FENDIGITAL MAGAZINE JAN22

FENDIGITAL MAGAZINE JAN22

ALUMINIUMSPECIAL!

Page 10 ANOPTION FORALL

Page 14 DGB - TOP 10 COMPANIES Page 12 SHEERLINE ALUMINIUM

• FENEX CHATS • KOLORSEAL • SHEERLINE • BRISANT SECURE • VBH GB • MORLEY GLASS • FENEX • DGB

www.fenex.co.uk

CONTENTS JANUARY EDITION

THIS MONTHS KEY ARTICLES...

PAGE 10 - ALUMINIUM : A GREAT OPTION FOR ALL PROPERTIES When it comes to aluminium windows or doors, there are no ‘bad’ aluminium products... PAGE 12 - SHEERLINE WELCOMES NEW STARTERS Sheerline Aluminium Windows and Doors has experienced exponential growth over the past two years... PAGE 14 - 10 COMPANIES TO WATCH FOR IN 2022 Every year I take a look at some of the companies that I believe will make a big splash in the coming 12 months... PAGE 27 - PAMELA PATERSON PACKS A PUNCH Hardware specialist VBH has promoted Pamela Paterson to the position of Operations Manager... PAGE 43 - GQA HELPS ALUK ACHIEVE TRAINING ACCREDITATION When AluK wished to achieve third party accreditation for its training courses the company turned to this specialist service... PAGE 49 - BRISANT-SECURE AT FENEX TELFORD 2023 EHIBITION Brisant-Secure, has announced that they will be exhibiting at FENEX Telford in 2023... PAGE 52 - MORLEY GLASS RENEWS SPONSORSHIP FOR 2022 NFAS The NFAs are happy to announce that long-time supporters of the awards, Morley Glass, have renewed their Ambassador sponsorship... PAGE 58 - GLASS SHORTAGES COULD END THIS YEAR Glass shortages were a major problem for the fenestration sector last year... PAGE 68 - FENEX VIDEO UPDATES Join us for our Christmas special with Richard Lannen of Glazing Insider. Beers and Christmas jumpers at the ready!

JANUARY EDITION 03

CLIPPINGS &

Moving On...

For many, looking back at 2021 with much positivity is still a difficult challenge. Political uncertainty, economic challenges, and COP26 have all had substantial repercussions….not to mention the dreaded ‘Covid’ word and its aftermath. There will still be many challenges ahead and for some that may be ‘adapting’. Change is never easy for some, but when it comes to moving forward there may well be some continuation into 2022. As business tries to move on from what worked before the pandemic, being able to tap into broader audiences will be essential. If the economy is set to start rocking, it may be necessary to adapt from putting focus on product benefits, to how a business can solve issues for customers. For any business to grow then communicating the right message in the right arena is essential. Advertising budgets are your company’s rainy day expense - adverts help to reinforce strong business messages, on a consistent basis. The right message in brand advertising will help any company to grow much more quickly. Being aware of competitors is also critical. Using problem solving advantages to that of the competition should be the focus - business benefits over massive spends on new product launches every time. Customers may not necessarily have the budget available for adopting new innovation into their business…they want results and reliability right now. 2022 could well be very difficult for construction - so those who are brave and bold, who have considered cash flow will lead the market. It may well be that the fenestration sector must continue to cope with material and job skill shortages. With a buoyancy in new contracts, it is essential to adapt and prepare for shortages of all kinds. It is inevitable that the UK skills shortage will continue to make a substantial impact; combine that with rising taxes and hourly wage rates, then training staff to keep them will become a priority. Being able to think about business in the short-term with a regular sideways glance on the future will surely help growth?

