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December 15, 2023
CBRE advises on strategic deal of 365,542 sq ft One Hardman Boulevard

CBRE advises on strategic deal of 365,542 sq ft One Hardman Boulevard

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

Parthena Reys acquires Manchester’s largest office building CBRE’s Investment Properties team in Manchester has successfully advised Parthena Reys on the strategic acquisition deal of the 365,542 sq ft One Hardman Boulevard, Manchester’s largest office building, in the heart of Spinningfields.  Investment company Parthena Reys has acquired the landmark building from

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A2Dominion appoints new Chief Finance Officer

A2Dominion appoints new Chief Finance Officer

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

A2Dominion Group has announced the appointment of Tracey Barnes as its first Chief Finance Officer (CFO). The permanent new role will oversee all of the Group’s finance activities, treasury, business planning, procurement, governance, compliance, legal, communications, digital, corporate strategy, and the people team. The appointment is part of A2Dominion’s wider

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Mission Street and BGO get consent for Fabrica

Mission Street and BGO get consent for Fabrica

Cristina Diaconu December 15, 2023

Mission Street and BGO have secured resolution to grant planning permission from Oxford City Council for Phase 2 of their development in the West End of Oxford, known as Fabrica. Part of Mission Street’s joint venture with BGO, the new-build scheme will provide 180,000 sq ft of prime innovation real

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Regal London gets green light for two PBSA schemes

Regal London gets green light for two PBSA schemes

Cristina Diaconu December 15, 2023

Two purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) projects by Regal London have been given the go-ahead, bringing forward a total of 1,580 student beds and 200 on site affordable homes alongside new community space, public realm and infrastructure improvements in the London Boroughs of Southwark and Brent. Earlier this year, Regal London,

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Learn about the properties of uPVC windows: when is it worth choosing them?

Learn about the properties of uPVC windows: when is it worth choosing them?

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

Here’s a bit of history – uPVC windows, known for their affordability and easy maintenance, have evolved significantly since their rise in popularity in the 1980s. These windows, made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, are a top choice for homeowners in the United Kingdom seeking durable, well-insulated, and cost-effective window solutions.

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

December 15, 2023

Scott Brownrigg designed 1000 Discovery Drive at Cambridge Biomedical Campus completes

Scott Brownrigg designed 1000 Discovery Drive at Cambridge Biomedical Campus completes

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

A new five-storey multi-occupancy life sciences facility at Cambridge Biomedical Campus (CBC) has recently completed with Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust confirmed as first tenant. Designed by Scott Brownrigg for campus developer, Prologis UK, 1000 Discovery Drive forms part of a world-class, expanding life sciences and biotech ecosystem at Cambridge Biomedical Campus which brings together clinical, academic and commercial excellence. The new speculatively developed building brings 103,000 sq ft of new state-of-the-art laboratory, office and amenity space to Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will occupy 23,000 sq ft space at 1000 Discovery Drive, housing an ultra-modern histopathology unit which will provide diagnostic pathology services, supporting clinical trials and biotechnological research into a range of diseases. A series of carefully curated internal and external communal spaces enhanced by the Cambridge Biomedical Campus’s widely praised on-going public art strategy will add valuable amenity for new and existing occupiers across the wider campus. With a new café and collaborative break-out spaces to enhance occupier and visitor experience, landscaped green spaces to encourage biodiversity, and cycling and associated facilities to support green commuting. To align with Cambridge Biomedical Campus’s 2050 Vision, 1000 Discovery Drive has a BREEAM ‘Excellent” rating and is carefully designed to provide future flexibility in how the building can be occupied and operated. Jason Lebidineuse, Director at Scott Brownrigg said: “We have celebrated the entrance to the building with a two storey cut-out supported by a striking red abstract structural tree. This opening of the façade is symbolic of the collaboration not just between building tenants but with the wider globally significant cluster of clinical healthcare and life science R&D companies at CBC. This project has been a delight to work on with a fantastic open collaboration between, Prologis, the design team and contractor.” Felicity Hayward, Project Director at Scott Brownrigg said: “1000DD has been designed as a flexible, speculative laboratory building. The concept of flexibility is articulated in the elevations, allowing the tenants to ‘plug and play’ and utilise spaces on the floorplate for a wide spectrum of life science uses.” Andrew Blevins, Head of Life Sciences at Prologis UK, said: “1000 Discovery Drive represents the best of everything that the Cambridge Biomedical Campus has to offer, providing an opportunity for clinical, academic and commercial excellence to sit side-by-side, under one roof.”

