Orion
Window Systems Switches to Rehau
Newton
Abbot-based trade and commercial fabricator Orion Window Systems has announced
that it has begun fabricating in the Rehau PVC-U system.
After 15 years fabricating in Schüco PVC-U, Orion has chosen a system
with a similar reputation for quality and performance and one which it
believes can provide the platform for further future growth.
The company is now fabricating in the 60mm REHAU-Tritec system, 70mm S706
system and the new REHAU-Heritage vertical slider system.
Shaun Western, Production Director at Orion, expects both existing and
potential customers to be excited at the announcement. He says: ‘By
choosing the Rehau system, we are giving our existing customers exactly
what they want in terms of quality and durability; and we also now have
the opportunity to target new customers who are looking for a reliable
source of high quality Rehau frames from a manufacturer in the south.
‘The Rehau system enables us to offer a very wide product range including
REHAU-Tritec frames for trade customers with the popular integral silver
gaskets, REHAU-Tritec specifier frames for the commercial market with
a choice of gaskets, S706 70mm frames and REHAU-Heritage vertical sliders.
‘Orion intends to become the premier supplier of Rehau across the
southern half of the UK and we plan to increase volume capacity in our
fully automated factory from our existing 1,800 frames per week.’
Orion was set up in 1990 and has worked closely with its customer base
since then to help them grow their businesses alongside its own success.
Shaun adds: 'Our partnership with Rehau is further evidence of our commitment
to our customers and we are confident it will have long term benefits
not just for Orion but also for the installers who buy from us.’
Speed
Frame opens 1st Trade and Builder Depot
Pro-Fix
Installations North East Ltd, an existing customer of Speed Frame for
over 5 years, has recently relocated into a new unit on the latest phase
of the Blaydon Trade Estate, Gateshead. The Depot is situated in a prime
location off Chainbridge Road within easy reach of the A1.
Pro-Fix historically has been mainly an installation company servicing
Speed Frame’s New Build contracts throughout the North East. Richard
Hawley, Managing Director & Co Owner with his wife Susan has worked
in the industry for over 10 years, before branching out on his own. Pro-fix
has been successfully trading for 9 years and has now formed a partnership
with Speed Frame to become the first Speed Frame Trade and Builder Depot.
The new depot unit comprises 290 sq metres of showroom space. The showroom
exhibit includes two full size conservatories and a variety of composite
doors. There are over a dozen windows set into purpose built brick displays,
showing Georgian bar, lead effect resin, tilt and turns, bay windows,
all set in house façades. There is also a fully functioning display
of how the company’s cavity closer works.
The depot also accommodates a trade counter and large storage area, selling
stocked off the shelf products and providing a first class service to
New Build and Trade customers alike.
For information on Speed Frame Trade and Builder Depot, Gateshead contact
Richard Hawley on 0191 4144105
Or for more information on becoming the next Speed Frame Trade and Builder
Depot contact Paul Spencer on 01709 888005.
Richard and Susan Hawley, Proprietors of Pro-Fix
with the team
Malcolm Smith CEO, Speed Frame presents commemorative plaque to Richard
and Susan
WHS
Halo Takes the Heat out of Understanding WER
As
the market becomes increasingly aware of the implications of Window Energy
Ratings (WER), so the level of confusion and need for precise explanatory
information has risen.
Conscious of this need for clarity of understanding WER, and in order
to ensure fabricators are as well informed as possible, WHS Halo has prepared
a WER 'Ready Reckoner' as part of its In Business Together business and
technical support programme.
The Reckoner provides a simple schematic overview of the elements that
need to be taken into consideration and the practical steps required to
actually prepare for WER submission.
These are supported by detailed, yet straightforward, guidance notes on
a host of relevant topics from Quality Management Systems, and frame and
glass specifications to air leakage testing and certified simulation agencies.
WHS Halo is a Certified Simulator in its own right and members of its
In Business Together programme receive individual WER calculations free
of charge - a saving of as much as £800 per window compared to those
from independent consultants.
The company's In Business Together package, launched in 1991, is a business
support and training programme that provides fabricators and installers
with 'cradle to grave' assistance with all stages of business development
from launch to exit; and covers a host of critical areas from marketing,
management and technical skills through to improving profitability and
growth.