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 04

MUSINGS

FROM HELEN DUVAL 2022

It is essential to not let the divide between the top and the bottom of a team to grow wide. Those with foresight will nurture and encourage a workforce to pull together. Giving reassurance, particularly in days of new technology, which strikes fear in the hearts of so many. Digitisation will continue to transform this sector, and it is inevitable that companies will become more cost driven, particularly when it comes to promoting their companies. Over the last two years we have seen a dramatic way in how we all work. Flexi space is growing in popularity as occupiers have lower risks and focus on well-being is improved. An amalgam of home and office based opportunities will help to attract the right people and keep those trained to help keep a business at the top of its game. Investing in staff and the skills they can bring to a business is key to any recovery. Education and retraining will encourage a workforce, with their value recognised it is inevitable that they will see potential in the business for which they work. The idea of ‘building back better’ as our Chancellor regularly shouts out, needs to be supported and promises made need to be kept. If the ramifications from lockdown have taught us anything it is that we are able to adapt to different working methods. Just because something has always worked a particular way, does not mean that it should continue that way. Evaluating what is best for a workforce, customers and the business as a whole should be a priority and that could well mean adapting to big change. Adopting modern methods including, digitisation, AR, and being flexible in evaluating business models will help to ensure success. Changing course to attract and retain the right people will undoubtedly prove challenging but it is critical if we want to grow in a sustainable way throughout 2022.

JANUARY EDITION 05

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]

MORLEY GLASS BACK AT ITS BEST AS 10-DAY LEAD TIMES RETURN

Uni-Blinds® manufacturer Morley Glass is starting 2022 on a high after successfully fighting back against unprecedented supply chain issues to bring back its industry-topping 10-12 day lead times on its full range of integrated blinds. The Morley Glass team has worked hard to get back to business as usual despite a challenging 2021 caused by an unprecedented combination of supply problems. These included the impact of a tornado flattening the ScreenLine blind systems factory in the Czech Republic back in June, the well- publicised UK glass shortages and a whole host of Covid-related challenges. Working closely with its key supply chain partners, ScreenLine integral blind

manufacturer Pellini and Saint-Gobain Glass, Morley Glass has been able to secure significantly increased volumes of blind systems and glass in recent weeks to enable the production of Uni-Blinds to recover well ahead of schedule. It means that all orders for Uni-Blinds will now be delivered in 10-12 working days when ordered by 12.00pm on any Thursday, a turnaround that its customers had come to rely on and one that few other suppliers of between- glass blinds can match. In addition to restoring its supply chain, Morley Glass has just taken delivery of three new vans and ordered a further eight vehicles due for arrival during 2022. This larger fleet will help keep customer deliveries on track as production capacity increases following its investment of £750,000 in another sealed unit manufacturing line, a move which will enable Morley Glass’s output to grow to 6,000 integral blind units every week. These investments will help ensure that Morley Glass stays ahead of curve as demand for Uni-Blinds increases, enabling it to maintain its commitment to the industry’s shortest lead times backed with complimentary nationwide delivery on all orders. Ian Short, managing director of Morley Glass, said: “We’re over the moon to be back to where we want to be in terms of our service. It means that installers no longer need to settle for second choice integrated blind suppliers on time-sensitive jobs as our Uni-Blinds can now be supplied in the shortest lead times in the industry!

“There is no denying that we’ve found the last six months very challenging as we’ve had to work around some very difficult circumstances outside our control. With the high standards we set ourselves we always aim to resolve any supply issues that do arise as quickly as possible, and during these difficult recent months the whole Morley Glass team has pulled together fantastically to get us back on track!” Morley Glass is the leading manufacturer of ScreenLine integral blinds in the UK door and window industry through its Uni-Blinds branded range. Its 50,000 sq. ft state-of-the-art factory in Leeds is the world’s largest bespoke production facility of its kind for Screenline blind systems, from which it serves door and window installers across the UK. Find out more at www.morleyglass.co.uk.

