The Door Industry Journal: Sliding Doors

Showing posts with label Sliding Doors. Show all posts

Tuesday, 25 August 2026

Security Meets Style: The SolarFrame Aluminium Range

In today's market, homeowners expect more from their windows and doors than ever before. Security remains a fundamental requirement, but it now sits alongside demands for energy efficiency, contemporary aesthetics, durability and low maintenance. SolarFrame's aluminium windows and doors range has been developed to meet all of these expectations, delivering products that combine modern design with proven performance.

Aluminium has become one of the most sought-after materials in the fenestration sector, and for good reason. Its inherent strength allows for slimmer frames, larger glazed areas and impressive structural performance without compromising on security. SolarFrame has embraced these advantages to create a range that offers both visual appeal and exceptional protection for homeowners.

At the heart of the range is a commitment to security. SolarFrame's aluminium products are designed and tested to meet recognised industry standards, providing installers, specifiers and homeowners with confidence that security has been engineered into every detail.

Multi-point locking systems feature as an option throughout the range, while carefully selected hardware and robust frame construction work together to create a formidable barrier against opportunistic intrusion. SolarFrame products are approved to Secured by Design standards, giving end users confidence that security performance has been independently verified.

The aluminium window collection showcases how modern design and security can work hand in hand. Whether specified as casement, French, fixed, bay and bow, tilt and turn, or bespoke shaped windows, each product benefits from the strength and rigidity that aluminium naturally provides. This enables slimmer sightlines and larger glass areas, allowing more natural light into the home while maintaining the structural integrity required for long-term performance.

The combination of high-quality locking system options, durable aluminium profiles and high-quality hardware, help ensure that windows remain secure without affecting ease of operation. For homeowners, that means greater peace of mind; for installers and specifiers, it means confidence in recommending products that satisfy both aesthetic and practical requirements.

SolarFrame's aluminium doors continue the same philosophy. The range includes bi-fold doors, French doors and lift-and-slide patio doors, all designed to maximise natural light and create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. While large, glazed openings have become a defining feature of contemporary home design, they must never compromise security. SolarFrame addresses this challenge through robust engineering and advanced locking systems.

Its aluminium bi-fold doors are a prime example. Featuring five-point locking and double deadbolts (as an option), they demonstrate how large opening configurations can still deliver outstanding security performance. The strength of aluminium enables expansive door sets while maintaining the rigidity required for reliable operation and long-term protection.

Homeowners can enjoy open-plan living and panoramic views without sacrificing the security of their property and installers can be confident in offering that to them, thanks to PAS24 and Secured by Design accreditation.

Beyond security, the aluminium range offers a range of benefits that enhance everyday living. Advanced thermal technology and multi-chamber designs help achieve impressive energy performance, with low U-values contributing to improved insulation and reduced heat loss. This allows homeowners to enjoy comfortable living environments throughout the year while potentially helping them to reduce energy consumption.

Durability is another significant advantage. Unlike traditional materials that can warp, rot or require ongoing maintenance, aluminium provides long-term resilience against the challenges of the British climate. Powder-coated finishes offer excellent resistance to weathering while maintaining their appearance for years to come. This combination of strength and low maintenance makes aluminium an attractive option for homeowners seeking a future-proof investment.

Flexibility of design also plays an important role. SolarFrame's aluminium range is available in a wide selection of colours, configurations and hardware options, enabling homeowners to achieve a tailored appearance that complements both contemporary and traditional properties. The ability to combine slim sightlines with bespoke styling ensures that security-focused products do not have to compromise on visual appeal.

Lee Marson, Operations Director at SolarFrame, said: “As demand continues to grow for products that combine aesthetics, performance and security, SolarFrame's aluminium windows and doors range demonstrates what modern fenestration can achieve.

"By bringing together robust security credentials, advanced engineering and contemporary design, the range offers a compelling solution for homeowners who refuse to compromise on any aspect of their home improvement project.

