We are innovators and experts in the design and installation of PVCu or wooden double-glazed and triple-glazed windows, PVCu Bi-folding and composite doors, bespoke conservatories, orangeries, sunrooms, porches and PVCu rooflines. Conwy Valley Windows and Conservatories Limited have proudly provided home improvement products and services to the people of North Wales and Cheshire, and have over 100 years’ experience within the team. Find out more about us.
Search Results for: doors & windows
The Year Ahead for GGF & FENSA Members
Following the difficulties that we have experienced as an industry in the last 3 years, the key question is, what 2023 will look like for the window and door industry in the UK?
Unfortunately, the industry is still facing several challenges in 2023. Some of the key struggles include:
- Supply chain disruptions: The industry is facing disruptions in the supply chain due to Brexit and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, leading to shortages of materials and increased costs.
- Skills shortage: There is a shortage of skilled workers in the industry, leading to delays and increased costs for companies. Fortunately, we now have the answer to this one in the GGF Skilled Pathway Scheme. I encourage all members to engage with us on this.
- Competition from imports: The industry is facing increased competition from cheaper imported products, putting pressure on companies to reduce costs and maintain profitability.
- Slow economic recovery: The UK economy is recovering slowly from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to reduced demand for new windows and doors.
- Regulatory changes: The industry is facing changes in Building Regulations, requiring companies to adapt and invest in new technologies and processes.
- These challenges are affecting the window and door industry in the UK and companies are having to find ways to navigate these difficulties while maintaining their competitiveness and profitability.
We are keen to focus attention on improving competency within our sector. The UK construction market as a whole is facing several issues related to competency, such as:
- Inadequate training: There is a lack of investment in training and development in the construction industry, which leads to a lack of technical knowledge and expertise among workers.
- Health and safety issues: Construction sites can be dangerous environments, and there is a need for greater focus on health and safety practices to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Quality control: There is a need for better quality control in the construction industry to ensure that projects are delivered to the highest standards and that buildings are safe, efficient, and fit for purpose.
These competency issues in the UK construction market are impacting the industry’s ability to deliver projects on time, on budget, and to the required quality standards. Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort from industry stakeholders, including employers, workers, and government agencies.
Some good news?
The UK Home Improvement market can be affected by various factors such as economic conditions, consumer spending, housing market trends, and government policies, which can change over time.
The market is expected to experience several changes in 2023. Some of the key predictions include:
- Growth in demand: The market is expected to defy expectations as homeowners continue to invest in improving their properties, despite the uncertain economic outlook.
- Focus on sustainability and energy efficiency: Consumers are becoming more focused on reducing their carbon footprint and energy bills, leading to increased demand for sustainable and energy-efficient home improvement products.
- Increased use of technology: The use of technology is expected to continue to grow in the home improvement market, with consumers adopting smart home devices, virtual consultations, and online shopping for products and services.
- Impact of Brexit: The UK’s exit from the European Union is expected to have a significant impact on the home improvement market, with potential changes in tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and changes in regulations.
Overall, the UK home improvement market is expected to perform strongly in 2023, driven by changing consumer preferences and a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and Brexit.
Despite these challenges, the UK window and door industry has continued to grow over the past three years with increasing demand for new and improved products. However, the industry is expected to continue to face challenges in the coming years, but if we have learned anything it’s that our industry can weather any storm.
Urban Windows (Bristol) Limited
We’re a Bristol based, Family-run Business with over 35 years experience.
We aim to measure, manufacture, design & fit the best Windows, Doors or Conservatories for you and your Home.
You will rest assured knowing our Double Glazed Windows are constructed from Quality materials and accompanied by a Warranty
GHI Windows
Based in Weybridge & Epsom, Surrey, GHI Windows are one of the most established and well-respected home improvement businesses since 2002. We supply a range of exceptional double glazing windows, sliding doors, flat roof lanterns and roofline to customers in Weybridge and the surrounding areas.
As your local glazing company for 18 years, we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service. Our family-run business thrives on traditional values giving every customer a personal service. We have a team of expert design consultants and installers that have several years of experience, who will provide you with the expertise you need.
Our impressive portfolio of products are available to a wide spectrum of properties. You can rest assured that you’ll find a double glazed product that works best for you and your property. We work with leading manufacturers including Residence 9, REHAU, Origin, Schücho, AluK, Endurance, Arkay and Smart.