JANUARY EDITION 07

BRISANT LAUNCH ULTION 2 STAR PLUS SECURITY HANDLE Brisant welcomes the New Year 2022 with the launch of the innovative Ultion 2 Star PLUS Security Handle, bringing together the best safety mechanisms in a handle. It has the molybdenum cylinder security guard, technology already used in the Ultion 2 Star handle, which protects against drilling and lock snapping. Combine this with the patented locking mechanism from Brisant’s ‘Lock Lock’ handle, which adds an extra security bolt, and the homeowner has double the protection. The patented anti-tamper spindle is also built in. From the inside the homeowner simply lifts the handle and presses down the switch, showing the red half-moon which indicates the door is locked and secure. Whilst the switch is down it is impossible to move the handle up or down therefore the locking mechanism cannot be disengaged. The switch works independently from the actual euro lock barrel. When the switch is down in the locking position, using the key to try to unlock the door will not work. It’s the same as having a traditional iron bolt on the inside of the door. Once this technology is added to the design of the stylish rounded form of the handle, which stops mole grips being able to rip off the handle, Brisant’s award winning design turns the door from a temptation into a deterrent. Manufactured from hardened steel, this handle is coated with six layers of armour plating and survived over a year in the weather test chamber. It comes with a twenty-year homeowner guarantee, which given the extreme weather conditions we have been facing in the UK over the last few years, has become increasingly important. Offered in chrome, stainless steel, gold, black, white, anthracite, brushed and the modern rose gold, it will suit all door designs and colours. The Ultion 2 Star PLUS handle will keep doors locked.

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 08

ALUMI A GREAT OPT PROPERT

Comar

When it comes to aluminium windows or doors, there are no ‘bad’ aluminium products, as the leading brands such as Schuco, Reynaers and Comar all share similar material specifications. For contemporary projects, aluminium is now a very popular choice, as they look good and offer many benefits in terms of practicality, security and thermal efficiency. That said, aluminium can also work very well in more traditional properties and period renovations. The leading companies naturally ensure that their products are tested, re-tested and manufactured to the highest industry standards and if there are issues regarding an installation it won’t be in the design. The top aluminium systems companies invest a lot of money testing, certifying and ensuring that the windows which are brought to market meet the promises they make. For residential installations it is not that hard to find a good aluminium system such as Stellar Aluminium, Comar Eco, or Deceuninck Decalu make great products for replacement projects or new builds. Design, energy efficiency, colour and of course security remain priorities for homeowners. Installers familiar with a brand’s composition, styling and usage, will be able to advise end users with the choice of product that is best suited to both traditional or modern homes. Opening and closing front, rear or side doors can differ greatly in terms of design and use, with hinged, folding, sliding or even lift and slide options available. When approaching consumers, understanding how aluminium differs from upvc will help. As both have different characteristics and performance levels, it is wise to understand so the homeowner can make an informed choice. UPVC Windows offer an affordable, long-lasting and low maintenance option, while aluminium options are known to be strong, slimline and they make an excellent material for window and door frames. Considered ‘the architect’s dream’ by some, aluminium can be moulded into almost any shape or frame and it will strong, reliable and secure. Upvc window properties make it an excellent choice as an affordable, durable and non- flexible window frame. Whilst more expensive than upvc windows, aluminium options on the market but the long lasting quality makes this a superb, long-term investment for a home.

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 10

INIUM : TION ON ALL TY TYPES

If UPVC windows are installed the frames will withstand some of the harshest weather conditions, without warping. As a low maintenance product this type of window or door can last for around 15 - 20 years, making them good value for money. Equally the strength of aluminium does not warp or rot in extreme weather conditions and both types of window have their benefits to suit the personal choice or budget of any homeowner. For example, those wanting triple glazing, aluminium’s slimline frames ensure that a sleek look can still be achieved. When it comes down to choosing between the two, the budget, design and needs of the customer will be the deciding factor.

FROM HELEN DUVAL 2022

Comar

ALUMINIUM FEATURE 11

SHEERLINE W A WEALTH OF EXPER

Derby-based aluminium systems company, Sheerline Aluminium Windows and Doors has experienced exponential growth over the past two years through the introduction of its Classic, Prestige and S1 lantern range of products, and to strengthen customer support three new technical roles have been created. Sheerline welcomes Robert Bell, Stephen Thomas and Aaron Housley to its team. No strangers to the fenestration industry or aluminium products, each brings with them a wealth of industry experience having worked closely with fabricators and installers for many years. These new roles will deliver technical support, training, and advice on a variety of window, door, and roof lantern related matters.

