Door Industry Journal - Spring 2020

Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk THE door industry journal spring 2020 101 Entrance & Bi-folding Doors For the customer this reinforcement means it is possible for exceptionally large doors to be installed, allowing up to 30% more daylight to enter the home. In terms of thermal properties, U-Value is no longer an afterthought for homeowners, with many actively seeking the lowest possible value for their doors. Typically, generic modern, double glazing holds a value of <=1.4 Wmk 2 at best whilst the value of these latest innovative profiles with triple glazing can achieve lower than <0.7Wmk 2 . This significant improvement appeals to customers, as maintaining an energy efficient home is vital when trying to keep energy bills to a minimum. An increase in the environmentally conscious individual has also affected the demand for the best thermal insulation characteristics. Profiles, therefore, need to be designed with this in mind, with homeowners and developers opting for system profiles which have been engineered to be triple glazed to create an exceptional living experience, whilst remaining environmentally friendly. Most modern third generation systems have an impressive 85 mm+ system depth which comfortably allows for three panes of glass and good airspace between each pane obviously gas filled. By Comparison conventional PVCu profiles just have a max 70mm profile depth which has obvious limitations when it comes to fitting three panes of glass. A lot of the Aluminium slim systems have even more limitations hence the much heard claims stating the UK market does not really need triple glazing! When researching options, it’s important to look closely at the system profile, as it goes without saying that the smaller the airspace between the panes, the less effective it’s insulation properties will be. An efficient door requires a higher standard of installation, whilst it’s important that the industry evolves with technological advancements, we need to ensure that the switch from PVCu to aluminium or aluminium alternatives involves a high level of training across the Industry, to maintain and increase standards and customer satisfaction. If you’ve only ever installed PVCu, look at manufacturers who offer a compulsory training schemes for their products. This ensures that standards are kept high and your personal reputation remains untarnished. The processes of installing triple glazed, third generation profile systems are totally different to their predecessors, with a high cost penalty if mistakes are made! There’s little point in a customer purchasing a great door if it’s not fitted properly. Often there will be different levels of training from initial to advanced, offering very constructive and practical guidance. Fitters are required to meet even higher standards of training due to the grey areas that exist in technical installation such as the fixing methods, frame position and wall connections and air tightness etc. At Weru UK, our fitters are trained to the very strict German RAL approved window installation standards. This is required for all aspects of installation including air tightness, security and wind loading. Once the training has been completed fitters become accredited installer within the Weru UK Network. This offers developers and home owners in a specific catchment area, a complete windows and doors solution. Weru as a German brand leader operates throughout Europe. Weru UK was established 35 years ago to supply and install their ranges. They are now located at their 8000 sq ft UK head office at Amy Johnson Way, Squires Gate, Blackpool and there are also established partners throughout the UK. For further information on Weru UK call 01253 341444 or visit www.weru.uk Images courtesy of Weru UK: https://www.weru.uk/new-build-project-aughton-lancashire/ Have you liked our facebook page yet? We post news everyday! www.facebook.com/DoorIndustryJournal