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12
Lasting designMulti-award winning, pioneering, innovative the
PowerGen HQ in Coventry was built 20 years ago with VELFAC windows
we take you back in time and re-visit one of the first VELFAC
projects in the UK.
26
18
the worLds simpLest windowInspired by modernism and the
beautiful, simple steel framework of Bauhaus, VELFAC 200 was
created, back in 1982, led by design and simplicity.
A commitment to personal relationships
VoL. 2 SPRING 2013 // a magazine
about dayLight, fresh air and
window design //
WindoWs for life
-
6 | Fortrose House has never looked better 10 | Sustainable
reasons 12 | 1-2-1 with VELFAC Business Managers 16 | Fittings that
make a difference 18 | VELFAC is built to last we take you
back in time
22 | Smart, contemporary refurbishment in Cambridge
26 | Inspired by Bauhaus, VELFAC claims slim sightlines
30 | Book a CPD 31 | Famous buildings feature VELFAC
p. 12
Take a sTroll down memory lane
Better heaTing and Better looks
p. 18
2 | VELFAC | Contents
Extensive refurbishment, including new VELFAC windows, has made
life so much better for residents at Fortrose House in Glasgow.
p. 6
energi d
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VeLFAC ReVIsIteD
relationships maTTerMeet two VELFAC Business Managers and learn
more about their views on service and support.
Shortly after launching in the UK, VELFAC was specified for one
of the decade's most famous projects.
-
keep iT green
VELFAC continuously delivers windows to zero-energy houses,
passive houses and active houses.
Uw = AgUg + AfUf + lgg
Ag + Af
3
p. 22
p. 30
The Cambridge property market is very competitive, but by
using
the best products, 'ordinary' buildings can be transformed
into
premium accomodation. Read about Crossways Gardens,
a project to be completed later
this year.
From ordinary to premium
p. 26 window technology
The window is a complex building component, not just four pieces
of
wood and one piece of glass.p. 10
VelFaC and Wimbledon
VELFAC windows are installed in millions of buildings around
the
globe including famous landmarks.
| 3
p. 6
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Windows for Life Published by VELFAC LtdThe Old Livery,
Hildersham, Cambridge, CB21 6DRT: 01223 897100E:
[email protected]
Executive Editorial TeamAndy CookChristina Hauberg Rasmussen
Editorial TeamAngela MurrayKevan WoolfAnine Drivsholm
BrtenChristina Haugsted Gemmer
Design EditorDaniel Dalsgaard-Jensen,Datagraf Communications
4 | VELFAC | eDItoRIAL
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PrintOberthur TechnologiesCirculation: 5.000 copies
PublishedBi-annually
Front coverVELFAC Business Manager Kevin Bonnar
PhotosCraig Auckland, Timothy Soar, Fokus Foto and VELFAC
archives
03.437-03.13 2013 VELFAC A/S VELFAC and VELFAC logo are
registered trademarks used under license by VELFAC Group. HELO is a
registered trademark belonging to VKR Holding A/S. FSC-C111486,
www.fsc.org
welcome to the spring 2013 edition of windows for life, our
magazine for construction professionals, looking at daylight, fresh
air and window design.
in this edition we focus on refurbishment, a sector showing
significant growth despite the current economic climate.
refurbished projects provide an ideal showcase for environmentally
sustainable, low energy products, whether the aim is to update an
existing building or repurpose an unused property. as a result,
VelFaC windows and doors have been used to dramatically improve
thermal efficiency, update exterior faades, increase interior light
levels, and add value overall by replacing old and outdated windows
with sleek, stylish, modern units.
