News @ The GL@ZINE

The GGF continues its campaign to solve the issue of the problems facing Emergency Glazing Contractors operating in London, relating to parking.

Chief Executive Nigel Rees (pictured), and Paul Rogers of Express Glazing Contractors Ltd recently had a very positive meeting with Geoff Pope, an Assembly Member of the London Assembly and Chairman of the London Assembly Transport Committee and his researcher, Dennis Robinson. Although the London Assembly has no direct control over the London Boroughs it could produce a statement to Boroughs on the subject.

The areas discussed, centred around the health and safety issues associated with the handling of the glass off and onto the vehicle and the increased stress staff are experiencing being faced with fines, cameras and added pressures of working in London. Concern was also raised out of some of the more 'sharp practices' that were being experienced with regard to the fines, non payment and involvement with bailiffs.

They listened intently to the points being raised and were genuinely concerned about the state of the situation that had arisen. They agreed to do some investigation and consider some proposals that might assist. It is hoped that something will be forthcoming in the next three to four weeks.

As soon as further information becomes available, it will be conveyed to the Membership. If anyone has any comments on this issue, they should be forwarded to the Nigel Rees, Chief Executive on 0842 257 7957 or mailto:nrees@ggf.org.uk.

Devon based trade fabricator Interframe Ltd, a member of the Shepley Windows Systems Group, has signed a deal with Veka plc to fabricate and supply the VEKA Matrix FS (Fully Sculptured) suite.

The VEKA Matrix FS suite allows Interframe to offer a range of products for virtually every market niche. Distribution will be through the company's own fleet in addition to availability through the Interframe trade counters located at depots throughout the South and South West of England.

In line with Veka's design philosophy the VEKA Matrix FS offers the features that might be expected from a modern suite, such as a 70mm front to back dimension, internal beading and a full Eurogroove. Weldable, low sightline gaskets are standard, and the bead groove is designed for ease of location.

Shepley Group Chairman Gary Torr seals the deal for the Matrix FS Suite with Veka Sales and Marketing Director Mark Rogers, and Paul Burch, Sales Director of Interframe Ltd.

'However, the key to the VEKA Matrix FS is its superb aesthetics, with a true 17.5 mm sculpture radius that offers an exceptional appearance and balance that will subtly and authentically improve the façade of any property.’ Says the company. Interframe is offering three colours: white, cherry and rosewood, together with cherry on white, and rosewood on white.

A further bonus for all installers selling products manufactured from the Matrix FS Suite is the opportunity to join the Network Veka marketing organisation that has proved effective in offering smaller companies the ability to compete with big national brands.

The agreement between Interframe and Veka was celebrated by an exhibition at the company's extensive Paignton factory and head office site, where the Veka Big Rig allowed Interframe customers the opportunity to look closely at what the new partnership will bring to them.

Paul Burch, Sales Director for Interframe was bullish: ‘The Veka Matrix FS plugs a gap in our range with a superb product that is easily the best of its type on the market. Our customers have increasingly been telling us of demand for this type of product, and as usual Interframe has answered with an excellent product.’

For Veka, Sales and Marketing Director Mark Rogers believes the partnership offers an excellent foundation upon which to build: ‘Interframe has long been a well known and respected brand in the marketplace, now strengthened as part of the Shepley Group. With its trade counters, as well as conventional distribution, the VEKA Matrix FS Suite offers smaller as well as large installers a prestigious, premium product that will create new opportunities.’

Caption: Shepley Group Chairman Gary Torr seals the deal for the Matrix FS Suite with Veka Sales and Marketing Director Mark Rogers, and Paul Burch, Sales Director of Interframe Ltd.

After many months of hard work, Rehau and Wendland have announced the signing of the full agreement governing their strategic alliance. In line with the announcements made at Glassex and the MOU signed shortly afterwards, Wendland will now exclusively supply Rehau with all the roofs for its REHAU-Dimension complete conservatory system.

Commenting for Rehau, Alan Hickman said: ‘This agreement sets out all the details of how the relationship between Rehau and Wendland will work in practice.

‘It has been a long process drafting and amending the contract and attached appendices so that it is fair and equitable to both companies. However, the successful outcome has made all the negotiations worthwhile and we can now turn our attention to making the partnership a practical and successful reality.’

Steve Gardiner, CEO of Wendland, is equally positive. He says: ‘We are delighted to have reached full contractual agreement with Rehau to supply the company with our exciting new Styal Roof components which include several design features requested by Rehau. The introduction of REHAU-Dimension early in the New Year looks like being the first of its kind on the market - a fully integrated, structurally proven conservatory superstructure system - and we are very proud to have been selected by Rehau as the company’s partner in this exciting, sure-fire project.