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Arco Professional Safety Services invests in expansion of equipment hire capabilities

Arco Professional Safety Services invests in expansion of equipment hire capabilities

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

Arco Professional Safety Services, the UK’s leading safety products and services provider, is expanding its equipment hire capabilities nationwide with new funding into four fully stocked hire centres in key locations across the UK. The expansion of hire products will enable customers to access a wider range of hire equipment from leading specialist suppliers, including quality-assured confined space, gas detection, respiratory protective and other fall arrest prevention equipment. All hire orders will be available direct from the Arco Bracknell, Doncaster, Linlithgow and Warrington Safety Centres or can be ordered and collected at local Arco stores via a new collection service.  Arco offers two types of hire solutions, standard hire, for short term requirements with a minimum contract of one week that can be extended as needed and contract hire that is offered for longer terms, up to five years, that also includes inspection, servicing and maintenance of equipment during the hire term. Alongside this expanded hire proposition, customers can also purchase any of the equipment from Arco’s range of safety products should they require a permanent solution. Gareth Liptrot, Hire & Maintenance Manager, Arco Professional Safety Services said: “As experts in safety, we are committed to providing a joined-up approach for customers offering accessible, high-quality equipment that can be acquired in the most convenient way. “Our increased investment in hire stock at our nationwide Safety Centres and our new store collection service demonstrates our commitment to improving customer convenience and will enable greater access to quality stock and ease of service for any job our customers are undertaking.” To find out more about Arco’s comprehensive hire offering, visit: https://www.arcoservices.co.uk/equipment/equipment-hire

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Warringtonfire to Open UK’s Largest Built Environment Product Testing Facility

Warringtonfire to Open UK’s Largest Built Environment Product Testing Facility

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

The new $30 million facility in Warrington, UK, is expected to open in 2025 creating 50 new jobs Warringtonfire, a global leader in Fire Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC), has announced plans to open a new facility in Warrington, UK. Expected to open in 2025, the new facility will be the largest in the UK and provide fire testing, technical and certification services. Customer demands for Warringtonfire’s product testing are set to continue to grow significantly, due to increasing regulatory requirements, the introduction of additional standards, the rising importance of third-party certification and product assurance as well as the need for shorter testing lead times. The new facility will meet this increased demand; it will represent an almost 80% increase in size over its existing facility in the region and is expected to triple Warringtonfire’s testing capacity in the medium term.  The new facility, which is being built at Birchwood Park near Warrington, will add unique capabilities including eight state-of-the-art fire resistance testing furnaces, comprising three horizontal and three vertical furnaces (designed to evaluate the fire performance of different products or assemblies built either horizontally or vertically), and two indicative furnaces (which provide a very focused testing method to quantify the ability of a material or assembly to withstand exposure to high temperatures). The new facility will also provide larger preparation areas to improve workflow as well as higher quality and more accessible customer reception and viewing areas. In line with the commitment to be more sustainable, the new facility will implement extensive measures to reduce energy use, maintain air quality and potential environmental impacts, including built-in recycling systems, energy-efficient fans, plus smoke & odour capture and treatment. The new facility will create over 50 new jobs in the Warrington region, with a commitment to training and upskilling new and existing employees. The 200 strong team will be one of the world’s largest teams of fire technical experts.  Jason Dodds, VP of Warringtonfire, said: “Our new fire testing facility in Warrington is a major investment in the region and a statement of our ambition for the business. We are excited to be expanding into Birchwood Park and undertake our essential product testing in this state-of-the-art business park. “The new facility will significantly improve Warringtonfire’s testing offering for our customers, providing a faster and more wider ranging service, as well as expanded access to technical excellence delivered by the foremost experts in the fields of fire testing and certification. It will solidify our position as the go-to partner for fire testing and related services and broaden our ability to serve customers across the value chain. Using best in class building design and new technology, we will also be able to greatly improve our environmental footprint, which is incredibly important to us as a company and is becoming increasingly important for our customers.” Warringtonfire’s existing facility will continue to operate at full capacity while the new facility is under construction. Following the transfer of fire resistance testing to Birchwood Park, part of the existing facility will be used to create a center of excellence for reaction to fire testing, which are smaller scale tests including spread of flame and heat release. Construction of the new 101k sq. ft. facility has begun and is expected to be completed in 2025. The total investment in the new facility will be circa $30 million. The designers were TP Bennett Architects and Hoare Lea and construction is being managed by Arcadis with Tilbury Douglas as the principal contractor carrying out the works. Warringtonfire specialises in providing comprehensive testing and certification services related to infrastructure, with a portfolio of services including fire resistance and reaction to fire testing, security, durability and weather testing, product certification and inspection.  Warringtonfire works with key stakeholders at every stage of the project lifecycle, from architects and designers to contractors and developers, planning and local authorities, building owners and operators and product manufacturers. The new enhanced facility will be of particular use for product manufacturers for their R&D development for bringing a product to market or for achieving certification.

