News @ The GL@ZINE

Cooling-off Periods on Door-to-Door Sales

The OFT yesterday (11th September) welcomed the Government's announcement that it will legislate to provide cooling-off periods on goods and services sold to people in their homes, even when the sales representatives have been invited to visit.

As the law stands consumers have the right to cancel within a seven day period when a sales visit is unsolicited, but an OFT study found that 94 per cent of consumers were unaware of these cancellation rights. Under the new proposals consumers will also have the same protection when buying goods from representatives irrespective of whether they have been formally invited into their home.

These changes will complement the forthcoming 'Unfair Commercial Practices' legislation which will take positive action on aggressive sales techniques used by representatives. This includes pressurizing consumers into buying a product or service, by outstaying their welcome in consumers' homes, or falsely claiming they will get a better deal if they sign up immediately to prevent them from buying elsewhere.

Jonathan May, Director at the OFT said:

'Extending protection in this way means that consumers shopping from home can be confident that they are protected from unscrupulous doorstep sellers.'

Synseal Customers Get a Website for Homeowners in Just Seven Days

Synseal customers can now have their own website in just seven days. 'It sounds too good to be true, but by using Synseal's massive library of online marketing materials including images, videos and downloadable brochures, customers can have their own website in just seven days,' explains Nick Dutton, Synseal's Sales and Marketing Director. 'To build a site of this standard from scratch would take six months, but customers can tap into our massive investment and create a personalised site within a week.

'Figures show over half of shoppers will not buy from a company that doesn't have a website, so having a website is more important than ever.

'Synseal has teamed up with web specialists The Consultancy to deliver the seven day website. It's designed to be easy to use by homeowners. There are picture galleries, product information, online movies and downloadable brochures. The site includes two dedicated email addresses so enquiries from the site come directly to customers. Website visitors are recorded so you'll know how many times your site has been visited. What's more it's personalised with company information and branding.'

'To keep ahead in today's market customers need the best marketing support materials. And the website in a week in another way Synseal supports customers.'

To find out more log onto www.synseal.com

Steve Davis is to spearhead a six-figure TV campaign that will see Network VEKA back on the screen for the first time in eight years.

Creative details are still under wraps but the ads will emphasise the trust that homeowners can put in Network VEKA members through benefits such as the Ten-Year Insurance Backed Guarantee and strict training policy as well as product quality.

The 40-second ad will be screened on a number of lifestyle and home improvement channels from mid October, with the possibility of further bursts into the New Year.

Network VEKA Marketing Manager Dave Hartley says the campaign is only one of the benefits of the group's association with Steve Davis.

‘His reputation for sincerity and reliability is ideal for expressing the integrity and professional standards of Network VEKA,’ he said.

‘The choice of TV is the most direct means of getting this message straight to the homeowners. It also gives every single member something that any other independent could never dream of.’

The organisation is also planning to target half a million homes with a special mailer aimed at promoting the wider range of products such as garage doors, decking, gates, fencing and VEKAStyle decorative panelling.

The mailer takes the form of a 24-page booklet highlighting the various product ranges. It is to be distributed via individual members who will each select mailing lists in their own areas.

Edgetech UK overtook its total 2005 sales of Super Spacer® by 31st August 2006, the end of month eight, and is 55% up on the same period last year. ‘Those of our customers who have embraced warm edge and the Window Energy Ratings (WER) have done exceptionally well,’ says Edgetech's Sales Director and General Manager, Andy Jones. ‘But sales of Super Spacer are above all a reflection of how far and fast the market has changed. Aluminium spacer bars - tarnished by raw material price rises and price fixing fines for some suppliers - are falling by the wayside, while demand for warm edge spacers continues to increase.

‘But sealed unit manufacturers and fabricators should ensure they choose the best warm edge spacer to make the most of the WER. There are low, medium and high performance warm edge technologies, as demonstrated by recent research by BFRC simulator Build Check Ltd. With Super Spacer we offer a high performance, strong and flexible product which has passed all industry standards, but with other crucial benefits such as manufacture on a choice of machinery options. It can be made at cost parity to aluminium too. We believe it's the best of warm edge technology - and our sales prove it.’

Tel: 02476 705570

George Barnsdale & Sons Ltd used an alternative warm edge spacer in its timber casement windows, but couldn't achieve an 'A' rated window without Edgetech's Super Spacer®.

‘This is a golden opportunity for George Barnsdale and the timber window industry,’ declares Stephen Wright, Managing Director of the Lincolnshire manufacturer of timber windows, doorsets, and staircases.

‘As legislation looks to be tightened, and more demanding in terms of energy efficiency, we can give our commercial and public sector customers what they need to future proof the buildings they work on. I'd like to see other timber manufacturers following suit to help develop the market for sustainable energy rated windows.’

George Barnsdale & Sons' customers provide premium timber products for high value properties in Mayfair and Piccadilly, central London.

‘Super Spacer is an ideal product for timber windows as it's much more visually pleasing than other spacers,’ explains Stephen, who is also President of the British Woodworking Federation. ‘And it doesn't affect the cost of manufacture, either.’

Over the next six months the company will put its sliding sashes and inward opening windows as well as other items in the range through BFRC testing.

Edgetech - Tel: 02476 705570

Partnership Between Matrixx and VEKA Set for Success

A partnership deal with systems supplier VEKA, has been agreed by Matrixx Windows. As Wigan's largest manufacturer of doors, windows conservatories and glass, Matrixx has built up an reputation with its extensive product range. The five-year deal with VEKA reflects this insistence on quality upon which the company bases its reputation, as Philip Marsh of Matrixx explains.

‘With us now using the VEKA Matrix 70 profile in manufacture, and by showing allegiance to VEKA, one of the world's leading suppliers, we are making a positive statement to the industry,’ he says. ‘A massive investment of £750,000 in new machinery reinforces our determination to increase productivity and secure more contracts.’ This investment includes a state of the art production line that has the capacity to produce even more windows per week than it is currently, placing Matrixx a step ahead of its competitors.

