Reynaers Aluminium has added new panic hardware options to its Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Door – introducing both surface mounted and concealed systems for ease of opening in the event of an emergency. Surface mounted and concealed panic hardware is available in both push-bar and push-pad options to ensure safe
ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland is highlighting the asset tagging functionality of its Openings Studio BIM software solution, enabling the golden thread of information from a product’s specification right through manufacture, installation and ongoing maintenance. Openings Studio is a cloud based, custom configuration tool for the creation, visualisation,
UAP Limited, a leading British door hardware supplier, has made two key management appointments to its growing team. Martin Cope joins as National Account Manager, and Adam Dixon as Senior Technical Manager. Martin Cope has vast experience in sales management across 45 years and will be contributing to UAP’s continued
UK based aluminium system company Kawneer have renewed their membership with Secured by Design (SBD). Since its inception over a century ago, Kawneer has been recognised as an innovator and have skilfully balanced experience with innovation. Their global design expertise, combined with aluminium’s flexibility and recyclability, makes their building façade
Salto Systems, a global leader in smart access control solutions, proudly introduces its latest innovation – the Salto Glass XS Reader Series. This new product line sets a benchmark in access control technology, offering an unmatched blend of style, sophistication, and cutting-edge functionality. The Glass XS Reader Series is designed
One of the UK’s leading doorset manufacturers, JELD-WEN has launched a new data pin solution that will promote greater fire safety compliance among customers. The new data pin, provided by Door Data Systems, will now be installed across every Certifire doorset by JELD-WEN, allowing for the Golden Thread of information
Reynaers Aluminium has introduced its new DigiTrace digital product passports across all its systems to allow instant access and complete transparency for performance, material and sustainability information. Supporting the demand for easy access to sustainability data, and the need to demonstrate clear and accessible product information to support the golden
Häfele UK, the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of fixtures and fittings, has added a certified fire rated pocket door to its range. Available exclusively in the UK via Häfele, Optimo comes with an optional fire rated FD30 jamb kit. When fitted, the kit ensures the door meets the regulation
David Connacher, Marketing Manager at West Fraser, discusses the products on offer to the MMC market. What is MMC and does it account for a significant proportion of building activity? The phrase ‘Modern Methods of Construction’ has been with us for three decades now, though you could trace the building
Consort Architectural Hardware, a specialist manufacturer and supplier of architectural hardware solutions, has launched a new RIBA-approved CPD training course, titled ‘Architectural Ironmongery Finishes: Finding the Right Balance‘. Delivered by accredited experts at Consort and part of the ‘Design, Construction and Technology’ RIBA core curriculum topics, the course explores the
Reynaers Aluminium has added new panic hardware options to its Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Door – introducing both surface mounted and concealed systems for ease of opening in the event of an emergency. Surface mounted and concealed panic hardware is available in both push-bar and push-pad options to ensure safe and effective escape in line with current legislation. To meet EN 1125 for use in public spaces, such as shopping centres, a full width push-bar option is required. For more familiar buildings that occupants visit regularly, but that still need an escape route, such as offices, a push pad option is required to meet EN 179 standards. This new range of hardware supplements the comprehensive options already available for Vision 7 to cater for a wide range of uses of the door and the varying requirements of different sectors and locations. In addition, a locking lever handle has been added to the hardware options to allow outside access where needed on emergency exit doors intended for sole use through quick release bars. Both the surface mounted and concealed options are suitable for doors up to 3,000mm. Unveiled by Reynaers Aluminium in March this year, Vision 7 is a thermal commercial door and framing system that features anti-finger trap technology and deep kickplates for a robust design. It has a unique post-installation bottom pivot to make it easier to make final adjustments onsite and can achieve a U-value as low as 1.1W/m2K, making it suitable for a wide range of building projects. Of the new features, Ian Osborne, Reynaers UK Product Development Manager, said: “The addition of panic hardware further expands the use of the Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Door to meet the need for urgent escape in a public area. “Vision 7 is a carefully considered design to meet a wide range of demands in commercial settings, backed up by extensive performance testing while still achieving slimline styling. The addition of panic hardware builds on that to deliver a comprehensive, safe solution. “The surface mounted panic hardware is quick and easy to install, while the concealed panic hardware option provides a seamless solution often preferred by architects. “Reynaers is committed to the continual development of its products, even after a successful launch, and developing the hardware options is an example of this in practice. We will continue to work to make enhancements to Vision 7 where identified, with work already under way to add touch bar options and access control via solenoid bolt.” To find out more visit https://www.reynaers.co.uk/products/aluminium-doors/vision-7. