Congratulations to Apex Windows, the winners of our July 2024 Installation of the Month!

We love seeing our customer’s work, and Apex Windows tagged us in a couple of their projects in July. We are pleased to award them Installation of the Month based on their installation of Brilliant White Ash trims to a series of windows in a large residential home.

This project is an impressive feat of dedication and true craftsmanship. Apex Windows renovated the entire property with premium Residence 9 windows and doors in White Ash. These windows are elegantly styled, blending traditional aesthetics with modern performance. With impressive thermal efficiency, these new windows and doors will keep the property a comfortable temperature all year-round. The hard work of the team at Apex Windows has enhanced this property for years to come.

We are proud to have supplied Brilliant White Ash window trims for this project. Colour matching the Residence 9 window frames, we are pleased to see that the combination has resulted in a premium finish. We have worked with Apex Windows on other projects this month to provide RAL colour-matched door and window trims. We look forward to seeing what Apex Windows does next!

Apex Windows is a window and door supplier and installer based in Haywards Heath. Providing versatile solutions for their customers, Apex Windows prides themselves on their professional advice and after sales service. A family run business, Apex Windows has been supplying excellence since 1982. We are proud to have been working with Apex Windows for the past decade, supplying window trims and other glazing consumables.

Customer reviews of Apex Windows

“Apex have done an incredible job installing windows and bi-folds in our home. The installation team was fab, they kept our home/workspace tidy and were so kind and courteous. We’re running out of windows to replace but will use them again when we need more!”

“Can’t recommend them highly enough. Sorted out an issue with the bi-fold door. No fuss. On time. Cleaned up. Polite, efficient, respectful. Would use them again without hesitation. Thanks Apex. Pleasure to know some really genuine, reliable companies out there.”

“I have had Apex Windows do windows, doors, and porches on my last 3 properties over the span of 33 years, and I have been impressed with their fair and honest pricing, the quality of their work and the general tidiness during working. I would thoroughly recommend them.”

A lot has changed in the past few weeks. We voted, and a new party were brought into power. Now the new Labour government are beginning to lay out their plans for extensive housing developments across Britain. Let’s catch up on the latest announcements and how they may affect the construction sector.

Where We Are Now

It is no secret that the UK housing market is difficult to break into and is becoming unaffordable for many following the recent increase in interest rates. UK house prices have soared in the last 15 years, making it difficult for young people to purchase their first home, and for growing families to move into larger properties. 1.3 million people are on local authority social housing waiting lists, and the Guardian reports that in the last 3 months of 2023 there was a 16% increase in the number of people who are homeless, and a 27% increase in the number of people sleeping rough in Britain. A recent report from Resolution Foundation reveals that UK housing is smaller, older, and more expensive than comparable houses in other developed nations. It is estimated that if no reforms to housing are made then nearly 5 million households will be in unaffordable housing by 2030.

Vision for Construction

Prior to the election, Kier Starmer wrote a letter for Inside Housing outlining his hopes for Britain’s construction sector. Starmer identified growth as the number 1 priority for the new Labour government and looks to push forward development and infrastructure projects that have been previously stalled.  Starmer has claimed that it is ‘not fair’ that blockers can prevent the country from growing and suggests that Labour will be looking to remove these barriers to growth.

New Plans for Housing

Rachel Reeves, the new Chancellor of the Exchequer, has announced several new plans for housing following Labour’s victory at the polls. Firstly, Labour has pledged to “get Britain building again” with ambitious plans to build 1.5 million houses over the next five years. It has been suggested that these housing plans will make it possible for 80,000 young people to get on the housing ladder.

Perhaps most controversially, Labour is planning on building on ‘green belt’ land, previously protected by planning guidance offered in the 1950s by Conversative housing minister, Duncan Sandys. It has been suggested that there are large portions of ‘green belt’ land which is actually ‘brownfield sites’, or ‘grey belt’ land. ‘Grey belt’ land doesn’t have a strict definition or parameters, however, Starmer has claimed that there are underdeveloped areas on the ‘green belt’ which could be utilised to build new housing. For example, plots with disused buildings. There will be a new taskforce brought in, and local councils will be asked to identify areas of the green belt that are suitable for new housing developments.

Reeves has announced that compulsory housing targets will be re-instated for local councils. As part of the planned overhaul of planning restrictions on new housing developments, it has also been proposed that planning decisions will be made nationally rather than locally. This is part of a bold push to incentivize sluggish investors who have dropped away after uncertainty in the sector following Brexit and the upheaval of successive Conservative Prime Ministers.

Finally, it has also been announced that Labour is keen to explore greater urban development. Plans to establish new urban communities, towns or small cities, have proved to be difficult to bring to fruition since the 1960s/70s. However, following the scale of their victory, the new Labour government appears to be confident in its ability to overcome the planning and development restrictions that have hampered previous infrastructure projects.