Tel: 0121 749 3000
Web: http://www.whs-halo.co.uk
Chiltern
Dynamics Invests in Vertical Sliding Sash Test Facility
Chiltern
Dynamics has invested in a testing rig for vertically sliding sash windows
to meet demand from manufacturers who wish to undergo the rigorous testing
required by BS 7950:1997 for enhanced security performance of windows
for domestic applications.
The standard has only recently been extended to cover this type of window
but as Chiltern Dynamics Deputy Test Manager Vincent Kerrigan explained,
‘we decided to commission the rig early, to be ready as soon as the
revised standard was published. The first manufacturer to pass the test
programme was sash specialist Masterframe Ltd. The testing includes:
* Manual manipulation
* Manual glazing removal
* Mechanical glazing removal
* Mechanical loading and
* Manual check.’
Mr Kerrigan said, 'There is no doubt that this is a tough standard, but
it is also fair. The very design of vertical sliding sash windows means
that they do have unique points to overcome with regard to security, such
as the robustness of the sash lock and issues with regard to tilt/latch
systems.'
Chiltern Dynamics can work with clients from the design stage and will
help them extend their scope if they wish. 'We are not designers, but
we know windows and the areas of weakness that a test will uncover. We
will therefore work closely with the manufacturer to ensure that obvious
weaknesses are ironed out before the test takes place.'
The advent of security-tested sash windows is good news for designers
working on Secured by Design developments. To be accepted, all ground
floor windows and those easily accessible above ground floor must have
the necessary test evidence, which manufacturers can now offer if they
pass the BS 7950 test programme.
'There has been a good deal of interest from manufacturers since Masterframe
announced its success at Interbuild,' Mr Kerrigan added.
Tel: 01494 569800
Email pandrews@chilternfire.co.uk
Swift
Frame Focuses on Customer Service
Swift
Frame is offering its approved installers and distributors Windowlink's
Focus Plus sales presentation and pricing program to give them a competitive
edge in today's challenging marketplace.
The easy-to-use software enables the production of professional-looking
quotations for doors and windows, complete with accurate prices. The package
is being made available as part of the Norwich-based fabricator's new
comprehensive marketing support scheme.
Windowlink's programming team has designed the software's pricing module
to mirror Swift's printed price list. The integrated pricing processor
eliminates time-consuming manual pricing calculations and the potential
for making costly mistakes. The program also includes a list of Swift's
product options, including frame styles, handles and locking systems,
which can be selected on screen during the ordering process. The effect
any changes in the specification may have on the overall price, such as
the choice of finish or type of hardware, can also be calculated at the
click of a button. Once the quotation is completed on screen, photo-quality
print-outs can be produced as part of an impressive sales presentation.
Richard Iles, Swift Frame's Sales Director, believes Windowlink's proven
electronic sales tool will enable its customers to save both time and
money as well as help to secure a sale: ‘With Focus Plus customers
can prepare a quotation on screen much faster than from our hard copy
price list and with computer-assured accuracy. And the built-in checklist
ensures that nothing is inadvertently missed off, so reducing the possibility
of order delays and disputes. In addition to existing clients, we're also
presenting Focus Plus to new and potential customers as a means of enhancing
their overall image and service.’
Swift Frame's purpose built extrusion and frame manufacturing plant in
Norwich boasts cutting edge technology, including robotic handling, making
Swift one of the most technically advanced PVC-U window manufacturers
in the world. And as the recent investment in Focus Plus shows, the company
is now encouraging its customers to embrace the latest technology with
this new support initiative.
Richard Iles adds: ‘A significant number of our key trade and retail
customers have already installed Focus Plus and we're expecting at least
50 or so to be using it over the coming months and enjoying the many business
benefits it offers and in this competitive market place we feel it will
give our customers that extra edge that may help to secure those extra
sales.’
Tel: 0870 7701640
Web: http://www.windowlink.com
Human
Garden Habits are Thrown into the Limelight
As
the BBC begins to unveil the latest data from its annual Springwatch survey,
the UK provider of next generation PVCu decking and fencing, Fitrite,
has made public the results of nationwide research that reveals the garden
habits of UK homeowners.
Involving over 1,000 homeowners across the country the results revealed
that the most popular garden activity was to entertain friends. In order
of popularity the other activities that people enjoy most in their gardens
are: to sit and relax, watch the children play, BBQ and to carry-out some
gardening tasks.
The Midlands and the North of England were the regions that liked to entertain
friends most with Scotland being the BBQ capital of the country. Wales
and SW England contained the most enthusiastic gardeners with the people
of South East England happy to sit back and watch the children play.