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland is highlighting the asset tagging functionality of its Openings Studio BIM software solution, enabling the golden thread of information from a product’s specification right through manufacture, installation and ongoing maintenance. Openings Studio is a cloud based, custom configuration tool for the creation, visualisation, modification, and management of door openings. It is uniquely integrated with the building model as part of a live and dynamic environment. Every door logged in Openings Studio is automatically assigned a unique asset tag, which can be affixed to the door as either a QR code or RFID Tag, enabling direct access to the door details, including installation, inspection, and service history. The asset tag functionality enables direct access from the Mobile App to information such as product specification, hardware schedule, product information, inspection reports, digital images, and change management tracking. Brian Sofley, Managing Director of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, said: “The introduction of the Building Safety Act was a major catalyst to bring about significant change in the construction industry. It was clear that a new regulatory framework was needed, and greater emphasis on transparency of information and audit trails all the way through the life cycle of a building. “Our RFID asset tagging system is uniquely creating that ‘golden thread’ of information, enabling direct access to door details, including installation, inspection, and service history. Ultimately, this provides a holistic approach and ensures accountability across the board.” About Openings Studio™ Openings Studio™ Building Information Modelling (BIM) Software provides access to complete doorset information at all stages from product concept to product care. The Openings Studio Mobile App allows users to manage buildings as a holistic system, and design, build and maintain openings for their entire life cycle. Information stored within the app enables buildings to be safely and effectively designed, constructed and operated, providing a genuine seamless link between design intent during the specification process onto the product in service. For more information on ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, please visit https://www.assaabloy.com/uk/en, or to learn more about Openings Studio, go to https://www.assaabloy.com/group/en/about-us/our-solutions/openings-studio. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
UAP Limited, a leading British door hardware supplier, has made two key management appointments to its growing team. Martin Cope joins as National Account Manager, and Adam Dixon as Senior Technical Manager. Martin Cope has vast experience in sales management across 45 years and will be contributing to UAP’s continued development by establishing relationships with builders’ merchants and helping the business forge established routes into the industry. Dixon brings a decade of experience in the fire safety industry, with expertise in compliance and product development. His work has taken him across the country – servicing iconic landmarks including the Elizabeth Tower clock face as well as major projects including Transport for London’s Elizabeth line. On his new role, Martin Cope, National Account Manager at UAP said: “UAP is a fantastic business: from the warehouse to the head office, the people are the best at what they do. Innovation has always been my passion, and UAP are at the bleeding edge of hardware security. Its products, especially the Armasmart range, has incredible potential for the future, and it’s exciting to be a part of a business that has such vast impact.” Adam Dixon, Senior Technical Manager at UAP said: “The fire industry is always developing, and UAP’s pace and energy is one of the driving forces behind this. This move is a new chapter in my career, and I’m looking forward to pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve, working with a talented team, and continuing to innovate and evolve in an industry that never stands still.” David Jennings, Chief Executive Officer at UAP said: “Martin and Adam are joining us at a particularly dynamic time for UAP. Their extensive experience and expertise align perfectly with our commitment to quality, durability, and continuous innovation, and we are eager to continue driving progress, through enhanced product offerings and innovation. With Martin and Adam’s extensive knowledge of their fields, we’ll be even better equipped to carry on this mission.” Established in 1996, UAP Limited has become a leading UK door hardware supplier with products ranging from fire-rated hardware to locking systems and door and window security. The business designs door hardware solutions around customer needs, equipping them to navigate the ever-changing fire and security landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