“For the security-conscious professional and homeowner alike, SolarFrame's aluminium range proves that protection, performance and style can exist in perfect harmony.”

www.solarframe.co.uk

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Monday, 17 August 2026

Aluminium’s 45-year lifespan is changing the fenestration conversation

While price will always be a big part of the conversation when selling windows and doors, according to Endurance® Aluminium, the long lifespan of aluminium is helping to shift the focus.

Consumers are becoming increasingly motivated to save money on their energy bills in the short term and do the right thing by the environment and their purse strings in the long-term.

“Homeowners are becoming more aware of the long-term impact of their buying-decisions,” says Scott Foster, sales and marketing director of the Endurance Group.

“Yes, they want immediate savings, but when offered products that will last longer, cost less to maintain, and have a lower environmental impact over time, they understand that premium aluminium windows and doors are a stronger long-term investment.”

Aluminium systems can last between 40 and 50 years, which compares to the typical lifespan of PVC-U which is 25 to 35 years.

When it comes to recyclability and reuse, aluminium scores well too because it is infinitely recyclable without any loss of quality. It is estimated that approximately 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today, thanks to its infinite recyclability, and most modern systems now contain high levels of recycled content ensuring they deliver a lower environmental impact over time.

“Aluminium is a future-proof choice in a sustainability-driven market which means aluminium installers have a clear, usable message for homeowners,” continues Scott.

“The material is ideal for eco-conscious consumers because the long lifespan of aluminium reduces the amount of waste created. Its recyclability also supports greener building practices. And the material maintains its inherent benefits for its lifetime ensuring durability and thermal efficiency for years to come.

Installers that are equipped with simple, compelling sustainability talking points like these can sell premium aluminium windows and doors with confidence. They can move the conversation away from price and onto performance, sustainability, and long-term value.

“Endurance® Aluminium is pleased to be able to support installers who are looking for a future-focused solution.”

www.endurance.co.uk

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Thursday, 13 August 2026

Fentrade supports rejuvenation of city centre shopping mall

A major transformation and revitalisation of a Newport city centre shopping district has been supported by specialist independent trade fabricator Fentrade Limited.

The project saw the creation of a complete new shopping area within the Kingsway Centre with nine sets of shopfront doors and screens manufactured in RAL9005 matt black finish from Jack Aluminium profiles. The new shopping area will make more space available for small local traders to access start-up retail units and complement the recent addition of a traditional market and entertainment area in the Kingsway.

Commenting on this latest commercial undertaking, Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s Managing Director, was pleased with the outcome: “Newport is one of the fastest-growing cities in Wales and it's been a pleasure to work with the Kingsway Centre to help them develop a shopping experience that will drive more visitors to the city centre. Working closely with their team we provided open, bright and welcoming entrances to appeal to traders and shoppers alike.”

Fentrade’s commercial offering has continued to grow and it has become a go-to fabricator for trade installers requiring high-quality GFT shopfronts and screens suitable for multiple applications. The Kingsway project required non-thermally broken screens with easy-to-use yet secure locking and single glazed laminated panes, but Fentrade’s portfolio also encompasses thermally broken profile systems with multiple options of standard, secure and emergency-access locking.

“Being involved in such a project in our home town is a great source of pride for our team and us as a company”, continues Chris, “and it is also exciting for our products to form an integral part of a drive to increase footfall into the city centre when other high street shopping areas are struggling.”

www.fentrade.co.uk

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Tuesday, 24 February 2026

Why Narrow Backplates Matter More Than Ever in Aluminium and Bi-Fold Design

As aluminium door systems continue to evolve, sightlines are getting slimmer, profiles more refined, and expectations higher, not just from architects and specifiers, but from end users too. While frames and glazing often take centre stage, hardware is increasingly playing a crucial role in how well modern systems function.

One area where this is particularly evident is handle protrusion. On slim aluminium profiles and bi-folding doors, traditional backplates and lever designs can compromise clean lines, interfere with folding mechanisms, or create snagging points in busy environments. It’s a challenge that fabricators and system suppliers are encountering more frequently, and one HOPPE has addressed with the launch of a new narrow backplate option using its New York lever handle.

Responding to slimmer systems

The move towards narrower aluminium profiles has delivered clear aesthetic benefits, but it has also reduced tolerance when specifying hardware. Standard handles can simply be too bulky for today’s slim doors, particularly on bi-fold systems where leaf interaction and clearance are critical.