Commenting on the results David Ruzicka, Managing Director of Sash UK
who exclusively distribute Firite decking & fencing in the UK said:
'For the first time we have a true picture of what really goes on in the
UK's gardens and this summer homeowners will be able to enjoy their garden
more than ever before.
'What we've found since launching our product is that people are taking
advantage of its unique attributes and extending their summer, at both
ends, which is enabling them to really take advantage of their gardens
and turn them into an extra living space.
'Right across the country the results showed that without fail UK homeowners
are determined to get out and enjoy their gardens this year whether that
be to have friends round and show off their new luxury decking or to simply
sit back and watch the kids play in a safe and attractive environment
and with Fitrite you can do just that.
'Fitrite decking and fencing, was brought to the UK on an exclusive basis
by Sash UK after taking the USA by storm. It combines the very latest
PVCu technology with low maintenance capabilities and a durability that
has yet to be matched. The product capabilities do not mean that Fitrite
has compromised on style as the full range is available in a variety of
finishes including several wood grains and the latest contemporary fashion
hues.
'The flexibility of the product allows homeowners to achieve their desired
look that is truly bespoke and right for their property and lifestyle.
Since it's launch a mere few months ago installations have included the
creation of several roof-top, outdoor living spaces and many decking areas
that include tailored lighting and sound solutions.'
For details on the whole Fitrite range contact 0845 402 5502 or http://www.fitrite.info
Harnser
on the Move as Crane Sales Rise
As
sales of the Harnser - a portable crane for quickly and safely lifting
windows into upper floors - take off, the company behind the device has
moved to new headquarters in East Anglia, closer to its manufacturing
base.
Harnser
Systems Ltd, together with its distributor Eazi Lift, has moved from the
West Midlands base to a new office and warehouse complex at Gorleston
in Norfolk.
The move brings the business closer to home for Jeff Crowder (pictured),
who invented the Harnser window crane which has won acclaim from installers,
specifiers and health and safety specialist alike, since its launch last
year.
The crane, the first in a range of lifting devices to be launched by Harnser
Systems, is manufactured in Norfolk, and the team has now also set up
a service centre to ensure that all devices are effectively and safely
maintained.
‘The Harnser makes a major contribution to improved productivity
and safety within the installation industry, enabling operatives to lift
and install even glazed windows, quickly and effortlessly without breaching
the newly introduced Work at Height regulations,’ explains Jeff Crowder.
‘But it is vital that units are properly maintained, and that is
a responsibility we take very seriously.’
Available via outright purchase or under contract hire arrangements, the
company commits to servicing Harnser cranes six-monthly, to keep them
in optimum condition.
The Harnser which sits in the window reveal allows installers, even working
alone to lift either frames and glazing separately or fully assembled
windows of up to 100kgs to openings three storeys high.
http://www.eazilift.com/
Sash
Windows Invests in Colour Spray Plant
Trade
windows manufacturer, Sash Windows UK, has introduced a coloured spray
plant that allows the company to now offer a full range of coloured products
direct to the trade.
Alternatively
fabricators can take advantage of offering coloured products within their
own range by taking advantage of Sash's free of charge collection and
delivery service on every fabricated PVC-U product. Whether the requirement
is for coloured windows, doors, conservatories or fascias, Sash Windows
will collect the fabricated products, apply the coloured coating process
and deliver them back direct to the fabricator.
The state of the art spray plant based at Sash Windows' manufacturing
unit in Bradford, applies a durable colour coating to all PVC-U products
using the high quality AVCO paint process. This offers an excellent resistant
to scratching.
In keeping with all the latest colour trends, the Sash colour coatings
have a palette of over 1000 RAL colours. From vibrant hues to more subtle
colours such as the popular creams, the colour system provides colour
choice to fulfil the most demanding colour applications.
Commenting on the colour spray plant, Managing Director of Sash Windows
UK, Jason Lee said: ‘Colour is very popular as it offers immediate
expression of period and style, whatever the property. The colour of windows
is of immeasurable importance in setting the tone of a room or supporting
the heritage of the property. Traditionally, architects have never been
afraid of using colour and the use of strong hues can be witnessed in
many buildings in an attempt to 'stand out from the crowd'. We are now
seeing more and more colour coming into the domestic market as consumers
turn to colour to make a design statement to their homes. Our investment
in the spray plant allows fabricators and installers to effortlessly offer
a full range of coloured products into their range with no interruption
to their business.’
