Different approach to supply

Sliders UK started manufacture of its new ultra-energy efficient aluminium window last month. We find out why it’s adopting a different approach to window supply.

Sliders UK’s new aluminium system – the Ultimate Evolution XT – offers U-values as low as 0.85W/m2K, yet sales director Steve Mines said the company is not planning to compete in the mass window market or even go into mass fabrication.

“What we have is an aluminium window with great sightlines, genuinely exceptional thermal efficiency, plus a wide choice of flexible finishes. It’s about offering our customers differentiation in an otherwise very crowded market place.”

Available in multiple sash options, the Ultimate Evolution XT is built around an insulated 66mm aluminium system, which can also accommodate insulated glazed units of up to 48mm.

This means the Ultimate Evolution XT can comfortably accommodate triple-glazed IGUs, boosting thermal efficiency. However, it’s the patented thermal break that gives the Ultimate Evolution XT a distinct edge.

The profile features a multi-chamber composite core, filled with high performance insulating foam, to create an impregnable thermal barrier.

“The Evolution XT delivers on energy efficiency without compromising structural integrity or performance, exploiting proven technologies,” Steve said.

The Ultimate Evolution XT is also fully tested to PAS24 and is Part Q compliant. The Ultimate Evolution XT is also weather tested to BS 6375-1:2009, achieving an air classification rating of 600pa, water tightness of 900pa and EA2400 wind resistance.

“We’re underpinning that product offer with exceptional reliability in delivery,” Steve said. “We aren’t going into the mass market, what we are doing is guaranteeing delivery of windows with customer orders of doors, on a single delivery and when it’s meant to turn-up.”

One of the major frustrations Sliders UK customers report is the non-delivery of windows by third-parties. Delaying the start of completion of work and ultimately impacting on cash flow.

Sliders UK has also committed to break with convention in window fabrication in its decision to sell the Ultimate Evolution off list price – eliminating the uplift in prices imposed by fabricators and faced by installers, when demand is high.

“It’s a completely transparent offer. The price is the price,” Steve said.

“It’s because we’re not looking to do mass volume. The Ultimate Evolution XT has mass appeal but it’s much more for us about service.

“There is so little differentiation in the window market. With the Ultimate Evolution XT, our customers can offer end-users products that deliver better sightlines, better security and great thermal efficiency – and which will also complement the Evolution XT’s sister product, the Ultimate Evolution Bifold.”

Sliders UK launched the Ultimate Evolution aluminium bifold last year, which features a time-saving fully adjustable jamb as standard. Fitted to both sides of the door, and with a 4mm tolerance on each jamb, it can cut installation time to as little as 45 minutes.

It’s available in multiple panel configurations including open-in or open-out, with a maximum sash height and width of 3,000mm x 1,200mm. It’s available in a low threshold option and 30mm polyamide thermal break for increased thermal values.

In common with the Ultimate Evolution XT, the Ultimate Evolution aluminium bifold is also fully tested to PAS24 and BS6375 Part 1 Weather Testing. Standard colours are grey or white, with colour-matched handles and magnetic door holders.

The Ultimate Evolution XT shares this focus on detailing. Available in white or anthracite grey as standard, plus dual colour options and any RAL colour as special order, Ultimate Evolution XT windows from Sliders UK are Qualicoat polyester powder coated to a marine-grade finish and come with a 10-year guarantee.

The Ultimate Evolution XT is also available in golden oak, rosewood, worn ash, teak, cherry and dark oak, Decoral woodgrain options, which come with a 10-year guarantee.

www.sliders-uk.com