HOPPE’s new narrow backplate has been developed specifically with these applications in mind. Available in two configurations – the 099KH/303N-1/1810 with a low-profile protrusion of just 24mm, and the 1810/303N-1 with a protrusion of 62mm – the range gives fabricators flexibility depending on system design and use.

For bi-fold door manufacturers, the reduced protrusion helps maintain smooth folding functionality while preserving the clean, uninterrupted lines that aluminium systems are known for. For aluminium door and window system suppliers working with particularly slim profiles, the narrow backplate offers a practical solution where standard hardware may not be suitable.

Designed for real-world environments

While aesthetics are an important driver, the benefits of a flush-fitting handle go beyond appearance. In commercial settings such as offices, hotels, and retail buildings, handles that sit closer to the door surface help reduce snagging, improve accessibility, and make better use of available space, particularly in high-traffic areas.

This makes the New York narrow backplate well suited not only to high-end residential projects, but also to commercial developments where both form and function are under scrutiny.

Manufactured in aluminium and produced in Europe, the handle sets reflect HOPPE’s long-standing focus on durability and consistency. The use of anodised aluminium supports long-term performance while maintaining a clean, contemporary finish that aligns with modern architectural trends.

Practical benefits for fabrication and installation

From a fabrication and installation perspective, the narrow backplate has been designed to integrate smoothly into existing workflows. Both variants are suitable for door thicknesses between 72mm and 77mm and use an 8mm solid spindle with HOPPE’s Quick-Fit connection system, enabling secure and efficient assembly.

Fixing is via visible internal bolt-through fixing using M6 thread screws, supported by backplate lugs to ensure a stable fit on slim profiles. The handles operate on maintenance-free slide bearings, reducing the need for adjustment or servicing once installed.

The 099KH variant features a short-neck handle on one side, helping achieve the ultra-low 24mm protrusion, while retaining a comfortable internal lever for everyday operation. This configuration makes it particularly suitable for bi-folding doors and other applications where clearance is limited.

Finishes to match contemporary design

To support modern specification, the narrow backplate New York handle is available in a range of finishes, including F1 silver effect, F3 gold effect, matt traffic white, matt black, and matt anthracite grey. This allows system suppliers to coordinate hardware with aluminium frame colours, rather than treating handles as an afterthought.

Small details, meaningful impact

As aluminium systems continue to push towards slimmer, more refined designs, hardware choices are becoming increasingly important. The introduction of a narrow backplate option for the New York lever reflects a wider shift in the industry, recognising that even small components can have a significant impact on performance, usability, and overall system design.

For fabricators, system houses, and bi-fold manufacturers, HOPPE’s latest development offers a well-engineered response to a common challenge, helping ensure that hardware keeps pace with the doors it is designed to support.

www.hoppe.com

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Monday, 19 January 2026

New extra feature for DIJ Spring 2026: Why Quality Matters

Quality underpins every decision in the industrial door, shutter, and garage door sector: from material selection and fabrication methods to installation, service, and long-term performance. For Spring 2026, Door Industry Journal is introducing Why Quality Matters, a brand-new premium supplement and the first in a new series of exclusive DIJ features launching throughout the year.

Designed to set the tone for what follows, Why Quality Matters will spotlight manufacturers, suppliers, and installers who place quality at the heart of their business. This isn’t about shortcuts or box-ticking; it’s about craftsmanship, consistency, accountability, and pride in delivering excellence across products, people, and processes.

As the inaugural feature in this new series, participants will have the opportunity to be first to shape the conversation and be associated with the launch of a major new DIJ initiative. The supplement will explore how businesses define and uphold quality internally, from leadership and company culture through to the factory floor and installation teams. It will examine the role of materials, fabrication processes, testing, and attention to detail in delivering doors and shutters built for demanding commercial environments.

Quality doesn’t stop at production. The feature will also highlight best practice in installation, aftersales support, training, compliance, and maintenance: recognising the teams behind the products, from skilled fabricators and engineers to installers, service professionals, and customer support staff.