Two case studies show how this is done: at Fortrose house,
glasgow, on page 6, residents in an unprepossessing, 1960s block
now live in a warm and stylish building, while at Crossways gardens
in Cambridge (see page 22) VelFaC is helping transform sheltered
accommodation into high value apartments.
refurbishment can be challenging, however, when unexpected
developments (inevitably) happen. expert technical and product
support is therefore essential, and on page 12 two members of the
VelFaC sales team explain more about the added
value VelFaC support represents from pre-specification to
post-installation.
we also look back at one of our earliest installations,
completed when VelFaC was relatively new to the uk, and which has
since become iconic in terms of energy efficiency, passive heating
and natural ventilation. originally the hQ for energy company
powergen, the building now owned by e.on - is still referenced
today as one of the best examples of its kind. read more about it
on page 18.
we hope you enjoy reading this edition of windows for life,
which also includes the latest industry developments, product
updates, and Cpd information. For more information on any article,
or to book a Cpd course, call us on 01223 897100 or send an email
to [email protected] for more details.
we look forward to hearing from you.
andy cookNational Sales Director
in refurbishmentadded value
| 5
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Not just a
refurbishmeNt
6 |
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A housing block in Glasgow was in serious need of new windows to
improve thermal efficiency.
But the residents got much more than that.
Today, the building looks and feels-
brand new.
Not just a
refurbishmeNt
Built in the 1960s, Fortrose House in Glasgow is a nine storey
housing block comprising 48 maisonettes and five one-bedroom flats,
owned by Partick Housing Association. Flat roofed with balconies
and external access corridors, the building was in serious need of
updating, not least to improve thermal efficiency and satisfy the
latest Scottish Housing Quality Standard.
As well as a range of internal improvements, our strategy was to
fully reclad the building using insulated render, zinc panels and
VELFAC glazing, explains Gary Pinkerton, project architect at Grant
/ Murray.
| 7 FoRtRose HoUse, GLAsGoW, sCotLAnD | VELFAC | 7
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The original windows had been replaced 15 years ago with
standard upVC units; these had come to the end of their lifespan
but had also been badly fitted and so were draughty and no longer
watertight. replacing these windows with VelFaC units made a
significant contribution to the increased thermal efficiency we
wanted to achieve.
Impressed with performanceVelFaC had already been used by
partick housing association in other projects and, impressed with
the systems performance, the client was keen to achieve the same
step up in quality at Fortrose house.
The clean, minimal VelFaC frame design ideally complemented the
overcladding we planned to use, explains gary, while the slim frame
lets more light into each flat, further reducing energy bills while
also maximising views for residents. The association also knew that
VelFaC glazing is very low maintenance and so future budgets for
cleaning and scaffolding can be reduced; in addition, he adds,
although partick homes manages the building, there are 11 owners /
occupiers within the block, who agreed to have VelFaC windows
installed within their properties as part of the common
upgrade.
Refurbishment, residential property
Location: GLASGOW, SCOTLAND
Year: 2012
Window System: VELFAC 200
Opening functions: Tophung projecting, reversible, patio doors,
fixed light and entrance doors
VELFAC Business Manager Steven Parker +44 7780 992659 /
[email protected]
Project Summary
8 | VELFAC | FoRtRose HoUse, GLAsGoW, sCotLAnD
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Window replacement in 24 hoursThe refurbishment project took a
year to complete and included new kitchens, wiring and a central
heating system but had to be done with the residents in situ, which
meant windows had to be removed and installed on the same day.
luckily we could use two empty flats to trial the planned works,
which enabled us to iron out most problems in advance, comments
gary. however, although window installation was theoretically
simple - as all the flats are identical - installation was not as
straightforward as originally thought.
The new faade emphasises the vertical and horizontal lines which
characterise the old building, but achieving the levels required
was challenging as the building had sagged over the years and so
regular adjustments to cladding details had to be made to ensure
the lines were maintained.
Not just a refurbishmentThe end result is a real improvement and
the client is delighted with both the look of the build and with
the level of thermal efficiency achieved. anecdotally, residents
are already commenting on how warm the flats are, with no more
draughts or damp, says gary, while the windows and cladding make it
look like a new building not just a refurbishment.
The clean, minimal VELFAC frame design ideally complemented the
overcladding we planned to use.Gary Pinkerton, project architect at
Grant / Murray
| 9
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Its really quite simple: for VELFAC, sustainability is about how
to produce windows that positively contribute to a buildings energy
balance, and how to keep energy consumption as low as possible
during window production and decommissioning.