For more details on the Sash coloured spray options contact 01274 607711.
Conservatory
Outlet Dealers Reach Sales of £2m in April
Sales
for Conservatory Outlet dealers topped £2 million in April. The
total of £2,048,000 represents the best month of trading for the
bolt-on brand since it was launched in 2005.
Conservatory Outlet currently has five dealers and provides them with
a complete marketing support package which includes paid for traditional,
radio, internet and television advertising campaigns to help increase
their sales.
‘I am delighted that Conservatory Outlet is doing so well,’
comments Conservatory Outlet's Managing Director Matthew Glover. ‘This
time last year there were only two dealers and now there are five across
the North East. Each of our dealers has seen an increase in sales since
they joined Conservatory Outlet which is exactly what we set out to help
them achieve.’
••• Tickets have gone on sale for Conservatory Outlet's
annual charity ball being held at the Galpharm Stadium, Huddersfield,
on Saturday September 30th. Money raised at the event will be donated
to Health and Education for All (HEAL), a charity closely linked to Conservatory
Outlet.
Last years ball raised £15,000 for HEAL and paid for a new boy's
dormitory to be built at the Children's Village near Guntur, India. ‘Our
aim is to raise £20,000 this year and every penny will be used to
help feed, clothe and educate children living at the HEAL orphanage,’
comments Conservatory Outlet's Managing Director Matthew Glover. ‘We
will be holding an auction on the night and would appreciate donations
of items we can sell to raise even more money. We hope as many people
as possible show their support for this worthy cause by attending our
charity ball.’
To book a table or to donate an item for the auction call 01924 373471
or email matthew@conservatoryoutlet.co.uk
Multi
Point Innovation in the UK
While
every manufacturer seems to be jetting off to the Far East and outsourcing
products traditionally made in the UK, Multi-point Lockmaster manufacturer
Paddock says that it has adopted a completely different approach.
‘While
we recognise the benefits of certain products being manufactured overseas,
our core manufacturing values and expertise is based around producing
high security, quality locking products with guarantees and support to
ensure manufacturers and installers have complete peace of mind with the
products they fit’
MD, Nigel Hutchinson explains ‘while many products can be manufactured
overseas and the market can enjoy the benefit of lower costs, we firmly
believe that high security locking products which form a vital part of
the overall security package, should be manufactured under strict conditions
and to tight tolerances. This is impossible to control from half way across
the world. Our philosophy at Paddock is to invest in people and processes
to ensure our locking products are efficiently manufactured to the highest
quality standards. Our continued investment in these areas will set our
product range apart from other manufacturers and ensure our customers
receive World Class quality’.
The high security In-line Patio lock is the latest example of Paddock's
continued investment plans. The 4 and 6 point lock has been re-tooled
and upgraded in stainless steel, giving customers added value and product
features such as a top shootbolt facility as standard and combine this
with a new range of decorative PVD handles plus all-stainless steel rollers
and one-piece keep. ‘Manufactured on high speed, automated machinery,
the new patio lock demonstrates that we do not have to always look overseas
for alternatives. Manufacturing in the UK ensures the quality, reliability
and more importantly the security that the market requires.’
Tel: 01922 711722
Web: http://www.paddockfabrications.co.uk
'Success
in the Aluminium Zone'
The
Council for Aluminium in Building has announced a successful attendance
at Interbuild 2006. Heading up the Aluminium Zone in conjunction with
ALFED there was a bustle of activity on the stand throughout the show.
The main theme of the Aluminium Zone was sustainability and recyclability
of aluminium as the building material of choice - the CAB states that
aluminium in building is up to 100% recyclable and there is a wealth of
evidence to show buildings which are known to have installed aluminium
products, have been in use for over 60 years with a good further life
expectancy.
Over two thirds of CAB’s 100 members visited the exhibition and took
time to visit the stand. Justin Ratcliffe, director of the CAB was delighted
with the response:
'The Aluminium in Construction Zone was a great success with both members
and non member visitors excited that aluminium’s resurgence in the
market place was being mirrored by its presence at the show. We are looking
to grow this feature in 2007 for the benefit of the entire sector supply
chain.
'There was a huge interest in CAB’s growing range of services and
as a result of the show our inaugural technical conference has virtually
sold out.'
