry seminar, organised by warm edge manufacturer Edgetech, held last week at Coventry's Ricoh Arena, was a resounding success, the company claimed, with 282 delegates attending the day.
Door-Stop launches reglazable cassette system
Door-Stop International, the composite door supplier, has launched a new reglazable cassette system.
The 'Litel' GRP lintel launched
Lintels have entered the 21st Century with the introduction of the Litel, which offers a lightweight cost-effective alternative to traditional lintels.
Emplas stops customers bolting with new stable door!
Emplas has addressed all potential weaknesses in a pvcu stable door to make a door that can hold its own against any conventional product.
Tremco uses colour and energy figures to charm customers
Tremco has published a free brochure designed to show consumers how they can save money with Duralite.
VBH firing on all cylinders
VBH (GB) has announced that the greenteQ Gamma profile cylinder is the latest addition to its range of branded hardware.
Windowbase gears up for growth with senior appointment
Last year, Door-Stop International investigated several industry data suppliers - and announced Windowbase as the 'clear winner'.
Free marketing support from Sun Trade
Rehau fabricator Sun Trade Windows is re-launching its personalised customer support and marketing service in a bid to help its network of trade installers maximise sales opportunities in the current difficult market.
Freefoam on Manx pool job
A recent indoor swimming pool project on the Isle of Man used several Freefoam products to create an attractive, durable and low maintenance installation.
Mr Window sees success in doors
Essex-based fabricator Mr Window recently started manufacturing the Deceuninck bi-fold door. The bi-fold door is being marketed to Mr Window's trade and retail customers as a value-added product alongside its windows, doors and conservatories.
Fensa's online poll
Fensa is inviting its installers to participate in an online poll, which will be launched in spring 2009 on the Fensa website www.fensaonline.com
King of Omnico
Paul King has been appointed a new field sales manager for SIG Roofline & Building Products (SIG R&BP). Paul will now be responsible for Omnico's Luton and Northampton branches, as well as Scotplas's Bedford branch.
Total glazing for BMW
Commercial fenestration company Total Aluminium supplied the complete architectural glazing for a Cheshire car dealership.
20th anniversary for Total Profiles
Rehau presented Total Profiles with an engraved glass memento recently to mark the fabricator's 20th anniversary in business.
Edgetech gains Insight
Warm edge supplier Edgetech has signed up to SalesTracker, the contact management software from Insight Data.
Top ratings for Howarth
Howarth Windows & Doors has achieved C, B and A energy rated windows with EcoClear sealed units from Solaglas.
The new name for Pilkington Optilam Phon
Pilkington Optilam Phon noise reduction glass has been renamed Pilkington Optiphon, in order to differentiate it from the rest of the laminated glass range.