Pro Installer November 2019 - Issue 80 | Page 33

NOVEMBER 2019 | 33 Products Read online at www.proinstaller.co.uk UPVC MECHANICAL JOINTS – THE BEST OF FORM AND FUNCTION Mechanical joints hold a certain aes- thetic appeal for an increasingly savvy customer base that expects the best when choosing windows. Though traditionally asso- ciated with traditional wooden window join- ery techniques, technological developments have allowed installers to offer this attractive jointing option in uPVC. Clare Higgins, Prod- uct Manager at REHAU, explores how this gives customers the best of both worlds – the attractive look of the joints, alongside the efficiency and total cost of ownership benefits associated with the newer material. More so than ever, customers are demand- ing the best possible windows at the most reasonable price. With windows enhancing a building’s kerb appeal, it is understanda- ble that property owners are taking such a detailed approach to specifying a solution, right down to how the sash is jointed and what material is used. Of the many options available, timber-look frames tend to stand out as a customer’s preferred choice. This is because timber window systems provide a distinct, attrac- tive look and are associated with traditional window joinery techniques, giving them a certain aesthetic appeal. It stands to reason, then, that installers who can offer high-qual- ity uPVC windows with the appearance of a timber-look frame would be set to profit. Prioritising visuals The inferiority of plastic frames to those made of traditional materials such as wood is a long-held yet mistaken belief in the windows market. Indeed, with the evolution of durable, high-quality uPVC materials, installers can be more confident than ever when recommending plastic-based solutions to their customers. However, when uPVC became more pop- ular in the market, fabricators began to con- sider traditional jointing methods too costly and time-consuming. Welding joints for the mullions, transoms and flush sashes were increasingly favoured for uPVC products, as they were easier to manufacture and were less expensive to produce. This choice, though understandable and cost-effective in the short-term, could stand at odds with the increasing value property owners place on authenticity when specify- ing windows. Because welding joints are less visually appealing, products jointed in this way could therefore be overlooked in favour of authentic-looking timber alternatives. As a result, installers that prioritise costs over look Central Mullion Area Outside may find themselves missing out on business – especially in a market where every product detail is heavily scrutinised. Beyond appearance Beyond the window’s appearance, con- sumers also expect a solution that requires little to no maintenance and guarantees long-term performance. The jointing method is vital to this – for example, tightly sealed joints will reduce a property’s heating costs and provide excellent protection against the elements, including the wind and rain. So, while mechanical joints provide a realistic and authentic look that result in great kerb-side appeal, they also help create a strong, durable window. Products such as REHAU’s Rio Flush Fit window give install- ers a high-performing solution that’s easy to fit using either a MechWeld joint solution or mechanical joint blocks. Mechanical Joint Inside copy Many well-established window com- panies provide products that work with both mechanical and welded joints. As a result, installers can offer a wider array of window joints that meet the needs of the customer for their specific property. Via this range of jointing solutions, modern uPVC window systems such as the Rio Flush Fit can replicate the finer details of a tradi- tional timber flush fit window in line with customer expectations. The MechWeld joint, for example, gives the look of a mechani- cal-style timber joint on the outside with a fully welded detail inside. Finer details In conclusion, advancing and innova- tive uPVC technology has allowed for the creation of windows that perfectly replicate their timber frame counterparts. However, this is only possible through the considera- Mechanical Joint outside tion of finer details, including the choice of jointing method. To fully realise the benefits of uPVC, installers must then consider fitting prod- ucts that make use of mechanical joints alongside welded joints. By doing so, installers can provide customers cost-effec- tive solutions with a high-quality, authentic look that compliments a wide array of properties and building projects. Due to the continued evolution of the technology and the growing provision of these reason- able, resilient and long-lasting products, the market is increasingly shifting toward uPVC flush fit windows as the solution that offers the best of both worlds – form and function. For more information about the Rio Flush Fit window by REHAU and jointing options available, visit www.rehau.uk/rio