‘We mean business,’ continues Philip. ‘Unlike some companies, we are not in the habit of changing profile suppliers to secure the best deals. We signed with VEKA because the company is the best in the industry and for us, loyalty is a key issue. This long term relationship with VEKA reflects our determination to set industry standards for both product and service quality, with the backing of the VEKA brand supporting us all the way.’

In turn, VEKA relishes the opportunity to work with Matrixx, which has built an unbeatable reputation for delivering excellent quality and service across the board. ‘Matrixx has always presented a highly professional image,’ says Mark de Meza, Managing Director of VEKA. ‘With the recent investment in machinery and planned new showrooms, we feel that the company has great potential for the future and we look forward to a strong working relationship together.’

Messe Düsseldorf has announced the expansion of its activities in India. Starting with the Glasstechnology Show 2007, the company has entered into an exclusive long-term partnership with one of the leading trade fair organisers on the Indian subcontinent, Zak Trade Fairs & Exhibitions Pvt Ltd.

The Glasstechnology Show India has established itself as a presentation platform for the Asian glass industry - glass manufacturing, glass production technology, glass processing and finishing and glass applications - and is already considered to be the leading fair for the industry in India.

Together, the two trade fair organisers will strengthen the position of the Glasstechnology Show India. Beginning in December 2007, the event will take place annually, alternating between Mumbai and New Delhi, to become the meeting place for the entire glass industry and its partners on the Indian subcontinent. Technology seminars and expert workshops will also be included in the fair.

‘Many in the Home Improvements industry are glad to see the back of 2005,’ says Palmer in his latest Report on the Home Improvement Market for Windows, Doors and Conservatories. ‘There were some very sad stories, but the decline in the market for glazed home improvement products in 2005 was not nearly as dreadful as expected. The final fall in installed value was 'only' 3% in 2005 to £4.5 billion, although this disguises some larger volume falls in specific products.’

The decline resulted from a slowing in the housing market starting in 2004 continuing through to the first half of 2005. This report shows many interconnecting drivers of the home improvement market; the main one being the housing market - for instance 27% of replacement windows are bought within 12 months of a property move.

The good news is that in the second half of 2005, a surprise upturn ameliorated the trend of the first half. This ‘super resilience’ in the housing market was caused by the increase in new entrants; first time buyers and buy-to-let investors. Importantly, these two groups also generated a new surge in property purchases further up the chain (the potential buyers of home improvements), reversing the decline in the previous year.

By numbers of home improvement products installed, there were some declines which were the worst for ten years; windows, handicapped by replacement saturation, fell 61/2% and conservatories declined 71/2% as homeowners rebuilt balance sheets. Doors fared better because of concern for security.

PVC-U accounts for 73% of the market in value terms, but fell 3% in value in 2005. By contrast, wood products saw 21/2% growth.

Average prices for PVC-U products fell modestly in the year. But for wood products, driven by the trend to higher specification products in general, and factory finishing in particular, average prices continued upwards.

Average prices for conservatories, particularly in the direct sell sector, increased mainly as result of a swing from polycarbonate to glass roofs.

Considering all home improvements, the South of England saw best performance and the Midlands & Wales worst performance in 2005.

Palmer continues the valuable forecasts and suggests that for 2006 a mixed picture emerges, but overall predicts a further small decline. In 2007 a small recovery is expected, increasing through to 2010. But the annual increases will be only low single digit. Windows though, will continue to decline throughout the period, dogged as they are by replacement saturation.

Conservatories, on the other hand, will continue to grow with no such saturation in sight. But the rate of increase will be lower than was seen between 1994 and 2003.

Products covered by the report are
* Windows
* Conservatories
* Entrance Doors
* Sliding Patio Doors
* Hinged French Doors
* Secondary GlazingReport Format

Palmer's latest reports are designed for easy analysis with:
o Executive summary
o Charts adjacent to the commentary text to which they refer for easy assimilation
o Tables grouped at the end of each report section

This Report comes in two volumes, comprising:-
o Volume One - Main Findings and Forecast
o Volume Two - Research Details

In all there are:
* 181 pages
* 12 sections
* 107 tables of numeric and statistical data,
* 68 charts in the text illustrating the trends and comparisons.

Contents of this 2006 edition of the Market for Private Sector Home Improvements
Volume One
Executive Summary
1. 2005 Market
2. Market Drivers
3. Forecast to 2010
4. Tables
5. Economic Background

Volume Two
1. Window Market
2. Conservatory Market
3. Entrance Door Market
4. PVC-U Market
5. Wood Market
6. Aluminium Market
7. Regional Markets

What makes this report different?
Palmer Market Research has been operating in the Building Industry and related markets for 30 years, every report produced comprises:-
* Extensive historical information assuring consistency of interpretation
* Comprehensive market sampling to ensure the statistical validity
* Detailed personal interviews (here 636) to gather sufficient data and checking its correct application
* 'Desk research' to confirm that the interview results are compatible with other published data from official sources
* Personal involvement by Robert Palmer in analysing and publishing the report
* Discussions with clients to confirm, and modify where necessary, the way the information is presented for practical commercial use.
* On line telephone support for 12 months related to interpretation of the data.
* Free personal presentation of the report findings. This can be at client's offices or at a mutually acceptable location
* Free CD of the report charts in full colour

How do I get hold of it?
Price £5,900 + VAT for either hard copy or pdf format direct from:

Palmer Market Research
31 Victoria Road
Surbiton
Surrey KT6 4JT

According to a current study by the InterConnection Consulting Group, 76 million window units were sold in 2005 in the European Fenestration Market which corresponds to a growth rate of +0.6%. Despite these unsatisfactory figures, enough growth hot spots exist where firms can profit. The study provides detailed insight about the regions and segments where growth is the greatest.

