FENDIGITAL MAGAZINE APR22

FENDIGITAL MAGAZINE APR22

GLASS SPECIAL

MODERN GLASS DESIGN REDUCE CARBON FOOTPRINT TRIPLE GLAZING VS VIG

• FENEX • KOLORSEAL • SHEERLINE • EUROCELL • ODL EUROPE • MORLEY GLASS • HEGLA • DGB

CONTENTS APRIL EDITION

THIS MONTHS KEY ARTICLES...

PAGE 06 - TRIPLE GLAZING VS VIG By 2025 many glass units need to meet 0.8 which is going to require some major changes to many window systems. PAGE 08 - GLASS DESIGN CONCEPT REDUCES CARBON FOOTPRINTS Bold building design will create a stronger exterior, absorbing energy and giving greater wind resistance than flat-panel glasses can provide. PAGE 14 - MODERN GLASS DESIGN STILL CONSIDERED STYLISH Glass remains a stylish, premium product in build projects, with architects and specifiers continuing to incorporate it into modern installations. PAGE 16 - KOLORSEAL UPGRADES TO NFA SPONSORSHIP Kolorseal Ltd, have once again committed to sponsoring the NFAs, but have upgraded to an Ambassador Sponsorship. PAGE 28 - WE DON’T NEEDANOTHER GREEN HOMES GRANT SCHEME If you want to generate genuine interest from homeowners and companies then you have to focus on cost... PAGE 32 - EUROCELL’S CONSERVATORIES AND ORANGERIES Eurocell has extended its range of market-leading conservatory and orangery solutions with the launch of new contemporary designs... PAGE 42 - BOSAPPEALS FOR 50 VOLUNTEERS! Building Our Skills has strengthened its collaboration with the Education and Employers Charity to promote their ‘Inspiring the Future’ programme. PAGE 52 - SHEERLINE TAKE HOME INDUSTRY AWARD Sheerline took away the winning trophy for ‘Best Technical Innovation’ for a second time. PAGE 54 - NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR ODL EUROPE ODL Europe has announced the appointment of Bryan Bultema as its new Managing Director.

APRIL EDITION 03

CLIPPINGS &

Could The War In Ukraine Kick Start Renewable Energies Markets?

In just a few short weeks, the invasion of Ukraine by Russia has displaced millions of Ukrainians and killed many people on both sides. The atrocities we are witnessing in the media make it hard to look at newsreels as the brutality seems impossible to believe. With so many countries having been dependent on fossil fuels from Russia for so long, it has triggered seismic shifts about who supplies our energy. With exports from Russia now being utterly toxic to contemplate, everyone is looking at ways to meet the energy demands. Ironically, or perhaps not, soon after Russia invaded Ukraine it was announced by many energy suppliers, if not all, that significant hikes would occur in the cost of energy. As everyone clambers to find or develop alternative energy sources, the near future is probably best described as bleak, but this could speed up the adoption and use of clean energy sources.

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MUSINGS

FROM HELEN DUVAL 2022

Whilst Putin faces the harsh reality that his invasion has not been the walk in the park for the Russian military he believed it would be, inadvertently his actions may well have triggered a global effort to tackle climate change. As more countries and conglomerates cut ties with Russia, as well as its vast global oil and gas supplies, many nations are looking at realistic, lengthy, alternative options. Here, we are already feeling the pinch as oil prices soar and stocks spiral and fluctuate in reaction to Russia’s invasion. The European Renewable Energy Index leapt by 9.3% with the biggest stock hike since those caused by the pandemic two years ago. Likewise, individual renewable energy companies have seen huge stock and share gains with companies such as Sunrun Inc., which produces residential solar panels, leaping in value by 22%. Renewables will inevitably see an increase in popularity as solar panels offer an excellent source of energy, plus, they make sense as good, longer-life investments on a home. Clean energy could bring long-term security in relation to energy and achieving climate change goals, particularly given the dire predictions from the scientists; in that we may have all left it too late to stop the increase in natural disasters and crop losses. With the current European conflict remaining uncertain as regards duration, and the abhorrent human death toll continuing to rise, a drawn out conflict really to this horrific disaster considerably. Looking at carbon emissions and the climate warming figures produced by extended warfare the picture is no better. The War on Terror for example, apparently produced over 1.2 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases from start to when troops were pulled out. Naturally, this will have an impact on renewable energy costs, with Russia invading Ukraine forcing a substantial price rise on renewable-energy projects. Delays, supply-chain issues and raw-material costs are all escalating which is not helping matters as they are adding new pressures onto solar energy developers since the pandemic hit production. Weaponising fossil fuels could be another huge mistake for Putin and perhaps, if we focus on solar and wind power and drive the transition to heat our homes this way, we could take this chance to ditch gas and oil completely, and truly help the planet.