UK based aluminium system company Kawneer have renewed their membership with Secured by Design (SBD). Since its inception over a century ago, Kawneer has been recognised as an innovator and have skilfully balanced experience with innovation. Their global design expertise, combined with aluminium’s flexibility and recyclability, makes their building façade systems and products the right solutions for today and into the future. Kawneer offer a comprehensive range of architectural aluminium building products and systems which include unitised solutions, curtain walls, windows, doors and framing systems. Kawneer products are made from aluminium materials of the highest quality and designed with the benefit of many years of construction experience. As Kawneer have full manufacturing capability in the UK, they control every stage of the manufacturing and quality process, from aluminium billet to designing and supplying individual systems, offering a unique proposition to architects and contractors. Kawneer have an extensive range of aluminium doors and windows that have achieved the Police Preferred Specification. As an aluminium system company Kawneer supply several Secured by Design approved fabricator companies in the UK who assemble and install their products on projects from residential to high-rise office and mixed-use development sectors. Find out more about Kawneer and their extensive range of Secured by Design accredited products here. Mark Clemson, Commercial Director for Kawneer UK, commented: “The SBD scheme is a key part of our UK strategic plan. Ensuring our high-performance aluminium products meet this recognised standard is critical for us to be able to offer a full and comprehensive product offer to our customers. We look forward to many more years collaborating with Police CPI.” Hazel Goss, Secured by Design, said: “It has been a pleasure to renew our membership with Kawneer, who have been long standing members since 2015. Being a systems house they offer a fantastic profile range for doors and windows. I’m looking forward to many more years working alongside them.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Salto Systems, a global leader in smart access control solutions, proudly introduces its latest innovation – the Salto Glass XS Reader Series. This new product line sets a benchmark in access control technology, offering an unmatched blend of style, sophistication, and cutting-edge functionality. The Glass XS Reader Series is designed to transform how we think about access control, seamlessly integrating security and aesthetics to create enriched and secure environments. Revolutionising Access Control The Glass XS Reader Series represents a significant leap forward in the field of smart access control. With its sleek design and advanced technology, it offers users and systems operators a superior access experience. The series is part of Salto’s renowned XS wall reader product portfolio, which is known for its innovative solutions that combine security with ease of use. The Glass XS Reader is more than just a piece of hardware; it’s a complete security solution designed for environments where real-time, online access control is essential. Whether it’s controlling access to barriers, lifts, sliding doors, or electronic gates, the Glass XS Reader ensures that security is both effective and stylish. Marc Handels, Chief Technology Innovation Officer and Co-Founder at Salto, expressed his excitement about the launch, stating: “We’re thrilled to introduce the Glass XS Reader Series, a product that embodies the future of access control technology. Its stunning design and advanced features provide users with a new level of control and security.” Unmatched Design and Durability One of the standout features of the Glass XS Reader Series is its minimalist and elegant design. At just 4mm thick, the extra-flat profile of the reader makes it a perfect fit for modern interiors, where aesthetics are as important as functionality. The reader’s front panel is made from high-quality, scratch-proof tempered glass, ensuring durability and longevity with minimal maintenance. Available in both black and white finishes, the design is customisable to suit different interior styles, making it ideal for flush mounting in indoor settings or universal junction boxes. The attention to detail in the Glass XS Reader’s design is matched by its technological prowess. The reader supports standardised RFID credentials and is equipped with NFC technology and Bluetooth Low Energy (LE), allowing users to utilise their smartphones as access cards. This feature not only enhances convenience but also aligns with the growing trend of mobile-first solutions in smart technology. Advanced Features for Enhanced Security The Glass XS Reader Series is packed with advanced features that make it a versatile and powerful tool for modern access control. Key features include: With the