Roadblocks to Housing Development

There has long been strong resistance to large new build developments. When a series of new build estates are tacked onto an existing town, often there is not a great deal of infrastructure renovation to ensure that water and sewage systems, as well as main roads, can cope with the influx of new residents. Moreover, schools, hospitals, and other public health services such as dentists are put under strain when large quantities of houses are built without additional public infrastructure being developed.

Another concern many locals have for new build developments is that they are often largely unaffordable, making it difficult to young people in the local area to continue living in the town they grew up in. Prior to the election, Starmer claimed that there will be a ‘first-dibs’ system to ensure local people have access to new homes. While this may help to improve community building and avoid the displacement of family units, housing affordability is still an issue. The affordability will continue to hamper the new government unless they actively invest in affordable housing.

What Does This Mean for Trades?

While there are some concerns being raised about Labour’s plan for development, for the most part it is a positive turn for the construction sector. The new government is prioritising housing development, thereby ensuring work for contractors across Britain. If Labour is able to secure planning for even a portion of these 1.5 million proposed houses, then skilled labourers across the country will experience a period of job security.

There will be a significant demand for skilled labourers in the coming months and years. There is a current skills shortage, highlighting the importance of apprenticeships and other training routes into construction. In London especially, there is a skills shortage of roofers and carpenters, demonstrating the importance of trained carpenters in any new proposal for building houses or infrastructure. It would be good to see plans for an increase in trade apprenticeships as Labour continues to outline their plans for UK housing.

As plans for new housing roll out, it is important for regeneration projects to not be forgotten. There is a considerable stock of older properties, especially in the north of England, that require retrofitting to improve energy efficiency and longevity. Plans for reaching net-zero are continuing, and it is imperative for existing houses, and residential complexes not to forgotten in these plans. Housing Today has expressed concerns that developers and Housing Associations will be ‘spread thin’ achieving the building aspirations of the new government while also completing net-zero projects.

Here to Support You

While things are changing around us, here at Edge we remain committed to being a building supplier you can rely on. No project is too big or small, and we work hard to make sure there are no delays in your building schedule by offering next day delivery to site. We maintain a high level of stock across our three warehouses in Chichester, Horsham, and Croydon, to ensure we are able to keep up with any rise in demand. At Edge we also source building products primarily from UK suppliers to eliminate time delays in transport. We will be able to keep up with an upturn in construction projects and keep your sites supplied with everything you need.

As new houses are being built, and existing properties are being renovated, we believe that high-quality, low maintenance building products are essential. These products, such as aluminum trims, or PVC guttering, have excellent durability and longevity as they are weather resistant. Light-weight, and available in a range of colours, finishes, and lengths, we are here to get you the best products for your constructions.

Get in touch with us by calling 0345 021 3333 or emailing [email protected] to begin planning your order for your next project. Want to talk about pricing? Speak to one of our Sales guys to get discounted pricing on the materials you use the most.

Sources:

Inside Housing, ‘Sir Kier Starmer: my vision for housing’. 

Guardian, ‘Labour plans to build 1.5m homes. Will that help Britons struggling for good housing?’.

BBC News, ‘Reeves to bring back housebuilding targets.’

Guardian, ‘Thursday briefing: Labour wants a housing revolution – can it build one?’

Housing Today, ‘A Fair Deal for Housing’.

We believe in doing a job well, and certainly no detail is too small. Meeting the industry demand, here at Edge we specialise in supplying aluminium window trim. Never again settle for an aluminum-style uPVC window trim; get the real thing. In this blog, we will be exploring why you should consider aluminium trims for your next build.

• Achieving a Quality Finish – aluminium trim can enhance the overall aesthetics of your projects, providing a sleek and professional look that outperforms other materials.
• Exceptional Stock Availability – we will ensure a consistent supply of aluminium trims, so you can always get what you need, when you need it.
• Wide Range of Colour Options – fantastic variety, allowing you to match any design and create a cohesive look for your builds.

Achieving a Quality Finish.

Aluminium doors and windows are continuing to grow in popularity. Lots of installers are working on projects with large bi-fold doors, or new floor-to-ceiling windows. These jobs take a lot of time and expertise to get right. The last thing you want is an incompatible trim detracting from the main unit.

Edge aluminium trim are made from high-grade aluminum, designed to match the quality of any aluminum unit. The trims feature a ridged underside to aid adhesion, making installation easier for you. Aluminium trim also demonstrate excellent heat resistance. These high-quality trims will not warp during the summer months, ensuring a premium finish on the installation, and a low maintenance product for the homeowner.

Exceptional Stock Availability.

