Scoring on all counts
This article was written for Window Industries magazine
Looking back over hardware developments for the year, Carl F Petersen reports that the themes of style, safety and straightforward installation have continued to influence the UK hardware market. Reflecting on the year's initiatives, the established distributor of door and window fittings confirms that development conscious hardware manufacturers are continuing to invest in R&D and are successfully managing to tick all the necessary boxes.
Commenting on the way in which those developing new hardware lines continue to rise to the challenge of enhancing products from the perspective of aesthetics, ease of installation and product functionality, Louise Lai, Carl F Petersen's Marketing Manager says:
"We have been impressed by the ongoing investment into research and development by our suppliers, which results in innovation from both a visual and practical perspective.
Hardware has evolved to become much more than merely a functional item and this has impacted all areas of the fittings industry. Whether the hardware is visible or not, consideration is given to design appeal. Taking the example of handles, which are considered by many to be the mainstay of the hardware catalogue, these are increasingly ergonomically designed and the range of options regarding finishes expands year on year. And, even if the fitting is hidden from view, manufacturers are going the extra mile to address functionality from the end-user and installers' stand point. This philosophy also extends to product lines that complement the traditional hardware catalogue, including ventilation.
One key design development in the hardware arena relates to the introduction of bi-fold, or folding sliding, doors. From a practical point of view, the new door design increases the amount of light in a room and meets the demands of today's modern housing developments that look to make the living space as bright as possible. Folding sliding doors give maximum flexibility regarding the way the doors are used. The new development in door styling also has massive design appeal as, with the doors fully retracted, the inside of the home merges with the exterior space which gives a convergence of indoor and outdoor living.
Supporting this design trend, the 'FS Portal' total hardware solution for folding sliding doors is designed, manufactured and supplied by SIEGENIA-AUBI. The new product was introduced to the Carl F hardware range during 2007. Satisfying the need for simplifying the fabrication process, the 'FS Portal' range is presented as a four stage guide to customise the finished product. The decision making process starts with selecting the scheme, followed by locking, hinge and handle options to ensure that systems are supported with an appropriate and effective hardware solution. The innovation is also a good illustration of how today's quality hardware manufacturers give consideration to all aspects of aesthetics. Specifically designed ball bearing wheels allow for the folding-sliding action; by avoiding metal to metal contact throughout, smooth operation of the doors is ensured.
Performance Benefits
A second initiative from SIEGENIA-AUBI is an excellent example of a manufacturer meeting the needs of all parties for safety, security and simplicity. The Carl F Trident takes the security hardware technology and strength previously only used in door locks and applies this to window hardware to provide an advanced security solution. Manufactured using a high tensile alloy, it creates added strength within the window alongside a secure hook and cam locking combination. The optional restrictor is designed to create easier egress, for emergency escape when required. Additionally, vulnerable users such as the young or elderly are protected as the window opening can be restricted. While offering all the performance benefits of security hardware, Carl F confirm that the product also meets the needs of the design conscious purchaser and those working on site as it is simple to both fit and operate ensuring that valuable installation time is saved.
Other contributors to the Carl F catalogue are also successfully ticking all the necessary boxes producing products that are attractive, easy to install and high performance. HOPPE's Enhanced Security Handle, for example, retains the manufacturer's distinctive design appeal while meeting PAS 24 requirements and holding a Secured by Design licence.
Carl F has distributed hardware to the UK market for almost twenty years and, over those two decades, we haven't seen any other product offer the strength of construction that is provided by the Enhanced Security Handle from HOPPE."