2005 was the year of the long expected upturn in the European Window market, though the results were rather disappointing for many manufacturers. After the market overcame the recession in 2004 with a growth of +1.7%, the expectations have been high but with a growth of +0.6% in quantity one cannot say that the market has ‘gained momentum’.

Even the market growth of 2.3% in value does not upgrade the resignation since the price increases have been the natural result of higher energy costs and raw material prices, which put a great deal of pressure on manufacturers' margins.

Nevertheless, several factors are still encouraging. There are a good amount of growth hot spots in the Western European Window Market. One of the most promising markets is Northern Europe: in 2005 Norway, Sweden, and Finland grew by 6.5%, 7.9% and 5.4% respectively in quantity. After a further year of healthy increases, growth will drop off and even take a plunge in Finland in 2008. Also the French and the Spanish markets increased by more than 4% in the recent year. As well as in Northern Europe, growth rates will steadily decrease and then become negative in Spain after 2007.

The second largest market in Western Europe, namely Germany, is on the opposite path of France, Spain and the Nordic countries: the path to recovery. After a decrease of –6.6% in 2005, the crisis seems to be overcome. In 2006 the German market will steady and afterwards solid growth rates are expected, even reaching 5.5% in 2008.

One of the driving forces in the Western European Window Market in 2005 will be the renovation segment, which accounted for more than half of the market (54.6%). Due to European Union regulations and increasing heating costs, more and more windows with insufficient insulation will be replaced with new ones. The PVC manufacturers will benefit most from this development. At the same time though, the new construction segment will gain some momentum in the European Window Market, yet it won't hit the 2% mark for growth until 2008.

Concerning material groups, PVC windows, as already mentioned, will continue to increase its share. However, this will occur at a moderate rate because slight market saturation for PVC is already in sight in some countries.

The more expensive combination windows will carry on its increasing demand with up to 10% growth each year until 2008 when it will reach a market share of 7.5%.

Once again windows made of wood decreased by –1.7% in 2005, but soon the low point will be reached. In 2008, for the first time in years, positive growth rates will be achieved; yet the wooden window market will continue to develop slower than the total market. In the long run, it will find its customers more in niche segments than in the mass market.

Upon closer examination of the customer segments, the residential sector, which accounted for 65.3% last year, is the key factor for market growth in 2005 as well as in 2006. Still, in the long-term the much smaller non-residential segment will catch up and show better growth rates than the residential segment.

Even in a stagnant market, opportunities present themselves, and chances exist to boost sales by presenting the right product in the right region and the right segment. If one is flexible and quick enough to make appropriate strategic decisions, there is no reason for a recession.

Source: IC Consulting Group

About the Study:
The IC MARKET TRACKING® Windows in Western Europe study is a detailed market and sector analysis of the European Fenestration Market. It contains both quantitative numbers and values for 2000-2005, development forecasts through 2008f, and detailed turnover and sales data for the TOP-80 suppliers in Europe. The fenestration markets in the UK, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and Portugal were analysed. The study is available for purchase through InterConnection Consulting Group.

About IC Consulting Group:
The InterConnection Consulting Group, with headquarters in Vienna, is an international market research organisation which offers both sector- and company-specific solutions. ICG delivers exact data and facts about current markets, including their development, using the most modern market research techniques. More information about InterConnection can be found on the homepage http://www.interconnectionconsulting.com.

Tel: +43 1 5854623-13
Email: schurian@interconnectionconsulting.com

Hydro Building Systems, the world's largest supplier of aluminium building systems, has launched Wicona Projects - the first façade specialist in the UK to offer a complete turnkey service for the building envelope.

Wicona will oversee the full façade package for its unitised curtain walling system, from design concepts to fabrication, installation, testing and handover, giving architects, contractors and developers the benefit of a seamless approach and complete peace of mind.

The Wicona Projects team is (L-R) Robert Lyons - Project Engineer, Ian Smith - Business Development Manager (centre) and Paul Senior - Technical Advisor.

Wicona now has a dedicated base in the UK and a team with the expertise to offer a fully integrated service for the façade. This approach and the highly engineered unitised curtain wall will allow specifiers to apply Modern Methods of Construction to the building envelope by maximising off-site working, significantly improving quality and safety.

One of the most widely used and technically advanced unitised systems in Europe, the Wicona curtain wall can reduce time on site by up to 70 per cent and offers an infinite variety of aesthetic variations. It can also be adapted to specific project requirements and new designs can be developed for more complex façades.

Commenting on the launch of Wicona Projects in the UK, Bob Welsh, General Manager of Hydro Building Systems, said, ‘We felt the time was right to combine Wicona's highly engineered yet proven unitised curtain walling system with the most comprehensive design and façade management team in the UK and Ireland. Our vision is to bring all the advantages of off-site construction and a unique turnkey service to the building envelope - helping contractors and architects meet the increasing demands for shorter programmes and superior performance.’

‘Wicona's experience in unitised curtain walling spans two decades across Europe, during which time it has completed an impressive portfolio of applications, illustrating just what's possible with this technically advanced system.’

‘The addition of the Wicona brand to Hydro's portfolio means that with the success, continued expansion and increased demand for our Technal range of glazing systems, we are well placed to remain at the forefront of façade design in the UK, Ireland and across Europe.’

Wicona Projects will lead a team of specialists for every aspect of a façade project using its unitised system, including design, glass specification, fabrication and materials handling off site, transportation and on-site handling equipment, installation, testing and site auditing.

Wicona's unitised curtain walling system offers architects complete freedom in design, with a combination of profiles, external feature caps and glazing. The system is fully glazed and sealed off site and can incorporate stone cladding; metal, composite or polycarbonate panels; windows, doors and fixed light glazing; brise soleil sunshading and photovoltaic panels.

Web: http://www.wiconaprojects.co.uk

Following its appointment as a Kingspan Off-Site approved installer, Atspeed Steels and Lintels has now become part of the MMC Alliance, the association of approved installers and members dedicated to the principles of modern methods of construction (MMC). Between them, they can offer clients well over 400 façade solutions, based on Kingspan's 18 Kingframe Architectural Façade Systems.