VELFAC sustainability programme
1. Sustainable Forestry We produce our windows using wood from
FSC certified forests.
2. Denmarks first certified sustainable building We are vision
partner and window supplier for Denmarks first carbon-neutral
building, Green Lighthouse at the University of Copenhagen. Green
Lighthouse is certified according to the American LEED
standard.
3. We have windows that match the passive house standard VELFAC
continuously delivers windows to zero-energy houses, passive houses
and active houses. Its about producing windows that contribute more
energy to a building than they loose.
4. Life Cycle Analysis VELFAC has conducted a Life Cycle
Analysis of our VELFAC 200 window system, with documentation to
show the environmental impact of production, use, disposal and
recycling of VELFAC 200 windows. Download the analysis here:
www.VELFAC.co.uk/Projects/Sustainable_Design
4 great sustaINable reasoNs
to coNsIder VelFac
At the time of writing, VELFAC will be exhibiting at Ecobuild,
the worlds
largest sustainability event for the building industry. A total
of 1,500 companies exhibit at the event, which takes place in
London from
5 - 7 March. Aimed at professionals in the construction
industry,
architects, engineers and contractors will be visiting the show
to get the latest updates on future trends in sustainable building
and to gain inspiration from the event conference, and from the
many seminars taking place.
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5 - 7 MARCH
2013
42 dB. This is the level of noise reduction you can achieve with
VELFAC 200 Helo windows. The VELFAC 200 Helo system, the latest,
energy-optimized generation of the original VELFAC 200 design, has
recently undergone a sound test which demonstrates that a triple
glazed window can reduce noise by up to 42 dB.
THE SOUND OF SILENCE
VelFac test programme:
sustainability at ecobuild
10 | VELFAC | ARoUnD VeLFAC
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We have something
specialHave you seen the bi-parting sliding door in the original
VELFAC 200 design? Slim profiles, a free, unobstructed opening of
2.6 meters and competitive energy performance ... these are just
some of the many advantages offered by the bi-parting sliding door
which is available in wood / aluminium or composite frames.
Should it be double or triple glazing? Side- or tophung? As
specialists when it comes to windows we focus on optimising price,
functionality and quality. In particular, we believe that windows
are a dynamic element that interacts with the other components in
the faade.
Contact us as at the earliest planning stage and let us give you
the best possible input.
Please call us on 01223 897100.
TAkE our AdViCE
Did you know that VELUX windows and VELFAC are sister companies
dedicated to providing solutions for both faades and roofs?
Both companies are subsidiaries of VKR Holding, a worldwide
group of companies that supply materials which bring daylight,
fresh air and a better environment into peoples everyday lives.
The roof solutions from VELUX windows and the VELFAC faade
windows come in a whole array of shapes, sizes and styles.
VELFAC and VELuX windows
| 11
IND
OOR CLIMATE
ENE
RG
yL
IGH
T
VelFac 360 coNsultaNcY
INSTALLATION SPECI
FICAT
IO
N
ACOuSTICS
DE
SIG
N
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Joined VELFAC: 26 April 2004
Region covered: South East England
KEVIN BONNAR
A commitment topersonalrelationships
12 | VELFAC | sALes teAM PRoFILe
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every VelFaC window comes with comprehensive service and
support. Two members of the VelFaC sales Team rob ingle and Kevin
Bonnar explain whats on offer to architects and contractors, and
how to make the most of the expertise VelFaC can supply.
What does the VELFAC Sales Team do at the start of a project?RI:
ahead of formal specification, the sales Team has already initiated
detailed discussions with architects and clients in order to
identify project needs, from environmental criteria to interface
solutions and performance characteristics, and of course budget
considerations. These discussions can take up to 12 months and
allow us to act as a bridge between architect and contractor when
the project is out for tender, especially providing the value for
money analyses necessary to show that cheaper alternatives will
prove more costly in the longer term.
