Polar Windows has completed a 900 window refurbishment program for Leeds University, replacing old and failing timber windows with WER ‘A’ rated energy efficient PVC-U replacements.
The Profile 22 Approved Window Contractor, was appointed to deliver the wholesale replacement of windows at Montague Burton, a four-storey undergraduate hall of residence, earlier this year.
Manufactured in a dark oak foiled finish in the FI70mm system from Profile 22, Polar began its works program in July while the building was still occupied completing the replacement project in September.
Rob Hawkins, commercial business manager, Polar Windows, explained: “The building dates to around the eighties and many of the original windows were in need of replacement.
“The FI70 suite from Profile 22 in a dark oak foil delivered a strong match to character-defining timber originals. We were also able to clad structural steel bay windows in matching PVC-U panels to maintain and safeguard the appearance of the property.”
It follows Polar Windows earlier appointment to supply and deliver the refurbishment of Royal Park. The high end student accommodation is managed by Unipol, a not-for-profit provider owned by Leeds University.
This included curtain walling and the replacement of more than 100 WER ‘A’ rated windows in a grey-on-white finish.
Hawkins continued: “Probably the biggest challenge is working around the students while they are there and we did a lot of work up front to communicate works programs to them and in making sure we minimized levels of disruption.”
Profile 22 launched its new Commercial Manufacturer Scheme in 2008. It has been developed to support Profile 22’s existing commercial fabricators to generate new leads and to support others in moving into the commercial sector.
It gives existing qualifying commercial fabricators access to a dedicated lead generation service plus marketing, design and specification support. Customers of those qualifying fabricators can also draw on the experience of Profile 22’s own in-house specification team who offer a dedicated support service to the specifier. This includes surveying, design drawings, CPD seminars, sector overiews and information on building regulations.
Fabricators who are considering entering the market can also access a full menu of support but will need to achieve Profile 22 approved status first. This includes attending ‘commercial awareness’ courses. Covering everything from contract management law to estimating for profit, the courses are delivered through highly accredited trainers and give would-be commercial fabricators a detailed grounding.
Andrew Reid, commercial sales director, Profile 22, added: “The education sector while under financial pressure retains a greater degree of financial independence than many other parts of the commercial arena.
“It means on this basis a good place to look for business if you have the right product and service offer plus support to win business. The Profile 22 ACM scheme draws on Profile 22’s 30 years’ experience to support our customers in this process.”