HWL Trade Frames’ has announced that its ‘trailblazing’ non-glass bonded Residence 9 Window has completed final independent testing, delivered in partnership with R9.
The specialist trade fabricator has led the development of an R9 frame-only offer, pioneering the application of Timberweld sash-welding technologies in its manufacturing process.
According to HWL, this has given it an almost unique capability in the UK to butt weld window sashes inside and out, replicating the aesthetic delivered in a 90° mechanical joint.
This is said to increase sash corner strength, which in most configurations eliminates the requirement to glass bond IGUs, which have historically been used in R9 fabrication to give the system structural strength.
Tests on side-hung casement options were completed earlier in the year, returning a series of top-rated passes under BS EN 6375 – 1 weather testing and PAS24/Part Q. These have now been followed up over the summer with a series of approvals on top-hung options.
Mark Haley, managing director at HWL Trade Frames, said: “We’ve always known how good the R9 Timberweld is. With independent tests now complete on top-hung, in addition to those already completed on side hung windows, we can offer installers access to a proven product, not only in terms of technical performance but also commercial advantage.”
The HWL window was put through its paces in a series of initial tests by independent testing house, Exova in April.
The BS EN 6375 – 1 Weather Test results, completed on a side hung option returning an Exposure Category of 1600, a Class 3 Air Permeability Rating (600pa); a Class 9A (600pa) Water Tightness Rating; and top Class C4 (1600pa), resistance to wind.
These were followed up by PAS24 testing, again by Exova and in partnership with Residence 9, in May for mechanical load and manual intervention testing, also returning a pass. With further tests on top-hung options completed at the end of August.
With all of its’ pre-existing customers now buying its non-glass bonded R9 windows, HWL argues that installers can cut their installation costs by up to a third by switching from buying in mechanically jointed sashes, to its Timberweld R9 sash by reducing weight and simplifying handling and installation costs.
“There’s a lot of weight to handle in an R9 glass bonded window and you’re looking at a two-man fit and that costs,” continued Haley.
“If it’s damaged later down the line, you can be looking at whole window replacement because sashes will have weathered and replacement with a new sash against an older frame often stands out to the point that you have no choice but to replace it.
“There are efficiencies and savings in installation but also a very strong message to the consumer and we have customers who are winning business on the back of it.”
