Fenestration Digital Magazine edition 18

Fenestration Digital Magazine edition 18

@FenDigital www.fenestrationdigital.co.uk

ISSUE 18: FENESTRATION DIGITAL MAGAZINE

Increase your profits with integral blinds

ORDER TODAY

www.morleyglass.co.uk

Quotes available in 60 minutes.

from

Tel: 0113 277 8722 Email: [email protected] Direct fax for quotations: 0113 277 8723

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

F E N E S T R A T I O N D I G I T A L

E D I T O R S C O N T E N T

E D I T I O N 1 8

CLIPPINGS AND MUSINGS - JANUARY 2020 - HELEN DUVAL

doubt be at the forefront of our minds with the continuing national fascination regarding house prices. Constantly we try to second guess the movement of the property market, with detailed analyses from one lender, broker or sales agent or another, being put in front of us to scrutinise faster than we can blink. Another area that is sure to have an impact on the glazing sector will be energy efficiency and the reduction of carbon footprints, remaining an important topic. It is hoped by the Solar Trade Association that this will impact the solar industry to provide a viable solution for the sector and enable it to continue developing. The UK solar market is now progressing as completely subsidy-free. Sustainable growth is anticipated from 2020 to 2023 although the speed of that will be hard to quantify. But as we head forward into a new year, it looks like there is plenty of opportunity and potential.

European Union resulted in the CPA (Construction Products Association) downgrading forecasts for UK construction for last year. Looking forward the CPA has downgraded forecasts for 2020 from 1.0% and 1.4% to 0.5% and 0.9% as Brexit continues to have major effects on construction and regeneration delivery times. Due to house prices being sluggish this is having a major influence on commercial investment, hence the negative projections. The continued uncertainty Brexit brings has left its mark, with an obvious reluctance to invest in new build offices continuing, as investors seem to prefer to wait until the UK’s relationship with Europe is established and the future is more certain. energy. There is more optimism predicted in warehouse building and regeneration which is expected to rise by 20% during 2020. This has been attributed to the need for online retailers to provide better and faster logistics as the ‘High Street’ continues to be hit by poorer profits and rising business rates. Yet it is not all doom and gloom with areas of growth predicted in infrastructure and renewable In respect of the private housing sector, there is growth expected this year with a more stable economy and demand for new build set to rise thanks to improvements with the Help To Buy system. Despite housing association development considered a contributing factor in the housing market slowing down, there is still positive news for public housing which is attributed to Shared Ownership and Affordable Homes Programmes. Overall there appears to be a positive outlook in general for construction moving forward, with the CPA upgrading growth expectations for 2021 from zero % construction to1.7%.

Looking at forecasts for 2020, there is a general belief in relation to the housing sector, that consumers will wait until the Budget before considering moving. According to Russell Galley, managing Director of Halifax, it is expected, during 2020, that there will be house price growth of between 1% and 3%. In a recent article he said: "The housing market in 2019 followed a similar path to recent years. Modest price growth was supported by falling mortgage rates and a low volume of houses for sale, factors which can in part be attributed to elevated uncertainty.”

There are higher hopes for 2020 with transaction volumes expected to rise, meaning house prices should rise thanks to “growth in households’ real incomes.” It is expected that with fewer homes for sale and problems brought about by the need for larger deposits, that this could still have a considerable impact. It seems incredulous that as we begin a new year we are all still pondering on the outcome of Brexit in respect of the UK economy.

For the Glass and Glazing sector there would seem to be a generally positive forecast and this will no

The continuing uncertainty it brings regarding the terms of the UK’s final withdrawal from the

2

3

F E N E S T R A T I O N D I G I T A L

E D I T O R S C O N T E N T

E D I T I O N 1 8

glass technology

RapidLam Shape: More Scope To Shape The Future.