KB: during this stage, clients can also exploit our experience
of similar projects, and draw on our extensive library of
literature and samples, including technical
information not openly available. having someone with in depth
VelFaC knowledge assist in the early planning stage can ensure a
design remains cost effective and efficient.
How does this level of support compare with the competition?RI:
in the current economic climate many window suppliers have reduced
their sales function and focused on centralised, telephone based
support. we continue to invest in our sales Team as it is an
integral part of our product offering, and so we continue to
operate a network of regional Business managers who work with
clients from specification to post-installation. although we are
price sensitive we are not price driven, unlike many others in this
industry, and our confirmed investment in service and support bears
this out.
W
We can meet the architect or contractor on site, assess the
scope of works required, generate
the tender, and launch our own detailed survey and design
process all in under four weeks.
VeLFAC Business Manager Kevin Bonnar
| 13
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KB: sales and support is core to our business model; it adds
value to our product and enables all major decisions to be made at
the right time and with the right information to hand, saving
clients time and money and helping deliver great looking
projects.
does the refurbishment sector require different support
strategies?KB: refurbishment projects are usually much shorter, so
we can meet the architect or contractor on site, assess the scope
of works required, generate the tender, and (if it proves
acceptable) launch our own detailed survey and design process all
in under four weeks. This last stage generates considerable savings
for refurbishment clients who usually do not need to generate their
own detailed architectural drawings as we take responsibility for
window sizing, design and manufacture.
RI: refurbishment projects can also prove more complicated than
originally thought if unknowns are discovered as building works
begin. our expertise is invaluable in these circumstances, and we
draw on past experience to help our clients to resolve issues as
they arise.
How will the VELFAC service evolve in future?KB: we currently
spend more time with clients than 10 years ago, but this may change
as technology evolves and as energy regulations become more
stringent. For example, specifiers now have instant access to
technical drawings and support, no longer having to wait days or
even weeks for a response to a specific query and so i can see our
already comprehensive website playing an even greater role in
future. no matter what changes in the future however, people will
still sell to people - we want to maintain the personal investment
of time with our clients to ensure we continue to build the markets
trust in us.
RI: a commitment to personal relationships will certainly
remain, enhanced by new technology (such as the ipad) which enables
us to give our clients much more information every time we meet. in
the future, we hope that clients will know much more about VelFaC
products and services, such as our aesthetic as well as technical
capability. such service adds even greater value to the VelFaC
brand.
VELFAC BUSINESS MANAGERS, REGIONS AND CONTACT DETAILS
Scotland & North England. Business Manager Steven Parker.
Email: [email protected]. T: 07780 992659
Central England & Midlands. Business Manager Rob Ingle.
Email: [email protected]. T: 07768 856525
Wales & South West England. Business Manager Lee De Grey.
Email: [email protected]. T: 07769 652446
East Anglia & South East London. Business Manager Ollie
Chisman. Email: [email protected]. T: 07768 856520
South England & South West London. Business Manager Kevin
Bonnar. Email: [email protected]. T: 07747014543
Surrey & Central London. Business Manager Georginna Summers.
Email: [email protected]. T: 07881 913294
Central, North & West London. Business Manager David
Gladwin. Email: [email protected]. T: 07785 702124
14 | VELFAC | sALes teAM PRoFILe
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Joined VELFAC: 1 March 1995
Region covered: Northern England
ROB INGLE
Many window suppliers have reduced their sales function and
focused on centralised,
telephone based support. We continue to invest in our Sales Team
as it is an
integral part of our product offering from specification to
post-installation.
VeLFAC Business Manager Rob Ingle
| 15
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all VELFAC window systems have espagnolette handles with three
locking points
VELFAC 200 and VELFAC 200 Helo systems place the glazing bead on
the inside, making each window virtually impossible to open by
force
VELFAC windows are certified by Secured by Design, the flagship
initiative to design out crime from the Association of Chief Police
Officers (ACPO).
new3The number of VELFAC 200 Helo opening functions continues to
increase. Now we offer a bottom hung window for smoke ventilation,
a top hung window for rescue openings in very small windows, and
the bi-parting sliding door. The more opening functions, the more
options. The windows must match the building not vice versa!
ways to open a window
VELFAC fittings are all developed at the VELFAC Innovation
Center and
so are 100% compatible with all VELFAC window units. The
three
quality parameters of VELFAC fittings are: durability,
security
and strength.