Glass XS Reader Series, Salto has redefined the access control experience. Users can simply hold their smartphone or credential close to the reader, and the door opens smoothly and securely. This intuitive interaction not only enhances the user experience but also ensures that access is granted only to authorised individuals. Elevating Spaces with Cutting-Edge Technology The launch of the Glass XS Reader Series underscores Salto’s commitment to innovation in access control technology. By combining elegant design with powerful features, Salto has created a product that not only enhances security but also adds a touch of sophistication to any space. As businesses and organisations continue to seek smarter, more efficient ways to manage access, the Glass XS Reader Series stands out as a premier choice, offering a seamless blend of style, security, and simplicity. Salto Systems invites you to experience the future of access control with the Glass XS Reader Series – where technology meets elegance, and security meets sophistication. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One of the UK’s leading doorset manufacturers, JELD-WEN has launched a new data pin solution that will promote greater fire safety compliance among customers. The new data pin, provided by Door Data Systems, will now be installed across every Certifire doorset by JELD-WEN, allowing for the Golden Thread of information to be implemented at the earliest stage. Offering an advanced level of digital recording and data collection for fire doorsets in commercial and multi-occupancy buildings, the pins will enhance traceability and enable individuals in positions of responsibility to demonstrate a comprehensive approach to fire door compliance. Fitted in the hinge side of the door during the manufacturing process, the pin will provide immediate access to its certification, technical documentation, installation guides, warranties and inspection reports. These records are linked to a state-of-the-art system, whereby data is stored and available via a free-to-download app. To further enhance the user experience, data is presented in a clear and easy-to-read central dashboard, meaning no specialist training is required, while features such as scheduled reminders can support building management in future fire door maintenance. Glyn Hauser, R&D Senior Group Manager at JELD-WEN comments: “As one of the first manufacturers to introduce this advanced data pin system, we’re advocates for greater transparency throughout the supply chain, which we believe is needed to improve modern fire door practice. “Compliance is in the DNA of every JELD-WEN product, and launching the data pin is an important step in ensuring the Golden Thread can be implemented at the very first opportunity. We believe this capability will allow for better facility management of a building and, ultimately, a safer environment for the people within it.” As part of JELD-WEN’s commitment to providing customers with end-to-end support throughout the lifecycle of their doorsets, a number of easy-to-follow videos will ensure best practice is achieved during the installation stage of the Golden Thread process. For more information on JELD-WEN’s new data pin solution, visit https://www.jeld-wen.co.uk/door-data-pin Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Reynaers Aluminium has introduced its new DigiTrace digital product passports across all its systems to allow instant access and complete transparency for performance, material and sustainability information. Supporting the demand for easy access to sustainability data, and the need to demonstrate clear and accessible product information to support the golden thread, the DigiTrace system is instantly accessible via element-specific QR codes. DigiTrace is the latest online support tool to be unveiled by the aluminium doors, windows and curtain walling specialist, which aims to deliver a seamless software information solution to support its products, and their use, from start to finish. Through DigiTrace, building owners, architects and contractors can share and access in-depth system, technical and performance data for specific products and elements. Supporting the entire process from manufacturing through to end use, the specially developed software solution is added to products at the manufacturing stage, usually by fabricators, who can then use DigiTrace to share and access information. Product details and technical information are exported directly from ReynaPro, the company’s calculation, order and production software, while additional certification, documentation and information, such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), maintenance guides, warranties and installation guides can be added by stakeholders throughout the product lifetime. The tool can be used by scanning the QR code to share feedback and to flag up any issues. Martin Boland, Technical Support Manager at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “With the introduction of the golden thread and an increasing commitment to sustainable building design, the need for precise and up-to-date information is growing. “DigiTrace is an end-to-end product passport system that enables complete transparency from start to finish. Every element is labelled with a unique QR