To protect the focus and premium positioning of the supplement, participation is strictly limited. While a number of companies will be approached directly by the DIJ team, a small number of places are available on a first come, first served basis, subject to alignment with the ethos of the feature.

If quality genuinely drives your business and you’d like to be among the first companies featured in this new DIJ series, now is the time to get involved. Once places are filled, no further opportunities will be available.

To find out more, call Rob or Steve on 01226 321450 or email rob@cvgroup.co.uk or steve@cvgroup.co.uk

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Friday, 16 January 2026

Maintenance Matters: How to Keep Door Hardware Running Smoothly

David Knollman, Brio business development manager at Allegion UK, provides a how-to-guide outlining the essential maintenance and care steps for sliding and folding door applications.

As modern architecture continues to embrace open plan living, space saving convenience and indoor and outdoor interconnectivity, sliding and folding doors have surged in popularity. These systems deliver style and versatility across a variety of projects, but all too often, one key detail is widely overlooked.

Behind the seamless operation and sleek appearance of sliding and folding doors, there’s a concealed truth. Where these modern door systems exude elegance, many users neglect that they, like any precision mechanism, demand regular care and maintenance. In fact, the difference between doors that simply look good upon installation and those that perform smoothly for longer periods of time lies in how you care for the hidden parts, explains David Knollman:

“Hardware is a core component of any door system, a fact perhaps more evident with sliding and folding doors. From the tracks, rollers and pivots to the hangers, hinges and bolts that hold them all together, each part is instrumental when operating the contemporary systems found throughout our residential and high-end commercial spaces.

“However, even the most durable door hardware is subject to deterioration. Everyday use can impact a system’s condition, with hardware becoming even more worn and tired in harsh and demanding settings. With this in mind, there is value in developing a greater understanding of the common issues and correct care and maintenance procedures that can extend the life of sliding and folding door systems."

Neglecting hardware, on the other hand, can lead to a range of avoidable issues, such as:

· Track and roller degradation: Over time, dirt, grit and salt can build up in tracks, increasing the door’s resistance under movement, which wears down bearings and causes uneven motion.

· Misalignment: As buildings gradually settle - or through repeated use - sliding and folding panels can shift, with loose fastenings or misaligned rollers causing doors to drag and making them difficult to open and close.

· Corrosion and material wear: Metal hardware components are vulnerable to humid, salty or chemically aggressive environments, with the effects of corrosion and wear able to hinder a door’s operation.

· Seal and gasket wear: Damaged or imperfect seals can lead to drafts, water ingress and higher loads on frames, increasing the strain on systems.

· Locking and handle mechanism faults: Should locks and handles become stiff or damaged, the security and usability of a system may suffer.

“When left unchecked, these problem areas can result in significant operational issues, often leading to exaggerated repair costs or full system replacements.”

Routine care and maintenance

A proactive approach to care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your door systems. Basic habits, such as regularly running doors through their full cycle, for example, can make a difference, but regular inspection, cleaning and adjustments are highly advised. In view of this, there are a few routine steps to ensure everything keeps running smoothly, David continues:

“Generally, it’s recommended that visual checks are performed over six month periods. In doing so, users should inspect all fixing bolts, looking for loose attachments, misalignment issues, signs of rust and other elements of visible wear. During inspections, it’s also important to secure brackets and tighten fixing bolts where necessary. High-traffic or exposed systems may require more frequent checks, and if a part is excessively worn, it should always be replaced.

“When it comes to tracks and rollers, it’s practical to keep the door’s track free from obstruction by removing debris and any build-up of dirt and water. To do this, visible surfaces can be cleaned using a soft brush, damp cloth and a mild non-abrasive cleaner - and don’t forget to dry, as any moisture left in the track or hardware can accelerate rust and corrosion. All rollers should be fitted with sealed precision bearings which require no maintenance.

“Attention must also be paid to hangers and pivots. On trusted hardware products, hangers are fitted with lubricated ball-bearings or plain bearings, which require no greasing. Though, if doors ‘settle’ and clearance is reduced, causing restriction as a result, the door may need to be raised by hanger adjustment nuts. Cleaning should be approached in a similar manner to the other hardware elements found in these systems, adding a light application of corrosion preventative to all surfaces where necessary.