Hot topics of discussion on the stand included the CAB range of RIBA approved
CPD seminars on aluminium use in the built environment and the CAB's free
ezine 'Aluminium in Architecture' (http://www.aluminiuminarchitecture.com)
which continues to grow its readership.
Several new members decided to join at the show and several potential
companies expressed an interested in joining the CAB.
Further information about the benefit of membership from all trades in
the building sector can be found at the CAB's website at http://www.c-a-b.org.uk.
Groupco
Builds Business at Interbuild
At
this year's Interbuild UK distributor Groupco joined forces with Fuhr
and Peder Nielsen, two of Europe's leading hardware manufacturers. Despite
a fairly slow start, Groupco's MD, Richard Duncan says the Show got busier
and the company’s stand, which was bigger than two years ago, attracted
some high quality visitors.
‘In fact, we were pleasantly surprised by the number of architects
who attended this year, as well as commercial and public sector specifiers.
It gave us a great opportunity to reach this audience and demonstrate
to them first hand the benefits of our range.’
According
to Richard, PN's fully reversible window system proved a real crowd-puller.
The PN Combi hardware for composite windows also generated considerable
interest, together with PN UNI System, which is ideal for local authority
new build and refurbishment projects.
As far as Fuhr was concerned, the Show provided a chance to promote some
of its latest innovations, such as the recently launched Multisafe 870
locking system with panic exit function, and the Multitronic 881 offering
remote control access, plus automatic locking function to keep intruders
out.
Interbuild presented an excellent opportunity for Groupco to showcase
its supplier partnerships with Peder Neilsen and Fuhr, which enables the
company to offer a complete hardware solution for both private and public
sector applications. All in all, the joint stand was declared a significant
success by the three partners, drawing compliments for product quality
and overall professionalism.
Summing up, Richard believes this year's event was better organised than
previous years and the enquiries taken on the stand more than justified
their attendance, ‘It's a much longer pay-back period with the specification
market, but we're pleased with the contacts we made, including a potential
contract with a local health authority looking for products which would
satisfy a refurbishment project approaching 6million. I believe the Show
will improve further when it reverts to its previous halls and time in
November 2007, when our intention is to exhibit again.’
Tel: 01733 234750
Web: http://www.groupcoltd.co.uk
Interbuild
Provides a Unique Opportunity
Interbuild
has long been associated with the commercial sector and judging by the
success of Plastmo fabricator Unique Window Systems, this proposition
continues.
Unique
Window Systems exhibited at Interbuild with the objective of promoting
a range of products aimed at the specifier and architect.
The Leicester-based fabricator displayed Plastmo's range of products including
the Charisma vertical slider, Vogue sculptured casement window and a fully
automatic composite door.
In addition the company also displayed an aluminium window system from
Senior Aluminium Systems.
Sunil Patel, director, comments: ‘This is our second exhibition of
the year and has proven just as successful as Glassex. We spent time and
effort not only designing our stand but also on the products which we
displayed. Our efforts have been more than rewarded with a number of strong
enquiries.’
After the double show success, Unique Window Systems is looking forward
to further growth as Sunil concludes: ‘We are in a strong position
for 2006 as our investment in the shows and indeed within our business
shows. This investment combined with our impressive product portfolio
makes a clear statement about our business and ambitions.’
Interbuild
Success Delights Promac Group
Following
on from a successful Glassex, Interbuild proved to be very successful
for the Promac Group which had a major presence at the show.
Promac had a large stand in hall 9 at the show which was used to display
a wide range of machinery aimed specifically at the aluminium fabricator.
The stand reflected Promac's leadership and experience in the machinery
sector and this was supported by a number of staff who were on hand throughout
the show.
Visitors to the stand were presented with a product range aimed at both
the new start companies entering aluminium fabrication for the first time
up to the CNC machinery solutions for the high-end fabricator.
On display were a number of CNC machines and saws from Emmegi, crimping
machinery, gasket insertion machinery, auto-taping machinery and end millers
and routers.
These display machines were also supported by the consumables division
at Promac which carries over 8,000 items in stock and boasts a 99% next
day delivery success rate.
Ian Latimer, director at Promac commented: ‘We commit to exhibitions
including Interbuild because we believe in them and they prove so successful
for us. Exhibitions are an exciting way in which to meet customers both
new and old and Interbuild proved to be a great opportunity in which to
show what we are capable of.’