Robert Bell is an expert in his field. He started out as a PVCu window fitter in the 1980’s and gained experience as a surveyor, contract manager and production manager, before joining Sheerline to provide technical training and support to fabricators based in Ireland. Upon his appointment as Technical Manager covering the South-West region, Stephen Thomas stated, “I have worked nearly 40 years in similar roles, supporting fabricators and installers, but Sheerline strikes me as being different than other system companies. The pace of innovation and growth in the business is clear. Sheerline develops products that are suited for both the trade and for end-users. It’s incredibly forward thinking and ambitious, and everyone I’ve met are committed to delivering the best service and products possible.”

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 12

WELCOMES F TECHNICAL RTISE

Additionally, Aaron Housley joins to provide first line support for manufacturing software enquiries from Sheerline customers, being appointed as Manufacturing Software Support Engineer. Having previously served in similar roles at Synseal and Guardian, Aaron has extensive experience in the fenestration industry. He will also be key to keeping customer’s software up to date with Sheerline’s expanding product portfolio. Andy Russell, Technical Services Director for Garnalex, says, “Technical support is pivotal to our success. As a proactive company, we consistently ensure our customers’ needs are met, even before a problem arises. The new appointments are just the first of many planned over forthcoming months, and with our anticipated growth I’m expecting to see more colleagues joining us in our manufacturing facilities and internal departments during 2022.” For more information regarding Sheerline products got to www.sheerline.com or if you are looking for a new career and fancy joining the team at Sheerline, contact [email protected]

ALUMINIUM FEATURE 13

10 COMPANIE FOR IN Every year I take a look at some of the companies that I believe will make a b opinion-based. It doesn’t matter about the size of the business or how long th within the wider sector and the mark

1. Deceuninck Aluminium The residential aluminium sector continues to grow and the last couple of years has shown that there is indeed room for more growth as new aluminium system companies have come online. One particular company that made an impact last year and looks set to widen its influence in 2022 is Deceuninck Aluminium. 2021 was a good year for the business, winning a number of new fabricators away from already established systems companies. But with a raft of new regulations coming online in the next 12-18 months, and their products already meeting those new requirements, demand for residential aluminium that is automatically up to scratch is going to be very useful to a lot of people. 2. Vitrine Aluminium Continuing on the aluminium trail is Vitrine Aluminium. Established at the end of 2020 and having their first full year in 2021, they grew quickly and became what I saw as a disruptive force in the world of aluminium fabrication. They even picked up a 2021 NFA award in November. I have met the people at the top of this business and their team around them, and I can honestly say that I have rarely come across energy and partnership as is demonstrated by these guys. Their desire to do things right, to have the drive at relatively young ages to reform their part of the sector and show how professional it can be done. They grew so quickly last year that they already needed to expand to a new unit. I would keep an eye on these guys in 2022. 3. Morley Glass They already command most of the integral blind market in the UK, so why include them on this list for 2022? If that’s what you’re thinking, then you’d be right. They really have cornered the integral blinds market in this country, delivering almost 5000 blinds per week. They are leading the way in terms of onsite glass recycling and their raft of charity work in the local area is fantastic. But they’re on this list for 2022 because I believe that Morley Glass isn’t about to become one of the leading brands in the glass sector, I see them as about to cement their place as one of the leading brands in the whole of UK fenestration. If you chart their rise from the start to their facility in Leeds now, to their expansion and sheer volume, and factor in their incredibly well- crafted reputation, they have earned their way to the top. 4. Glass Futures You may remember last year planning permission was granted to a new £54m facility in St Helens. It was a huge announcement in the wider landscape of UK glass and this year is going to see the start of the building of that very facility. This new hub in St Helens is going to be a huge research and development hub for glass that is going to focus on creating new innovations, improving glass production and working with domestic and international supply chains. This type of facility could not come at a more important time considering the last 18 months we have all worked through, and I am sure we are all looking forward to seeing this sparkling new 2022 has to be the year where industry sustainability takes centre stage, and one of those companies I believe is going to be CNC Recycling. Yes, the PVCu recycling scene is very much established in this sector now, with a growing list of major names investing millions in hubs around the UK to process millions of frames, keeping them out of the ground. But there is always room for more, and when you look at the expansion of CNC Recycling in recent times, with just one facility in the North East to now seven across the country, the company is very well placed to benefit from the rise in PVCu recycling. With a 2021 NFA award to recognise their work, 2022 looks set to be a very good year for them. plant come online. 5. CNC Recycling

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 14

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

ES TO WATCH N 2022 big splash in the coming 12 months. The list is not in any order and is purely hey have existed. Their inclusion is based on the size of the impact they make I believe they could make this year.