Velfac fittiNgs stand
out
16 | VELFAC | ARoUnD VeLFAC
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specifyiNg Velfac HAs neVeR Been eAsIeR
It couldnt be more convenient. Visit the VELFAC website to
download 3D BIM objects and import them directly into your drawing
software, or
visit the portal where 3D BIM objects from a number of different
industries are available: http://bimobject.com
The VELFAC standard colour range is expanding all the time in
the new
VELFAC 200 Helo system. With its slim profiles and
exceptional
energy performance, VELFAC 200 Helo is now available as
standard in eight VELFAC HELO colours and four VELFAC Granite
colours. If you want a colour that is not part of the standard
palette, please contact us on 01223 897100 or email
[email protected].
WIth aN ImpressIVe colour raNge!
VelFac 200 heloWe gIVe You the raINboW
VELFAC will be exhibiting at the National Homebuilding &
Renovating Show in Birmingham, from 21 24 March. Dont forget to
recommend a visit to our stand to any of your private clients who
are considering new windows.
doNt forget
| 17
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18 | VELFAC | PRoJeCts In PeRsPeCtIVe
Open plan office areas
feature distinctive
coffered ceilings,
and taper towards
glazed faades
deliberately designed to
maximise natural
daylight.
-
multi-award winning, pioneering, innovative the powergen hQ in
Coventry has been described as one of the most influential office
buildings of the 1990s, not only revolutionising workplace design
but also showcasing natural ventilation as a part of low energy
construction.
now hQ for energy company e.on, the purpose-built structure
comprises two parallel office wings separated by an atrium, a solid
concrete core, and concrete floor plates. open plan office areas
feature distinctive coffered ceilings, and taper towards glazed
faades deliberately designed
re-visited
In 1994, shortly after launching
in the UK, VELFAC was
specified for one of the decades
most famous projects we
take a look back
| 19
POWERGEN HQ
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to maximise natural daylight. The concrete core works in tandem
with automatic windows to help control the internal environment and
modify peak temperatures.
expertise in microclimate control we were specified because we
were one of only a few window manufacturers with expertise in the
use of windows for microclimate control, says current VelFaC sales
director andy Cook; The client and contractor wanted a company
which knew what it was doing when installing windows as part of a
naturally ventilated system.
crucial uniform sightlinespowergen also approved of the clean,
composite VelFaC frame as uniform sightlines were crucial to the
external
faade design. as architect Brendan oneill explained, just after
the installation: The frame section remains uniform whether the
sash is an opening or fixed light a constant section was critical
as the faade had to appear flush and uniform. in addition, VelFaC
was the only company that offered a built-in window mechanism,
again reducing the bulk in the frame design.
award winning buildingsince completion, the project has won many
accolades, including a riBa architecture award, British Council for
offices award, the British institute of Facilities management
award, and uk lighting and construction awards. VelFaC also
received much praise from architect, contractor and client; as
project manager Tim pugh said at the end of
VELFAC and its product range
performed particularly
well we were impressed
Project Manager Tim Pugh
20 | VELFAC | PRoJeCts In PeRsPeCtIVe
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New build, commercial property
Location: Coventry
Year: 1994
Window System: VELFAC 200 with concealed electric motor for
automatic air circulation
Information: VELFAC National Sales Director Andy Cook 7979
745842 / [email protected]
Project summary
The PowerGen HQ in Coventry has been described as one of the
most influential office buildings of the 1990s.
the project: VelFaC and its product range performed particularly
well we were impressed ... we all feel a great deal of satisfaction
with the end result.
powergen set future standardpowergen was one of the first major
naturally ventilated buildings, adds Cook. it set the standard for
future similar projects and also established our reputation in this
specialist area. The same qualities that won us the contract then
exceptional energy efficiency, stylish and uniform frame design,
and expert support continue to make VelFaC a leader in the field,
as architects still need this combination of high performance
glazing and real industry knowledge to ensure complex installations
are successful.