Inagas
IGA200 Enhances Energy at Holloseal
Based
in Ely, Cambridgeshire, Holloseal specialises in the manufacture and supply
of high quality custom made sealed units using a variety of different
glass types. Versatility and response to customer demands is an absolute
necessity so the company has installed a high performance Inagas IGA 200
gas-filling machine to meet requirements for the enhanced energy efficiency
of sealed units.
Production
Manager Mark Jarrord explained, ‘Our customers are increasingly recognising
the edge they can have over their competitors by being able to offer windows,
doors and conservatories that have an even better thermal performance.
The benefit to their customer in improved insulation and control of energy
bills especially with the recent large cost increases is substantial.
Up to forty percent of our production is currently gas filled but we see
this increasing especially now the significance of EN 1279 is sinking
in and the BFRC Energy Ratings are becoming more widely recognised, especially
if a fabricator's competitors are claiming an A or B rating’.
Holloseal has a high volume automatic production line so the IGA 200 is
ideal with its user friendly design features including intuitive touch
pad controls and a digital readout. It features fast and accurate fill
times especially with a flow rate capability of up to one hundred and
eighty litres per minute, automatic pressure monitoring, a self calibrating
gas analyser and audible signal on completion of fill. Mark continued,
‘Our previous experience indicated that with over ten years background
in gas filling technology, the reliability and cost effective performance
of Inagas equipment is second to none. Besides the production capabilities,
that's one of the reasons why we commissioned the IGA 200 unit. We get
good, cost effective solutions to our requirements for gas filling and
have absolute confidence in the company and their machines’.
The Inagas IGA 200 is supplied with all the hoses and connections needed
to produce gas filled units together with an operating manual supported
by on-site training of production personnel. All the equipment and supplies
that might be needed to successfully produce energy efficient sealed units
such as sleeves and plugs plus specialist punching or drilling systems
used during the preparation of spacer frames for high speed gas filling
are also available.
Tel: +44 (0) 1442 832764
Email: info@inagas.com
Web: http://www.inagas.com
99.9%
on Time in Full Deliveries from GAP
Interframe,
part of Shepley Window Systems, has switched to GAP for all door panels.
Interframe's Director, Eddy Hempseed, explains: ‘Since we made the
move our customers get a wider choice of colours and styles for panels.
And GAP provides an excellent service. We are especially impressed by
the logistics - GAP is over twice as far away as our previous suppliers
- and 99.9% of deliveries arrive on time and in full. On the odd occasion
when there's a problem, GAP always call to let us know.
'It's
important for Interframe to supply our customers with what they want,
when they want it and dealing with trusted suppliers like GAP means we
can keep our customers happy.’
Tel: 01254 682888
Everwhite
Supports a New Showroom for Ram Plastics
Haverfordwest
based roofline stockist Ram Plastics has opened a new showroom to give
customers more choice. ‘Five years ago we started with one 750ft2
unit and now we have quadrupled this to two 1500ft2 units,’ explains
Malcolm Clark, Partner of Ram Plastics.
‘We stock the entire range from Everwhite in white, light oak and
rosewood so our customers can get what they want, when they want it. The
trade counter and offices have been designed to show off Everwhite's product
range in an accessible and comfortable environment. To celebrate the opening
of the new unit we held an open day. Over 50 people attended to enjoy
pig-roast and a free prize draw. The feedback on the day was great and
we had many new enquiries.’
Tel: 01685 882 447
New
Openings for the Trade in South Cheshire
Trade
customers in the South Cheshire area have welcomed the opening of Precision
Glaze and Plastics. ‘You can almost hear the sigh of relief from
the local builders and contractors when they realise they can obtain their
glazing and building plastics from one outlet’ says manager Margaret
Sampson.
Margaret
is eager to promote the benefits of the depot. ‘This is a first for
the area and will make life so much easier and cost effective for trade
customers. Up until now you could spend hours phoning and driving around
trying to find the right products for the job. With Precision Glaze it's
all in one location, at competitive prices. And we offer the added value
of knowledgeable staff, even providing on site support for our larger
contractors, plus the option of a delivery service. We are also able to
offer a holding facility, which allows installers to tie in collection
or delivery in line with their installation timetable.’
