According to Derek Warwick Developments, it was the combination of appearance, quality and low maintenance that led it to equip PVC-U systems from Eurocell on an upmarket development on the Dorset coast.
Designed by award-winning architect, David James, Durlston Point is an arrangement of five detached houses that occupies a commanding position in Swanage. The houses feature Modus casement windows in moondust grey, Aspect bi-fold doors and white Eurocell fascias and soffits, to complement high-end elements such as underfloor heating, German contemporary kitchens with Silestone work surfaces and smart home systems designed by Nethaus.
Lance Macklin, a director at the company, said that the decision to install PVC-U products on the external envelope of the house was both ‘practical and aesthetic’: “This is an exposed coastal location, so the doors and windows have to be robust as well as good-looking.
“We first thought of a slim, grey aluminium profile, which is very fashionable, but we would be responsible for remedial work if the powder coating lifted. We chose the Modus window because it is high quality and maintenance will be minimal.
“Similarly, bi-fold doors are very much on-trend now and Aspect doors are well-made, well-sealed and good quality. Again, there is less likelihood of issues while the development is in warranty. And the fascias and soffits have the same advantages and complement the doors and windows.”
Both Modus and Aspect are guaranteed: Modus for 12 years; Aspect bi-fold door profiles for ten years, and door furniture for five. According to Eurocell, the Modus range is also ‘durable and thermally efficient’, with BBA certification reportedly concluding that the PVC-U extruded profiles would continue to function satisfactorily for more than 35 years and that the thermal transmittance value or ‘U’ value of the range was 1.2 W/m² using 4/20/4 mm sealed double-glazed units.
The Modus system is available in nine solid and woodgrain-effect colours, all of which are available with white internal finishes. A further range of more than 40 solid and woodgrain effect finishes is available, including colour both sides.
The Aspect bi-fold door system is said to have recently been equipped with an improved double-bogie roller system for smoother, easier ‘one touch’ operation. Door openings can be up to six metres wide, with up to seven door panels. Eurocell says the unique roller assembly means doors can be configured to meet customer preferences, including the popular 4/2/2 configuration as well as simple 2/2/0 arrangements to replace existing patio doors.
Aspect is reported to be the first in the bi-fold door category to gain BBA accreditation and Secured by Design status. Eurocell adds that meeting the requirements of these two standards means that Aspect bi-fold doors are perfect for all new build applications, where Secured by Design is being specified to meet the requirements of Approved Document Q.
A range of external colours is available to complement existing architectural style, as well as a choice of hardware colours. Aspect has a white internal finish as standard, to maintain a bright, fresh interior, with some colours available with colour both sides from stock.