APRIL EDITION 05

TRIPLE GLAZING VS VIG

With new u-values set at 1.4 many existing window systems will already meet that new standard. It means fabricators and systems companies have not had to worry too much about their existing product suites and can focus more on the ventilation part of the changes. This breathing space isn’t going to last all that long. By 2025 many will need to meet 0.8 which is going to require some major changes to many window systems. Money is going to have to be spent on finding out the best route to 0.8. At the moment, there are two solutions that could get us to 0.8. We either go down the triple glazing route or explore the emerging vacuum insulated glazing technology that is beginning to make its way into the UK market via companies like Masterframe. Right now, vacuum insulated glazing is more expensive than triple glazing. However, the technology is in relative infancy, and over time will become cheaper the more it is used. But when I think about the two options, the economic argument has to take centre stage if the overall aim of any new regulations is to be better for the environment. Take a look at this comparison courtesy of Energlaze UK, who are using Fineo VIG by AGC: Less weight. Less material used. Less weight on vans and trucks during transportation. More storage space available in warehouses.

Less strain on installers. Less strain on window hardware. Think about the money you would save by not having to adapt your business to accept something heavier and bigger. If you’re a spacer bar company or involved in making glass, you’re going to want triple glazing to win the day, however. If VIG takes off in any significant way then it will start to harm sales of spacer bars. And if you’re one of the three major glassmakers you’re also

going to want to see triple glazing come out on top. So what we’re going to see over the next few years is a big tussle between proponents of both. One side to keep the business they have, the other to make inroads and create a new niche within our sector. No matter what side of this debate you sit on, the fact remains: investment is needed now to be able to prepare in good time for changes coming in just three years’ time.

Jason Grafton-Holt | www.doubleglazingblogger.co.uk [email protected] | @glazingblogger

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32 YEARS OF SASH WINDOW EXPERIENCE – AND WE’RE READY FOR ANOTHER

This might be the very first time you are considering changing your sash window supplier. Or, perhaps you just want to try an alternative award winning sash window specialist to offer your customers a wider choice. Either way, we would like to help you to increase your VS sales. With 32 years focussed on manufacturing high quality timber alternative sash windows, we are true specialists and confident that our products will impress your customers. We have also earned a sound reputation for always providing an exceptional level of personal service and our entire team are committed to delivering this. Our new specification launched in 2019 featuring exclusive new Masterframe Systems, standard with patented Timberweld ® technology and we would welcome the opportunity to take you through the improved product offering and delighted to quote. No matter the size or design of a home or project, if sash windows are required then we can help. If a specialist solution is needed for a conservation area, modern development, school or historic building our sash windows add the right amount of authentic styling to either fit seamlessly into original settings or set the property apart from other new developments.

Designed for those who appreciate authentic detailing

To see the choices, including patented Timberweld ® corner design, download our new brochures here. Some of the advantages we offer as standard: 10 year guarantee for peace of mind Made in Britain for continuity BBA Approval on standard window sizes for longevity Energy Savings Trust recommended for energy efficiency Specialist solutions for challenging projects that require matching new to original designs Free and safe UK mainland delivery Quotes with non-priced customer proposal CAD drawings where required Expert technical support Free 47 page professional conservation guide Free product training Call our friendly sales team on 01376 510410 or email for a quote here.

Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US ANY TIME! Tel: 01376 510410 email: [email protected] Join us on LinkedIn

FEBRUARY EDITION 13 31

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BOLD GLAS CONCEPT REDU FOOTP

Created as part of a design challenge, by HOK architects the circadian glass facade gives high rise living completely new possibilities as well as a striking aesthetic particularly when it comes to the energy efficiency of a building. Originally created as part of a design challenge, this design concept gives performance glasses a whole new dimension. As solar power and technical advances continue to evolve, the idea of creating a building that generates energy by responding to the sun’s path is a great new architectural adventure. Architect, John Neary’s research explored building skins and ways that these could be developed further to create a better living or working experience for the occupants. Not only does this stunning concept strengthen the outer shell, at the same time it reduces the carbon footprint.