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CBRE advises on strategic deal of 365,542 sq ft One Hardman Boulevard

CBRE advises on strategic deal of 365,542 sq ft One Hardman Boulevard

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

Parthena Reys acquires Manchester’s largest office building CBRE’s Investment Properties team in Manchester has successfully advised Parthena Reys on the strategic acquisition deal of the 365,542 sq ft One Hardman Boulevard, Manchester’s largest office building, in the heart of Spinningfields.  Investment company Parthena Reys has acquired the landmark building from NatWest Group (NWG), for an undisclosed figure following NWG’s recent consolidation into their newly refurbished building at 1 Spinningfields Square, and plans to reposition the scheme, releasing newly refurbished, best in class workspace back into the supply-starved Manchester market by end 2024. The modern office building provides the city’s largest Grade A floor plate of c40,000sq ft, which is inherently flexible both vertically and horizontally, and capable of accommodating occupiers seeking 10,000 sq ft upwards. Accommodation is spread over nine floors with ground floor retail and is situated in the internationally renowned Spinningfields, one of the most successful urban developments in the UK, which has become a destination of choice for the region’s financial, professional and business services industry sectors.  The vision for One Hardman Boulevard is to reincarnate the building into a world-class, flagship Grade A office development with market-leading ESG credentials, capitalising on occupier trends of higher take up in best-in-class assets and rental premiums for leading green buildings.  Parthena Reys will announce further details on the planned refurbishment work in early 2024. Will Kennon, Executive Director at CBRE’s Investment Properties team who led the transaction commented; “This acquisition represents a strategic, counter cyclical investment by our client, acquiring a Grade A building in the heart of Spinningfields, with a business plan to release newly refurbished workspace back into a supply starved market in 2025.  With new build development unviable at rents of below £50psf, we are expecting existing best in class assets to experience strong growth over the next 12-24 months and look forward to working with our client on the repositioning and leasing strategy.” Addleshaw Goddard advised on the legals for Parthena Reys, with Cushman & Wakefield and DLA Piper advising NWG. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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A2Dominion appoints new Chief Finance Officer

A2Dominion appoints new Chief Finance Officer

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

A2Dominion Group has announced the appointment of Tracey Barnes as its first Chief Finance Officer (CFO). The permanent new role will oversee all of the Group’s finance activities, treasury, business planning, procurement, governance, compliance, legal, communications, digital, corporate strategy, and the people team. The appointment is part of A2Dominion’s wider leadership changes, following the launch of its new Corporate Strategy earlier this year which focuses on customers and core services. It also signals the streamlining of its financial executive director roles, combining the positions of Executive Director of Finance & Strategy (held by Dean Tufts who retires early next year) and Executive Director of Central & Financial Services, which has been held by Tracey Barnes on a fixed-term basis since February 2023. Prior to joining A2Dominion, Tracey was Chief Finance Officer at Sovereign Housing Association and held a number of roles internationally at Diageo for over 20 years, including Chief Finance Officer of East African Breweries Ltd, Chief Finance Officer of Diageo Ireland and Managing Director of Diageo Business Services India. Tracey said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with everyone at A2Dominion over the past few months, learning about what works and how things can be improved to totally transform the customer experience. I am delighted to have the opportunity to help to drive forward the changes that are needed.” Ian Wardle, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Tracey Barnes as our new Chief Finance Officer. The role attracted a significant number of high calibre applicants, and it is testament to Tracey, who came out on top following a rigorous recruitment process. “She brings a wealth of experience, and I look forward to continuing to work with her to deliver ambitious plans for customers.”