‘Because of the considerable investment in new infrastructure which has taken place at our Quedgeley facility, Wendland is already well placed to handle the REHAU business efficiently. Nonetheless, we have studied the supply chain and logistics concept meticulously to ensure that we can deliver an exceptional service.’

Rehau is establishing a dedicated sales office within Wendland to handle the ordering and invoicing of the Rehau version of the roofs to its customers. Behind this, Wendland will fulfil the orders and will deliver the roofs, bar-lengths and kits on Rehau's behalf.

Further announcements on the strategic alliance will follow.

Tel: 01989 762600

A proven success in the UK, Ritec's ClearShield glass protection and renovation system is also the first choice for keeping glass cleaner for longer in Mexico.

Transparencia en Servicios (TS), a licensed ClearShield applicator in Mexico City, has completed a wide range of projects using the ClearShield System, from residential windows to curtain walling on large corporate office blocks.

According to TS Director General, Ivonne Campos Saldana, ClearShield is a great innovation: ‘We've been using the System since 1994 and have built a strong reputation as a solution provider with many satisfied clients. Now when building owners and facilities managers in Mexico have problems keeping glass clean, TS is their first port of call.’

TS customers include car dealerships, insurance company headquarters and residential estates throughout Mexico. One of its most prestigious contracts is the renovation of glass at two Banco Santander Serfin office buildings in Santa Fe and Queretaro. The buildings were awarded the Intelligent Building Prize for their use of avant-garde technology. Given this accolade, the Bank was especially keen to maintain the buildings in pristine condition. So when they had a problem keeping the glass clean due to contamination by air borne pollution they turned to TS.

By converting high maintenance unprotected glass into Low-M (Low Maintenance) Glass(, ClearShield ensures higher resistance to corrosion and staining for easier cleaning without the need for harsh chemicals. The treatment process at the two Banco Santander Serfin buildings began with the renovation of hundreds of metres of both interior and exterior glass by TS's fully trained on-site applicators. All the glass was then surface treated with ClearShield, which is based on a special polymeric resin and provides effective surface protection. Applied as a liquid, ClearShield reacts with the glass and becomes an integral part of the surface by forming a protective treatment that is chemically bonded to the surface and measures less than a micron in thickness.

ClearShield is part of a fully integrated system for the renovation, protection and maintenance of all kinds of exterior and interior glass, including residential windows and architectural glazing. It can be applied onto new glass in the factory before installation using either manual or automatic spraying equipment, or on-site for existing glass.

Tel: 020 8344 8210
Web: http://www.ritec.co.uk

Total Glass Commercial's dedicated service for social housing providers was launched at Donington recently, when TGC, a subsidiary of trade frame manufacturer Total Glass, made its debut at the Windowfab exhibition.

Alongside showcasing its PVC-U windows, composite doors and new Commercial Brochure explaining its sustainable integrated partnership approach to working with local authorities, the company's new Commercial Manager, John Williams, was on hand to explain more about the new products available.

These include a new curtain walling system and fully reversible windows specially developed to meet the specific requirements of public sector newbuild and refurbishment projects.

'The show gave us the opportunity to launch our new dedicated service and demonstrate the benefits of using the expertise of our profile supplier, Profile 22 to offer a complete project solution from concept to completion,' said John, commenting on the success of the two-day show.As a quality supplier of windows and doors to the public sector, Total Glass Commercial's detailed strategy comprehensively encompasses all the principles and practices required to help local authorities deliver Best Value in meeting the Decent Homes objectives.

For more information on Total Glass Commercial or to order a copy of the new Total Glass Commercial Brochure, contact John Williams on 0151 549 3145 or visit the website at http://www.tgcommercial.com.

Hug a Beautiful Woman (Or Three) for Charity

In his fervent quest to drag the good, the bad and the ugly to join the 2005 Network Walk, which takes place in Manchester on Friday 21st October 2005 to raise money for the Hope House Children’s Hospice, organiser Mike Crewdson has managed to seduce (figuratively speaking) stunning beauties to join the event, thus significantly upping the looks average for the day.

The girls, who all represented their countries at the Miss Asia Pacific International event in China earlier this year, are 19 year old Megan Johnson from Southport - a Manchester model who represented Scotland; Laura Livesey, a 23 year old model from Colwyn Bay who represented Wales; and 19 year old dancer from Bolton, Allison Brennan, who represented England.