We work hard to keep unparalleled stock levels across all three of our warehouses. Whether you visit our Chichester, Horsham, or Croydon trade counter, we are sure to have what you need. Our high stock levels also ensure we can offer next day delivery directly to site in the South-East. Delivered on our Edge vans, you can have 5m lengths of aluminium trim ready on site the day after you order. If you are working on ordering a large quantity, we can work with you to find a suitable delivery date to keep your project running smoothly.

Click here to see our delivery areas.

Wide Range of Colours Available.

As standard, we keep stock of matt black, anthracite grey, and matt white trims in 5m lengths. Powder coated to provide a durable surface, the colours are subtle and sophisticated. Designed to seamlessly blend into any aluminium bi-fold unit, or set of windows, we ensure that our stock colours are ready for next day delivery. We can send you colour samples of each trim to help you match the trim to your aluminium unit.

However, some projects need something a bit more specific. Here at Edge we offer a trim spraying service to ensure you can get the colours you need. Available in 150 RAL colours, we can powder coat your aluminium trim in the shade you need to create a cohesive look with the door or window unit.

Speak Our Sales Guys – Ross, Paul and Curtis.

We would love to hear about your projects, both current and upcoming. Do you need anthracite aluminium trim for a new bifold installation? Our Edge Sales Reps, Ross, Paul, and Curtis are travelling across Surrey, Hampshire, Sussex, and Kent to meet with customers. They can provide samples of these premium aluminium trims and discuss discounted pricing for trade account customers. If you have a large project coming up, speaking to our Sales guys first can ensure you get the best possible price, and a delivery date that suits your build schedule.

Get in Touch with Edge.

To speak to our sales team email [email protected] or call 0345 021 3333.

Ross visits customers across Sussex and Surrey. To get in touch with Ross email ross @edgebp.co.uk.

Paul travels to customers along the South Coast. To speak to Paul email [email protected].

Curtis is on the road in Surrey and Kent. To chat to Curtis, email [email protected].

The UK government estimates that 80% of the buildings in use by 2050 are already built. While some of these will be new estates and commercial offices, many will be older structures which will at times require renovation. This article will be looking at the different uses and benefits of modern building materials when updating traditional structures.

Sustainable Architecture Requires Innovation.

Sustainable architecture requires innovative thinking, quality low maintenance materials, and a focus on reducing the carbon footprint of domestic and commercial buildings. Incorporating modern materials in heritage renovation projects is an essential step towards ensuring the longevity of properties while preserving the charm and character of older properties.

Please note, this article does not specifically address the requirements of listed properties. We encourage contractors and homeowners to consult the local council to confirm the allowable materials on any home renovation project on a listed property.

Preserving the Beauty of Traditional Buildings Through Modern Construction.

Heritage renovation projects often aim to replace faulty items, improve insulation, or enhance security and watertightness. However, renovation should not come at the expense of the character features of a property. At Edge, we strive to simplify the process of colour-matching new PVC fascias, soffits, guttering, and more to the original property. We offer a wide range of colours and finishes, and we encourage you to contact us for product samples or a foil brochure to ensure accurate colour matching before purchasing new, low maintenance PVC building materials for your project.

Bringing Character to New Build Constructions.

Many homeowners look to bring the unique character of heritage properties to their own home, especially if they own a new build. Curating a traditional charm can help houses stand out from the crowd, increasing market value. Opting for more classic colours, such as Chartwell Green, Rosewood, or French Grey for window and door frames allows new builds to mimic the style of heritage properties without compromising on durability, quality, and the utility of low maintenance products. Britmet roofing tiles in Ash or Slate Grey can also elevate the charm of a new build, especially when combined with CASTstyle guttering.

Advantages of Replacing Traditional Building Materials.

Heritage properties are visually stunning and hold an important place in the history of the UK. However, they present unique challenges when it comes to renovations. Previous homeowners may have already undertaken numerous renovations, complicating even minor works. Modern building materials can help to mitigate some of these challenges.

Cost Efficiency: Using modern materials that mimic traditional ones can be more cost-effective. For instance, sourcing traditional cast iron building materials in bulk is expensive. In contrast, products like Edge’s CASTstyle guttering offer a PVC alternative that replicates the appearance of cast iron. This modern material is lightweight and easier to install, significantly reducing labour costs and project completion times. Additionally, CASTstyle guttering can be delivered directly to your site, saving your team time spent in traffic or at trade counters.

Quality and Durability: When undertaking sustainable construction, reducing waste should be a top priority. New renovation projects should strive to have excellent longevity to improve the carbon footprint of the work. High quality, low maintenance PVC building materials fit these criteria. Exceedingly durable, PVC materials are resistant to weathering and corrosion, improving their lifespan. Plastic can also function as an eco-friendly building material when recycled responsibly.