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2023 AEMT Awards Winners Announced

2023 Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades Awards Winners Announced

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

The Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades (AEMT) was delighted to have returned to Coventry on the evening of Thursday 23rd October for the staging of its 6th Annual Awards Ceremony. With a record number of submissions across the seven categories, this year’s programme again produced some truly exceptional entries from right across the electro-mechanical arena. The Doubletree by Hilton, ideally situated at the M6/M69 intersection, once again played host to the gala presentation dinner, during which professional endeavour, product innovation, skills development, engineering prowess and service delivery were all acknowledged and celebrated. Operated by the AEMT and produced by Touchwave Media, the awards programme acknowledges the skill, effort and sheer dedication of the people and businesses serving today’s complex electrical and mechanical service, maintenance, and repair sector. With sponsorship provided by a host of leading industry names, well deserved industry-wide recognition was given to those businesses and individuals that are excelling in their professional endeavours. The 2023 AEMT Awards Winners are as follows: – PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Sponsored by DFA MEDIA GROUP Menzel Motors: Pressurized Explosion Proof Motors for Zone 1 Customers that operate larger Motors in Hazardous Areas, typically refineries and chemical plants need to prevent ignitable gasses from entering operating machines. The Menzel system allows large Modular Motor operation in Zone 1 CACA or CACW, normally from 450mm frames and larger at all voltage ratings, combining Menzel’s well known flexibility, expertise, and speed of response with the requirements for Zone 1 Operation. Custom built to site requirements and highest safety standards. Highly qualified staff ensure that Menzel can respond at very short notice: With EXP systems in stock readily adaptable and deployable at short notice this is a unique feature for a medium-sized motor manufacturer such as Menzel. PROJECT OF THE YEAR Sponsored by EMiR SOFTWARE MKE Engineering Group: Browndown Pumping Station The project took place at a water utility company pumping station that was experiencing frequent tripping of equipment. Originally commissioned in the 1970’s it was in desperate need of an upgrade. Using ABB Ultra Low Harmonic drives potential issues with harmonics have been mitigated, whilst providing a clean user-friendly operating system. Feedback from the customer has been excellent, not for just the elimination of the rogue tripping but also for the sizeable energy savings. SERVICE CENTRE OF THE YEAR Sponsored by ABB Avonmouth Engineering Services Avonmouth Engineering Services’ custom built 70,000 square foot site is the largest single workshop facility for electrical and mechanical repairs in the UK. Alongside its second 20,000 square foot division in Cheltenham, the company provides an extensive range of inhouse and onsite services for the repair, overhaul, and upgrade of electromechanical technologies across the entire rotodynamic industry, with a special focus on reliability services and the pump industry. SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by MEGGER TEC Electric Motors TEC motors currently hold over £16 million pounds worth of Power Transmission stock in the UK, all available for immediate same day shipping; whether the requirement is a 0.09kw or a 645kw motor, a compact frame, a B56 or Brake motor, as UK’s largest independent electric motor stockist, TEC has the product. In over 18 years the company has sold over 1.5 million motors providing 24 hour, 365 days a year emergency solution to all AEMT members. CONTRIBUTION TO SKILLS & TRAINING Sponsored by SULZER Ian Pattinson: The Faraday Centre Ian, a devoted member of the Faraday Centre Limited for 23 years, began his engineering journey at English Electric, honing his expertise before transitioning to impactful roles at British Steel. Passionate about Power Distribution and Transformers, he later became a High Voltage lecturer dedicating himself to safety and education globally. Ian’s legacy encompasses exceptional teaching, consultancy, and an enduring commitment to shaping engineers and fostering a safety driven industry culture. RISING STAR AWARD Sponsored by TEC ELECTRIC MOTORS Josh Bottomley: EMiR Josh Bottomley is Team Manager for Hosted Services and EMiR Support. Josh manages a team of support engineers who provide technical and maintenance support for EMiR Software and EMiR-Cloud, the electro-mechanical industry’s leading ERP software solution. Over the last 4 years, Josh has gone from unqualified apprentice to EMiR Support Team Leader and now heads up a team of support engineers, inspiring them to perform at the highest levels and trying hard to improve our service every day. DIVERSITY IN ENGINEERING AWARD Sponsored by PREFORMED WINDINGS Hidrostal: Incorporating Avonmouth Engineering Services, Bedford Pumps & Hidrost​al At Hidrostal GB, ED&I is embedded into its culture. From recruitment to career development, alongside everyday life at work, the company ensures that its employees feel supported, valued, and accommodated whatever their individual needs. As part of the UK Home Office sponsorship scheme, Hidrostal has a strong focus on wellbeing with EAP Programmes, MHFAiders and Wellness rooms onsite. Its Diversity & Equal Opportunities policy has been adopted by the AEMT as a blueprint for others. SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD Sponsored by AEMT Dave Beresford: Preformed Windings This year, the AEMT is honoured to recognise Mr. Dave Beresford with the AEMT Special Recognition Award for his exemplary performance throughout his career. He started his career as a time served winder back in the sixties progressing to works manager and took responsibility for moving his then business to Newcastle. He has conducted various roles including technical manager, technical sales, and coil shop manager. His sense of community is highlighted by the positive connections made all over the world. Just by mentioning his name you are bound to bring a smile to those who he has worked with and known throughout the decades. His dedication to sustainability and quality has led him to innovate techniques such as press cooling and chiller insulation when forming coils. These improved processes have led to increased efficiency and reduced waste. Most of all, his enthusiasm to share knowledge and educate apprentices, colleagues and customers alike really resonated with the AEMT’s management committee. It exemplifies the values the AEMT holds true to its heart – education, community, and quality. Commenting on the awards