As one would expect, there is of course a sting in the tail: anyone wishing to have their photograph taken with the girls will be expected to make a small financial contribution for the pleasure of doing so, although the only restrictions on further use of such pictures will be governed only by the laws governing decency and copyright. A minimum of £5 for shots with individual girls is expected, and at least £20 for a group photograph. Oh, and bring your own camera…

‘We are delighted that these stunning and lovely girls have agreed to come along and join us on 21st October to join the fun,’ said an animated Mike Crewdson. ‘Not only will they add some glamour to the event, but they have agreed to be photographed with the Networkers to raise some extra cash for the children of Hope House. It’s going to be an excellent day!’

Teams and individuals from all corners of the industry will be taking what amounts to a gentle stroll around a planned section of Manchester, beginning from noon on Friday 21st October, with the intention of making new friends and contacts and renewing others, all in the cause of raising money for the Hope House Children’s Hospice, and of course, having a good time into the bargain.

Even such moderate exercise will, of course, require refreshment and sustenance and a number of hostelries have been selected along the route, to ensure participants do not run out of steam. As the walk itself draws to a close, events and gatherings are expected to take place well into the evening.

Says Mike: ‘We have planned the route to ensure there are lots of networking opportunities. And, of course, to raise extra money as we go. But we still have room for anyone else that wants to join us – we are only limited by the size of Manchester city centre after all. Raise as much money as you can and help us to make this the event of the year!’

Further information from Mike Crewdson, Radius Plastics Ltd on 07801 622575, email mailto:mike@radplas.com.

Following another highly successful series of technical and commercial presentations in the seminars held during Glassex ’05, the organisers are now keen to capitalise on that success and develop an even stronger programme for next year’s event, which will take place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) from 5th to the 8th March 2006 inclusive.

The One Day Conference ‘Glazing in the Public Sector: Focus on Housing’ is likely to be repeated and extended following unprecedented success as more than 470 delegate places were booked for the event. In all the numbers of public sector visitors attending Glassex trebled compared to the previous year. A number of high-profile speakers are being invited to participate in what is being planned as the most important event of its type for 2006.

The Technical and Business Seminar Programme will be refined for 2006 to look at a number of key business issues facing glazing manufacturers and installers, including Manufacturing, Finance, Transport & Distribution, Sales, and Legislation covering such issues as cold calling, and Building Regulations as they relate to conservatories.

Paul Godwin, Co-ordinator of the Glassex 2006 seminar programmes, says he welcomes input from companies, representative organisations, and individuals who wish to participate: ‘We will be very strict on the programme content and, once again, there will be an emphasis on delegates being able to immediately apply what is learned at Glassex. We are not looking for commercial ‘puffs’ but pragmatic and stimulating presentations. If you’ve got something of interest to say at either seminar programme, then get in touch now.’

Proposed presentations should be submitted as a synopsis of no more than 250 words as Word documents, before October 31st 2005, to mailto:paul@vastpr.co.uk.

Roof-Maker says that conservatory roof fabricators have been quick to recommend reflex conservatory roof glass to its customers as the perfect solution for conservatory glazing.

‘Now customers can have reflex glass supplied direct to site along with their roof kits without the need to source glass sizes and deal with two suppliers. Over 40 reflex roof packs a week are now being distributed in the UK, sales of reflex have been massive this summer.’ Said Adele at Roof-Maker.

‘With many other conservatory roof fabricators enjoying the benefits of such a strong branded product name reflex is a true conservatory roof glass product with unbeatable value for money and specification. Reflex glass units now use warm edge spacer bar technology, improving U-values and sound insulation from traffic and rain. Condensation is eliminated with the high tech metal free spacer bar system.’

Contact Adele or Sally @ Roof-Maker Ltd on Tel: 0116 269 6297 for more details.

International rugby tickets are up for grabs from Everwhite Plastics Ltd, roofline manufacturer. Simply click www.everwhite.biz for a chance of winning two tickets to one of four Wales games in November. Put in your name and contact details and you could be seeing the All Blacks, Fiji, South Africa or Australia at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. And Everwhite has even thrown in a meal for two and overnight accommodation.

‘So what have you got to lose?’ says the company. ‘Click and win. The draw will be held on 21st October and winners notified by telephone on 24th October. Terms and conditions apply. Especially number 5 - You Must Enjoy Yourself!’

Web: http://www.everwhite.biz

Dorwin Beats the Burglars

This year Dorwin, an Alton based PVC window company, is celebrating the successful installation of 50,000 homes full of windows in the Hampshire and South East region.

Dorwin says that it has always prided itself on manufacturing and installing windows and doors to the highest standard and is proud of the dedication and quality of its Alton workforce. But not content to rest on its laurels Dorwin has also become one of a select number of window companies in the UK which have been awarded a 'Secured by Design' licence.

Secured by Design (SBD) is the UK Police security initiative, supporting the principles of 'designing out crime' by use of effective crime prevention and security standards for a range of applications. SBD encourages the industry to help reduce the opportunity for crime and the fear of crime, creating a safer and more secure environment for all. It brings together elements of physical security (doors, windows, locks etc.) with environmental design in all aspects of the build environment.