“Hinges and flush bolts should also be cleaned and dried in the same way. For hinges specifically, again, it’s recommended to apply a light corrosion preventative - however, this process should ideally be repeated over three month intervals. For flush bolts, users can also apply a light application of lubricant to internal mechanisms and bolts by using a suitable nozzle-spray.”

Unique considerations

The longevity of sliding and folding door systems depends on informed care, and there are some environments that may require adjusted care routines, especially when you consider that not all doors are put under the same amount of stress. When unsure, users are reminded to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, concludes David:

“Finally, there are some special considerations to make for systems found in high stress environments such as coastal areas or industrial settings. In these settings, the recommended period for maintenance rises from six months to three months, with close attention needed for all metal components, where signs of surface corrosion are more likely to show if not washed regularly. During cleaning, users should wash with soap or a mild non-abrasive cleaner and warm water, followed by a rinse with clean cold water, before wiping dry.

“When using lubricants or corrosion protection compounds, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Harsh cleaners can scratch finishes and degrade protective coatings and seals. Similarly, using an unsuitable lubricant can have the adverse effect after a while, attracting dust rather than keeping a system smooth. If a door feels stiff and adjustments are needed, it’s also important to note that over tightening or forcing parts can cause further damage to hardware, so it’s always beneficial to refer to the manufacturer’s documentation and fitting instructions.

“Ultimately, the reliability of sliding and folding door applications may begin with accurate specification and installation, but the systems that perform for decades are the ones that have been maintained with care. Whatever the project, maintenance must always remain part of the plan.”

www.allegion.com

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Monday, 15 September 2025

Industrial aesthetic meets contemporary function

Inspired by the clean lines of our industrial heritage the range of Heritage-style internal doors from Hörmann have been designed to create a feeling of light and space...

Combining the perfect blend of generous glazed panels with high quality slim steel profiles, the collection offers endless opportunities to create stylish doors and room screening to meet the growing demand for light-filled, functional interiors.

Available in three options - hinged, sliding and the newly introduced pivot, the Heritage-style doors can be configured with either single or double leaves, along with optional side elements and transoms for large-scale interior screening.

The flexible nature of the range allow doors-sets measuring up to 5000mm wide by 4000mm to be achieved, whilst the frameless pivot door supports an impressive single door leaf up to 2000mm in width making it an adaptable, yet sophisticated choice – ideal for bold architectural statements.

Two slim glazing bead styles are available to suit different design preferences – an angled version with exposed screw heads creates a traditional industrial look, whilst a narrow, 15mm bead provides a modern, sleek appearance.

All doors are glazed with 6mm laminated safety glass in either Clear or Clear white, whilst the steel profiles are supplied in RAL 9005 Jet black matt as standard. Five additional preferred colours, including Traffic white and Anthracite grey, together with bespoke RAL colours and textured and pearl-effect finishes offer maximum design flexibility.

Further enhancements to the range include an optional door closer for the hinged doors, which closes the doors gently, whilst a Smart-Stop set for sliding doors provides smooth and silent door operation with secure locking of the door leaves in the end-of-travel position. A new Retro-loft sliding door track allows for the creation of single and double-leaf retro sliding doors, showcasing bold exposed rollers that echo the collections industrial heritage.

Completing the system is a selection of high-quality ironmongery, with lever handles, push-bar options, and recessed handles available in Jet black RAL 9005 or stainless steel as standard.

“Hörmann’s Heritage-style range is a response to the growing demand for interior solutions that are both functional and striking,” says David O’Mara, Marketing Manager at Hörmann UK. “These doors offer homeowners the tools to create and divide modern living spaces without compromising light and style.”

To find out more about Hörmann Heritage-style doors visit www.hormann.co.uk or call 01530 516868.

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Saturday, 9 August 2025

Unfolding sliding & folding door hardware across the commercial & residential sectors

David Knollman, Brio business development manager at Allegion UK, comments on the use and benefits of sliding and folding door hardware applications and the links to greater accessibility, thermal efficiency and safety.