ONE YEAR ON FROM 23 RD MARCH 2020 – MASTERFRAME WINDOWS THEN AND NOW
On that one day, everything changed, everyone thought they saw it coming but nobody thought it really would, a lockdown, and a pandemic so serious that it would force Masterframe, along with many other manufacturers and businesses to close its doors. In procession of a full order book, it seemed for a brief while that the company could continue to operate the factory, but news from suppliers that they were discontinuing supply, meant that this was not to be.
Carol Slade, Managing Director for Masterframe says “What followed the temporary closure of our business was a time of great reflection by the Directors. We debated on how we could continue to connect with our customers during lockdown. We realised that the challenge ahead was to keep communication alive between the consumer and our installers so that they could emerge at the other end of the lockdown with some really good prospects.
This led us to pursue a path of investing in digital platforms in order to do this, and we engaged a professional company to shoot, at our cost, 360 degree video footage of our Bygone Master Installer’s showrooms as well as our own. These virtual showrooms, along with video spotlights on our product features, allowed retail customers to view our products and indeed our Master Installer’s other products, from the safety of their own homes – it kept the conversation going! It was also for this venture that we were awarded a National Fenestration, Covid Hero Award in 2020.
With our strategy in place for our customers, we worked on the phased return to work programme with great enthusiasm. A new document was produced for our employees containing 50 new guidelines on actions needed to keep us all safe through the pandemic and to give colleagues the confidence to return to work. All necessary actions were taken to ensure social distancing was maintained, screens were installed where necessary, a new hand’s free login system was introduced and every effort was made to make the workplace a happy, yet Covid-free environment. It is testament to this that we have so far not recorded a single case of Covid in the workplace.
There were new challenges every day, but once we returned to the ‘new normal’, as a team we have managed to not only survive but thrive during the year following the lockdown. Fortunately for our entire business and the workforce that are much appreciated, we have not had to reduce any our employee numbers and in fact we have actually taken on more staff.
We have found new ways to engage with our customers with regular zoom meetings and an ‘Installer Hour’ for our Bygone Network of Master Installers each month. We are delighted that this new engagement is providing us with such valuable insights on what our customers are requiring from us to enable their success, and ensuring we take the right steps to deliver on that.
Since the first lockdown we have also upped our marketing game, launching two new websites, one aimed at the consumer, featuring both our Bygone sash window Collection and our Classic Collection available to the trade. The new consumer website is delivering considerably more leads to our Bygone network and we plan to expand our marketing efforts on an ongoing basis into the future. We also have a new dedicated trade website for our trade installers, architects, builders and specifiers to get more specific information on their chosen products and how we can assist them.
In a further effort to keep in touch with customers, both retail and trade, we have gone with the digital flow and attended two virtual Homebuilding & Renovating Shows and recently taken a stand at FENEX 2021.
We have also emerged as company with a far greater empathy and commitment to creating an environmentally friendly factory and workplace. Since the first lock-down we have reduced our paper usage by 89%, replaced all overhead strip lighting with new LED fittings and started investing in a dual fuel fleet of company vehicles along with three charging stations to support these at our Head Office in Essex. Every effort is now being made in the factory and offices to reduce waste at every level and this is an ongoing priority to which the whole team is committed.
We have of course experienced some negatives in the past year too such as supplier shortages, and sadly this has created some issues. We have, however, all worked together to find solutions in order to ultimately keep our customers happy. We believe we now have the very best, most dedicated team in place to make that happen. “
Carol continues “The challenging times have also not slowed down our passion for innovation and the good news is that there are three new products on the horizon that we will be launching in 2021, along with some other positive change that we are certain will be well received.
We truly feel a new sense of resilience within the company and this is no doubt due, in no small measure, to a sense of real gratitude that we have survived the toughest of times. Our busy customers continue to support us and we have some very prestigious on-going projects that we are immensely proud of – the future looks bright and we are all set to embrace it.”
For more information on how Masterframe Windows can assist you with your sash window project or sale please visit www.masterframetrade.co.uk . If you are a sash window installer and would like to talk to us about becoming a Bygone Master Installer please call us on 01376 510410 or find out more here https://www.masterframe.co.uk/become-an-installer/.
