Window and door fastener specialist Rapierstar has extended its support to Garnalex to help fabricators of its highly innovative Sheerline aluminium systems achieve greater production efficiency, optimum performance and consistent quality.
Rapierstar has worked with Garnalex since the inception of Sheerline back in 2020. Its fasteners were used in the very first sample windows and doors tested prior to the launch of the systems, and its supply partnership has grown ever since. Over the past five years, the company has provided extensive advice and guidance on fastener selection for testing, new product development and to assist fabricators – and it is here where its support has been expanded.
The latest development has involved Rapierstar creating bespoke fastener cases containing the complete suite of fasteners required to manufacture windows and doors using the range of Sheerline systems. These cases provide a valuable resource for each member of the Sheerline technical team to use when visiting customers, whether they are responding to a fabricator’s request for technical assistance, or working proactively with them to improve the way they work.
The fastener cases provide a complete fastener rack ‘on the road’, enabling Sheerline’s technical advisors to test and trial different types of fasteners whilst on-site with customers. This can speed-up the diagnosis of any issues they may be facing in their factory and assist with training so that operatives can achieve better results in finished units.
Ben Hartshorn, Sheerline’s Technical Manager, said: “The support we’ve received from Rapierstar has been excellent from the outset, reflecting the company’s position as the industry’s fastener specialists. We’ve never underestimated the importance of ensuring the right fasteners are used in all the different elements of a window or door’s assembly, and that’s why we value the technical guidance and resources they provide.
“We already reference Rapierstar fasteners throughout the technical manuals for Sheerline systems, because we have tested their compatibility and quality, and that means we can make these recommendations with total confidence. But we also recognise how important it is for our team to be able to work with our fabricators in-person at their factories to optimise fastener use, and that’s why these fastener cases will be so helpful.”
Rapierstar’s Technical Consultant, Mark Calpin, who has worked closely with the Garnalex team since 2020, added: “Garnalex have created an outstanding range of aluminium systems that meet the needs of today’s developers and homeowners on every level, particularly in respect of aesthetics and thermal performance. We are delighted to have been able to support them throughout Sheerline’s development and rapid growth within the UK market, and we look forward to continuing our work as their fastener partner.”
As the UK and Ireland’s leading supplier of specialist fasteners for windows and doors, with more than one billion items held in stock at any time, Rapierstar provides high quality fastening solutions for all types of aluminium, uPVC and timber systems. The company works extensively with systems companies, fabricators, installers and hardware manufacturers to ensure finished windows and doors are produced and installed to the highest standards, maximising longevity, performance and quality.