6. Eurocell Recycling Another company that looks well placed to benefit from the sustainability drive is Eurocell. They already have a well-established recycling network and are one of the biggest PVCu recyclers in the UK. Coming off the back of a very good 2021, and looking to expand their recycling capacity in the coming years, the focus on sustainability and the need to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint means Eurocell is a company well placed to make the most of that in 2022. I expect to see a lot from them on this specific subject in 2022. 7. Festa Doors Have you seen their enormous pivot doors? If not click here. I advise that you do. In 2021 I was lucky enough to go see the creation of their stunning showroom in Huddersfield and it was at that point I was convinced that companies like Festa would be responsible for bringing ultra-luxury doors to the wider market. In 2022, with their showroom finished and demand for higher-end doors only growing, I can see installations with Festa products even going viral on social media. There are of course other very notable mentions in this field as well, such as Spitfire, Pirnar and others, and they too will make their mark this year with their own amazing doors. I see Festa as being at the forefront of pivot doors and mega-mansion doors making a big breakthrough this year. 8. Brisant Secure This is a company that consistently makes top growth lists in various media publications and has continued to garner a very good reputation amongst the locksmith and fenestration communities alike. 2021 was a good year for the business, but with their new 2-star Ultion handle, and the Ultion SMART cylinder which seems nicely poised to take better advantage of the rise in smart home tech in the coming years, 2022 I believe is going to be a year where you’re going to hear and see a lot more of the Dewsbury-based business. 9. Any trickle vent manufacturer This one has everything to do with the new Building Regulations that were announced at the end of 2021. And as there is more than one supplier of trickle vents in the UK, it is simply easier to band them altogether. As we know, updated regulations are going to see a huge bump in the sale of trickle vents for windows and doors. That is going to be very good news to those that make them, and I would expect 2022 to be a very healthy year for anyone involved in the production of trickle vents. 10. AGC Glass Europe/Fineo AGC and their Fineo vacuum insulated glass product made a splash last year. This year we are going to hear a lot more about VIG and these guys are leading the way, with partnerships with the likes of Masterframe in the UK and Deceuninck in Europe. You can find out more about vacuum insulated glass here. With its ability to achieve incredibly low u-values, using less material and the prospect of it becoming more affordable as time moves on, I can see Fineo making some big noise in our sector. 2022 for UK fenestration is going to be another competitive year, with challenges and changes at every turn. It will be the making of some companies and the breaking of others. But there is also a ton of opportunities to make the most of and the ten mentioned above are some of who I think will take advantage of those. Of course, the industry is much bigger than the list above, and there are great companies up and down the country who will most certainly do great things.

ALUMINIUM FEATURE 15

| [email protected] | @glazingblogger

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS CHARITY DONATIONS

Lee Clarke and the Fenestration Digital team want to say a huge thank you to customers who made donations to last year’s Christmas Charity. It was a great success all round and very much appreciated by the children and younger people who benefited from the generosity from those in the fenestration sector who supported the causes. The donations from Fenestration Digital customers helped two charities - CATCH (Leeds) and WISH (Derbyshire), both of which aim to provide people from all ages and backgrounds with goals and ‘positive alternatives’, giving them access to greater opportunities in life. Contributions that are made help these causes to continue and last year was extra special for CATCH as they were able to send Christmas gifts to