Managed by the Association of Chief Police Officers Crime Prevention Initiatives (ACPO CPI), a not-for-profit company, the initiative supports one of the Government's key planning objectives - the creation of secure, quality places where people wish to live and work.

Among its wide ranging activities, SBD operates a licensing system of security related products and works hard to promote and encourage companies, like Dorwin, in designing out crime with the products and services that they offer. Before being granted use of the SBD logo and the term 'Police Preferred Specification', every product, in this case windows, must undergo stringent tests to show they work as a security device and provide a realistic level of resistance to criminal attack.

In most cases, the tests are set against published technical standards. They must be undertaken at a UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) suitably accredited test house and all products are routinely audited to ensure continued compliance. It is the specification that meets the police standard, not an individual company, acting as a reassurance to specifiers that they can use SBD licensed products with complete confidence.

Following independent research, it has been shown that SBD-compliant housing estates produce less burglary, car crime and violent crime than non-SBD sites. In some cases the reduction in crime has been over 50% and has amounted to as much as 70% on certain estates. Since windows are a popular entry point for burglars it makes complete sense to fit enhanced security windows where possible but especially at ground floor level.

Jackie Freeman explains: 'At Dorwin we have always looked at how we can give our customers added value in the windows and doors that they buy. Dorwin felt that the issue of security and peace of mind for our customers was worth the investment in time and effort to gain this accreditation. We are proud that all the windows that we supply to the homes of our customers are now manufactured and installed to the exacting Secured by Design standard.'

Tel: 01420 84217

The UK manufacturer of high performance window hardware, Securistyle, has contributed to the architectural success of a landmark building within London's newest central business district, More London, a 13-acre Foster and Partners-designed development situated between London Bridge and Tower Bridge.

Securistyle's Rushmore window hinge, which is capable of carrying substantial sized vents up to 4.2m high and weighing up to 350kg, has been fitted into new office premises for global HR outsourcing and consultancy firm Hewitt Associates.

Designed specifically for carrying large top-hung vents in curtain walling systems, the Rushmore hinge was specified by Dietmar Woelfert working in conjunction with Permasteelisa.

Due to the sheer size of the vents that the hinge can carry, the Rushmore is operated by an electric motor or other operation aid and has a maximum opening of 500mm, which can be restricted for safety purposes. Like the other commercial hinges developed by Securistyle - the Parallel, Storm, Strom Balanced and Sterling - the Rushmore is manufactured from high grade 304 austenitic stainless steel to provide strength and guaranteed long-term resistance to corrosion.

Securistyle director, Nigel Thompson says 'More London is a driving force in the dynamic regeneration of the South Bank and Southwark and is being viewed as an architectural and economic success. With the specification of the Rushmore hinge within part of the development, we have taken the lead and provided the right solutions for architects and building designers to innovate. Effectively, this allows the creation of buildings which feature opening vents on a larger scale than ever before.'

More London is already home to the Greater London Authority, Ernst & Young and a range of restaurants, shops, cafes and bars. Planned additions to More London include a four-star hotel and a health club with swimming pool.

For further information about Securistyle hardware contact Maria Fatica on 01242 221200 or visit http://www.securistyle.co.uk.

New SFS Van Service Delivers More for South East Fabricators

SFS intec has expanded its van sales service that supplies fasteners, hinges and consumables for window and door fabricators with the addition of a new van to cover South East England.

Operating the van, Michael Payne will serve fabricators in London, the Home Counties and East Anglia with the most comprehensive product range of its kind. Window and door makers will for the first time be able to take advantage of an extensive SFS range of products, which includes its advanced door hinges, delivered to their door as and when they need them.

In addition to hinges for PVC-U and composite doors, the SFS walk-on van service provides fabricators with a wide range of high performance fasteners and consumables including basics like drill bits, hand tools and glues.

With its strength and expertise in providing customers with flexible delivery options, including total supply chain management for some of the UK and Ireland’s top window makers, SFS intec is finding that fabricators are increasingly realising that working smarter, not harder, is the key to improved productivity. At the heart of this is ensuring that the supply of components and consumables is in order.

Mick Maddison, SFS intec’s Customer Service Manager says, 'Given the success of the service in other areas of the UK and Ireland, we know many fabricators like the convenience and reassurance of having SFS vans deliver C parts directly to their premises, whether pre-ordered or speculatively. In addition to the standard product range available off-the-shelf, we are also fully equipped to supply virtually any consumable or peripheral used in door and window making.'

For further information on the van service for the South East from SFS intec, contact Mick Maddison on 0113 208 5500.