The MMC Alliance membership category includes many of the country's leading façade products, fixing equipment and services companies. Jointly, the 55 members and installers provide clients with a single source capability, from design to off-site manufacturing, to installation and handover.

Currently, BRE Certification has been completed for eight systems for fire, acoustics, structure, thermal, airtightness, weather, impact resistance, and lifetime durability performance. The remaining ten systems are undergoing certification.

‘Our link with Kingspan is proving very exciting,’ said Andy Thompson, Atspeed's managing director. ‘There is a lot of interest in this type of construction method at the moment from both specifiers and builders. When I asked Jack Lemley, Chairman of the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) at a recent Construction Products Association (C.P.A) event, how important did he consider Modern Methods of Construction were for the Olympic project? He said such off-site solutions were likely to be crucial to meeting project deadlines. Becoming part of the MMC Alliance increases our exposure within the construction industry and adds a level of customer service that I'm sure will prove invaluable in the long term.’

In addition to the many imaginative and individual facades available, bespoke highways for building services routing are provided within the Kingframe façade frame by means of pre-engineered penetrations. At the same time, Kingframe can accommodate numerous internal linings including plasterboard, cellulose board, and other specialist fire and acoustic linings.

The MMC Alliance, in providing its single source service to architects and developers, is promoting still further off-site systems construction with all the benefits that entails, like cost control, speed of construction, quality control, and improved H&S monitoring.

Tel: 01403 864950
Web: http://www.atspeed.co.uk

The Euro-Secure Door Cylinder Clamp developed by Laird Security Hardware has been recognised for its innovative design in the Construction Products Association's 2006 edition of Construction Products Innovation and Achievement (CPIA).

Developed by Laird Security Hardware the cylinder clamp is a simple but innovative solution to the vulnerability of Euro-profile locking cylinders.

Manufactured from durable extruded aluminium or zinc alloy the clamp is secured to the locking cylinder by two grub screws.

Once the cylinder is re- positioned within the lock the clamp is secured in place by high tensile fixing bolts drilled through the door edge or face.

Security tested to meet the recent amendments to PAS 023 / 024 the cylinder clamp is designed for most profile cylinders and may be fitted either during manufacturer or simply retro-fitted on site.

The Euro-Secure cylinder clamp is a practical inexpensive solution that responds to the growing concerns in the national press for substantial improvements to the security of residential doors.

Commenting on the award, Steve Stewart LSH Sales Director says ‘this is an excellent achievement for a superb product and which highlights Laird's commitment to the development of innovative solutions for improvements in door security.’

Tel: 0121 224 6000
Email: marketing@lairdsecurity.co.uk

Luvipol is Spain's leading door exporter, producing over 2,500 doors a day, and the company has been supplying doors to the UK since 1975. The company developed the Empire range of doors specifically for the UK market and has seen sales soar in recent years.

Luvipol has recently become a member of the BM TRADA Q-Mark Certification Scheme, a move that the company sees as a natural progression for the increasing growth in sales of its fire doors.

‘Obviously we have always had our products tested by third party independent assessors but we have chosen BM TRADA for the benefits of its Q-Mark Fire Door Scheme,’ explains Malcolm Gault, UK spokesman for Luvipol. ‘Of significant interest to us is the identification feature, a plastic plug placed discreetly in the leaf or frame of the certified doorset. This enables instant recognition by specifiers and building control officials that the fire door meets all the criteria required through the comprehensive testing procedure.’

As a Q-Mark member, Luvipol receives personal attention targeted at analysing the requirements for the testing procedures to achieve product certification. With over 20 years' experience in operating product certification schemes, BM TRADA is a renowned source that confirms that a product has been properly tested and appraised and that it is manufactured to a consistently high standard. Luvipol is currently using BM TRADA to achieve BS 476: Part 22: 1987 for the Empire fire door, a composite door with a chipboard core, manufactured with a quality finish.

Tel: 01494 569607
Email: qmark@bmtrada.com
Web: http://www.bmtrada.com

Safestyle UK Scores Winner at Leeds United

With the new season just a few weeks old, Safestyle UK, the independent replacement window and door installer, has been signed up to give Leeds United's campaign for promotion and a return to Premiership soccer a head start.

The new deal, for an undisclosed but ‘significant’ sum, will see Safestyle UK become the ‘Official Home Improvement Partner’ during the coming year and is the third significant platinum sponsorship deal since the end of last season at Elland Road.

The deal will see the company and the ambitious Yorkshire club combining on several projects at the ground with its huge fan base easily recognising the partnership's potential through Safestyle's award-winning and successful celebrity-led marketing campaigns on television and radio.

John Ross, the Chief Executive of the Style Group, parent company of Safestyle, explained: ‘As a company we have established a reputation over the last 14 years for providing high quality products and services at affordable prices and I am sure our support of a team not only as big and traditionally successful as Leeds but also one at the heart of the local community will be a winner.

A bright outlook for the new season? Style Group UK Chief Executive John Ross (left) and Leeds United Chairman Ken Bates (right) admire the Elland Road ground having completed the new sponsorship deal.

‘The Club has a massive following worldwide and attracts supporters from all walks of life. Consequently it will provide us with a unique opportunity to communicate with one of the largest and most loyal fan bases in football. There will be a particular emphasis on the Club's wide variety of media channels including the recently launched Leeds United TV, Radio and web site.’

United's new Head of Commercial, Steve Lewis, added: ‘We always welcome new signings on and off the field and we are grateful to all at Safestyle UK for their valuable support. We particularly look forward to working with them on the many exciting projects we have planned for this season.’