The architectural and engineering firm has looked at developing a façade of curved glass panels that work naturally with the sun using the 24-hour circadian cycle. Working with nature and gaining benefits from it within an architectural scope will make a real difference for those either living or working in a building with this type of facade. View of the outdoors simply makes workers lives feel better. The circadian concept optimises natural light throughout the day. A system of circular shaped bay windows made of jumbo sized glass bring indirect natural light into a building while giving a permanent view outside at the same time. To keep conditions comfortable at all times, automated shades protect the glass that directly faces the sun. The double-skin curtain wall features a floor-to-ceiling, solid-spandrel system that provides greater thermal efficiency. Consequently, the need for air conditioning and artificial light is greatly reduced.

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SS DESIGN UCES CARBON PRINTS

It is suggested that this type of building design will create a stronger exterior, absorbing the sun’s energy and giving greater wind resistance than flat-panel glasses can provide. The building style will provide larger window bays and will need fewer supportive aluminium mullions to transfer wind load back to the primary structural frame. The use of the sun as part of a building’s energy performance remains appealing and with this design the curved windows would give 180 degree views that bring in an abundance of natural light. This concept utilises the sun’s pattern through the sky creating self-shading and a reduction on solar heat gain that will minimise glare. Human health and our natural desire for exposure to daylight were key aspects that were brought into the concept to help improve occupants health. Heat would be pulled off the building to provide a clean,

low maintenance solution for automatic shades. When compared to traditional flat-panel walls, it has been estimated that 300 to 400 tons of aluminum for 1 million sq.ft. building with 300,000 sq.ft. of skin can be saved by the circadian wall concept. As the sun moves, clusters of curved window bays would limit the surface area exposed to direct sunlight and would provide shading to adjacent areas of the facade which would help to control glare. After WSP Built Ecology conducted research into daylight and energy model simulators it was found that this type of building system could potentially lessen energy use by 16% in a 30- storey building.

FROM HELEN DUVAL 2022

GLASS FEATURE 09

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glass technology

RapidLam Shape: More Scope To Shape The Future.

Shape Cutting of Laminated Glass as a Compact Unit More possibilities to cut shapes and free forms on laminated glass. Can be integrated into an existing line, or as stand-alone machine. This compact machine uses synchronised turning cutting heads, providing precise results that match the cutting plan. • Automatic cutting of free forms in laminated glass • Can be used as part of a cutting line or as stand-alone machine • Laser foil separation can be installed at a later date

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HEGLA Machinery (UK) Ltd. •Buckinghamshire•MK8 0AJ•E-mail: [email protected]

I n n o v a t i o n c o m e s b u i l t - i n

MORLEY IS BACK!

We’re starting 2022 on a high after successfully fighting back against unprecedented supply chain issues to bring back our industry-topping 10-12 day lead time on our full range of integrated blinds.

Morley Glass & Glazing Ltd Unit 3 Leeds 27 Industrial Estate Bruntcliffe Way Leeds LS27 0HH

morleyglass.co.uk 0113 277 8722 [email protected]

GLAZED FIRE DO WE NEED T

Incredible to believe that it is five years since the Grenfell Tower disaster, where it was concluded after a government review into the fire that ignorance and indifference had both played a huge part in causing a ‘race to the bottom’ in respect of building safety practices. The Treasury states that approval for funding in respect of overhauling high rise tower blocks applies ‘to fixing cladding’, which translates as defective fire compartmentation, fire doors and any other non cladding faults will still cost leaseholders and dearly. Currently it is uncertain whether mortgage companies will lend against the homes of leaseholders to ensure that they can be sold. According to a leaked letter to the Treasury from Mr Gove, there is a plan to make developers pay £4bn - therefore with so many lives lost, it does make you wonder just how many failings have been addressed properly. It is horrendous to think that fire doors which were supposed to last 30 minutes, in fact only held the fire back for half that time. A terrifying fact that does beg the question how many other potential hazards are on the horizon in all those other buildings nationally? As the disaster took so many lives so quickly, it must cause inhabitants of other similar buildings to seriously worry about safety issues when living in those that clearly need refurbishment. I’m not sure I’m entirely convinced with the findings in terms of the figures but hopefully, things have started to move on to the point where occupants of these types of buildings have enough certainty to start to feel secure that they are safe in their homes. Previously, the choice of fire

