Clearview National August 2016 - Issue 177 | Page 68

HARDWARE& SECURITY

Finishing
touches for
windows
and doors
»»WITH NEARLY TWO THIRDS
(62%) of homeowners planning home
improvements this summer, window
and door renovations are highly likely
to be on the list of jobs to do. And
when it comes to new installations,
the decorative details are just as
important to the overall result as
Jamie Johnson, Category Manager
at IronmongeryDirect, explains to
Clearview…
“With the promise of better
weather and longer days, summer
is traditionally a busy time for
tradespeople, particularly those who
work on exterior projects. It is also the
ideal time for homeowners to consider
replacing or upgrading doors and
windows.
“The decision may be based on the need
to maintain the property or a desire to
customise the look of a house to suit personal
tastes. Whatever the reason, installers should
not only pay their attention to the central
components, such as the choice of panel or
vision door, wooden frame and glass panels,
but also to the wider details in terms of
fixtures and fittings.”
MAKE A GRAND ENTRANCE
“One change that can make a dramatic
difference to the personality of a house is the
replacement of the front door. The focal point
for the exterior, it sets the tone and character
for the home beyond. The colour, design and
material of the door should all be carefully
considered and this attention to detail should
then be extended to the door furniture.
“With such a vast array of architectural
ironmongery available today, guidance is
often required to ensure the selected piece of
furniture suits the style of the chosen door.
Naturally, it is important to understand the
customer’s requirements in order to give the
best advice.

68 » AUG 2016 » CL EARVI E W- UK . C O M

“In terms of
finish, polished chrome
or PVD brass are safe choices
for those looking for a long
lasting solution. It is important
to stress that this doesn’t
mean compromising on style
– far from it. There are now
numerous options for customers
keen to combine functional benefits with
stand out style. The Fab & Fix Balmoral
Multipoint Lever handle is a case in point.
Constructed from solid die-cast zinc with a
polished chrome plating finish, it is not only
extremely hardwearing but it also works well
in a contemporary setting.
“Alternatively, for period properties or
those seeking to create an old world charm,
the Fab & Fix Victorian Urn Knocker makes
a traditional statement that will last for years
to come and can be installed on timber and
PVCu doors.
“It is also important to ensure the right
combination of door furniture is selected
and positioned for maximum impact. From
handles and hinges, to door knockers, letter
plates and numerals, these accessories will all
add a professional touch and leave a lasting
first impression.”
WINDOW TO THE WORLD
“Weather beaten, rotten or broken
window frames can let down the external
appearance of a property. Homeowners may
try to patch over the problem but over time
the damage will be so severe that the best
advice will be to replace them. Don’t forget

that the added benefit of new windows is
improved energy efficiency; a positive long
term saving, which will help to offset the
customer’s initial investment.
“This is also the ideal time to discuss
the additional hardware components and
ensure they are in keeping with the style
of the chosen window frame, as well as the
architecture of the property. Sash windows,
for example, need specific fittings to open,
close and lock if required, while casement
windows may benefit from an appropriately
modern option such as the Fab & Fix
Connoisseur Inline Handle. Suitable for
both PVCu and timber windows, this
stylish but sensible choice is available in
a variety of finishes and comes complete
with an integrated lock – a valuable bonus
for customer’s keen to improve home
security.”
SEIZE THE DAY
“With the cost of moving deterring many
homeowners from taking the next step on
the property ladder, revamping their current
home is an increasingly popular option.
Replacing windows and doors is a relatively
straightforward way to instantly refresh the
look of a property. It is a golden opportunity
for tradespeople but it is important to do
your homework first. Consider the ag