Supplying a demand for quality Veka products the professional team at
Precision Glaze are able to offer the availability of stock / standard
windows in 6 working days from confirmed order, in addition to providing
expert technical advice on complex application requirements. ‘Our
Veka 58mm and 70mm windows and doors are manufactured by Modplan Limited,
with whom we have a close working relationship, which means that customers
are assured of the highest quality, accuracy and service at all times.’
explains Margaret.
Trade customers are also able to obtain all their plastic building supplies,
including fascias, soffits, trims, rainwater goods, sheet plastics and
kit conservatories, along with all the silicones and fixings required
for installation.
‘We have chosen all our products with great care’ continues
Margaret. ‘For instance, we use soft-coated glass from St Gobain
and our plastic materials include top brand names such as Kestrel, whose
products come with a 15 year warranty. It's important that customers are
in no doubt as to the quality and durability of what they are purchasing.’
Situated on the outskirts of Crewe, on the old A500, Precision Glaze and
Plastics is easily accessible, with opening hours that are convenient
for the trade ie 8am until 5pm on week days, 8am until noon on Saturdays.
‘We've plenty of car parking space and new customers are welcome
to come and browse to discover exactly what we have on offer’ concludes
Margaret.
Tel: 01270 668621
Masterframe's
Georgian Cross-over Bars BBA Certified for 10 years
Homeowners
looking to replace their vertical sliders want sash windows with authentic
details such as external astragal bars which stand proud of the glass.
But many frequently open and close sash windows by pushing or pulling
the bars. So it's almost inevitable that they come off, particularly as
most PVC-U sashes have astragal bars made up of short, pane-sized lengths,
typically secured with adhesive only. Masterframe Windows Ltd has come
up with a solution which means its Georgian bars are BBA certified for
10 years.
Masterframe's Technical Director Ray Rabett explains: ‘Our Georgian
cross-over bars are secured in three ways, so they last significantly
longer. In fact they're BBA guaranteed for 10 years. The astragal bars
are cut to the full length and width of each sash window, then interlocked
where they cross by flexing the PVC-U. When the PVC-U is returned to its
original flatness the bars remain permanently locked together. This design
is patented by Masterframe.
‘The bars are also secured to the window with adhesive, and then
clipped top and bottom and on each side with our patented Georgi Clips®.
So our installers have a longer-lasting quality product to differentiate
themselves, and don't waste time and money on call-outs.’
Tel: 01376 510410
Web: http://www.masterframe.co.uk
First
Commercial Use of New Alcoa Designed Glass Wine Closure
Alcoa
and Whitehall Lane Winery of Napa Valley, California, jointly announced
recently that Whitehall Lane is the first winery in the world to seal
its bottles of select premium wines with the Alcoa developed Vino-Seal™
closure, an elegant glass closure for wine bottles secured by a traditional
tin capsule.
This
is the first commercial use of this new glass closure designed by Alcoa's
Closure Systems International (CSI) business as an alternative to traditional
corks and synthetic stoppers for the wine market. The sealing system was
used to top 45,000 bottles of Whitehall Lane premium 2003 Reserve Cabernet
Sauvignon and 3,000 bottles of its premium 2003 Leonardini Vineyard Cabernet
Sauvignon.
‘Vino-Seal™ is an elegant alternative to cork and synthetic
stoppers,’ said Whitehall Lane owner Thomas Leonardini. ‘The
glass stopper makes perfect sense. It is attractive, functional and eliminates
the problems associated with natural cork.’
With a design similar to a decorative decanter stopper, Vino-Seal™
was developed as an alternative to traditional wine stoppers. It provides
an ideal seal ensuring the wine retains its purity of flavor and aroma.
Vino-Seal™ uses an inert o-ring to provide a sterile seal, preventing
contamination or oxidation.
Vino-Seal™ is the U.S. cousin of the Vino-Lok 'glass on glass' wine
closure also developed by Alcoa CSI in Germany, which is currently being
used by 350 wineries throughout Europe to top their premium wines. ‘The
only difference between the two glass stoppers is that Vino-lok uses an
aluminum cover cap, while Vino-Seal™ uses a tin capsule, which is
more in line with North American wine packaging,’ said Laura Clark,
Adult Beverage Marketing Manager, Alcoa CSI.
Benefits of Vino-Seal™
There are several benefits to adopting the Vino-Seal™ glass wine
closure. The two Whitehall Lane Cabernets will develop more slowly in
the Vino-Seal™ bottle than in a traditional cork sealed bottle giving
it longer aging potential. ‘However, the greatest benefit is that
the possibility of cork taint ruining the bottle aged with a Vino-Seal™
closure system is zero,’ said Leonardini. ‘And, the bottle can
also be safely aged standing up.’