resistant glass doors was somewhat limited, to say the least, with wired designs pretty much the only option out there. Thankfully, nowadays through product advancements there is much more choice with safety wired fire glass, specially tempered fire glass, ceramic fire glass and intumescent laminated fire glass all widely available on the market. Commercial buildings such as schools, hospitals and offices still use wired glass options as it is a cost effective option for this type of application, although it does have limitations in that it will only stop flames and smoke from spreading. Yet these types of fire doors do not, of course, insulate against

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OORS - WHAT DO TO KNOW? FROM HELEN DUVAL 2022

the heat and they are weakened because of how thin the wire is that is incorporated. Being vulnerable to that is a terrifying prospect to consider if the glass does break. Safety wired fire glass doors make a good alternative but it is said that the traditional aesthetics associated with these types of installations, do not particularly appeal to architects when specifying for large commercial projects, with them preferring instead a more modern clear, tempered or ceramic fire glass door option. Whilst price will undoubtedly be a consideration for commercial projects tempered fire glass, ceramic fire glass and laminated fire glass doors do provide clear-glass alternatives, meeting all safety glass requirements. As tempered fire glass is cost effective it may seem the perfect option, however due to the temperature extremes of heat from the flames, all very quickly cooled by cold water from fire hydrants and hoses, this type of product has the potential to shatter. With no insulation ratings and an integrity of only 20 minutes, the use of these for refurbishment projects on buildings similar to Grenfell Tower, do not make it the ideal choice. Ceramic fire glass is versatile and a very good choice with its durability and capability to handle extreme changes in temperature, making it the perfect solution for glass hob installations or fireplaces but not so much as a protection to fire, with a downside of high prices and lack of thermal insulation. Of course, glass fire doors today are made using modern machinery and technology, that gives us added security and ensures the products meet all our health and safety requirements. They can be tailored to fit into bespoke design projects, and are easy to install and maintain. Beautiful designs are now possible with this type of product and are frequently manufactured to incorporate company branding and unique design, so they meet performance and aesthetic requirements easily. Whilst interior glass fire doors can make a bold statement, that can add to the value of a building, modernising these types of commercial projects has to now put the occupants above the cost of the refurbishment, particularly for renovations akin to Grenfell Tower. Let’s hope we are far closer to achieving a comfortable level of reassurance and guarantees as refurbishment projects move forward.

GLASS FEATURE 13

MODERN GLASS DESIGN STILL CONSIDERED STYLISH

Glass remains a stylish, premium product in build and renovation projects, with architects and specifiers continuing to incorporate it into modern installations. Bringing light into a design concept can be very creatively done with a variety of glasses incorporated that are not just stylish but very practical as a material. Whether two rooms are being created from one large area or sections of a home are being partitioned off to create additional practical living space such as an ensuite bathroom, then glass is an incredibly versatile product. There are some fabulous options out there for

processors to incorporate into their range that will satisfy the most creative design minds. Reeded Glass is created with regular convex ridges across the surface and frequently this is used on door panels or partitions. Likewise fluted glass is similar with a concave pattern that also provides an alternative design solution. Textured glass with its bark like appearance is another option for more contemporary styles in new build projects. One product that catches the eye however is the striking glass brick. Retro in style, this has had a renaissance with designers recently. Although buildings can incorporate glass blocks from floor to ceiling, modern designers are reinventing these as a way to stylise a home in more appealing ways via interior design concepts. But new developments are on the horizon for this older style product with glass blocks being used to diffuse light. Furthermore, this style of glass product is being adapted for the energy saving potential it has to offer new projects. The patented Solar Squared glass blocks should store solar energy whilst allowing in more light to a building. Properties gain a stylish glass brick wall which will provide huge energy saving benefits. When it comes to modern design or renovations, carbon footprints, energy efficiency and cost saving benefits remain on everyone’s minds. These solar powered bricks are scalable and incorporate into their design some

‘intelligent’ optical elements that focus sunlight on small-sized cells. This could be an exciting option for builders looking to improve the the thermal efficiency of a project. Hopefully it will inspire the construction industry’s imagination when developing new office blocks, schools or public buildings.

