Graham Lindsay, Founder of Weru UK offers advice to customers looking for premium window profile systems

Over recent years, there has been a significant increase in demand for aluminium and similar alternatives for high end building projects which require premium products.

Whilst aluminium products are driving the growth, there are extremely innovative hybrid solutions available on the market, which deliver superb quality and unrivalled thermal and acoustic properties.

At Weru UK, we manufacture a hybrid alternative to aluminium called AFINO-tec which is 25% lighter and allows for a 30% increased aperture than PVCu, making it an ideal option for bespoke, architecturally designed builds which demand larger, stronger glass areas.

Pictured in the case study below, this system, specifically designed for Weru, is an innovative blend of PVCu and fibreglass, which creates a pioneering material called RAuFipro. This high-tech GFP composite produces a system 2x stronger than PVCu, making it an ideal alternative to aluminium. By reinforcing high-tech material and load-bearing components into the frame, the system surpasses other windows by means of its enduring dimensional stability and impressive resistance force.

The AFINO-tec system has load-bearing hardware components screwed into the steel at several points, ensuring enduring functionality and long service life of the window. This steel reinforcement, paired with the GFP high-tech material in the sash, will guarantee outstanding stability and tensional rigidity. For the customer this reinforcement means it is possible for exceptionally large windows to be installed, allowing up to 30% more daylight to enter the home.

In terms of thermal properties, U-Value is no longer an afterthought for homeowners, with many actively seeking the lowest possible value for their windows. Typically, generic modern, double glazing holds a value of <1.6 Wmk2, whilst the value of the latest innovative profiles are remarkably lower at <0.7Wmk2.

This significant improvement appeals to customers, as maintaining an energy efficient home is vital when trying to keep energy bills to a minimum. An increase in the environmentally conscious individual has also affected the demand for the best thermal insulation characteristics.

Profiles, therefore, need to be designed with this in mind, with homeowners and developers opting for system profiles which have been engineered to be triple glazed to create an exceptional living experience for the customer, whilst remaining environmentally friendly.

Weru’s third generation AFINO-tec system has an impressive 85 mm system profile which comfortably allows for three panes of glass and a 12mm airspace between each pane. Comparatively, second generation PVCu profiles have a 70mm maximum system profile which has obvious limitations when it comes to fitting three panes of glass.

When researching options, it’s important to look closely at the system profile, as it goes without saying that the smaller the airspace between the panes, the less effective it’s insulation properties will be.

At Weru UK, our fitters are trained on the very strict RAL approved window installation standards, required for all aspects of installation including air tightness, security and wind loading. Once the training has been completed and fitters are fully vetted and trained to the highest standards, they are able to join the Weru UK Network, which offers developers and home owners in a specific catchment area, a complete windows and doors solution.

For further information on Weru UK call 01253 341444 or visit www.weru.uk