code enabling instant access to online information via a smartphone. “With the ability to upload images and share information with other stakeholders through the platform, DigiTrace supports communication between sites and offices to discuss any issues, as well as between contractors and fabricators. There is also a feedback feature where building owners can upload pictures to help explain any queries they might have. In addition, the level of detail around the materials used allows for appropriate end of life recycling. “DigiTrace is a real step forward in promoting product circularity and transparency to support the development of safer, more sustainable buildings.” The introduction of DigiTrace follows the company’s recent launch of the Docu Portal system with Hardware Configurator to make technical guidance easily accessible online. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Häfele UK, the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of fixtures and fittings, has added a certified fire rated pocket door to its range. Available exclusively in the UK via Häfele, Optimo comes with an optional fire rated FD30 jamb kit. When fitted, the kit ensures the door meets the regulation standard of 30 minutes fire resistance and is fully certified to EN1634 12016+A1:2018 standards. Meeting these criteria, Optimo is ideal for high-rise residential dwellings, new build properties and commercial spaces. Available from Häfele as a kit containing the door and runners makes delivery and installation simple, with self-close and soft-close kits available as optional extras. The jamb kit is sold separately. A simple, removable track assembly allows direct access to the mechanism without the need to modify the wall, should a soft-close or self-kit need to be added to the door retrospectively. Optimo also offers guaranteed durability up to 10,000 cycles in line with the BS EN 1527 standard. As a pocket door – which slides into a recess within a wall when not in use – Optimo is on- trend and taps into the growing requirement for space-saving door products. Paul Smith, Head of Specification Sales for Häfele UK, said: “Pocket doors have become increasingly popular as a design feature in homes across the UK, ideal for breaking up larger spaces into smaller zones, but also acting as an alternative to swing-out doors in homes with a smaller footprint. They’re useful in modern offices and retail spaces, too. “The Optimo takes all the great benefits of a pocket door and elevates them further, as the only certified fire rated product of its type available to the UK market. As well as this, Optimo meets the standards of reliability and durability demanded by the industry, making it a game changing product for specifiers and designers in various fields. As the exclusive distributors of Optimo, we look forward to seeing the impact it makes on the industry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
David Connacher, Marketing Manager at West Fraser, discusses the products on offer to the MMC market. What is MMC and does it account for a significant proportion of building activity? The phrase ‘Modern Methods of Construction’ has been with us for three decades now, though you could trace the building methodology back to the early examples of prefabrication; products such as timber roof trusses and precast concrete panels were constructed offsite. Today’s MMC really started to gain traction in the ‘90’s, mainly through the increased number of timber frame systems, many of them from Europe or Scandinavia, being used for housebuilding. Greater emphasis on improving energy performance, as well as reducing waste in the building industry, is pushing more developers towards using MMC or ‘Offsite’ building techniques and the Scottish Government is in the process of making it mandatory for all new homes. What categories of MMC do West Fraser products get used for? While there are still some companies supplying basic ‘Open’ timber frame systems, ever more are moving to offering ‘Closed Cell’ alternatives which feature a sheathing board and factory-fitted insulation in the cavity which saves time on site for the builder. Then there are more advanced components including flooring cassettes and roof cassettes, or complete room-in-the-roof modules, which can be craned onto both new-build and existing wall structures. These could use high performance panel products for the floors, fixed to rafters as sarking boards, or to clad the cheeks of dormer windows. In addition, SIPs or Structural Insulated Panel systems, with their own association, are increasingly popular due to their high standards of airtightness as well as thermal insulation. SIPs normally feature a substantial thickness of expanded foam insulation between two layers of a timber-based board product. Why do offsite manufacturers choose West Fraser board products over those of rival suppliers? There is a couple of basic commercial considerations as to why manufacturers choose to buy their panel products from West Fraser, including price and availability; yet, for many regular customers it comes down to a combination of technical factors. Amongst these, quality and dimensional accuracy crop up most often in comments from leading manufacturers, both because they have built their businesses on ensuring