Increase your profits with integral blinds

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

ORDER TODAY

www.morleyglass.co.uk

Quotes available in 60 minutes.

from

Tel: 0113 277 8722 Email: [email protected] Direct fax for quotations: 0113 277 8723

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

4

5

www.hegla.co.uk

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

F E N E S T R A T I O N D I G I T A L

E D I T O R S C O N T E N T

E D I T I O N 1 8

Intelligent technology is now as much a part of business as the way people conduct business. Yet a few years ago who could have ever imagined that phones would also change the way that many people are re-modelling their homes. Kitchens, bathrooms, conservatories can now all be designed right there in front of your eyes. Stunning orangeries, garage conversions, bathroom renovations or kitchen extensions. Let’s not forget commercial re-design. Once the decision has been made to renovate or update it’s common to wonder what those changes will actually look like once installed and the true benefits that can be achieved. Installers and builders are now able to advise consumers and investors on all aspects of design thanks to CAD drawings and AR. For commercial upgrades Augmented Reality (AR) provides options on the best way to redesign production floors as well as completely new facilities in order to get the best out of machinery investment. AR is one of the fastest growing technologies available and investors are keen to see how their investments will work to their best effect. On commercial projects CAD demonstrates how production costs can be reduced. It shows how the whole business can work not just faster but smarter. From architecture to interior home design, the AR headset or VR may soon be as universal to both large and small businesses as smartphones and iPads. AR and VR are progressive and as emerging technologies they save time in all areas of renovation and redesign on commercial and domestic projects. People are quickly catching onto how beneficial this type of technology can be for their individual market sectors as the online and visual reach is extremely powerful. With design apps now so readily available installers can gain advantages or even get larger investment in a project, by demonstrating what an overhaul could look like over a replacement window project.

Designing using these systems offers a number of advantages over traditional drafting methods. Designs can be altered immediately to demonstrate alterations or new requirements to a project. Zoom features allow a designer to magnify aspects of a reconfiguration and to illustrate the spatial requirements of new machinery investments. Home Design 3D, let’s iPhone users create virtual models of a property by creating virtual renderings complete with paint colours and furniture. Android users can also use similar programs which provide a number of advantages for the building and specification sectors, as contractors can calculate the costs regarding configured renovations. Apps have revolutionised the way we all do business. Installation companies are now using this type of technology to provide customers with an advanced app preview of their range. This allows consumers to have a visual of what they are looking for before visiting a showroom, for example. For many this simplifies the decision making process, but also it enables comprehensive discussion to take place and greatly contributes to overall customer satisfaction. Many manufacturers and installation companies have adopted 3D simulation now, believing it to be an integral part of the purchasing and planning stages. Accurate, animated simulations which include the smallest details, even down to furniture and final views. Despite the fact that applications offer handy and unique ways to visualise a remodelling project, even the best laid plans can go awry without the right preparations, so exploring all available options covers the necessary bases and keeps a project moving along smoothly and seamlessly.

SMART DESIGN IS MOVING FORWARD

6

7

F E N E S T R A T I O N D I G I T A L

E D I T O R S C O N T E N T

E D I T I O N 1 8

GIVE GLASS ITS DUE

Understanding the right glass types for any building project where the performance is as important as the appearance does need careful consideration. For this reason it should not be considered just another part of the project. For people who live in cities, near railway lines or airports, noise pollution can have considerable impact on life quality, making the need for noise reduction to be a large part of the design process. Understanding and strategising on large and small sized projects will give companies an edge over competitors. Our homes should be peaceful retreats from the outside world and our working life should be conducive to healthy living. Keeping unwanted noise out is an important part of both those environments. Moving forward into 2020, as a high proportion of the noise we hear enters through our windows, reminding homeowners that replacing them could be the ideal solution to intrusive noise issues could lead to greater business potential. Knowing which type of glass is right for a particular aspect is essential so that the finished project will be secure and help to reduce noise - an advantage for any builder or installer to know the breadth of options. Most recently there has been a revolution in glass sizes for installations on windows and large patio areas, with many almost preferring glass houses due to the increased light, soundproofing and lower energy costs. Glass lift shafts, huge glass commercial entrances and transparent facades on skyscrapers are a dominant type of construction design these days and this is a trend that looks set to continue. Glass is unique and can be adapted to utilise specific aspects including optical and mechanical properties. Transparency, transmittance, durability and strength, all add to its appeal and ensure that this market has a bright future.