‘Changes in the market has meant many window companies are struggling,’ says Eddie Baker, owner of Chelmsford Patio Door Company Ltd. ‘But having Masterframe's sash windows on our books has boosted our sales. In 2004 we saw a rise of 25% on orders for Masterframe, and expect a similar, if not higher, rise this year. Our order value is high and so is our profit.

‘We were invited by Masterframe to join the Bygone Preferred Installer network at the very beginning, over five years ago, and have never looked back. As a BPI we had to demonstrate a commitment to serving the homeowner and offer a fitting service of the highest standard. We get regular sales leads from recommends and the Bygone Collection website. We're doing well in a weak market. It's amazing what a difference having Masterframe's products on our books has made.’

Tel: 01376 510410
Web: http://www.masterframe.co.uk

Anyone working in the commercial sector knows how demanding working to the toughest specifications can be. Get it wrong, and there are no second chances.
Newstead Trade Frames has proved its capability again and again for the North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust, which has spent over £150,000 with Newstead over the last three years, and continues to do so. Newstead recently won a contract to manufacture replacement windows for the Social Services and IT Department of Bucknall Hospital.

‘We replaced 40 PVC-U windows, with a job value of £12,000,’ explains John Davies, Commercial Manager at Newstead. ‘Bucknall NHS Estates Department recommended us to the contractors who were carrying out the refurbishment. We also replaced 120 PVC-U windows at the Leek Memorial Hospital, another part of North Staffordshire NHS Trust, a project worth £118,000.’

Tel: 01782 641 642

The technology group Linde AG is investing 12.5 million euros in expanding component production for its Material Handling business segment (fork lifts and warehouse equipment) at the Ballenstedt site in Saxony-Anhalt. The expansion of production capacity will create 28 new jobs, bringing the total number to 189. The number of trainee positions will also increase from 9 to 16 as the new production hall begins operation.

'This investment reflects the excellent performance of the Ballenstedt site and the region in general', explained Dr. Stefan Rinck, member of the Material Handling Operational Board. 'And we are simultaneously strengthening our position as the leader in fork lift and warehouse equipment technology.'

Ballenstedt is to become a centre for the production of hydraulic control valves for products from the Group's three brands, Linde, STILL and OM Pimespo. Hydraulic control valves are technically complex components which are essential to the rotating and lifting functions of forklifts.

Linde is an international technology group, which occupies leading market positions in each of its two business segments Gas & Engineering and Material Handling. With some 41,500 employees worldwide, Linde achieved an annual turnover of around 9 billion euros in the 2004 fiscal year. Over 3.3 billion euros of this were generated by the Material Handling business segment.

A successful scheme at Sheffield Hallam University is aiming to avert the national skills shortage by encouraging more women into the areas of science, engineering and technology (SET) and construction.

The JIVE (Joint Interventions) Challenge Event, held at Sheffield Hallam on Friday 9th September, addressed the issues surrounding employing women in these areas and also aimed to encourage more women to gain qualifications and employment in traditionally male roles.

Ros Wall, SHU/UK Resource Centre for Women in SET, and JIVE National Manager, said:
'The shortage of qualified people and an increasing demand for scientific and engineering skills is adversely affecting Britain’s productivity, international competitiveness and level of innovation.'

Sam Bastow, 18, went to Leeds Careers Advice after working in community care for a short time. The careers team contacted JIVE at Sheffield Hallam, who then found Sam an apprenticeship in her dream career – construction. She is now doing a NVQ Level 2 in Maintenance Operations at Leeds Construction Skills, and is learning important skills like tiling, plastering and labouring. She has also started evening classes in plumbing.

Sam said:
'I’ve always helped my dad out with bits and pieces around the house, and since I was 15 every job I’ve done has been manual, but never really fulfilled me. The scheme’s been brilliant because I’m learning everything about building a house now – I could be building my own house one day.'

Britain’s long-hours culture is one of the reasons why highly-qualified women leave jobs in these areas, and employers can be unsympathetic to needs for maternity leave, according to the Institute of Physics.

Pat Turrell, Team Leader of the Women in SET Team at Sheffield Hallam, said:
'Diverse workforces are often the most creative and productive, having a wide range of skills and talents. SET employers need able professionals, yet by not attracting and recruiting women, they are missing out on half of the talent pool.'

According to the Institute of Employment Studies:
• Women now form 51.3 per cent of the UK labour market
• Approximately 10% of building professionals are female
• 50,000 of women with SET degrees are not economically active within SET
• Only 25% of women with SET degrees are working in SET
• In less than ten years there will be two million more jobs, 80 per cent of which will be taken by women.