clients have no concerns about the speed of installation and alignment on sites, and also because they are using highly automated production lines where irregular sizes or structural weakness can cause costly problems. Basically, West Fraser boards are produced under similarly stringent processes in a modern plant; complying to very high tolerances and can be relied on to cut cleanly when computer-controlled saws, routers or even laser cutters are being operated. Also, once in use, the different boards will offer the required racking strength (sheathing boards), spanning capacity (flooring), impact strength or all-round durability. Which West Fraser boards feature in MMC systems? Several of the company’s tried-and-tested panel products have become firm favourites with manufacturers across the offsite industry, utilised for a wide variety of MMC systems including closed panel production, SIPs and modular solutions. They include SterlingOSB Zero which is bought by a number of SIPs companies who commend it for the dimensional accuracy as it would stick out like the proverbial sore thumb if the opposite faces of the insulated sandwich panel didn’t match up. CaberFloor P5 and CaberDek also feature fully amongst companies specialising in floor cassettes and larger modules, used as a surface which can be left exposed or covered with carpet and other flooring finishes. Are there any other special applications which count as MMC? Thanks to social media as well as its extensive distributor network, West Fraser is becoming aware of new and often increasingly sophisticated applications for its products every week. Recent examples amongst these include the WikiHouse system which has been developed by Open Systems Lab in consultation with Imperial College – and which makes use of SterlingOSB Zero to fabricate a series of hollow beams, wall blocks and other components. These have been designed so that they can be made in relatively small workshops for the construction of low-rise housing. And, interestingly, it was the material’s shear strength which persuaded the company to switch from the imported plywood material originally trialled. Then for companies who specialise in supplying fully fitted modular homes, rather like some mobile homes, CaberMDF is widely preferred for manufacturing fitted furniture as well as deeply routed items like the doors for kitchen cabinets. Basically, if you live in a modern home, there is a strong chance you are surrounded by West Fraser board products. For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Consort Architectural Hardware, a specialist manufacturer and supplier of architectural hardware solutions, has launched a new RIBA-approved CPD training course, titled ‘Architectural Ironmongery Finishes: Finding the Right Balance‘. Delivered by accredited experts at Consort and part of the ‘Design, Construction and Technology’ RIBA core curriculum topics, the course explores the pivotal role that finishes play relative to the durability, aesthetics and functionality of architectural hardware products, and is designed to help educate architects, specifiers and other industry professionals involved throughout the hardware specification process. During the course, attendees will learn of the complexities and nuances of different coating methods, with detailed sections covering the process, applications and the opportunities and obstacles associated with Living Finishes, Surface Finishes, Powder Coatings, Electroplating and Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD). The course also examines industry regulations and standard considerations; including BS EN 1906:2012, BS EN 1670:2010 and BS EN 179:2008, before reviewing the environmental impact, energy efficiency and sustainability fundamentals aligned with each finish type. David Gray DipGAI, RegAI, Director of Operations at Consort Architectural Hardware, discusses the launch: “Whether restoring a heritage site or designing a modern space, choosing the most appropriate architectural ironmongery finish is essential in enhancing a project’s aesthetics and ensuring the longevity and performance of hardware solutions. “With a long-standing expertise in this area, Consort is proud to launch a new RIBA-approved CPD. Our course has been developed to support professionals in making informed decisions on future building projects and covers the fundamentals of ironmongery finishes whilst demonstrating key factors such as material compatibility, corrosion resistance and environmental considerations. “Our session will act as an invaluable resource for those looking to develop their knowledge and understanding on architectural ironmongery finishes and we welcome architects, specifiers and industry professionals to register for this CPD.” The new course will run for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, with additional time allocated for questions and answers at the end. Following successful completion of the course, attendees will be presented with a CPD certificate, recognised by RIBA and supported by the CPD certification service. To register for the CPD, visit: www.ribacpd.com/consort-architectural-hardware/235535/overview/. For more on Consort Architectural Hardware, visit: www.consort-hw.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