refugee children in Afghanistan via a mutual partnership. Every single penny counted, and for WISH, some funds will cover core costs to help protect those who are vulnerable and suffering from domestic violence. The focus for Lee Clarke was primarily to give children and young people the chance of making healthy life choices. Lee comments: “Our customers have helped to make a major, positive impact that will benefit the lives of many others. Christmas is always a time when we think of family and friends, but for a lot of people that can also be a very difficult time to get through.” He comments further, “We have had two very difficult years and for the younger generations it has been particularly hard. I for one cannot sit back without giving some help and support, so as we move into 2022, I hope that our customers realise how much they are helping disadvantaged children.” Lee concludes, “As a team we wanted to champion the causes that can encourage the next generation by demonstrating there is hope for the future and that there are people out there who care about that. Once again, I have been deeply humbled by the generosity of this industry and those who share the same values. From the Fenestration Digital team, CATCH (Leeds) and WISH (Derbyshire), a very big thank you.”

JANUARY EDITION 17

KOLORSEALLAUNCHES ‘DE-STRESSWITHGERI KIT’ FORCUSTOMERS

As we hurtle towards Christmas and another new year celebration, 2021 has once again proved a very stressful year for many, with work, Covid and Brexit all taking their toll. In a recent 2021 Mental health poll researchers concluded one in three people (29%) had taken time off work for mental health reasons. Interestingly, the survey showed fidgeting may provide more relief for men in high pressure situations. For Deborah Hendry, Managing Director at Kolorseal Ltd, it is an issue that should be raised and monitored with solutions or support offered. For this reason the ‘De-stress With Geri’ kit has been launched, for

customers and installers who use Kolorseal services. A selection of Kolorseal fidget toys and stress reducing gifts have been designed as a light-hearted way to tackle this serious issue, that for some is hard to deal with on a daily basis. Fidget toys have gained a lot of recognition in recent years, as a release from nervous anxiety, stress and restlessness. These help those who have built-up tension inside or who experience suppressed feelings of anger or frustration. Deborah comments, “Ongoing worry and dread is a large issue for those who suffer from stress, with some people unable to cope with emotions that may interfere with their daily work activities. This can lead to depression amongst other stress related issues. The idea behind Geri’s fidget toys is that they not only help to alleviate stress but can also improve concentration.” It has been stated that fidgeting can stimulate and help to engage areas in the brain associated with attention. Repeating movements can help to quickly relieve stress as the objects are tactile and can be easily carried around in pockets. The ‘De-stress With Geri’ Kit offers a fidget or squeezing object that may help improve hand-eye co- ordination, concentration and can help to reduce anxiety. Deborah concludes, “We really hope that this will be a useful, albeit light-hearted method to help those who may need to reduce their stress levels.” To claim a ‘De-stress With Geri’ Kit, customers or installers can send in a recent photo of products fully built up in the factory ready to despatch; or shots of windows or doors in situ, that have been ‘Kolorsealed’. For more information on the Kolorseal range of colours or services, please visit the website www.kolorseal.co.uk.

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 18

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NEWLYEXPANDED GREENTEQOMEGA LETTERBOX FAMILY

The greenteQ Omega letterbox range from VBH has evolved to include both a remodelled standard sized box and a completely new 56mm Slim version to suit ultra slim transoms. Both versions feature the clean, contemporary styling that is so popular on doors of all styles and materials. The opening on Omega Slim is offset towards the bottom of the box’s frame. The greenteQ design team has calculated that this maximises the available aperture whilst ensuring that the letterbox doesn’t overhang the bead on even the slimmest sections. Omega letterboxes feature attractive convex curved metal flaps that open to near vertical both inside and outside, ensuring that relatively thick packages can be put through the door without putting stress on the letterbox’s springs. There is no groove in the flap to allow it to open fully, leaving just the attractive curved surface. The frame ends are also metal, and are gently curved to continue the modern styling. Omega has been tested to BS EN 13724 with a classification of 4241. This calls for 25,000 full ‘closed – fully open – closed’ cycles.