Safestyle UK is part of the Style Group UK Limited which has headquarters in Bradford and has a large manufacturing unit at Wombwell, near Barnsley where it is the area's largest single employer - all in United's substantial catchment area. The company manufactured and installed more than £100m worth of windows and doors in the last year and it is now the largest independent company of its type in the United Kingdom with over 40 branches from South to North and its own transport fleet.

Sheerlite installer Coalville Glass and Glazing says that it has seen conservatory volumes go through the roof as its newbuild customers throughout the Midlands opt for high quality conservatories as part of their offering.

The company, which builds its conservatories using Sheerframe windows and doors in combination with the Sheerlite roof system, is currently installing an average of five or six conservatoires per week, principally for house builders.

Coalville continues to work with Benfield Construction at the prestigious Lime Tree Village retirement development near Rugby where it has already installed 35 conservatories. The company is also working with several other leading house builders throughout the Midlands.

After fabricating the Sheerframe system for almost ten years, Coalville Glass and Glazing decided to switch to the Sheerlite roof from Ultraframe in 2005. This move has proved to be a real success according to Coalville's Andy Whitehorn:

‘Switching over to the Sheerlite system has made life much easier for us, as now all our products come from one supplier. Also, the colour always matches up to the frames and we can give our customers a complete conservatory, which has been a really good selling point.’

He continues, ‘We have installed numerous conservatories for leading regional house builders using the Sheerlite roof and the results have been great. Sheerlite has enabled us to diversify fully into conservatories and expand our product offering whilst maintaining the aesthetic qualities that our customers expect from us.

‘New build always used to be windows only but now house builders have realised that adding a conservatory to a house will result in easier sales with better profit margins. Nearly a quarter of our yearly turnover is now from conservatory sales, so this is definitely a growth area for us.’

Complaint Against Keystone Group Upheld by ASA

A complaint objecting to a brochure for Keystone Group t/a Keylite Roof Windows Ltd, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone was upheld according to information published by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

Ad
A brochure for Keylite Roof Windows (Keylite) stated ‘Extensive testing has been carried out on the Keylite range of windows by Dr J.M. Taylor Msc MCIOB LCG in the Centre of Sustainable Technologies at the University of Ulster. Keylite achieved the highest class in the standard for resistance to penetration by air and water.’

Issue
Velux Company Ltd (Velux) challenged whether Keylite could substantiate the claim ‘Keylite achieved the highest class in the standard for resistance to penetration by air and water’ because they believed there was no standard for resistance to penetration by air and water.

Response
Keylite said they had previously told Velux that they received the accreditation from the University of Ulster. They made no further comment and sent no evidence to support their claim.

Assessment
Complaint upheld
We noted Keylite's response and that the brochure stated the testing had been carried out at the University of Ulster. We considered, however, that because we had not seen evidence to substantiate it, the claim was misleading.

The ad breached CAP Code clauses 3.1 (Substantiation) and 7.1 (Truthfulness).

Action
We told Keylite to remove the claim from their advertising and reminded them that they should hold evidence to substantiate all claims before publishing and that that evidence should be sent to us on request.

Established sealed unit manufacturer, Omega Glass of Gwent has expanded its product range by manufacturing a complete range of windows, doors and conservatories utilising Deceuninck’s 2800 Decorative system.

The company, now called Omega Glass and PVC-U Products, was an established trade supplier of sealed glass units. Operating in a 25 mile radius of its base, it was known for its high quality products and reliable service. But the company was keen to move to the next level. It decided to become a one stop shop, manufacturing windows, doors and conservatories all complete with the company’s sealed glass units.

After extensive market research, Omega decided that the answer was Deceuninck’s 2800 Decorative Suite and the system went into production in January this year. Omega was drawn to the benefits it offered customers as well as manufacturers. The system’s soft features and style mean it is renowned as a design classic that suits every type of property. As manufacturers, Omega was impressed with the technical intelligence of the product which offers benefits to the customer but also allows ease of fabrication.

Robert Postians, Omega’s Director, said, ‘We were impressed with Deceuninck’s product when we first saw it. We were also impressed by the professionalism and support of their Business Development Manager, Ian Miller. It suggested Deceuninck would help us maintain and enhance our reputation for quality and service, and that has indeed proved to be the case. Deceuninck and the 2800 Decorative system have exceeded all our expectations and we are already fabricating around 80 frames per week, an excellent growth in any market, especially this one.’

For more information on the products from Omega Glass and PVC-U products call 01495 244377.

The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF), the voice of the UK door and hardware industry, has opened its doors to suppliers of domestic security gates in a bid to raise levels of safety.

It has formed a specialist domestic security gates group which has been charged with the task of raising awareness amongst suppliers of the need to comply with safety legislation.

The move, which has been welcomed by the Health & Safety Executive, follows the recent tragic death of a nine year old boy from Dorset who was crushed by electronic gates. The Health & Safety Executive are currently investigating the case.

The DHF, which represents all the UK’s leading door, shutter and garage door makers and manufacturers of building hardware and architectural ironmongery, has been working with the Health & Safety Executive to update HSE safety guidelines on the correct use of power operated shutters and grilles.

Said DHF chief executive officer Ian Wood: 'This tragic death has brought into sharp focus the need for fencing contractors, security companies and other suppliers of domestic security gates to understand their obligations under the legislation.

'Any powered gate must comply with both the BS EN 13241-1 product standard and the Machinery Directive because they are officially classed as machinery. Yet many suppliers, especially those in the security industry, do not realise that powered gates are classed as machinery.

'We have long experience of helping our member companies supply doors, shutters and garage doors which comply with the many technical and legislative demands placed on them. Obligations can include not only compliance with BS EN Standards and the Machinery Directive, but also CE marking and the provision of technical construction files and declarations of conformity.

'We are now extending that expertise to all suppliers of domestic security gates by setting up this new specialist group within the federation and we are inviting suppliers to join.'