What are the most common vulnerabilities in bifold and sliding doors when it comes to home security?

Where some believe there to be perceived security weaknesses in bifold and sliding door systems, these are largely negated with modern locks and tight tolerances. For example, if a folding door has lockable flush bolts or a two point shoot system on breakout points and a PAS 244 or SBD rated multipoint lock, the doors are as secure as a standard back door - they won’t be going anywhere in a hurry!

How do security requirements change between residential and light commercial applications?

Although there are slightly different focus areas between residential and light commercial applications, such as increased footfall and the potential value of assets within commercial settings, there are not many definitive security adaptations needed when it comes to the hardware systems - some may only need to consider that keys are more likely required to be keyed alike.

Do security requirements change with the seasons?

Modern multipoint locks often have adjustable keeps, allowing for any expansion or contraction in the door which may be a result of a fluctuation in temperature. With flush bolts, the keeps also have a fair amount of give in them for expansion and contraction, although longer keeps are an option when required.

How do current standards like PAS 24 or Secured by Design impact the choice of locking systems for these door types?

Both timber and aluminium systems can utilise multipoint locking systems on the swing leaf of an odd leaf system, ensuring Product Assessment Specification (PAS 24) and Secured by Design (SBD) requirements are met.

PAS 24 is a testing system applied to complete installation, including the door, frame and hardware system, whereas SBD can be awarded to hardware elements such as locks, hinges and sliding door systems, with both accreditations signifying quality assurance and security performance.

With folding doors rarely ‘standard’ and learning more on the side of bespoke items, it is difficult to test all configurations. Though, with multipoint locks having SBD or passing PAS 24 accreditation, we normally recommend these testing methods are used as a way of knowing applications are fit for purpose.

What are the most common vulnerabilities in bifold and sliding doors when it comes to safety?

With safety, the key area to consider is how a user may operate the door system - especially when it comes to folding door applications. A lack of education on how to operate the door effectively can cause misuse and potential safety incidents, so in many cases, it is important to provide a level of training or understanding on how to use a system as intended.

How do safety requirements change between residential and light commercial applications?

With busy commercial settings, a door system may be used more frequently and as such, more consideration must be placed into cycle testing, ensuring the door will remain reliable under consistent use throughout its lifecycle.

When folding doors are operated, we recommend children are supervised at all times. In application, folding doors will fold inherently which runs a possibility for trapped fingers. If a system has what’s known as a swing panel, we also urge users to secure this in place before folding the doors, as this can be potentially hazardous if left to swing freely.

Do safety requirements change with the seasons?

In some cases, doors may be subject to expansion and contraction as temperature rises or drops, requiring more effort to open or close as the seasons change. With this, it’s important to focus on appropriate installation and maintenance, so to ensure the safe and reliable operation of sliding and folding doors all year round.

What about heat – ventilation and insulation?

Doors are recognised as the natural walkway between spaces, with external doors providing access to outside environments and internal doors enhancing movement from room to room and so it is important to consider the thermal efficiency of doorset systems and their materials.

Bifold doors can outperform their traditional counterparts in thermal efficiency and when specified correctly, will call upon reliable mechanisms, airtight seals and glazing to further help installations retain heat between rooms. With this in mind, it’s crucial to use quality hardware systems that will reliably close doors to completion each and every time - producing an airtight seal which can minimise cold air infiltration and reduce heat loss as a result.

The use of sliding and folding door applications should not be overlooked as s source of much needed ventilation when facing extreme summer conditions too. The naturally wide openings that are created with modern door designs can help circulate fresh air through a building when temperatures begin to rise, supporting a controlled climate in several scenarios.

How do warmer temperatures and increased use during summer affect the performance or wear of locking hardware on sliding and bifold doors?

The distinctive design of sliding and folding door systems is especially useful in situations where increased traffic flow is expected and with high use during the summer months especially, the importance of testing becomes even clearer. Testing and cycle standards are crucial in ensuring the wear of sliding and folding doors is kept to a minimum, with durable hardware lasting longer in high use situations.

What about finish? Especially for coastal or high-humidity summer environments?