PowerGen was one of the first major naturally
ventilatedbuildings. It set the standard for future similar
projects and also established our reputation in this specialist
area.'
national Sales Director Andy Cook, VeLFAC
| 21
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VELFAC business manager Ollie Chisman, in the foreground,
studies the plans for Crossways Gardens with project manager
and developer Paul Harney.
When Crossways Gardens in Cambridge came onto the
market, project manager and property developer Paul Harney
realised its refurbishment potential, and is now converting the
1970s sheltered
accommodation block into high quality apartments.
From ordinary to premium
22 | VELFAC | CRossWAYs GARDens, CAMBRIDGe
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| 23
We want to create a new residential building designed for young
professionals
living in Cambridge, explains harney. To achieve this we have
re-designed the interior and improved thermal efficiency, while
dramatically increasing potential value by using high quality
materials and finishes.
Full height windows supply lightThe forty one-bedroom
apartments
are now being transformed into a mix of over 50 studio flats,
two-bedroom apartments, and a three-bedroom penthouse. and as
quality is so important, VelFaC has been specified throughout, as
harney explains: every apartment has an exterior wall to the living
area and kitchen which was constructed from upVC glazed units and
panels. These are dated in design and starting to buckle - they
could be re-used but would compromise external and internal finish
quality.
as a result, weve decided to specify VelFaC full height windows
for the living area, including French doors and Juliet balconies,
and to use VelFaC glazing in the kitchens.
Quality windowsThe larger window area, and slim VelFaC frames,
bring extra light into each apartment and also feature internal
pine framing always popular in residential developments. excellent
thermal performance ensures minimal
-
Forty one-bedroom apartments are being transformed into
a mix of over 50 studio flats, two-bedroom apartments, and
a three-bedroom penthouse.
The drawing shows how Crossways Gardens will
look when the conversion is completed later this year.
Proposed Refurbishment & Internal AlterationsCrossways
Gardens, Anstey Way,
Cambridge
Typical Window Detailsscale 1:50 June 2012
RevisionRef. Date Details
dwg. no. CG/Windows/05
Note:
Solar control glass to be used in all south facing
elevations
Preliminary
heat loss, despite the generous use of glass, with solar gain
controlled by blinds and - on south-facing aspects specialist glass
coatings. VelFaC also features in stairwells and entrances, with
the dark grey external aluminium framing creating a stylish yet
low-maintenance exterior ideal for shared accommodation. we did
look at cheaper alternatives, admits harney, but none could deliver
the level of quality and performance we wanted in a building where
windows are such a major feature.
pre-sales supportharney was also impressed with the level of
pre-sales support VelFaC provided, and the effort made to ensure
the technical specification was correct. we have to deliver a
smart, contemporary, uniform exterior in order to transform the
building but, as in many refurbishment projects, initial works
showed that the structure
was not built square and that every apartment was different. The
VelFaC team worked hard to determine the type of window openings,
and pre-preparation required, to achieve the uniform finish we
want. i was very impressed by this level of service which is not
something offered by every window company.
premium accommodation The new apartments should be ready for
sale by summer 2013, less than a year since work began. The
Cambridge property market is very competitive, with many apartments
being built, says harney. however, products such as VelFaC can turn
an ordinary development into premium accommodation, while the skill
and expertise of the VelFaC team ensures that even a challenging
refurbishment project keeps to schedule and to budget, further
maximising initial investment.
24 | VELFAC | CRossWAYs GARDens, CAMBRIDGe
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Products such as VELFAC can turn an ordinary development into
premium
accommodation, while the skill and expertise of the VELFAC team
ensures that even a challenging refurbishment
project keeps to schedule and to budget, further maximising
initial investment.