For more information about how to join the new domestic security gates group, contact the DHF Secretary, 01827 52337 / info@dhfonline.org.uk. For more information on the DHF, visit the website, http://www.dhfonline.org.uk

The Chalcots Estate, Camden, designed by Dennis Lennon and Partners and built in 1965-70 has recently been granted PFI approval after almost seven years of consultation with Government.

With an injection of £65 million from central Government this £100 million plus well documented PFI renovation project, was one of the first to be put forward under the new PFI scheme back in 1999.

Included in the new scheme will be a complete overcladding of the five tower blocks which will be supplied by UK overcladding specialist CEP Architectural Facades and installed by specialist cladding contractor, Harley Curtain Walling Limited.

Designed by HTA Architects, the revised and now approved PFI scheme, will complement the original architects designs which graces the North London skyline.

The existing roofs, cladding and windows have failed after 30 years and this overcladding element of the renovation will be first to be completed before internal finishes and services can be installed.

The £16 million overcladding sub-contract awarded to Harley, will be the largest single project entered into by CEP Architectural Facades and Harley Curtain Walling.

Materials supplied by CEP Facades include 4 300 dual colour, top hung, Schuco composite windows, which is equivalent to 17 870 square metres of glazing and 28 000 square meters of rainscreen overcladding.

CEP's direct Fixed 'Etalbond ACM' has been specified for the rainscreen panel which is fixed onto CEP's aluminium support system and includes integrated horizontal and vertical fire barriers.

The main contract has been awarded to Rydon Construction. The scheme will begin on site later this year and will prove to be one of the largest overcladding projects of its kind in the UK.

Tel: +44 (0) 1744 617175
Web: http://www.overcladding.com

The senior management team at John Fredericks has acquired 30 per cent of the company's share capital.

Additional investment has also been secured from the existing institutional shareholders Northern Venture Managers and Yorkshire Fund Managers.

Announcing the deal, Kevin Hill, managing director of John Fredericks, said: ‘We are delighted to have secured this investment which will be used to fund capital expenditure. In addition, it will underpin our plans for further profitable growth. I am particularly pleased that the senior management team at John Fredericks - Alan Barnard, Jim Hodson, Adrian Snee, Martin Hall and Wasim Afzal, together with the chairman David Fletcher - has chosen to participate in the buy-in.’

(Left to right) Kevin Hill (MD), David Fletcher (chairman), Wasim Afzal, Martin Hall, Adrian Snee, Alan Barnard and Jim Hodson

A Clear Option for K2 Glass

K2 Glass has extended its range to offer Celsius Clear, a neutral alternative to the core blue-tinted Celsius range, ensuring that thermal performance glazing can be installed throughout a conservatory installation.

Explains Sharon Owen, Sales Manager of K2 Glass: ‘Celsius Performance Glass has been extraordinarily successful, with sales consistently exceeding its targets since the company first started marketing the product in 2003 and turnover has doubled year on year throughout the past four years. This has been the result of more and more end users realising the temperature control, energy efficiency and aesthetic benefits of high performance glass.’

‘We were finding that an increasing number of enquiries were coming through for the complete Celsius conservatory and not just as roof glazing. We developed Celsius Clear to offer an alternative in response to trade and consumer demands for thermal performance glass.’

Offering 58% more solar reflection than standard glass with a 50% improvement in thermal efficiency, Celsius Clear helps to keep the conservatory cooler during Summer and warmer during Winter, helping to reduce heating bills. The homeowner is then free to enjoy the benefits of a complete Celsius conservatory with a neutral option.

Lister Trade Frames of Stoke on Trent has made 'C' Energy Rated windows the company’s standard frame. Now all Listers customers receive 28mm Argon filled Super Spacer units at no extra cost.

Lister gained 'C', 'B' and 'A' energy rating certification for both its sculptured and chamfered window systems in April this year and says that it remains one of the few companies to have achieved this.

‘We believe that this new standard is the best thing to hit our industry for years. It benefits the home owner, the environment and it makes it a lot easier to sell windows.’ Says Phil Warren, Listers Sales Director. ‘The customer saves money on their heating bills. That helps to cut carbon emissions. They are already looking for better ways to insulate their home with loft and cavity wall insulation and now they can buy energy rated windows too! It's an easy sell.’

Lister says that it is one of the first trade window companies in the UK to make a 'C' rated product its standard offering so how can the company afford to do it without raising the price?

‘Lister has always aimed to be ahead of the field’ says Phil, ‘and sooner or later 'C' rated windows will be the industry standard. We just want to give that to our customers before anyone else does, and at an affordable price, so we've cut our margins a little while benefiting from simplifying what we offer. But we aren't daft! We are also doing it to increase the demand for our products.’

Not only has Lister started to supply the new product, but has also produced a full range of selling and marketing materials to go with it, including sales literature, samples and even a certificate of compliance and completion pack for the house owner.

As the market continues to be difficult, Lister says that it is one of the few companies to be seeing growth in window sales with July figures showing a 6% increase over last year, and that was before the company launched its new energy window.

Tel: 01782 205605
Web: http://www.listertf.co.uk

Competitive Edge from Yale for Multipoint Customers

A new and very much improved Installer Scheme has been launched by the Multipoint Locking Division of Yale UK.

'We have talked to our fabricator and installer customers and from their comments and advice we have developed a Scheme that we are confident will prove popular, easy to administer and most importantly, will boost business for our Multipoint customers' , says Sarah Massey, Marketing Manager for Yale UK.

'The new Yale Installer Scheme gives fabricators and installers all the selling power of the Yale brand, a brand that has 98% recognition, and is associated across the world with trust, reliability and value. This level of recognition is what will distinguish our Installer Scheme members from their competitors'.

Yale's substantial backing for this new membership scheme includes website access and a host of support literature and merchandise, all encapsulated in a self-explanatory sales pack that can be applied for directly from Yale by the installer. Fabricators wanting to use Yale Installer Scheme membership as a selling tool to boost their own business are also invited to apply.