Coastal and corrosive environments can significantly impact doors, where components can deteriorate, damage or rust by a combination of high humidity, wind and salt spray. In these conditions, either PVD stainless or anodised aluminium components can offer additional durability, but should they become scratched or damaged, it can be difficult to repair. Timber panels on the other hand, can benefit from some incredible paints and varnishes that are designed to withstand all weathers.

What maintenance recommendations should be made to homeowners or facility managers for hardware longevity during summer?

Regardless of weather, all door hardware should be checked, washed with soapy water and lightly lubricated periodically – more frequently in coastal or corrosive environments. In doing so, users can assure the performance of their systems are maintained and finishes are prolonged.

What are the most common mistakes you see when bifold or sliding door hardware is specified for security and safety?

Using the right system for the right job is paramount to all projects, and for that specification is key. As well as considering functionality, weather performance and style, it’s crucial to choose a system with the appropriate levels of safety and security. Specification teams must ensure tolerances and clearances are followed closely to negate any potential security issues, for example. In many cases, especially on taller doors, multipoint locks are also preferable to single central mortice locks and provide better performance.

How can specifiers ensure the hardware they choose is compatible with the door profiles or systems being used?

Early collaboration and ongoing consultation with trusted manufacturers and suppliers is beneficial for all parties and helps to safeguard the compatibility of hardware and door profiles. Timber doors are often simple to pair with our hardware for example, although, aluminium profiles can be problematic if the core internal structural areas in the profiles don’t align without hinge hole patterns.

In any case, decision makers should always review product information to further understand the system requirements and contact manufacturers for details and drawings of aluminium applications to double check when unsure.

What is the role of the installer in ensuring safety/security hardware performs as intended, and are there any checklists you'd recommend?

There are three key points here; instructions must be followed to the full, customers and end users must be correctly advised on how to operate systems, and the role of care and maintenance must be understood and actioned post-installation.

What impact does increased thermal expansion and UV exposure in summer months have on the performance or tolerances of sliding and bifold door hardware?

As we’ve touched upon, all keeps for bolts and locks should have enough tolerance and adjustment to allow for some expansion or contraction of the materials used. This can go a long way in safeguarding the performance of sliding and folding door hardware systems during the summer months.

www.briouk.com

www.allegion.com

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Wednesday, 30 July 2025

An exciting new chapter: Clearview Group’s first DIJ - Summer Issue 2025

Welcome to the Summer 2025 issue of The Door Industry Journal, and if you think things seem a little bit different, that’s because they are…

This edition marks the beginning of a brand-new chapter, as DIJ becomes part of the Clearview Group family.

We’re delighted to be taking the reins and incredibly proud to be continuing the legacy of a magazine that’s been such a trusted voice in the industry for so many years.

True to form, I've picked out some summer headlines that highlight the articles in this issue:

Novoferm turns up the heat as it celebrates 70 sunny years in manufacturing, catch the milestone on page 10.

Get a fresh take on growth as GfA UK builds brighter futures through training,full story on page 24.

Skills are sizzling as DHF and ADSA wrap an 18-month CiTB programme, see how on page 31.

Trade gets a summer-ready upgrade with JDUK and Wisnioski’s sectional door partnership, details on page 40.

Cool news from Marantec as they open a state-of-the-art training centre, step inside on page 52.

Feeling the heat? Hörmann UK has cold room doors to chill things down, turn to page 62.

Real-world testing meets summer performance as Ellard’s motors go full throttle, see the case study on page 71.

ADIA makes a hot case for upskilling this season, why it matters on page 88.

Stay cool and in control. Radiation resistance in fire curtains gets the spotlight on page 104.

Have a great summer, enjoy the magazine and please get in touch if you'd like to contribute or participate in the next issue.

See you next time,

Gemma

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Wednesday, 4 June 2025

Sliding into first place: Glideline welcomes shift in Patio Door preference

Nationwide aluminium manufacturer, Glideline, has welcomed new findings from the latest Keystone Market Research report, which confirms that sliding doors have overtaken bifold doors as the UK’s most popular patio door style.