Ongoing industry expansion and changing trends means that the glass market changes. Advancements in glass automation offer today’s processors a variety of routes to develop a business with multifaceted advantages. As a material and an aesthetic, glass is now one of the most desirable elements that improve the over-all appearance of a home or building. More than this, glass is now a fundamental product that is improving the quality of life for occupants of a property or office space. Whatever the type of business, association or government department building, glass is a focal part of the design process for many reasons. Glass has become one of the most diverse materials used in modern building design with unlimited visual appeal, light enhancing aspects and superb thermal performance.

Considering video marketing? From design to online distribution, we can help.

8

9

Web: www.videoproduction4.co.uk | Call: 07437 854225

F E N E S T R A T I O N D I G I T A L

E D I T O R S C O N T E N T

E D I T I O N 1 8

STAND AND DELIVER

cleared. Writing off debts does also perhaps set a precedent where others may try to follow.

A clear set of terms and conditions of business lets everyone know where they stand, with many customers acknowledging that it gives safe passage in terms of any potential misunderstandings regarding payment. Simple contracts will clearly communicate conditions for both parties to deliver on their respective sides of the deal. Drawing up credit control procedures is important as they ensure that customers can know what to expect regarding notification and the subsequent recovery process. Negotiation is an integral part of the entire process and the longer the business relation-ship has existed then the easier this should be for a resolution. Discussing customer’s individual situations is important, and trying to evaluate the reasons behind late payment are key. Having a full grasp of the circumstances ensures that there are roads that can be followed to allow them to make suitable methods of payment or instalments. A flexible position will help to maintain a good business relationship when things turn around for the customer or debtor. Knowing what steps to take is critical to the survival of a business, so it is always worthwhile to have a business plan in place for this eventuality. Perhaps small debts could be written off or late payment penalties waived, however it is better to know quickly if the debt has little chance of being Unless otherwise agreed, a payment is legally classed as late after 30 days. IT’S GOOD TO TALK IF ALL ELSE FAILS

Without a secure guarantee to be paid, it is then time to evaluate the ultimate costs of the debt to a business. If the communication channels completely break down, it then probably is the time to call in the solicitors.

THE COST OF RECOVERY

Interest, costs and in some cases the cost of collecting a debt can be claimed under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Interest Act. At the moment it is possible to claim statutory interest at 8% over base rate, along with £40 - £100 for each invoice, depending on the invoice value. Interest can also be claimed on outstanding debts that were not paid within an agreed period, but that have subsequently been cleared. However, being firm with payments in the first place, by sticking to agreed terms, has to be the best way forward to secure recovery and continued business.

EASING THE FINANCIAL BUSINESS TENSIONS

Evaluating business strategies is always a key focus, particularly at the start of a new year and every business will from time to time, encounter issues regarding late payments. Often, business owners will feel uncomfortable about the idea of confronting bad debts directly, particularly if this relates to a longstanding customer. Too firm an approach and there is a risk of losing a valued client. Then again, too soft, and the business relationship could be taken for granted with the debt not taken seriously enough by the customer. Late payments can cripple a business and yet a lot of companies shy away from taking legal action to avoid losing the customer. For most people avoiding the final legal step is always the preferred route.

The sector has had its fair share of ups and downs and there are many who will undoubtedly have some horror stories, particularly from the dark days of recession. For SME’s it literally can be a crushing experience with financial stress and worry overriding the business as a whole, especially for sole traders and installers who rely on subcontractors. Overdue payments can often be avoided however with some clear procedures in place. Billing promptly and efficiently for trade accounts means that a business is more likely to be paid in the same way. As for supplying end customers, a deposit and stage payment process can seriously help to reduce risks.