The support package includes a range of 'Yale' branded merchandise including clothing and livery, together with a cd of ready-made artwork for press advertisements. The Scheme also allows members to promote their business on the Yale website, which attracts more than 25,000 hits per month. Members will have their contact details and website link appear on the main Yale website, as well as online access to a host of marketing materials in a secure members area – coming soon.

'There is firm commitment from Yale for this Scheme. Our Multipoint business is very important to the company and we are putting considerable resource behind its development to make it work and continue working on an ongoing basis', adds Massey.

Confidence in the new Scheme's operation and sales value is already in evidence with Yale’s largest multipoint locking distributor, IFI Ltd taking it on board. For information contact Sarah Massey at Yale on 01902 364647 or Martin Willimer at IFI on 01733 370333.

frameXpress based in Telford is one of the first fabricators to be selected to produce new FS70 windows. The FS70 profile from Profile 22 is fashioned to replicate the appearance of timber windows, providing many benefits for installers who want to provide the highest standards in almost any window configuration.

With the ongoing investment in technical developments at frameXpress, the company has a progressive approach to production and considers the FS70 system will give many benefits to customers.

A rigorous development programme was initiated 18 months ago by senior management at frameXpress to ensure that manufactured products would be capable of exceeding the new stringent energy rating stipulations that will be introduced in April 2007.

The FS70 windows produced at frameXpress are manufactured with an extra thermal break chamber in the frame which significantly improves the thermal energy rating. This product has been specially designed with a sculptured frame that includes low glazing gaskets which create a slimline window that has a larger glass area, giving windows more light.

The new technical advancements introduced at frameXpress, have enabled the company to develop a much broader product portfolio. Windows produced by frameXpress using the FS70 system are more energy and cost efficient. Stuart Green, Director comments, ‘We consider that the FS70 has many benefits for installers as it is the closest product on the market that can replicate the look of timber. White or woodgrain options are available in either Antique Oak or Rosewood and the handles and high security locks that provide guaranteed performance are fitted as standard.’

He continues, ‘We consider that only the highest standards are acceptable in terms of our products and their performance levels. The FS70 enables us to diversify our product range whilst complementing other existing products we have to offer. The four chamber profile of the FS70 supports our claim to provide our customers with superior standards.’

Tel: 01952 581100
Email: sales@frameXpress.co.uk

Feedback from Fabricators for Wendland

Wendland Roof Solutions has introduced its new Fabricator Forum to customers to further open up the lines of communication between the company and its key clients. The concept is going to be based around seminars, product launches and a feedback forum.

Each newsletter issued on this online facility will include a series of questions on the services and product ranges offered by Wendland to allow fabricators to give their feedback on relevant issues and will also include feedback on changes, product updates.

‘As part of our customer service policy, we are giving our fabricators this unique and constant opportunity to address key issues,’ comments Wendland marketing executive Emma Perry. ‘Thereby, we get to know what fabricators want and the fabricators benefit because we listen and analyse their responses and where possible, provide solutions.’

Typical topics for discussion include profile length, suggestions for marketing support and other topics that might facilitate the fabricating process. From the replies and suggestions received, Wendland is able to assess market demand and act accordingly.

‘We urge all of our customers to take full advantage of the Fabricators Forum,’ continues Emma. ‘This is a genuine opportunity for them to have their say on what is important and is part of our commitment to excel in customer relations. And we want our fabricators to be a part of shaping the future of the company’

Cervoglass, the conservatory roof glass specialist, has instigated a corporate expansion phase. This has involved a structured and ongoing recruitment and development programme.

Due to the sheer increase in volume for the company's products, it has been essential to appoint a Transport Manager at the firm, to ensure the nationwide delivery of products remains punctual and efficient.

Additionally, two extra vehicles have also been purchased complementing the existing fleet and allowing nationwide delivery to site or factory within 5-7 days.

Cervoglass is a recognisable name in the conservatory roof glass industry and says that it is recognised for providing quality products and superior standards, from manufacture through to output and final delivery.

Graham Price Managing Director comments, ‘It has been statistically proven that we are the number one user of Pilks Activ Blue conservatory roof glass. More people are choosing to use our products because of the diversity of the product range. The expansion of various departments within the company is a natural progression for us to ensure that we maintain our high standards.’

Tel: 0151 622 6604

Strong growth for Launceston Window Store

As Ian Batten celebrates his first year as Branch Manager, Launceston Window Store, on Pennygillam Industrial Estate, is celebrating strong growth and a successful 12 months.

Ian joined PVC-U building product specialist Window Store three years ago as a driver, after serving in the British Army, and quickly showed his potential as a manager. ‘I have had the benefit of working with a strong team, and put our achievement down to good local knowledge and outstanding customer service... and dogged hard work,’ he explains.

Established in 1976, Window Store has 15 branches across South Wales and southern England, so there is always a branch handy for installers, builders, contractors and DIY enthusiasts.

Over the years, Window Store says that it has built a strong reputation for supplying competitively priced, high quality PVC-U building products backed by friendly, knowledgeable service. Products include windows, doors, conservatories, roofline, cladding and rainwater goods, and all the tools, fixings and sealants to ensure every job can be completed to a professional standard. Made-to-measure products can be supplied quickly and every branch offers a free CAD design drawing service and convenient local delivery.

For information on products and services or for a quote, telephone Ian at Launceston Window Store on 01566 777577 or visit http://www.windowstoreplastics.com to find your local branch.

GAP customer, A. Holden's Ltd has recently opened a new trade centre in Cumbria.

The centre is a £25,000 conversion and extension of the existing warehouse and primarily stocks GAP products.

Anthony Holden, A. Holdens Managing Director comments: ‘The warehouse was very small but with the added space not only do we stock more products but 95% of those we do stock are GAP.’

Anthony continues: ‘We first knew of GAP when a customer came in asking for a very specialised door panel, GAP had the answer. Since then our relationship has continued to go from strength to strength.

