Pandemic challenges overcome

A total of 1,667 Optima casement windows and entrance doors from Profile 22 were installed in 170 high quality newbuild homes at Mulberry Park in Bath, Somerset.

The new windows and doors completed the third phase of the development.

Mulberry Park in Bath is a contemporary development of 700 high-quality homes, community facilities and open spaces delivered by housing association and house-builder Curo. Located on the former Ministry of Defence Foxhill site, work started on the project in spring 2016 and is anticipated for completion at the end of 2026.

Curo partnered with Profile 22 approved window contractor Emplas Window Systems.

Optima is a fully integrated 70mm system and is available in sculptured and chamfered variations. Aesthetically, Optima casement windows offer improved sightlines and a higher glass-to-frame ratio, which was important on this project because the design specified light, airy living spaces.

The system is suitable for almost any size or layout of casement window because it includes all the components for bay and bow windows and conservatories. The system comes with a wide range of ancillaries while the choice of 28 colours means the system can compete with aluminium alternatives, the company said. In this project, anthracite grey on white was chosen to create a contemporary look.

The system meets all requirements for thermal efficiency as standard.

“Intelligent design features and double and triple glazing options mean thermal efficiency can be enhanced to meet a project’s specified standards, up to and including 0.9W/m²K or A+,” the company said. “This was particularly important on this project because energy efficiency was a key feature on the high-quality homes.”

Work on this project was undertaken during the Covid pandemic, which raised several challenges including the negative effect on labour and material availability. However, Emplas overcame the challenges by working with its supply partners and customers to manage stock and capacity during both the manufacturing and installation phases of this project.

Emplas has now commenced supply and installation of 1925 windows and doors for the fourth phase of the development in a further 149 properties.