Project manager and property developer Paul Harney
| 25
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26 | VELFAC | WInDoW teCHnoLoGY
th
e origin
aL sLim
frame
win
do
w
-
| 27
over the last 40 years, the window
has evolved from a relatively simple
structure consisting of four pieces of
wood and a piece of glass to an advanced building component.
snce the mid-1980s, the window has been through a major
industrial development, with insulation, light inflow and design
markedly improved, says VelFaC engineer eirik Bjoern :
Back in the 1980s we mainly focused on the design of the frame
and sash, and up until 2005 it was primarily the closing mechanisms
and fittings that were continuously improved.
The big change in window evolution happened following the kyoto
protocol in 2002 and the subsequent eu energy efficiency directive.
one goal of the directive is that by 2020, only zero-energy
buildings will be constructed. Currently, each eu country is taking
a different approach and working at a different pace in order to
achieve the directives requirements, but this has clearly
influenced window design.
more light, better design and greater insulationin the 1980s,
VelFaC reduced it's window frame from 115mm to 55mm. This meant not
only a visual improvement with a slimmer profile and a larger
inflow of light, but it also meant a better energy balance, as
Bjoern explains:
state of the artwindow technology. The latest energy efficient
window from VELFAC features a specially designed composite material
which combines extremely efficient insulation with extraordinary
strength, despite totally eliminating the use of thermally
conductive
metals such as aluminium from the frame. The challenge to date
has been
to maintain the characteristic slim VELFAC profile while
maintaining excellent insulation, as slim frames have always been
synonymous with aluminium. In previous generations of the VELFAC
200 system it was not possible to avoid using aluminium in the
sash, but in
our latest design VELFAC engineers have exchanged aluminium for
a new
'HELO' material formed from fine glass threads injected with
Polyamide glue.
This has allowed the creation of a composite window with an
internal wood frame, and a low-maintenance non-metal external sash
significantly improving the thermal properties of the whole
window.
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28 | VELFAC | WInDoW teCHnoLoGY
By increasing the glass area, and with a narrower frame and
sash, we significantly increased the inflow of light. moreover,
glass has better insulating capabilities than the sash and the
frame, regardless of whether the window is double or triple glazed,
and since 2005 we have doubled the level of insulation of the
window as a whole frame, sash and glass.
composite is the route aheadToday, standard VelFaC frame and
sash development has reached the point where it is difficult to
make insulation values noticeably better.
however, the new VelFaC 200 helo window system uses
glass-reinforced polyurethane. satisfying VelFaCs demanding
specification for high quality surface finish, excellent insulation
and structural rigidity, this makes helo the composite window
material of the future, says Bjoern.
energy savings elsewherewith composite materials, the insulation
value of the sash and frame are approaching those of the glass,
adds Bjoern, but we will probably see the continuing development of
the sash and frame in order to improve insulation even further,
perhaps by adjusting their shape, although this
simpleIn 2010, the latest generation of VELFAC 200 was launched,
featuring a sash comprising the highly insulating, specially
developed HELO composite material.
When many different materials are used together in a window, it
can pose a major challenge because each material will have
different thermal properties and will therefore respond differently
to cold or heat with one expanding more than others when the sun
shines, or contracting more when it snows, says Development Manager
Tommy Kammersgaard from the VELFAC Innovation Center. As this can
cause imbalances in the frame structure simplicity is key, and
something specifiers should consider in more detail when evaluating
window options.
Keep it
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| 29
will provide relatively little additional insulation compared to
the heat savings that can now be gained elsewhere in a
building.
a more significant contribution to reduced energy consumption
and associated heat loss is the adoption of active house
principles, for example the use of self-adjusting windows to
regulate solar gain and insulation capacity depending on
environmental conditions.
comfort and energyoverall, great progress has been made in the
energy efficiency of windows, but for many manufacturers this
has diverted attention away from improvements in aspects such as
indoor climate, security, ventilation and shading. so in future,
window development should also be about comfort, argues soren
aggerholm, research director of the danish Building research
institute:
Comfort and energy balance should have a higher priority. its
not just a matter of maximising light but also controlling solar
gain, especially when its not wanted. Therefore, window developers
must improve solar shading and ventilation in summer, and also in
spring and autumn in new houses. in these new buildings, mechanical
ventilation in winter will probably become more common, especially
by 2020 when the eu energy requirements come into force..