Staff from the Women in SET team at Sheffield Hallam also organise courses to introduce women into Built Environment professional and technical education and training.

ASA Revises Adjucation on Everest Complaint

A complaint objecting to a mailing for Everest Ltd was upheld in six of the seven objections originally published on 14th July 2004 by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA). This adjucation has now been revised and now only two of the seven objections have been upheld.

Complaint:
Objection to a mailing, that was divided into six panels. One panel included a text box that claimed 'fit the best windows & doors ~ Everest'; text below the box claimed 'Only Everest make your home so warm and secure, draught-free and quiet, attractive and easy to live with ... Everest double-glazed sealed units keep your home wonderfully warm and draught-free ... Only Everest is 50% more secure Our PVC-U casement windows and entrance doors are the most secure we've offered - in fact, 50% more secure that BSI standards ... Our noise insulation sealed units ... hush busy rush-hour traffic to the level of a quiet street ... As for maintenance, our PVC-U and aluminium frames never rust, peel, rot or flake. So you never have to paint them at all Only Everest offer a lifetime guarantee ... only we offer a lifetime guarantee against fog or condensation in the sealed units in our PVC-U casement windows and entrance doors ... '.

Another panel included a text box that claimed 'fit the best traditional windows & doors ~ Everest'; text below the box claimed ' ... At last, you can find the highest standards of warmth and security in traditional style windows and doors ... Everest traditional windows and doors incorporate double-glazed sealed units and energy-saving Pilkington 'K' glass as standard. Around them, we build in double weatherproof seals to keep damp and draughts out of your home ... We fit security locks as standard on all replacement windows and doors in our traditional range. Unique concealed vents on our timber sash windows, and secure 'open' positions on our aluminium windows, let you relax more in your home ... '.

Another panel included a text box that claimed 'fit the best garage door - Everest'; text below the box claimed '... The Everest Garage Door's revolutionary design signals the end of leaky, insecure and awkward garage doors ... We surround the door with a weatherproof seal to keep out wind and rain. Vents let air circulated [sic] and take damp way, while heat insulation keeps you warmer inside ... To create the most secure garage door around, we use double-walled steel panels. Most garage doors have only one locking point - ours has two, and unique double rollers give more points of contact within the frame ... For safety's sake, unique hinge covers protect you and others against injury Electric operation is even safer. When the door touches anything, it automatically retracts ... The door's panels lift straight up and roll fully under your garage roof so it never intrudes on drive space - and won't bang your shins! ... '.

Another panel included a text box that claimed 'fit the best conservatory ~ Everest'; text below the box claimed ' ... An Everest conservatory is the most solid you can own ... it's technically superior in every way ... As steadfast as the rest of your home With its metal reinforced structure, our conservatory is a true extension to your home, built to last as long as the rest of it. It won't shift, warp or deteriorate at all so you never get leaks or cold draughts ... High-level security sets the standard Our PVC-U casement windows are the most secure we've offered - in fact, 50% more secure than standards set for Improved Security Windows by the British Standards Institute ... While other conservatories may need painting every few years, our PVC-U never fades or flakes, rusts or rots ... The highest standards add value to your home ... '.

Another panel included a text box that claimed 'fit the best Roofline products ~ Everest'; text below the box claimed ' ... With Everest Roofline, you never have to worry about maintenance ... not just on gutters, drainpipes and wall cladding ... but on those hard-to-reach parts around your roof like fascias, soffits and bargeboards. Roofline is so easy to look after, it just wipes clean with a cloth ... It withstands the elements and stays permanently in place. By keeping water out while allowing air in, Roofline protects your roof from rot and other damage ... We make Roofline from PVC-U which never warps, cracks, peels, flakes or rots. It resists acids, alkalis, sea water, insects and pollution ... '.

Another panel included a text box that stated 'fit the best security system ~ Everest'; text below the box claimed ' ... Our perimeter system guards entry points into your home to put off would-be intruders before they get in. It doesn't restrict you ... you can keep it on when you move around within your home. Set each sensor individually to protect any part of your home ... While many home alarms are ignored, our system is monitored 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The control box surveys every sensor constantly ... Wire-free technology does away with unsightly cables We colour-match our slim-line sensors to your window frames and mount them discreetly ... Simple to set and un-set Our easy-set keypad screen 'talks' you through each step in plain English ... '.

The complainant challenged the claims:
1. 'Everest double-glazed sealed units keep your home wonderfully warm and draught-free', because a family member believed the double-glazed windows that had been installed by the advertisers were draughty;
2. 'Fit the best windows and doors';
3. 'Fit the best traditional windows and doors';
4. 'Fit the best garage door';
5. 'Fit the best conservatory';
6. 'Fit the best Roofline products' and
7. 'Fit the best security system'.

