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
Forza Doors Ltd, the market-leading manufacturer of high-quality commercial and residential doors and timber products, today announced a major expansion with the addition of a new state-of-the-art door manufacturing facility. The new 16,000 square foot factory, located on the Star Road Industrial Estate in Partridge Green, West Sussex represents a
ASSA ABLOY Door Group, a leading provider of steel door solutions, is commending Barry Johnston, Production Manager at its Lisburn facility, for his long service and contribution to operational excellence. Barry joined Door Group in 2003 as part of the fabrication team, which gave him the foundation and skills needed
The UK’s leading doorset manufacturer, JELD-WEN, has enhanced its product portfolio with a new, high quality bespoke interior doorset range by Swedoor. Forming part of the global JELD-WEN group, Swedoor is well known across Europe for its high quality craftsmanship, with a dedicated project factory in Denmark. The bespoke interior
Developed specifically for the UK market, Reynaers Aluminium has launched its long-awaited new generation, high usage anti-finger trap thermal commercial door and framing system. Featuring a unique slim bulb-style with a radius of only 40mm, a profile sightline of 81mm, and achieving a U-value as low as 1.1W/m2K, Vision 7
James Hardie, the world leader in the manufacture of high-performance fibre cement and fibre gypsum building solutions, has appointed Edward Dunn as Channel Manager to further support trade partners in the North. Ed has nearly 10 years account management experience working for large national accounts and independent wholesalers. In his
Timber Development UK (TDUK), the UK’s largest trade association for the timber supply chain, is partnering with Carrefour International du Bois, the largest timber trade show in Europe, to offer VIP networking opportunities. Under the terms of the partnership TDUK will be offering limited-edition VIP Tickets (free for TDUK members)
BDC 319 : Aug 2024
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
Forza Doors Ltd, the market-leading manufacturer of high-quality commercial and residential doors and timber products, today announced a major expansion with the addition of a new state-of-the-art door manufacturing facility. The new 16,000 square foot factory, located on the Star Road Industrial Estate in Partridge Green, West Sussex represents a £3 million investment by Forza Doors and is expected to create 40 new jobs in the area. This expansion will increase Forza’s production capacity by 60%, allowing the company to meet growing demand for its premium door products whilst maintaining its market-leading turnaround times. “This new facility marks an exciting chapter in Forza’s growth,” said Will Hunnam, Managing Director of Forza Doors. “It will enable us to better serve our customers, introduce innovative new product lines, and contribute to the local economy. This light, bright and clean space is a real showcase for our future.” The new factory features expanded high-quality office areas, advanced automation for increased efficiency, as well as the inclusion of solar power to improve Forza Door’s sustainable environmental impact. The facility is finished and already producing ahead of the busy summer period to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ASSA ABLOY Door Group, a leading provider of steel door solutions, is commending Barry Johnston, Production Manager at its Lisburn facility, for his long service and contribution to operational excellence. Barry joined Door Group in 2003 as part of the fabrication team, which gave him the foundation and skills needed to progress within the company through various roles, culminating in his current position as Production Manager. In this role, he oversees the day-to-day production of steel doors, schedules, production meetings and leads a thriving workforce. Throughout his career, Barry has been involved with numerous initiatives and has successfully navigated the company through significant challenges, including the unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond achieving operational excellence, Barry has played a pivotal role in fostering cohesive and successful teams while instilling a culture of collaboration and innovation within Door Group. Indeed, Barry has been instrumental in the development and implementation of many new products. Reflecting on his long service with Door Group, Barry said: “I’m struck by how far I’ve come since joining. It’s been an incredible learning experience, navigating through various roles and responsibilities to reach where I am today. “Witnessing the industry evolve and embracing technological advancements along the way has been truly rewarding. These innovations have not only streamlined our processes but have also challenged me to adapt and grow, to help our business stay ahead in an ever-changing industry. “I’ve seen transformations that have gone from manual processes to cutting-edge technology and looking ahead, I’m excited to continue driving this progress.” Brian Sofley, Managing Director of Door Group, said: “Barry’s forward-thinking approach and ability to embrace technological advancements has enabled us to stay ahead of the curve and deliver value to our customers, while at the same time strengthening internal teams and culture.” To learn more about ASSA ABLOY Door Group and the range of products and services it provides, go to https://www.assaabloy.com/uk/en. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s leading doorset manufacturer, JELD-WEN, has enhanced its product portfolio with a new, high quality bespoke interior doorset range by Swedoor. Forming part of the global JELD-WEN group, Swedoor is well known across Europe for its high quality craftsmanship, with a dedicated project factory in Denmark. The bespoke interior doorset range is now available to the UK commercial market with lead times from seven weeks, ideally suited for a range of commercial applications, including education, leisure and healthcare projects. Upholding JELD-WEN’s commitment to compliance, the Swedoor doorset range has been tested and certified to UK standards, with a fire rating of either FD30S or FD60S. Additional third-party IFC Certification gives customers complete assurance that the doors will perform beyond industry requirements for smoke and fire protection. Alongside a variety of configurations and the choice of a painted, laminated or veneer finish, customers can specify the addition of glass screens and partitions as required, allowing for a fully bespoke and multifunctional design. The glass partitions are independently tested and certified to EN standards in conjunction with the doorset, and offers up to 30 – 60 minute integrity and partial insulation protection (EW30-EW60). Providing enhanced acoustic performance, the doorsets carry noise-reducing benefits with an acoustic rating available up to Rw38dB, depending on the thickness of the door. Suited to both public and private areas, this insulating design ensures quieter spaces can be created without compromising the aesthetic of the building’s interior. Further customisation is offered through various door edge options, to improve durability and ensure it is fit for purpose; built-in finger protection, which helps to prevent fingers from becoming trapped in hinges and frames; and a wide range of ironmongery can be catered for, offering protection in high traffic areas, such as healthcare and education settings. The interior doorsets are also available as sliding doors, an ideal space-saving solution for connecting or adjoining rooms. Kate Painter, UK Marketing Manager at JELD-WEN, said: “Backed by our European brand expertise, the craftsmanship offered by Swedoor’s dedicated production facility in Denmark is showcased through the premium quality of every doorset. “With market-leading customisation options and a durable finish pairing aesthetics with functionality, we’re confident that this exceptional interior doorset range will improve the experience for our UK customers, providing them with even greater choice and design capabilities for their projects. “Every JELD-WEN product also carries independent certification to offer the ultimate assurance of compliance, further meeting the unique requirements of modern build projects.” As well as an industry-leading product range, customers can benefit from JELD-WEN’s sector knowledge and technical expertise, as well as dedicated, UK-based sales and customer service teams to provide support and solutions at every stage of a project. For more information about JELD-WEN’s Swedoor interior doorset range, visit www.jeld-wen.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developed specifically for the UK market, Reynaers Aluminium has launched its long-awaited new generation, high usage anti-finger trap thermal commercial door and framing system. Featuring a unique slim bulb-style with a radius of only 40mm, a profile sightline of 81mm, and achieving a U-value as low as 1.1W/m2K, Vision 7 has a unique post-installation adjustable bottom pivot that allows installers to make final adjustments after the door has been installed. Suitable for a range of ground-floor applications such as schools, hospitals, retail outlets, leisure facilities, offices and entrances to large commercial buildings, this thermally broken door is an ideal solution to meet the requirements of sustainability-driven projects and also provides a range of additional advantages applicable throughout the supply chain. Ian Osborne, UK Product Development Manager, said: “We have listened to a range of stakeholders across the industry and considered all the feedback in developing the Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Door to offer a premium combination of optimal performance and ease of production, as well as providing the slimline aesthetics that architects and developers want to see. It can be manufactured up to 3m height and 120Kg weight; leaf width 1.25m. “To maximise value and minimise waste, profiles are supplied in a range of optimised bar lengths including 5.1m, optimal for doors up to 2.5m height. Many profiles are available in half and quarter lengths, and for large doors up to 3m mullions and door styles are available at optimal 6.1m or 6.5m lengths. Transom connections are cut straight to minimise milling and the number of components required. “In addition, the system can be supplied with a range of universal fixation pieces that provide a simple slide and turn solution and ensure that the stock requirements of the system are minimised. There are also many hardware solutions for this system, but we have sourced and tested two key industry suppliers that provide the quality and value suited to the Vision 7 solution. “We have also developed a new style bulb with a radius of only 40mm to enable the production of slim profile doors with a visual width of only 81mm, which in combination with a wide range of finite component details, enables the production of extremely durable doors that can achieve a U-value of 1.4W/m2K with double glazing units and a lower value of 1.1W/m2K with triple glazing. The system can support glass thickness up to 50mm. Standard and HI variants are available. We also supply a 100mm outer frame so that the system can connect seamlessly to MasterLine 8 windows and doors. “Well