The VELFAC 200 window system is inspired by the simple
steel framework of Bauhaus.
VeLfaC 200 the worlds simplest window. Inspired by modernism and
the beautiful, simple steel framework of Bauhaus, VELFAC 200 was
created, back in 1982, led by design and simplicity, but also as
the ideal modern window. Many competitors have tried to imitate the
VELFAC 200 design but it remains unique, as Tommy Kammersgaard from
the VELFAC Innovation Center explains: Since VELFAC 200 was
launched, we have managed to preserve a frame thickness of only 54
mm, despite various structural changes.
The second generation VELFAC 200 system featured standard lock
handles the espagnolette handle was not yet developed and a pure
aluminium external frame. Since then, VELFAC 200 has been
continually updated and a polyamide thermal break was integrated
into the sash in 2009 to disrupt the thermally conductive
properties of aluminium.
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30 | VELFAC | ARoUnD VeLFAC
VelFac desIgN oFFIce leNds a helpINg haNd
VELFAC provides more than just windows we can deliver all the
advice you need to make sure a project is a success. Specifying
windows can be a complex task, if the right balance of energy
efficiency, technical performance and aesthetic impact is to be
achieved why not let us help you? Its all part of the value the
VELFAC brand represents.
Upload a set of drawings and get a qUote
VelFaC and WimbledonMillions of VELFAC windows are installed in
buildings around the globe including some famous landmarks. Here
are a few examples from the UK: Did you know, for example, that
there are VELFAC windows in the entrance foyer of the Royal Albert
Hall - Londons famous concert hall? Or that there are VELFAC
windows in the commentary box at Wimbledon Centre Court, where
Caroline Wozniaki and all the other tennis celebrities play?
And here are just a few more , you might have heard of;
Liverpool FC Academy Glasgow Rangers Training Ground J K Rowling's
Edinburgh home The British Embassy in Moscow
Go to our website and upload up to five files describing your
window tender (we can handle all common document formats). In
return we will send you a quote within 24 hours. Upload drawings
and get a quote: www.VELFAC.co.uk/Homes/GetAQuote
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ARoUnD VeLFAC | VELFAC | 31
The VELFAC espagnolette handle is manufactured from a
non-conductive composite material which makes it comfortable to
touch and easy to operate regardless of external weather
conditions, unlike all-metal handles.
Book the VELFAC CPD presentation on energy balance and efficient
window design.
The content briefly comprises:
The basis of U-value calculations for windows
Heat flow paths in window design
Measures to improve window U-values
Window and glass technologies
Optimising window frame designs and glazing configurations
Comparisons of performance
Regulatory requirements
Solar heat gains through glass
Efficient building design and window optimisation
Basic solar shading mechanisms
Installation and air permeability
BookingPlease contact us on 01223 897100 to book a presentation
for your team
Target GroupArchitects, engineers, and building
professionals
DurationApproximately 45 minutes
LocationIn-house or at the VELFAC office in Cambridge
Practical detailsVELFAC will provide all relevant equipment and
refreshments
UP To DATe
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VelFaC lTd / T: 01223 897100 / e: [email protected] /
www.VelFaC.Co.uk
VelFac 200The original slim frame window design
VelFac 200 heloThe original slim frame design with improved
thermal properties
Why compromise?
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ReFURBIsHMentWItH DesIGneR WInDoWs
With slim, uniform sightlines for both opening and fixed lights,
and attractive internal wood frames, VELFAC 200 offers the design
quality expected of a premium window, and delivers exceptional
energy performance.
Low energy windows which also look good read more about the
VELFAC 200 window system at www.VELFAC.co.uk
When you can have cutting edge window technology and great
design