Both versions are available in nine finishes of the greenteQ Suite, VBH’s expanding range of colour and style-matched window, residential door and patio door furniture that allows a full house installation to be seamlessly tied together. All finishes will exceed 480 hours salt spray testing to BS EN 1670 Grade 5. The letterboxes feature a strong, yet cushioned, closing action to stop rattling in windy conditions, and have an internal brush and an external foam seal to provide excellent draught and water protection. VBH Marketing Manager Gary Gleeson says, “The original Omega has been very popular but the redesign has given it a new lease of life and, possibly, a wider appeal. “We are really pleased to have added the Slim version to the greenteQ Suite now. It was developed in response to requests from customers who have been desperate to fit greenteQ to their mid-rail doors, but Standard Omega was just too deep. With its contemporary good looks, we’re sure that Omega Slim will be a popular addition to the greenteQ range.” Both boxes are fully weather- and cycle-tested and are suitable for doors between 40-80mm thick. To find out more about the Omega family or any other VBH product, visit www.vbhgb.com, email [email protected], or call 01634 263263.

JANUARY EDITION 21

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Michael Hollyer Director | ClearstyleWindows

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hael Hollyer | ClearstyleWindows

Leigh Barnes Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer. We can even download a customer job report with their signature and customer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry.

Luke Smith Director | The Green RoomBuilding Co 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 there ourselves.

Michael Hollyer Director | ClearstyleWindows

Leigh Barnes Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer. We can even download a customer job report with their signature and customer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry.

L ke Smith Director | The Green RoomBuilding Co 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 an 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 there ourselves. We can even download a customer job rep rt wit their signature and customer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry.

Michael Hollyer Director | ClearstyleWindows

ty, by customer, and on a job by cate and review every step of the ney was incredible. It is as if the designed specifically for my ng Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sales stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘any ttended against the jobs. This eview previous visits and action ssigned to myself or my team members.

Having the ability, by customer, and on a job by job basis to allocate and review every step of the customer journey was incredible. It is as if the software was design d sp cifically for m business. Using Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sales stage’, ‘survey stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘any service calls attended against the jobs. This allows me to review previous visits and action visits either assigned to myself or my team members.

Having the ability, by customer, and on a jo job basis to allocate and review every step custom journey was incredible. It is as if software was designed specifically for m business. Using Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sa stage’, ‘survey stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘a service calls atte ded against the jobs. T allows me to review previous visits and ac visits either assigned to myself or my tea members. SIGN UP TODAY AT ON

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how it works Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar View Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs Are Unfair Claims Hurting Your Business? Let Onsite 7's Job Management Software help you to grow your business and prevent claims for work done well. Are Unfair Claims Hurting Your Business? Let Onsite 7's Job Management Software help you to grow your business and prevent claims for work done well. Onsite 7 can edit your job stage headings, making them more bespoke to your business. eg. change the title ‘sales’ to ‘quotation’ or ‘survey’ to ‘first fix etc. Your Business? help you to grow your business and prevent claims for work done well.

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We have varied support staff on hand, both providing hard support and soft support services. All of our team are incredible experienced which helps them get to the bottom of support requests, promptly and efciently. Are Unfair Claims H Your Business? Let Onsite 7's help you to g prevent claim

how it works Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar View Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs

Our ‘soft’ support team work in the background, providing technical updates, service monitoring and security checks. This ensures the very best service levels are maintained for our customers. The ‘hard’ support team, deal directly with our customers, helping them through product queries, providing quick demonstration results and even tailoring their software to their individual business needs.

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aried support staff on hand, both hard support and sof support ll of our team are incredible d which helps them get to the support requests, promptly and upport team work in the d, providing technical updates, nitoring and security checks. This e very best service levels are for our customers. support team, deal directly with our helping them through product oviding quick demonstration even tailoring their software to dual business needs.

Onsite 7 can edit your job stage headings, making them more bespoke to your business. eg. change the title ‘sales’ to ‘quotation’ or ‘survey’ to ‘first fix etc.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, PROVIDE TRAINING AND CAN EVEN ASSIST WITH SETTING UP YOUR ONSITE 7 SYSTEM

Support

You and your team can capture every stage of your job Using the Onsite 7 App You and your team can capture every stage of your job Using the Onsite 7 App Our ‘soft’ support team work in the background, providing technical updates, service monitoring and security checks. This ensures the very best service levels are maintained for our customers. The ‘hard’ support team, deal directly with our customers, helping them through product queries, providing quick d mons ration results and even tailoring their soft a t their individual business needs. CAN EVEN ASSIST

Michael Hollyer Director | ClearstyleWindows You and your team can capture every stage of your job Using the Onsite 7 App We have varied support staff on hand, both providing hard support and soft support services. All of our team are incredible experienced which helps them get to the bottom of support requests, promptly and efciently.