Adjudication:
REVISED ADJUDICATION:
This adjudication replaces that published on 14th July 2004. The decisions on Complaints 2, 4, 5 and 6 have been reversed, thus making the complaints 'not upheld'.

The advertisers explained that their PVC-U entrance doors and windows were accredited by the British Board of Agrément and that they held British Standard kitemarks for PVC-U windows, patio doors and door assemblies. The advertisers sent copies of the awards from the British Board of Agrément and British Standard Institute as well as technical information on their products to support their claims.

1. Complaint not upheld
The Authority noted the British Board of Agrément had assessed the windows and considered that the PVC-U window system satisfied their requirement for conservation of fuel and power. Although it noted the complainant's family member believed her windows were draughty, the Authority concluded that the claim was acceptable.

2. & 5. Complaint not upheld
The advertisers said all their windows and doors were rigorously tested; they said they offered a lifetime guarantee on PVC-U sealed units and a 10-year guarantee on their aluminium windows and doors. The advertisers said their PVC-U conservatories used the PVC-U sealed units on which they offered a lifetime guarantee; they asserted that those products exceeded the British Standards Institute security standards by 50% and that no competitor could match their windows, doors and conservatories for security. They said their Heatlok Plus sealed units provided a level of thermal insulation that no competitor could match. The advertisers sent comparative substantiation that they believed supported their claims.

The Authority considered that the claims 'Fit the best windows and doors' and 'Fit the best conservatory' implied the advertisers' windows, doors and conservatories were the best available and noted they had sent comparative evidence to support those claims. The Authority noted the comparative information had been analysed to show: the number of criteria in which Everest's products were 'best' or 'equal best'; a weighted analysis with greater importance given to criteria likely to be most important to consumers, such as thermal performance over optional PVD handles, and a marking scheme aggregated to give an overall score for each company.

The Authority noted the advertisers' extensive submission and acknowledged that they believed they had proved the claims 'Fit the best windows and doors' and 'Fit the best conservatory'. The Authority considered that criteria that did not relate to the advertisers' standard products, such as optional extras, should be discounted from the analysis of the submission. It also considered that two categories in windows and doors should be excluded, because they did not relate to the context of the leaflet and a further three categories from the analysis of the conservatory submission should be excluded for the same reason.

The Authority noted the advertisers' standard PVC-U windows, doors and conservatories had out-performed those of competitors in the categories of security performance and guarantees and that they were ranked 'equal best' in the thermal performance category for PVC-U windows, PVC-U doors and conservatories at the time the leaflet was distributed. The Authority took expert advice and understood that the advertisers' PVC-U windows had the best weather testing performance; it also understood, from the expert advice, that the balance of evidence for the aluminium windows and doors showed that they were the best at the time the leaflet was distributed. The Authority considered that the advertisers' had proved that their standard products had a significant advantage above their competitors' products and concluded they had justified the claims.

3. Complaint upheld
The advertisers said they offered a 30-year guarantee on dual turn windows and timber sash windows; they said they also offered 10-year guarantees on their handmade, hardwood entrance doors. They pointed out that their Heatlok Plus option was available in those products and provided a level of thermal insulation that no competitor could match.

The Authority considered that the claim implied the advertisers' traditional windows and doors were the best available and noted they had not sent comparative evidence to support that claim. The Authority concluded that the advertisers had not justified the claim and advised them to amend it with help from the CAP Copy Advice team.

4. Complaint not upheld
The advertisers explained that their garage doors were custom-made and guaranteed for 10 years. They said their sectional door had a U-factor higher than their competitors and their one-piece garage doors were insulated unlike those of their competitors.

The Authority considered that the claim implied the advertisers' garage doors were the best available and noted they had sent comparative evidence to support that claim. The Authority noted the advertisers had provided substantial background information on the garage door market and who they considered to be their competitors at the high-quality end of the market. The Authority noted the comparative information had been analysed to show: the number of criteria in which Everest's products were 'best' or 'equal best'; a weighted analysis with greater importance given to criteria likely to be most important to consumers and a marking scheme aggregated to give an overall score for each company. The Authority considered that criteria that did not relate to standard products, and categories that did not relate to claims made in the leaflet, should be discounted from the analysis. The Authority noted the advertisers' garage doors were the best in the two categories, thermal performance and security performance, referred to in the leaflet and concluded that the advertisers had justified the claim.

6. Complaint not upheld
The advertisers explained that, when they fitted the products, they replaced all existing soffits, fascia, bargeboards, cladding and guttering for new; they said their competitors could not match the 20-year guarantee on their white PVC-UE roofline products.

