The introduction of new government guidance on the security of properties on 1 October 2015, through changes to part Q building requirements, has meant that the security of doors and windows is more important than ever. Neil Ginger, CEO of Origin, an award winning UK manufacturer of bi-folding doors and windows, gives his advice for ensuring the highest level of safety and security.
Secure from intruders
The popularity of bi-folding doors has soared over the past few years, with 33,000 sets forecast to be installed in 2016, according to Palmer research. This is almost double the number sold only five years ago.
The traditionally weak areas for bi-folding doors are the cylinder/locking barrel and the handle. In fact, UK crime statistics illustrate that 27 per cent of burglaries involve lock snapping. This is the same on most doors as they often use insecure cylinders which allow burglars to bump, drill or snap the cylinder to gain entry. It is advisable to specify bi-fold doors with a kite marked magnum lock security cylinder to stop any breakins through the cylinder.
Ensure there is a multi-point lock on the lead door; an 8-point multi-point locking system is recommended as well as making sure the doors comply with PAS23/24 standards. Choosing solid cast handles will give a superior level of security, while laminated or toughened glass also greatly improves strength and security as they are tough for intruders to break.
For windows, some locks work by engaging cylindrical cams into a zinc alloy keep. When locked, compressed and engaged, this will not only provide a strong and reliable system, but it will also provide optimal weather proofing, ensuring properties are safe from both intruders and the elements.
The security of properties is also greatly improved by the use of the highest grade stainless steel hinges and hinge guards. Hinge guards serve the purpose of protecting the hinges, as well as blocking intruders from jemmying the window open along the hinged side. Other features such as impenetrable crimped frames and locking handles also greatly improve the security of a system.
Protect during the building stage
Bi-fold doors are usually ordered after the aperture has been cut to get the exact opening measurements. The standard industry lead time is six to eight weeks, which can mean the customer will have an opening in their wall for at least two months. This is far from ideal from a safety and security perspective and can often cause damp issues during the winter months.
Manufacturers that offer a zero lead time service allow trade customers to determine when they want their doors delivered, to ensure the home is secure during the installation stage. The same also applies to windows, where long lead times can leave homes and properties vulnerable to intruders if issues occur on the delivery of orders. A manufacturer’s guarantee of at least 10 years is also beneficial to offer customers reassurance that the window and doors will continue to perform year after year.
Strong to support design
Aluminium is unique in its properties. It combines strength and robustness with a light weight structure, meaning that it is extremely strong and weighs 67 per cent less than the weight of steel. This winning combination makes aluminium the ideal material for smooth gliding, easy to operate bi-folding doors and windows.
The strength of aluminium allows unbeatably narrow frames which gives aesthetically pleasing sight lines as well as letting in the maximum amount of light. Furthermore, architects are not restricted as aluminium is versatile and tough enough to allow complex layouts, such as moving corner posts and bay setups.
Aluminium has been used in a twin flush casement window. The result is a clean appearance both internally and externally; removing any bulky overlapping framework that is often synonymous with aluminium rebated systems. This allows for a sleek shadow line where the sash sits inside the frame, making it ideal for installation in traditional townhouses, new builds and period properties. The strength of the aluminium frames allows for incomparably slim sightlines and, with the edge of the frame as little as 50mm from the glass, it means less window and more light can be achieved.
Built to withstand all weather conditions
All UK installations should be certified compliant by the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC), and meet all current building and thermal regulations in the UK.
British manufacturers that export outside the UK are required to put systems through demanding tests to achieve compliance for these markets. These require doors to withstand the most extreme of weather conditions, from hurricanes and sandstorms to intense heat and rain.
As a result, these manufacturers can often design and manufacture the best components to surpass all building regulations, both in the UK and abroad. While it is rare for Britain to experience such harsh weather conditions, it means that they can offer the strongest and most secure bi-folding doors in the UK marketplace.