'We use GAP because it is a first class company and it has a vast product range: Including it's in-house brand, Homeline, which allows us to base our purchasing decisions on quality, not price. And since using GAP, the volume of sales has increased steadily.’

Tel: 01254 682888

Masterwood's New MasterWindow System Does it All

Masterwood has announced an advance in the design and production of wooden windows with the launch of its MasterWindow system.

Based on a combination of a Masterwood CNC machining centre and the company's specialist software, the company says that it slashes set-up and production times to a fraction of other window-making machines.

It produces all the major types of windows used in the UK and Ireland, whether standard or bespoke. These range from Georgian style box sash and tilt and turn to traditional casement and arch type windows.

Windowmaker is suitable for small or medium sized manufacturers who produce small batches or bespoke windows, however complex, and large manufacturers who have the occasional need to make small batches or bespoke windows and do not wish to interrupt large runs on their Window Lines.

Masterwork is the basic software package that lets the operator generate his own programs for machining individual pieces.

MasterWindow and Master Sliding Sash are CAD/CAM packages that allow the design of a wide variety of window types in different 'parametric' dimensions and generate the machining programs.

With MasterWindow, like all Masterwood software, users are taken step-by-step through the design and setting-up stages prior to the machining of all the frame, sash and facia components.

Master Sliding Sash lets you design and produce the three main types of double-hung sliding sash windows; box, spiral and tilting. It automatically produces a complete cutting list and drawing of every component, plus all the machining programmes, in a matter of minutes.

It can design them in either rectangular, half-round or segmented arch shapes. In addition, it caters for combinations of different types of sashes within the same window.

The glazing for each sash is selected from the software's library and is dealt with in the cutting list, with the appropriate machining requirements taken into consideration. The software also covers 'real' and false' glazing bars, again developing the appropriate cutting list and machining program.

Masterwood's Automatic Table (AT) system, when linked with MasterWindow and Master AT software, directs the automatic and optimum positioning and re-positioning of the clamps on the machining centre's bed.

Once the operator has loaded all the pieces, all processes, including cutting, moulding, milling, profiling, boring and tenoning, take place in a single cycle with no further manual handling needed.

MasterWindow reduces production times considerably. A single sash window comprising of eight pieces with beading and measuring 900mm wide x 1000mm high x 56mm deep, manufactured with tenon joints in masking time, takes approximately nine minutes to produce. Set-up time for the next window is less than 10 seconds.

A spiral sliding sash window measuring 1000mm wide x 1500mm high x 56 deep comprising of 12 pieces takes approximately 16 minutes to produce.

Said Masterwood (UK) Ltd managing director, Russell Corlett:
'MasterWindow is designed especially for window-making, not adapted from a general machining centre.

'It's a single integrated system. We manufacture the machine and produce the entire specialist operating software. If users do experience a problem they will not be referred to a third-party software house or face exasperation because the software engineer says it's a machining problem and the CNC manufacturer's engineer says it's a software problem.'

A CD Rom on MasterWindow is available from Masterwood (UK) Ltd by calling 01436 675 000 or emailing masterwooduk@aol.com

In order to get the best out of the company's new conservatory system, Baltic Conservatories, the manufacturer of timber conservatories, turned to RPS to supply software capable of managing the entire process from beginning to end.

The Baltic sales team was already using RoofWright, the popular RPS conservatory design programme, to make sales. Producing realistic 3D representations of customers dream conservatories, RoofWright showcases Baltic's new designs, with accurate images of the conservatory superimposed on the customer's house helping to close hundreds of deals.

Meanwhile, the comprehensive pricing mechanisms ensure that the customer can be given an accurate, competitive price, which includes all the components of a complex bespoke manufacture and installation process.

But successful sales are only the beginning of the process for a company of Baltic's size and reputation. Orders made using the RoofWright sales tool are entered on the new Rapidity system from RPS, which makes sure that every step of the complex process from first contact through to design, build and installation, is completed in a timely and cost effective manner.

Rapidity takes the designs created in RoofWright and automatically generates precise cutting and construction details, making them available to employees at every stage of the production process. And because Rapidity oversees everything from the shopfloor to the warehouse, the required components are automatically ordered and stored, right where they need to be for problem-free manufacturing.

Chris Tranter, Sales and Technical Support Manager for Baltic Pine, said of the powerful Rapidity software suite: 'The program gives us the freedom to involve our customers in the creation of their dream conservatory. They're able to see how their lifestyles are going to change without a brick even being laid, and we can manufacture to their exact specifications with effortless ease, safe in the knowledge that the same information is used at every stage. Rapidity is an amazing package that never ceases to amaze.'

The result: happy customers and a profitable business for Baltic Conservatories.

For more information on Rapidity, contact RPS on 0161 426 0465 or email sales@rpsys.co.uk

For more information on Baltic Conservatories contact:
Tel: 0800 0326 112
Web: http://www.balticconservatories.co.uk

MB Distribution the maintenance free building product specialist has recently opened a new retail showroom at its premises in Middlesbrough. Among the many products on display the showroom is Freefoam’s interior decorative panelling system, Geo-panel.

Geo-panel is an interior decorative panelling system. It is available in a range of 19 different designs and colours and is a hygienic, low maintenance, installer friendly alternative to traditional tiling. Geo-panel’s design ensures a watertight finish between each panel giving it waterproof properties and making it ideal for bathroom walls and ceilings. It is also suitable for a wide range of additional applications in homes, offices and in industrial applications where hygiene is a key factor.

Michael Greenup, Director of MB Distribution, comments 'the amount of people renovating or revamping their bathrooms and kitchens is increasing all the time which shows that there is a substantial market for both MB Distribution and Freefoam to tap in to. Our new deluxe showroom enables customers to view the impressive Geo-panel range and demonstrates how the product looks in real life.'

For more information or to receive a Geo-panel sample swatch, contact Freefoam directly on 01604 759871 in the UK, 021 4911055 in Ireland, or email marketing@freefoam.com