The Authority considered that the claim 'Fit the best Roofline products' implied the advertisers' roofline products were the best available and noted they had sent comparative evidence to support that claim. The Authority noted the comparative evidence had been analysed to show: the number of criteria in which Everest's products were 'best' or 'equal best'; a weighted analysis with greater importance given to criteria likely to be most important to consumers and a marking scheme aggregated to give an overall score for each company. The Authority considered that criteria that did not relate to standard products, and categories that did not relate to claims made in the leaflet, should be discounted from the analysis. The Authority noted the advertisers' roofline products were the best in the two categories, features and guarantees, referred to in the leaflet and concluded that the advertisers had justified the claim.

7. Complaint upheld
The advertisers explained that their security system detected intruders before they entered the home and received a level 1 Police response; they believed that was uncommon for alarm systems. They asserted that they held British Standards for the installation and maintenance of the system and that its additional features made it unique; they said they were unaware of another national company in the UK that sold alarm systems to the same specification.

The Authority considered that the claim implied the advertisers' security system was the best available and noted they had not sent comparative evidence to support that claim. Because it considered the British Standards held for the security system did not prove that it was the best available, the Authority concluded that the advertisers had not justified the claim and advised them to amend it with help from the CAP Copy Advice team.

Being compliant and current with new regulations is like a game of monopoly: it doesn’t matter how much money you invest, there is always another development which needs to be tackled which could cost you money to keep in the running. Chris Palmer from Ideal Windows Solutions in Fareham explains how his company is ahead of the game.

With over 20 years industry experience, Ideal Windows Solutions is an established specialist in all aspects of the supply, installation, maintenance and repair of double-glazed PVCu and aluminium window, door and conservatory systems for both private and public sectors. Approximately 75% of Chris’s business is from Housing Associations and Local Authorities, therefore gaining third party accreditation was an absolute necessity:

‘I first heard about companies having to be accredited through a local authority client of ours last October. They recommended us to go down the Exor Management Services route to become accredited so we could continue working with them. From previous experiences I knew it would be a few years before this would be a reality but I decided just to bite the bullet and get on with it now’.

The whole accreditation process took three months. Within this period Exor Management Services carried out over 130 checks on Ideal Windows Solutions including an assessment of the company’s health and safety, equal opportunities, finance and trading history. This in-depth evaluation was necessary in order for Ideal Windows Solutions to reach Gold Standard, the highest level of accreditation needed for high value Public Sector contracts. Chris reflects:

‘It was a very gutsy experience as we had to pull together a lot of information but it really made us focus on health and safety issues. Although there was a fee involved it is already paying for itself as being accredited does save time and money. Before, I had to make individual applications for each authority, now I can target a number of tender opportunities in one swoop by appearing on Local Authorities’ preferred suppliers lists.’

Since being accredited, Ideal Windows Solutions has just successfully completed a £55,000 contract with its local authority on a block of seven maisonette stairwells. Chris is delighted:

‘Being accredited has influenced us winning tenders, as does the fact we are members of the trading association The UK Trades Confederation (UKTC) which we joined four years ago for its legal protection package. We are also FENSA registered which again positions us as a reputable organisation.’

However, Chris finds, like all these vetting standards and new building regulations, there should be more awareness, for example there is still a huge lack of understanding about FENSA. Ideal Window Solutions is regularly contacted by home owners who have been instructed by their solicitors to obtain certificates of conformance for non-certifiable works such as conservatories and replacement glass units.

‘There are so many regulations these days which do benefit the industry but mean our costs have increased. This is acceptable to Public Sector because they to have to abide by the rules but try telling a home owner that a £300 job will cost £500 because the new height regulations requires the work to be carried out with scaffolding.’

Luckily for Chris the majority of his business is from the Public Sector which recognises his pricing is a reflection of his credibility. One particular Housing Association had a day long seminar specifically for its approved contractors to raise awareness of new standards and requirements:

‘Housing Associations have to become much more regimented in the same way local authorities already are,’ tells Chris ‘we had to attend a workshop with one of our Housing Association clients about its new accreditation policy. Thankfully our accreditation process is out of the way and I am pleased that we chose Exor Management Services as it is a very up-and-coming organisation that is recognised by the vast majority of our customers.’

Since becoming accredited, Chris has been informed that as a member of the UKTC he would have automatically become bronze accredited as the two organisations have formed an alliance. Chris concludes:

‘I think it is fantastic that Exor and UKTC are associated as it strengthens our relationship with the two organisations but also means that small businesses will not have to go through two different vetting processes. I would encourage other small businesses to take advantage of being bronze accredited and get a taste of what the Public Sector marketplace has to offer. However, its like all these new standards, it’s no good just getting the certification and sitting back as you only get out of it what you are prepared to put in.’