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Mission Street and BGO get consent for Fabrica

Mission Street and BGO get consent for Fabrica

Cristina Diaconu December 15, 2023

Mission Street and BGO have secured resolution to grant planning permission from Oxford City Council for Phase 2 of their development in the West End of Oxford, known as Fabrica. Part of Mission Street’s joint venture with BGO, the new-build scheme will provide 180,000 sq ft of prime innovation real estate within a 10 minute walk from Oxford station and city centre. Designed by global architecture firm NBBJ, Fabrica has been designed to provide full flexibility of wet labs and offices across 5 floors in what will be a next-generation commercial sciences building. The planning success comes in the same week as Practical Completion of Mission Street/ BGO’s Inventa building which provides 65,000 sq ft of lab, office and collaboration space. The scheme provides large lateral floor plates separated by two “high-street” atriums serving providing 8,000 sq ft of collaboration and breakout space for occupiers Inventa and Fabrica will provide the first commercial science schemes in the West End, Oxford’s central science district which is set to be transformed over the short and medium term in response to a shifting trend towards more sustainable, easily accessible urban science locations. Over 2 million sq ft of commercial and University science buildings have been identified within the West End pipeline with Nuffield College and Oxford City Council’s Oxpens scheme awaiting determination. As part of a joint venture BGO and Mission Street are delivering over 1.5 million of lab and office space in key strategic UK locations, including the “ Golden Triangle” of Oxford, Cambridge and London. CBRE and Bidwells are advising on the leasing. Artem Korolev, CEO of Mission Street, said: “The decision to grant planning permission for Fabrica is a significant statement for the city of Oxford and for the Mission Street-BGO joint venture. This is the largest commercial Sciences scheme to gain consent in central Oxford and recognises the growing trend towards urban Science. The benefits for future occupiers are clear – proximity to Oxford train station and the city centre provides access to wider talent pools, ability to adopt sustainable travel methods, access to the amenities and cultural offerings of the city centre as well as the key anchors including the University. We’re extremely excited to be at the forefront of this transformation of the West End.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Regal London gets green light for two PBSA schemes