Datasheet & Guidance Document Update
The GGF Technical Team continues to update and add to the already extensive GGF Library of Technical publications. The following new documents have recently been published on to the GGF website and are accessible to Members only.
4.10 Products, Appearance and Visual Quality Specification for Insulating Glass Units. This Members’ document has been updated to reflect all visual quality changes within BS EN 1279.
5.16 A Guide to achieving Mandatory Compliance for the manufacture of Fire-Resistant IGUs. For those IGU manufacturers looking to enter the Fire-Resistant Glazing market, this document will guide you through all the necessary steps to achieve and maintain compliance.
6.1 Windows & Doors – Safety. A brief guide on safety considerations for windows & doors.
6.2 Windows & Doors – Security. What is required to ensure that windows provide adequate security against intruders.
6.3 Windows & Doors – Ventilation. The best options to consider to ensure adequate ventilation in the property.
6.4 Windows & Doors – Weather Resistance. How to provide suitable protection against the elements.
6.5 Windows & Doors – Sound. What measures can be put in place to help reduce noise attenuation.
9.1a A Guide to Building Regulations for Dwellings – England & Wales. A summary of the important aspects of all Approved Documents which affect the Glass & Fenestration with guides to where to find more detailed information with the actual documents.
9.1b A Guide to Building Regulations for Dwellings – Scotland. As above but for the Scottish Technical Booklet.
9.1c A Guide to Building Regulations for Dwellings – Northern Ireland. A summary of the important aspects of all Approved Documents which affect the Glass & Fenestration parts of the Building Regulations in Northern Ireland.
9.1d A Guide to Building Regulations for Dwellings – Republic of Ireland. A summary of the important aspects of all Approved Documents which affect the Glass & Fenestration parts of the Building Regulations in Republic of Ireland.
On the updated publications, David Borland, GGF Senior Technical Officer said, “This upload to the website includes ten new datasheets and one necessary update to an existing datasheet. All of these changes and additions have been requested through various GGF Technical Groups and Regional meetings. Given the limited timeframe we had to make these changes, it would not have been possible without the assistance and input received from the Members of the GGF Home Improvement Technical Group for which we are extremely grateful.”
To access, view and download the latest technical publications please click here
Please note these publications are only accessible for Members so you will need to login to the Members Area of the GGF website.
Windows and Doorsets Draft Documents for Review
Following the introduction of our new Document Review page on the website, we are pleased to inform members that the latest documents for review have been uploaded to the page.
As detailed previously, this new system allows members to review documents pre-publication and either add comment, make suggestions or ask for clarification on technical issues. Simply download the document and its relevant comment form and return to techteam@ggf.org.uk
These four new documents are part of a complete series for Windows & Doorsets covering the various aspects of an installation such as safety, security & sound. Created by the Home Improvement Technical Committee along with the GGF Technical Department, these datasheets provide basic information on window & door performance which may be asked by the end client.
When more detailed information is required, these datasheets will also assist in providing details on where to find that additional information such as Approved Documents or BS EN Standards.
The documents for review and your input are:
Datasheet 6.1 – Window and Doorsets for Dwellings Safety
Datasheet 6.2 – Window and Doorsets Security
Datasheet 6.4 – Window and Doorsets Weather Resistance
Datasheet 6.5 – Window and Doorsets Sound
To access the Draft Documents Review Page please click on the link below:
https://www.ggf.org.uk/technical-information/technical-draft-documents-for-review/
Closing date for Contact Form submissions Tuesday 8th December 2020
Please email back your completed Comment Form to techteam@ggf.org.uk
Windows and Doorsets Draft Documents for Review
Following the introduction of our new Document Review page on the website, we are pleased to inform members that the latest documents for review have been uploaded to the page.
As detailed previously, this new system allows members to review documents pre-publication and either add comment, make suggestions or ask for clarification on technical issues. Simply download the document and its relevant comment form and return to techteam@ggf.org.uk
These four new documents are part of a complete series for Windows & Doorsets covering the various aspects of an installation such as safety, security & sound. Created by the Home Improvement Technical Committee along with the GGF Technical Department, these datasheets provide basic information on window & door performance which may be asked by the end client.
When more detailed information is required, these datasheets will also assist in providing details on where to find that additional information such as Approved Documents or BS EN Standards.