Vino-Seal is also easy to open - no corkscrew needed. Simply cut or score
the foil around the bottom of the drip ring bead on the bottle, then pull
out the stopper. With this new idea, there also comes a second advantage:
It is resealable. The contents of already opened bottles can now be sealed
easily over and over again. In addition, the decorative stopper appeals
to the aesthetic demands of connoisseurs.
Whitehall Lane winemaker Dean Sylvester has worked with Alcoa for more
than two years researching and evaluating the glass closure. ‘Bottling
went very smoothly, and the wine is showing beautifully,’ he said.
Sylvester and Alcoa will continue to evaluate the aging of the 2003 Reserve
Cabernet Sauvignon. ‘As a winemaker, I'm excited to see how the wine
evolves,’ Sylvester said, ‘If all goes as expected, we will
expand the programme to incorporate more of our wines.’
The 2003 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon will retail for $75 and is currently
available at the winery, wine shops and fine restaurants throughout the
United States. The 2003 Leonardini Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon will retail
for $100 and will be released in Autumn 2006.
Vino-Seal™ is the first U.S. product in a portfolio of wine closures
that Alcoa CSI is developing as an alternative to traditional wine stoppers.
The package for the 2003 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon uses Alcoa's Vino-Seal(TM)
closure in conjunction with a specifically designed bottle from Encore
Glass. The capsule was made by River Cap USA.
http://www.alcoacsi.com.
SCHOTT
Expands Capacity for Backlight Glass
With
the start of construction of three melting tanks in ValasÓské
Mezirící in the Czech Republic on Monday, April 24th, SCHOTT
is rapidly pressing ahead with the expansion of its production capacity
for the glass tubing used in the backlights of display screens. Such backlights
are integrated in the TFT LCD screens found in laptops, computer monitors
and flat-screen televisions.
'We are expecting a stable two-digit annual growth rate,' explains Dr.
Udo Ungeheuer, Chairman of the Management Board at SCHOTT. 'The expansion
of this promising business area will create 100 new jobs at the ValasÓské
Mezirící manufacturing facility, while at the same time
securing the jobs based in Germany in this production segment,' he adds.
It is only three years ago that SCHOTT entered into the booming market
for the special glass needed for backlights in flat-screen displays with
its high UV-blocked glass, and has already become the world's second largest
supplier. Although all the relevant customers are from Asia, SCHOTT management
decided on Germany and the Czech Republic for its production locations.
'The backlighting business is very dynamic – capacity therefore needs
to be expanded as quickly as possible,' explains Andreas Reisse, head
of the business segment. 'The Czech Republic is close to our glass tubing
specialists in Mitterteich, Bavaria, plus we can build on SCHOTT's existing
infrastructure in ValasÓské Mezirící,' he
adds.
SCHOTT has so far produced finished plate glass, solar modules and fibre
optic components at the manufacturing facility. The amount being invested
in this expansion extends into the double-digit millions.
The start of production for the first of the three melting tanks is already
planned for August 2006. The other two will each follow one month later.
A new melting tank for backlights will also be brought online as early
as June at the Mitterteich site.
Totally
Tropical Application...Super Spacer® Shipped to Barbados
Edgetech
IG Inc customer Window Centre (Solihull) Limited had an unusual request
from a previous client earlier in the year. He liked his Rehau windows
with Super Spacer® so much, he specified them for a holiday let...
in Barbados! Mike Adderley, Window Centre's owner, shipped 40 windows
and doors worth £25,000 from cold Solihull to a sunny Caribbean
beach.
‘Special solar controlled glass was used for the units,’ he
explains, ‘and Edgetech's energy efficient spacer. It's ideal for
the Caribbean because it's such a great insulator - so it keeps houses
cool in hot climates, and warm in cold weather. It's been used in extreme
conditions worldwide, so I knew it wouldn't let me down. Because Super
Spacer reduces condensation over and above aluminium spacer bars by 70%,
it's also perfect for a house beside the sea.’
In business for 25 years, Mike has used Edgetech for the last nine. ‘85%
of our windows have super spacer,’ adds Mike. ‘I like the crisp
lines that Super Spacer makes alongside the black gasket - and so do our
customers.’
Tel: 02476 705570