received by installers, the system has also been built with a unique post-installation pivot adjustment feature to help to save valuable time on site. This feature means that the door only needs to be fitted once, and then bottom pivot adjustments can made without having to remove the door multiple times to make adjustments. “Classic of Reynaers Aluminium, we have concentrated on the details of the product that make it an industry-leading door that is built to last the test of high usage over a long period of time. It achieves a good AWW rating and security and safety of PAS 24:2022 and PANIC: EN 1125+179. The door is subject to continued durability tests and has achieved over 400,000 open and close double swing cycles to date. “Current hardware options include standard hook lock (Part Q compliant, PAS 24: 2022), electric strike, magnetic lock, security lock and lever handle. Coming soon will be face applied panic hardware, concealed panic hardware, access control via solenoid bolt and panic hardware.” Technical Director John McComb added: “Like all of the products in the Reynaers portfolio, the launch is not the end of its development. Our recent launch event included a workshop with some of our customers who currently purchase thermal commercial doors to give them the opportunity to see and test the product, handle the components and provide feedback, which we will use in further developing the product. “We’d like to thank those customers who worked closely with us in developing this UK product and who attended our recent launch event. Vision 7 has seen 18 months of development and testing in conjunction with Reynaers Aluminium UK and our Reynaers product development team in Belgium. “With a comprehensive suite of products offering high performance for the commercial sector we look forward to expanding our offering within the UK market and supporting projects in achieving the best results from a design and performance perspective.” For further information, contact the Reynaers Aluminium team on 0121 421 1999 or visit https://www.reynaers.co.uk/products/aluminium-doors/vision-7. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
James Hardie, the world leader in the manufacture of high-performance fibre cement and fibre gypsum building solutions, has appointed Edward Dunn as Channel Manager to further support trade partners in the North. Ed has nearly 10 years account management experience working for large national accounts and independent wholesalers. In his most recent role he worked for Glen Dimplex Flame Europe where he was responsible for sales in the North & Scotland. As Channel Manager Ed will identify and drive future growth opportunities for James Hardie products, fostering relationships with key stakeholders at distributors, installers, and contractors in the region. Ed commented: “I wanted to join a fast-paced company where there was scope to develop my role and make a real difference. James Hardie has a great product portfolio and clear strategy for aggressive business growth. Since I started with the company I’ve been inspired by my colleagues’ attitudes and the support from the senior management team. I look forward to contributing to the company’s success in the future.” “The creation of this role underscores our commitment to delivering excellent customer service for our clients and partners,” said Lee Bucknall, UK Sales Manager at James Hardie. “Ed’s account management experience in the Northern region will help us to develop relationships with the channel, and grow our market share in the area.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Timber Development UK (TDUK), the UK’s largest trade association for the timber supply chain, is partnering with Carrefour International du Bois, the largest timber trade show in Europe, to offer VIP networking opportunities. Under the terms of the partnership TDUK will be offering limited-edition VIP Tickets (free for TDUK members) to the conference, taking place from 28-30 May 2024 in Nantes, France. These VIP Tickets allow members to benefit from special networking opportunities, access to the VIP/Press Lounge with free coffee and soft drinks, and an invitation to the closing Gala Drinks Networking event. Speaking about the partnership, TDUK CEO David Hopkins, said: “We’re very pleased to be partnering with Carrefour International du Bois this year. Europe is the UK’s main source of supply for all timber products and Carrefour attracts the widest range of companies covering all product bases. “TDUK acts as a window into the UK market for overseas suppliers, so we are looking forward to the networking opportunities this brings to both sides. These relationships are crucial, and we look forward to seeing many members there.” David will be a key speaker at the Carrefour International du Bois session “Timber Architecture and Global Trends” on Tuesday 29 May alongside speakers from across France. During the session he will outline of the UK Government’s “Timber in Construction Roadmap” as well as a new publication from TDUK, Timber Policy, a comparative study of policies across Europe which aim to encourage a greater use of timber in construction. Carrefour du Bois is the largest timber trade show in Europe, bringing together hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of international visitors over three days in Nantes, France from 28-30 May 2024. Tickets to join TDUK at Carrefour International du Bois as a VIP delegate are very limited, so book your place – for free – now if you wish to join. TDUK Members can apply for these limited-edition VIP Tickets here. To learn more about Carrefour du Bois click here: www.timbershow.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
