Little things, big difference
As advanced manufacturing technologies deliver big rewards for its customers, Universal Trade Frames says it’s the smaller details that really make the difference.
When you’re selling into a premium market, attention to detail is really important, and that’s definitely what gives our installers a competitive edge,” says Richard Hamond, sales director at Shrewsbury-based fabricator, Universal Trade frames. “Combine that with the right products, and the absolute precision that can be achieved with cutting-edge automation, and you’ve got an extremely strong offer.”
As the consumer appetite for all things high-end remains strong, Universal maintains that targeted investment in technologies that deliver ultra-precise detail and next-level aesthetics have played a key role in winning business for its customers.
One example is its Residence Collection product offering. Already revered for its superior quality and good looks, Universal has taken things a step further with the implementation of its HeritageWeld manufacturing system.
Applied across manufacture of the complete Residence Collection, as well as Universal’s other flush casement products, HeritageWeld brings new precision to a traditional 90° joint, with manufacturing tolerances adjustments as low as 0.1mm.
That’s down to the fabricator’s use of the latest CNC technology, including a state-of-the-art Haffner MAC 345 CNC machining centre, a standalone CNC corner cleaner, and a dedicated 2-head sash welder, recently purchased as part of a six-figure investment strategy.
Different tools and programs are automatically selected and run for different profiles, accommodating tolerances and foiled finishes to fractions of a millimetre for a cleaner finish, and ultimately, a stronger weld.
“HeritageWeld offers unmatched precision in fabrication,” explains Richard. “It also delivers a traditional 90° joint inside and out, and with no glass bonding required, installation is much easier too.”
With authenticity a big draw for the most discerning homeowners, Universal recently added a slim sash meeting rail option to its Spectus vertical sliding window, a product detail which is already paying dividends for Universal and its installer customers populating the premium heritage market.
Featuring narrow sightlines of just 37mm, it perfectly replicates the dimensions of a traditional timber sash window, without compromising on security or energy efficiency performance.
“The slim sash meeting rail option on our Spectus VS creates an aesthetic that is almost indistinguishable from a traditional wooden sash window,” continues Richard. “If you combine that with features such as ovolo moulding to the frame; sashes and beads; and the mechanically jointed deep bottom rail, it’s hard to believe it’s made from PVC-U and not timber.”
As the largest supplier of Solidor composite doors, aside from Solidor itself, Universal manufactures the complete Traditional and Italia Collections in-house, with the added benefit of exclusive, extra-value touches. These include expanded glass and hardware options, custom colours and spraying for true personalisation and differentiation.
“With these extra touches, we’re really helping our customers to stand out from the crowd when it comes to composite door options,” confirms Richard. “Ultimately, this equates to added value and increased sales for them.”
Combining smart security with high-end aesthetics and 21st-century functionality, Yale SensCheck is another significant detail, recently introduced to Universal’s offering.
Available on Residence Collection windows and the new, open-in, timber-alternative door, SensCheck alerts homeowners to window and door position (open/closed) and security status (locked/unlocked) via the Yale Smart Living app.
Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, it’s also Secured by Design accredited for both physical and cyber security.
“Also available across our flush window offer, SensCheck uses magnetic sensors to detect and relay real-time information about the status of a window or door,” explains Richard.
“It can also integrate with other household smart tech to create a fully connected security system managed through a single platform. It’s another detail that can genuinely add value for installers and we’re really excited to add this product to our portfolio.
“All our premium products are made by our dedicated ‘special ops’ team, with hand-finished quality assurance and world-class OTIF scores of 98%,” Richard adds. “These products, combined with the unrivalled precision delivered through our state-of-the art, automated manufacturing process, combine to create a lucrative commercial proposition for installers that’s hard to beat,” he concludes.