The Spring 2025 Consumer Fenestration Trends Report released by Keystone Market Research analysed the evolution of behaviours, demands, and frustrations of UK homeowners in the window and door market.

Surveying more than 5,000 homeowners, it shows that as well as adjustments in priorities, the shift towards sliding doors across all 12 UK regions has reinforced Glideline’s dedication to sliding door fabrication.

Long-time advocates, the Great Yarmouth-based manufacturer has spent nearly a decade perfecting its ultra-slim aluminium sliding doors – delivering unmatched minimalism, performance and innovation.

From U-values as low as 1.2 W/m²K; slim sightlines – with its GS15 Sliding Door offering 15mm sightlines, the slimmest available on the market – to integrated flooring and noise reduction of up to 40dB, Glideline has future-proofed the demands for its trade partners, who now have a range of the highest performing sliding doors available.

David Pickering, Glideline’s Managing Director said:

“We’ve always recognised the real value and appeal sliding doors bring to the market, so for us, this research only confirms what we already know. In an age where minimalism is a must-have, you need to have the products to deliver all of that and more, and bifold doors are a long way from hitting the mark.”

David continues, saying:

“The latest insight, coupled with the continuous demand we see from our customers, not only confirms our belief in sliding doors as a superior product, but re-affirms that they are no longer just a niche product, but an essential offering.

“Slim sightlines, uninterrupted views and natural light are some of the most consistent trends we’re seeing, alongside growing interest around security and energy efficiency.

“The GS20 is an example of that, and is among our most popular sliding doors,” David adds. “The integrated flooring option we introduced along with the door has proven to demonstrate further innovation from us too, creating a whole new level of functionality and seamlessness.”

For more information about Glideline and its full range of aluminium products, visit www.glideline.com

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Wednesday, 30 April 2025

NorDan UK Unveils New London Showroom and Dedicated Team

NorDan UK, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of high-performance doors and windows, has opened a new office and showroom in the heart of London’s Clerkenwell area.

The site will also be the base for NorDan UK’s new dedicated team for London and the South-East as the company aims to grow its regional presence in newbuild, refurbishment and retrofit markets.

NorDan UK has seen huge growth in demand in recent years from new developments in the affordable housing sector as housing associations realise the benefits of its windows for energy efficiency and longevity. In fact it already supplies ten of the twelve G15 social landlords in the South East of England.

Already well established in the social housing and public sector markets, NorDan is now strengthening its presence to support the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable solutions in refurbishment and retrofit projects. These jobs traditionally use lower-cost PVC windows, which are far less energy efficient and typically only last 10 to 12 years, which NorDan UK says is a false economy.

In contrast, NorDan UK’s StormGuard window, part of the NTech Range of aluminium-clad timber windows, offers a 30-year “fit and forget” warranty and a life expectancy of over 60 years. NorDan’s products reduce the need for frequent replacements, lower ongoing maintenance costs and support sustainability and compliance goals, making them a future-proof choice.

The new Clerkenwell space will feature a wide range of the company’s windows and doors, so architects, developers, landlords and private homeowners will be able to get expert advice and see tailored solutions.

As part of London Design Week, NorDan will also be hosting a special event on 20th May at the new showroom. Visitors can experience a live demonstration of the company’s latest window technology, learn more about how NorDan’s solutions can support projects, take part in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions, and enjoy complimentary sandwiches and refreshments throughout the day.

Craig Greenwood, Managing Director of NorDan UK, said:

“Our new Clerkenwell showroom is more than just a display, it’s a destination for inspiration, collaboration and innovation. We’re excited to offer our expertise to support the needs of landlords planning refurbishment and retrofit projects, as well as the ambitions of developers and homeowners across London and the South East.

“Clerkenwell is the perfect location for us. It’s a thriving hub of architects, housing experts and ideas, and we’re excited to be part of the community. We’ll be hosting regular exclusive events, open days, and networking opportunities at our new space and want to warmly welcome everyone along to experience the quality of our products first hand.”

The new London office and showroom is at 17/18 Aylesbury Street, Clerkenwell, Farringdon, EC1R 0DB.

For more information, or to book a visit to the new showroom, please visit https://nordan.co.uk.

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