FROM HELEN DUVAL 2022

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Leading colour coating specialists, Kolorseal Ltd, have once again committed to sponsoring the NFAs, but have upgraded to an Ambassador Sponsorship. For Deborah Hendry, Managing Director at Kolorseal, the NFAs have been gaining massive popularity over the last few years and bring a healthy competitive edge to business. Deborah believes that by being peer led it is evident that many brands can benefit a huge amount from association with the NFAs. She comments: “The rising influence of social media, online and digital platforms enable a company to truly benefit from the advantages gained from sponsorship. The success of these Awards is primarily due to the fact that they bring about healthy competition but also help to unify the sector.” Continuing on, Deborah feels that being an Ambassador will help to further raise brand awareness. “People have really become fans of the NFAs and enjoy meeting up at the annual winners event. It is an excellent way to learn about those innovating the sector with new and improved products. Also, when there is a competition on the cards it brings about great exposure and good rivalry for winners and nominees alike.” The digital options of the NFAs make sponsorship an attractive addition to marketing strategies. For Kolorseal as a brand, the Ambassadorship provides a wider range of platforms on which to advertise. Deborah concludes, “The industry as a whole uses social media as a real time news resource, so via the NFA platforms, it gives companies far greater scope. Brands have new opportunities to remain a talking point and react to the narrative they want to highlight. It is very exciting to be supporting the NFAs once again.” Lee Clarke comments, “We are thrilled that Deborah has chosen to renew Kolorseal’s sponsorship, particularly knowing the advantages the company gains from the NFAs as an event and a digital platform. This year will see more categories than ever before and will focus on the issues, topics and people that are highly relevant across the fenestration sector.” For more information on Kolorseal and the services available please visit the website www.kolorseal.co.uk KOLORSEAL RE-COMMITS & UPGRADES TO NFA AMBASSADOR SPONSORSHIP

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The industry’s favourite colour coating specialist

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Aluminium Windows, Entrance Doors, Bifolds, Patios, Rooflights, Lanterns, Commercial Doors and Framing, Curtain Walling. WE CAN DO IT ALL When it’s time to choose the right Aluminium Systems manufacturer for your business or home needs, you can count on VitrineAlu for quality products that will fit your budget.

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BOS’S INSPIRING THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN GAINSMORE SUPPORT

The Inspiring The Future campaign of Building Our Skills - Making Fenestration, Glass and Glazing a Career of Choice is going from strength to strength. Among the latest organisations to support the initiative is Strata Windows, the Staffordshire domestic and commercial window and door installer. Underlining the goal it shares with Building Our Skills of bringing more youngsters into the fenestration, glass and glazing sectors, Strata has agreed to help in the delivery of the Inspiring The Future Campaign. Sharon Parkes, CMIOSH, Strata’s Director of Health, Safety & Compliance and now an Inspiring The Future volunteer explains:

“Here at Strata we care very much about addressing the skills gap that is unfortunately a feature of our industry. A key part of this process is encouraging youngsters to join it, teach them about the variety of roles the fenestration industry can offer and to help nurture new recruits. That’s why when I heard about Building Our Skills’ Inspiring The Future campaign I knew we had to be part of it, and I was delighted to be accepted as a volunteer. “I believe we in the industry can help build confidence in school children and young

workers, and really help to inspire them with the opportunities that are to be found in the world of fenestration, glass and glazing. I think Building Our Skills is a fantastic initiative and I’d encourage other companies’ members of staff to get involved too. Volunteering for the campaign’s programme is very satisfying. Broadening the horizons of young people is so rewarding.” The idea behind the Inspiring the Future campaign is to use industry employees to help inspire the school children who will become the industry’s future workforce. For industry employees such as Sharon Parkes of Strata Windows who are willing to volunteer to deliver the Inspiring The Future campaign to school children simply visit www.buildingourskills.co.uk and click on ‘campaigns’ or for more information or to sign up.

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GQA Qualifications is a multi-industry awarding body writing vocational based qualifications to support a wide range of career paths.

