Boost Your Business With PVC-U Vertical Slides

Published: 23rd May 2013

With an increasing focus on energy efficiency and lifecycle performance, there has never been a better time to sell the merits of PVC-U vertical sliders for period and conservation properties, says Chris Ross, Product Manager at Spectus.

Recent consumer research has revealed that 48 per cent of UK householders plan to stay in their current home for 10 years or more, opting for home improvement to accommodate changing needs and tastes. If you couple this with the fact that homeowners are continuously looking for ways to save money on energy bills, the PVC-U vertical slider could really help to boost business.

Combining the functional benefits and performance of a PVC-U window with the aesthetic appeal and operational simplicity of a traditional timber window, PVC-U vertical sliders can create profitable business opportunities for builders.

Demand for vertical sliders is largely driven by the type of building requiring replacement or new windows. In a Georgian or Victorian property they are ideal as the depths of the profiles have been designed to replicate most timber box sashes. They are also sought after for homes within conservation areas to retain the charm and character of these buildings.

There are currently over 8,000 conservation areas in the UK and when it comes to conservation projects, it is a case of achieving a balance between ensuring a building meets its legal requirements, lowering its impact on the environment and keeping in with the rest of the conservation area, however this is a lot easier to achieve than some would believe.

The vertical slider is an authentic looking replica of a traditional sash window, combining all the benefits of high performing modern materials and functionality with period character and design. Small details can make all the difference when replacing traditional windows; Georgian bars, decorative horns and white, chrome or brass hardware add to the authentic features and high performance of this window, offering a fantastic alternative to wooden sash windows.

They also offer excellent thermal capabilities for outstanding energy savings; PVC-U thermal inserts allow Window Energy Ratings of band A to be achieved, while frames can be customised to meet the highest security standards ? both excellent selling points.

There is a myth surrounding the building industry regarding PVC-U frames and the fact that fitting them could be to the detriment of a period or conservation building, however this is because it?s not often realised that modern PVC-U windows can be made which effectively imitate historic styles in both form and function.

Yet, even with this knowledge not everyone wants to use white profiles in heritage properties. Recognising this, Spectus has significantly developed its profile foiling, adding to an already extensive range of colours and finishes. With this in mind it could be argued that the choice and flexibility in foiling helps PVC-U profiles offer more benefits than other materials now.

Foils that may coat both sides of a vertical slider are available in a vast range of different colours and wood effects including white, light oak, rosewood, cream and white woodgrain. Customers are also able to mix and match, so, for example, they could opt for a woodgrain finish on the exterior and white on the inside.

Added to this, reliable and smooth operation is made easy thanks to modern spring balance systems, which replace the weights and pulleys found in traditional sash windows. Plus, an ingenious ?tilt inwards? opening facility allows for easy cleaning from the inside.

On top of this the windows are guaranteed for 10 years with an expected service life of 35 years.

With growing awareness of the advantages of PVC-U combined with the development of products specifically designed to replicate traditional window designs, PVC-U vertical sliders are a credible and increasingly popular choice, particularly for period and conservation properties as well as more prestigious homes where authentic design is so important.

To find out how vertical sliders could boost your business and ensure you have an added advantage over the competition, please contact Spectus Window Systems on 01625 420400 or visit www.spectussystems.co.uk