10

11

F E N E S T R A T I O N D I G I T A L

E D I T O R S C O N T E N T

E D I T I O N 1 8

· 70mm sash and 80mm frame · Double rebated for extreme weather · Discreet external seal · Fully foiled for authenticity · Welded or mechanically jointed

A new generation of flush sash windows…

01332 883900 [email protected] www.liniar.co.uk/resurgence

12

13

E D I T I O N 1 8

F E N E S T R A T I O N D I G I T A L

SPECIFICATION

SECURITY

An article was recently published in The Glazine (see www.the-glazine.com/glazine07january2020) with Anglo European making claims its reinforcement is “a match for those supplied by three named systems companies”– one of which is Liniar. LINIAR’S RESPONSE TO ITS INTERPRETATION OF “FAKE NEWS” Liniar is fully expecting systems companies, testing houses, suppliers and the industry’s governing bodies to work together quickly to separate fact from fiction, in order to ensure that product performance and safety is not compromised. Ultimately it will be the industry’s governing bodies that rule on the outcome, but in the meantime we feel it is time for Liniar to speak out. Whenever a product becomes successful, in any industry, there is often a wave of copycat products trying to undercut the original and claim a share of the market. We’re used to seeing this, even within our own industry – but when these products are components that are hidden away inside others, and which potentially threaten the safety, quality, stability and brand reputation of the whole system, it is imperative that the full implications of using substitutes are considered. Steel and aluminium reinforcements for windows and doors are an integral part of any system, for good reason. Systems companies invest literally millions of pounds in design, development and testing in order to make sure products are fully accredited before they’re launched onto the market. INVESTMENT

There are many reasons for the exact specification of the Liniar system; and it doesn’t just stop with third party testing of a single window or door. Every window system is subject to a mass of requirements from specifiers, fabricators, installers and consumers, from wind loading and thermal performance calculations to test results at maximum sizes for security and overall performance. When we see a company claiming that “the reinforcement we supply is equal to that supplied by systems companies, meeting and exceeding, all of the criteria performance that they’ve laid down,” we feel it’s time to lift the lid on the inaccuracy of this bold statement – which we regard as “fake news”. The material specification and coatings are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to reinforcement. The shape and thickness of the reinforcement is critically important for its strength characteristics (EI Value). Liniar provides support on a daily basis to customers fabricating large structural facades to ensure they are safe and able to withstand the calculated wind pressures. Liniar cannot offer structural advice for products using reinforcement with unproven strength values. The British Standard (BS6375) referred to in the article consists of three parts. The full Liniar system is tested to all three parts of this standard, resulting in the maximum size of windows and doors currently specified in our fabrication manual. The Anglo product in this case has only been tested to the first part of the standard, weather tightness, and we would question whether the maximum sizes laid out by Liniar’s fabrication manual have been adhered to. If not, are fabricators aware of their new maximum product sizes? STRENGTH (EI) PERFORMANCE

Security testing, covered by PAS24 and Secured By Design, is critical for windows used in commercial buildings and new build developments; and we don’t see any evidence of this being achieved with the Liniar system utilising an alternative steel reinforcement. In fact, PAS24 can only be achieved once all three parts of the BS6375 standard above have been met. Of course, fabricators are free to offer non-PAS24 accredited windows, but if the test certification is used with non-approved steel components, the product itself will not be guaranteed by the systems company, nor covered by the British Standard. The BSI Group offers fabricators the opportunity to incorporate the test >Page 1 Page 2-3 Page 4-5 Page 6-7 Page 8-9 Page 10-11 Page 12-13 Page 14-15 Page 16-17 Page 18-19 Page 20-21 Page 22-23 Page 24-25 Page 26-27 Page 28-29 Page 30-31 Page 32-33 Page 34-35 Page 36-37 Page 38-39 Page 40-41 Page 42-43 Page 44-45 Page 46-47 Page 48-49 Page 50-51 Page 52-53 Page 54-55 Page 56-57 Page 58-59 Page 60-61 Page 62-63 Page 64-65 Page 66-67 Page 68-69 Page 70

Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker