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EXTERNAL ENVELOPE


unattractive hinges, when concealed options may well be available offering the same level of performance. Another topic that is gaining ever greater signifi cance is that of ventilation and cooling. Overheating is becoming a real concern, and while the fi rst considerations would probably be air conditioning systems, taking time to consider different opening systems can reap rewards in terms of the comfort of the users or inhabitants. Windows or doors that allow for secure tilt opening or a night vent position will alleviate some of the discomfort that can be caused by the airtightness of modern buildings. The main takeaway is that comfort does not have to compromise on quality, durability or usability if the systems in place are built upon the right hardware foundations. And such considerations do not need to cause complications for your fabricators. Systems are available whereby the same hardware components can be used across a variety of applications, sizes and materials. This means bespoke-feeling products can be offered with minimal stock, training, or variations in process and machinery. A further advantage of this is that the fabricator can futureproof their offering. With hardware systems that can service a wide range of applications, their portfolio can adapt quickly and easily to new trends, regulations and requirements.


overall performance. Security and safety are probably the most obvious factors that hardware infl uences. PAS24 and childproofi ng requirements are naturally important when selecting systems that are suitable and compliant for the purpose. Other usage considerations may be disabled access, such as zero-threshold options, low handle heights or motorised systems, as well as functions such as panic or emergency egress. However, there are other factors where hardware might not be the fi rst component that springs to mind, but where it can have a massive impact. As well as supporting the aesthetic vision by enabling larger sashes and slimmer frames, the right hardware can advance the look even further by being unobtrusive in and of itself, or even completely concealed. The slickest building design could be undermined by bulky,


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The triple-glazed future? Indeed, one such change that is on the horizon is the move towards triple glazing. U-value targets and the tightening up of their measurements in the new Future Homes and Buildings Standard could effectively push through an uptake in triple glazing to achieve these fi gures. Much like the trend towards larger glazed areas requiring a stronger foundation, so too will the increased weight of triple-glazed units. And so, again, we come back to the bedrock of it all: a quality, durable hardware system. Therefore, having that experience of using hardware confi gurations that can bear heavier loads means there is one less complication when fabricators come to incorporating or ramping up their triple- glazed solutions, and specifi ers can have the confi dence of knowing their partners are knowledgeable and capable of supplying compliant products.


Joe Ward is technical manager at SIEGENIA


ADF OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026


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