Leigh Barnes Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer.

Luke Smith Director | The Green RoomBuilding Co 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 there ourselves.

Having the ability, by customer, and on a job by job basis to allocate and review every step of the customer journey was incredible. It is as if the

software was designed specifically for my business. Using Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sales stage’, ‘survey stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘any service calls attended against the jobs. This allows me to review previous visits and action visits either assigned to myself or my team members.

We can even download a customer job report with their signature and customer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry. You and your team can capture every stage of your job Using the Onsite 7 App

how it works additional features

ELP ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, PROVIDE TRAINING AND CAN EVEN ASSIST WITH SETTING UP YOUR ONSITE 7 SYSTEM

Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar view Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs Leigh Barn s Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer. We can even download a customer job report with their signature and cust mer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry.

Dynamic calendar,

Job costing and profit reporting Dynamic job number ranges User permission controls And much more

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.

SIGN UP TODAY AT ONSITE7.CO.UK

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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[email protected]

HOW I WILL L ON 2 As we navigate our way through the very first few weeks of this on the last 12 month

This is how I will look back at 2021 and what lessons I have learned which will make my time in fenestration more productive and enjoyable. Limits stretched in 2021 UK fenestration went through perhaps its toughest year in 2021. We began the year with lock-downs across the UK, with Scotland’s tradespeople unable to work in people’s homes and England and Wales very nearly following suit. People stayed at home, schools were closed and non-essential businesses were forced to close their doors. Window and door showrooms across the country shut their doors to customers which provided a huge challenge to installers and how they were able to carry out their business with clients. Thankfully, demand was so high and so strong that the closure of showrooms never really mattered as installers were able to build up order books that stretched into months. Something that had not happened for a very long time in our sector. With that incredible demand, however, also came supply chain disruption. The second half of 2020 was good, 2021 was even better. But it caught the entire sector unaware and we were unable to scale up to be able to meet this higher demand. The result was a shortage of products across the board. These included, but were not limited to; White PVCu profile, toughened glass, laminated glass, tinted glass, door handles, window handles, spacer bars, bevelled glass, timber, insulation, tiles. The list could go on. The supply chain disruption truly tested us all to our limits. Whether it was systems companies pressing hard to keep up with demand from fabricators. Or fabricators busting their backsides every hour of every day to make deliveries to installers on time. Or installers trying regularly in vein to maintain fitting schedules that had to be rearranged every week due to a plethora of factors out of their control. It made running a fenestration business incredibly difficult. Yes, the revenues were up sharply, but so was the stress and mental health problems. I saw people all around me hit rock bottom over the stress of running their businesses. All I could think at the end of the week was “is this really worth it?”. Pre-pandemic the industry was ticking along at a steady pace, managing supply chains and generally keeping on top of things. Then there was a pandemic-induced boom and it became painfully clear that the industry was not ready for a sustained period of increasing demand. Throughout the year there were various predictions about when this bounce-back might fizzle away. First, it was Q1 of 2021, then that was pushed back to Q2. Summer vacations weren’t really happening so that kept spending on other big-ticket items higher, like windows and doors, so nothing really dropped away in Q3 either. Basically, any prediction that at some point in 2021 business activity would slow was wrong. The only hint that I thought that things were waning was in December as there was a reported sharp drop in sales activity. I have a feeling this was more to do with usual seasonal habits than anything else. We’ll see what happens in January and February of this year to see if that was the case. I know 2021 was hard. We had to deal with navigating a pandemic, as well as trying to work in a sector that was being overrun by demand and a crippled supply chain. But we made it through to Christmas and we all had two weeks of perhaps the most well-earned downtime we have all had. During that time I was able to reflect on the sheer amount of work we all put in and realised that despite how truly hard everything was in

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 24

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