The documents for review and your input are:
Datasheet 6.1 – Window and Doorsets for Dwellings Safety
Datasheet 6.2 – Window and Doorsets Security
Datasheet 6.4 – Window and Doorsets Weather Resistance
Datasheet 6.5 – Window and Doorsets Sound
To access the Draft Documents Review Page please click on the link below: https://www.ggf.org.uk/technical-information/technical-draft-documents-for-review/
Closing date for Contact Form submissions Tuesday 8th December 2020
Please email back your completed Comment Form to techteam@ggf.org.uk
BAP Glass & Maintenance
B.A.P Glass have a team of expert glaziers specialising in uPVC windows, doors, double glazing, shop fronts and emergency glazing services.
Masterframe to attend 1st virtual Homebuilding & Renovating Show
Masterframe is to offer potential sash window customers a chance to ‘Meet the Manufacturers’ on a digital platform from the comfort of their own home or office. The show takes place online on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th July 2020 from 10am to 5pm each day.
Carol Slade, Managing Director for Masterframe says “We have exhibited at Homebuilding & Renovating shows many times now and have always found them a great venue to connect with retail customers to deliver a passionate presentation of our products. This year, the landscape has completely changed and we have pursued the virtual route on many levels, creating virtual show rooms for customers and for our own showrooms at our manufacturing facility.”
Carol continues “Always keen to explore new avenues, we agreed to attend the show which is in many ways a pilot for potentially many more to come. Now customers are able to continue with their plans to replace their windows by engaging with us online for some sound advice and visual inspiration with video material and literature available to download.”
As part of the show’s line up, Alan Burgess, Chairman of the Group will represent Masterframe on the Expert Advice Panel, Choosing Doors & Windows on 24th July from 10.30 – 11.15 and in the Masterclass Theatre on 25th July between 13.15 and 13.30. Alan has many years of experience in the industry and has dedicated his career to offering customers the best, true to original timber alternative sash windows available.
Masterframe manufacture two beautiful, high quality sash window collections each with a choice of three specifications. The Bygone Collection is marketed to retail customers exclusively through a network of Master Installers and the Classic Collection is available through Masterframe trade customers and Master Installers nationwide. To find out more about your choices and to chat to a Masterframe specialist on the day, register for the show free here.
Soundproof Windows join the GGF
The GGF welcomes Soundproof Windows into the GGF Membership.
Soundproof Windows have been installing acoustic windows and doors since 2016. From high performance soundproof windows and doors to secondary windows and bespoke units, they restore peace and tranquillity to a home whilst adding to the value of the property. Through specialist manufacturing and precision technology they can reduce noise pollution by up to 95%.
They offer:
- Soundproof Sash Windows
- Mock Sash Windows (High Performance)
- Soundproof Casement Windows
- High Performance Tilt & Turn Windows
- High Performance Secondary Windows
- Soundproof Windows for Recording Studios
- Noise Reduction Glass
- Specialist Soundproof Front Doors
- Soundproof French Doors
- Soundproof Patio & Balcony Doors
- Soundproof Bifold Doors
- Soundproof Sliding Doors
The Soundproof Windows are based at:
Unit 113 , 291 Kirkdale, London, SE26 4QD
For more information contact: 0203 051 9231 Or email info@thesoundproofwindows.co.uk
Or via contact form https://thesoundproofwindows.co.uk/contact-us/ Website www.thesoundproofwindows.co.uk
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander, is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
- Emergency make safe and boarding
- Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
- Lock repair and replacement
- Door repair and replacement
- Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
- Bespoke specialist glazing installations
- FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
Emergency make safe and boarding
Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
Lock repair and replacement
Door repair and replacement
Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
Bespoke specialist glazing installations
FENSA and TrustMark Accredited
Evander Glazing & Locks Ltd
Evander is the UK’s leading provider of glazing and locksmith services for domestic and commercial properties. Every year Evander attend over 120,000 properties, providing 24-7 emergency response and fulfilment services, making the places where you live and work safe, secure and smart.
- Emergency make safe and boarding
- Repair and replacement of glass and glazing, frames and systems
- Lock repair and replacement
- Door repair and replacement
- Home improvements – windows, doors, conservatories, garage doors
- Bespoke specialist glazing installations
- FENSA and TrustMark Accredited