Regal London gets green light for two PBSA schemes

Cristina Diaconu December 15, 2023

Two purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) projects by Regal London have been given the go-ahead, bringing forward a total of 1,580 student beds and 200 on site affordable homes alongside new community space, public realm and infrastructure improvements in the London Boroughs of Southwark and Brent. Earlier this year, Regal London, supported by funding partners UMTB, submitted plans for Devonshire Place, located at 747-759 and 765-775 Old Kent Road in Southwark positioned strategically opposite the proposed new Bakerloo Line station. Following extensive public consultation, the plans include 941 best-in-class student bedrooms and 200 new on-site affordable homes, contributing to over 40% affordable housing. The comprehensive proposal includes provisions for a new convenience food store and GP surgery, along with transport infrastructure upgrades to enhance links with surrounding areas. Following extensive public consultation, Regal London’s vision for Devonshire Place goes beyond housing, aiming to create a mixed and balanced community through innovative architecture, a community hub and café, open spaces, and quality public realm. This development serves as an opportunity for significant large-scale investment, creating sustainable economic growth, supporting the local community, and fostering growth anticipated by the Bakerloo Line Extension. Shaw Corporation coordinated the planning process and act as development manager for the project. In Brent, Regal London has been granted permission for 639 student beds at Wembley Greenway, situated to the rear of 390-406 High Road, Wembley. Previously, Regal London gained permission for 359 beds on the adjacent site, the two sites have been brought together, bringing the total number of beds to 998. In partnership with Secure Trust Bank, Regal London are not only introducing a cutting-edge PBSA development but also opening the railway lands parallel to High Road, Wembley, creating a newfound space for both students and the local community. The Wembley Greenway project is set to deliver a total of 639 student beds, featuring a diverse array of bedroom typologies, including 10% designated as accessible rooms. A car-free design emphasises sustainability, with the development incorporating new public realm areas enriched with greenery, seating, and play spaces accessible to all. Additionally, the project includes a community studio space available for rent. Both Devonshire Place and Wembley Greenway will be BREEAM Excellent and will seek to be amongst the first PBSA projects in the UK to be WELL Platinum certified, demonstrating Regal London’s commitment to the highest level of health achievements. Construction on Wembley Greenway and Devonshire Place will commence in 2024. Simon De Friend and Paul Eden, Co-Founders of Regal London commented: “Whilst others may sit on their hands and wait for circumstances around them to change, we have taken the opportunity to bring our PBSA portfolio into the spotlight. With 25 years of experience of residential development behind us, our student projects, with 4,000 beds in the current pipeline, will reflect the continuing quality and design excellence with which we have built our reputation. “With the available capacity representing only 25% of the student housing requirement, we are looking forward to playing our part in helping to meet London’s urgent student demand.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Learn about the properties of uPVC windows: when is it worth choosing them?

Learn about the properties of uPVC windows: when is it worth choosing them?

BDC News Team December 15, 2023

Here’s a bit of history – uPVC windows, known for their affordability and easy maintenance, have evolved significantly since their rise in popularity in the 1980s. These windows, made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, are a top choice for homeowners in the United Kingdom seeking durable, well-insulated, and cost-effective window solutions. Versatility and design Modern uPVC windows are not limited in style. They are available in various colours, textures, and configurations, fitting both double and triple glazing. This versatility allows them to complement any home style, from new builds to Victorian terraces. Furthermore, uPVC windows are among the most affordable options in the market, costing about from 50% up to 200% less than aluminium windows and 50% less than wooden frames. Types of uPVC windows: Comparative advantages When compared to timber, aluminium, and composite frames, uPVC windows excel in energy efficiency, security, and appearance. They are easier to clean and maintain than timber, more cost-effective than aluminium, and, while not as long-lasting as composite windows, they offer a balance of efficiency and affordability. Customisation options A major benefit of uPVC windows is the wide range of colours and finishes available, allowing homeowners to tailor their windows to match their home’s interior design. While white frames are the cheapest, more unique colours and wood grain finishes are also available, though at a higher cost. These options significantly enhance the curb appeal and value of a property. Energy efficiency and noise reduction The choice between double and triple glazing units in uPVC windows depends on the homeowner’s priorities. Triple glazing offers superior insulation and energy efficiency but at a higher cost. Conversely, double glazing provides good warmth retention and soundproofing, with some uPVC casement windows reducing noise by up to 70%. Purchasing and environmental considerations The uPVC windows can be bought off the shelf or customised for unique properties. It’s crucial to engage FENSA accredited (UK market only) installers for fitting. Despite being a plastic product, uPVC windows, when maintained well and recycled at the end of their lifespan, can have a minimised environmental impact. They typically last between 20–35 years, offering a balance of style, security, and budget-friendliness. When is it worth choosing uPVC windows? Choosing uPVC windows is particularly advantageous in several scenarios. If you’re seeking a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality, uPVC windows are a top choice due to their lower price point compared to alternatives. They are ideal for homeowners prioritising low maintenance, as they require minimal upkeep and are durable against various weather conditions.  For those living in noisy areas, uPVC windows with a double or triple glazing unit can significantly reduce external noise. Additionally, if you’re looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency, these windows offer excellent thermal insulation, potentially lowering heating costs. Their versatility in design and colour options makes them suitable for both modern and traditional homes, ensuring they can seamlessly match your property’s aesthetic.  Therefore, whether you’re renovating a period property, constructing a new build, or simply looking to upgrade your windows within a budget, uPVC windows present a practical, stylish, and economically sound choice. Conclusion The uPVC windows are a worthwhile choice for homeowners in the UK, offering a blend of affordability, durability, and energy efficiency. Their adaptability to various home styles, coupled with their low maintenance and environmental considerations, makes them an attractive option for those looking to replace or install new windows.

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