Accredited training leading to qualifications

If you are looking to retrain for a new career, or looking to develop your skills to open up opportunities why not consider practical training in window and door installation Learn about Building Regulations, working safely on site, how to remove windows and doors from buildings and replace with new ones All courses fully accredited and could contribute towards NVQ Qualifications With further assessment and achievement, successful candidates can go forward to achieve CSCS Cards to enable them to work safely on site Training delivered in Sheffield in a fully Covid secure environment For more information on training contact [email protected] For more information on vocational qualifications and CSCS cards contact [email protected]

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 22 www.gqaqualifications.com

GQA PASSES OPEN AWARDS AUDIT FOR IfATE

GQA’s processes and documentation have been given the thumbs up by the Institute for Apprentices and Technical Education (IfATE). The fenestration industry’s leading awarding and qualifications-writing organisation has undergone an end point assessment audit, carried out by Open Awards, the external quality assurance provider appointed by IfATE, which resulted in a positive report.

Commenting on the audit, GQA’s Operations Manager, Sean Hayes said:

“Although we are not allowed to divulge the specific content of the report, I am able to say that we are extremely pleased that Open Awards’ very robust auditing process has resulted in positive feedback. “The end point assessment audit covered how GQA appraises students at the end of a training period to prepare them for the end point assessment activities. It scrutinised how we liaise with training providers; the methods we use to ensure fairness, consistency and thoroughness; our programme of training from end to end; how past assessments have been carried out; our intentions regarding future assessments; the general expertise of our staff; and the feedback received from stakeholders. “The comments we received from Open Awards gave us great assurance that GQA meets the requirements of IfATE, and we look forward to continuing to provide this high standard of provision in both apprenticeships and vocational learning in all our sectors.” More information on GQA is available at www.gqaqualifications.com.

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AWARD WINNING ALUMINIUM ROOF LANTERN

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E D I T I O N 2 5

FEBRUARY EDITION 25

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The rise of home working and increasing concern about the environment means the solid replacement roof market is growing at pace. But it pays to choose your solid roof system carefully, because there’s a big cost to making the wrong decision, especially right now. This is the view of Rhys Hoddinott, Managing Director at Leka Systems, home of one of the most innovative solid roof systems on the market today. He says: “Not all solid roofs are comparable. Leka roofs offer value in more ways than one.” Leka products have always attracted attention because of their thermal efficiency. With U values as low as 0.12 W/m²K, Leka roofs dramatically outperform common glass and polycarbonate roofing systems – as well as other solid roof systems. The incredible thermal efficiency is partly due to the GRP construction, which, as Rhys explains, is something that brings cost benefits too. He says: “Leka roofs don’t use aluminium, which means we aren’t being affected by the huge increase in aluminium prices. Fabricators and installers using aluminium are having to pass price increases onto consumers because they can’t absorb them any longer. Because we don’t use aluminium on our roofing products, this isn’t something we’re having to do.” The GRP construction also makes the roof incredibly lightweight, which means it can often be used without additional reinforcing, helping to keep time and costs down even further. NOTALL SOLID REPLACEMENT ROOFSARE THE SAME SAY LEKASYSTEMS

Leka Systems saw 40% sales growth in 2021 thanks to success and uptake from its growing fabricator network, proving that the products offer what today’s installers are looking for. Leka fabricators also benefit from exclusive regional partnerships, as well as comprehensive and proactive support, including training and technical advice. Rhys concludes: “If you want products that maximise your customers’ opportunities, there’s only one solid roofing system you need. It’s the warm roof from Leka Systems.”

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E D I T I O N 2 5

YOUR KENT-BASED TRADE SPECIALISTS

Our trade sales team is proudly made up of time-served industry experts. We're your local one-stop-shop for competitively priced, quality assured fenestration supply across Kent and the South East.

WinRem.com/trade

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[email protected]

01634 264 490

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Luke Smith or | The Green RoomBuilding Co esty it was di cult to find a fault with the and understood the reasoning as to why veloped. It simply helps a trade business m to its best and has certainly helped us evidence of the quality of our work, keep bs and have comfort in being able to see notes and photos being taken from site tions if we as company owners are not physically there ourselves.

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drag and drop appointments Link with Xero and Quickbooks Sales, Survey, Admin, Install & Service Stages End to end job management In all honesty it was di cult to find a fault with the software and understood the reasoning as to why it was developed. It simply helps a trade business perform to its best and has certainly helped us provide evidence of the quality of our work, keep track of jobs and have comfort in being able to see footage/notes and photos being taken from site installations if we as company owners are not physically here ourselves. www.onsite7.co.uk Luke Smith Director | The Green RoomBuilding Co

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THE FENESTRAT DOES NOT NE GREEN HOMES G

In the Chancellor’s Spring Statement in March, Rishi Sunak announced a handful of measures to continue to steer the UK in the right direction on the green climate front. It wasn’t enough, but that is by the by. We saw VAT reduced from 5% to 0% on solar panels, heat pumps and insulation. We saw new investments in nuclear power plants and wind farms. We saw absolutely zip for windows and doors. As short-sighted as that is, what we don’t need is any new over-complicated schemes to try and generate interest.

No new Green Homes Grant We had the Green Deal. Remember that? Lasted less than two years and was shut down due to pathetic levels of interest from homeowners and industry. Then we had the Green Homes Grant in 2020 which was closed in 2021. Similar idea. Similar levels of interest from both sides. This one was even outsourced to an American company to run, which resulted in companies waiting 90 days to be paid for work done months before. What an achievement. After two attempts at schemes designed to generate interest from homeowners, it’s clear that these types of mechanisms do not work. They are too complicated. They require too many hoops for homeowners to jump through. The requirements for installers wanting to take part are too complicated at a time when extra paperwork, qualifications and additional demands only add to the pressures of running busy businesses. Here’s the thing: for many installers, order books are still measuring in months, not weeks. Sales may be slowing, but the residual work from last year means most will still have a very solid 2022. Installers don’t need the work right now. They can afford to be choosy. Everyone I think does agree though that the UK’s housing stock needs to be vastly improved to curb emissions. How we get to the right result is where opinions differ. We do not need any new versions of a Green Deal or Green Homes Grant. Nothing which requires additional bureaucracy for companies to take part. It’s a hurdle, not help and immediately kills interest. Yes, companies would always like more work. The future may bring leaner times so it’s important to keep sales funnels flowing. But this is not the way to do it.

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 28

Jason Grafton-Holt | www.doubleglazingblogger.co.uk

ATION INDUSTRY EED ANOTHER GRANT SCHEME

Lower VAT, but a catch If you want to generate genuine interest from homeowners and companies then you have to focus on cost. And in this climate of spiralling inflation, this is guaranteed to catch the attention of any homeowner who is concerned about the cost of heating their home. We have seen other sectors granted 0% VAT by the Government recently. Solar panels, insulation, heat pumps etc. Want to know the difference between us and them? The others are PAS2030 qualified. We are not. Our industry is infamous for its reluctance to change, to adapt, to try new things and to generally work together to be better. It is why the Government has such a poor view of our sector. Our inability to speak as one, to remove ego and attitude from the table, means that when we go to them with cap in hand, they more often than not say no. So here’s the catch. We all know that better windows and doors make the most difference to the heating in a home. There have been enough reports and studies to demonstrate that. That single point alone makes the argument for lower VAT stronger than perhaps any other product group. However, if we go to Government, be it in a band of small splinter groups or a larger single one, the counter demand to our request for lower VAT will be to become more qualified. Other sectors around us are way further down the qualification road than we are. That is why you are seeing other sectors gain certain benefits. The Government has seen other sectors willing to become better and have been rewarded in other ways. That, I’m afraid, is where we’re going to become stuck. But I will rant on about our lack of cohesion and the wrong people being charged with the leadership of this industry another time. There is a bargain to be struck. Our argument for lower VAT is strong. A reduction to 5% or even 0% is guaranteed to generate a huge amount of new business. Imagine the marketing message

our sector could put to the homeowner. Imagine how much a 15% or 20% cut to costs could reverse some of the many price increases that have been passed down to the consumer. Imagine how many more homes would be better insulated. But to get what we want, we would have to agree and come to a common position on one of the stickiest issues we have: standards and qualifications. And that is where my optimism wanes significantly.

APRIL EDITION 29

| [email protected] | @glazingblogger

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