Choice of Colours and Finishes: When repairing windows or doors, matching the existing frame is crucial, especially if it is wooden. We offer a wide range of foiled window trims with a realistic wood grain finish, allowing you to enjoy the durability of PVC while maintaining the classic look of the property. Have you tried our trim spraying service? We can powder-coat trims in any RAL colour, creating a long-lasting and high-quality finish. This service ensures you can get the exact colour you require for any job, allowing for seamless integration with existing structures.

Conclusion

Renovating traditional structures with modern materials offers numerous benefits, from cost efficiency and durability to customisation and sustainability. By embracing these materials, contractors can ensure that heritage properties retain their historical charm while meeting contemporary standards for energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Contact us at Edge by calling 0345 021 3333 or emailing [email protected] for more information on how our products can support your next renovation project.

As the summer weather rolls in and the rain subsides, many contractors are finding that work has picked up. Now that you are making new bookings and starting on long awaited projects, it is imperative that the building supplies you require arrive when you expect them. However, with the majority of construction supplies coming from China, shipping delays at the Suez Canal could cause delays in your projects. In this blog we will look at what issues are currently facing supply chains in the construction sector, and what we at Edge are doing to ensure you always have the high-quality, low maintenance products you need, when you need them.

International Conflict and Shipping Delays

The Suez Canal is a key point for maritime shipping companies. As the shortest route between Asia and Europe, it typically sees 15% of all global maritime traffic.

Following the intensification of the conflict between Israel and Palestine, the Suez Canal has become a site for political protest. Houthi rebels, originating in Yemen, have been carrying out various attacks on ships travelling through the Suez Canal to protest attacks against Gaza. While not all the boats travelling through the canal will be using Israeli ports or trading directly with Israel, the canal’s proximity to Yemen and Israel means that these disruptions are significantly affecting global trade.

To avoid the Suez Canal, some shipping companies are now diverting their freights to pass the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. This diversion means that vessels are now travelling the entire circumference of Africa before reaching Europe, adding an additional 6,000 nautical miles and 10-14 days of sea travel to their journey. The consequences of these delays are manifold:

• Extended shipping times: Containers are taking roughly two weeks longer to reach their destinations.
• Increased Costs: Additional fuel costs to make the longer journey past the Cape of Good Hope and the threat to ships in the Suez has raised shipping container costs.
• Operational Strain: Companies may place larger orders to mitigate further delays, increasing the amount of product arriving with each shipment. International strike action at some docks is further exacerbating the transportation challenges facing local couriers.

How Edge Ensure Reliability

At Edge, we strive to be your trusted building product supplier, regardless of global disruptions. Here’s how we maintain our commitment to reliability:

1. Prioritizing UK and European Suppliers

We prioritize sourcing from UK and European suppliers who produce high-quality, low-maintenance building products. This proximity ensures a timely and reliable delivery from our suppliers allowing us to maintain high stock levels for our customers. Did you know that we stock 5m lengths of aluminium trims in matt black, anthracite grey and white, for instance? Additionally, choosing national suppliers allow us to incorporate sustainability into our business practices by reducing the carbon footprint of our supply chain.

2. Maintaining Transparency

Customer service is at the heart of our what we do, which includes being honest about potential delays. We believe in transparent communication, so you’ll never receive false promises from us. By informing you of any supply issues upfront, we can help you plan your projects without unexpected disruptions.

3. Collaborating on Solutions

If supply chain issues arise, we work closely with you to find alternative solutions. This might involve suggesting different brands, sizes of products. We also offer a trim spraying service to ensure that we can provide products in the exact RAL colour you require. Our knowledgeable customer service team is dedicated to helping you find exactly what you need, even if specific items are temporarily unavailable. We offer product samples, brochures, and site visits from our Sales Reps to ensure you’re confident in your choices.

Manager’s Insight

“We have always prioritised local sourcing and we’re proud that from the outset Edge Building Products has sourced the vast majority of it’s range from UK based suppliers. We believe that the benefits in sustainability, contribution to the local economy and the increased reliability will mean that this remains our strategy for many years to come.”

Kieran Napthine, Managing Director.

Final Thoughts

Navigating global shipping challenges requires proactive strategies and a commitment to customer satisfaction. At Edge, we are dedicated to ensuring reliable deliveries by sourcing locally, maintaining transparency, and collaborating with our customers to find the best solutions. With these measures, we aim to support your projects and keep your build schedule running smoothly, despite global disruptions.

Have you got a big product coming up, or are you planning on buying in bulk? Get in touch by calling 0345 021 3333 or by emailing [email protected] and we will ensure that your building supplies arrive on site when you need then.

Sources:

IMF, Red Sea Attacks Disrupt Global Trade, March 7 2024, https://www.imf.org/en/Blogs/Articles/2024/03/07/Red-Sea-Attacks-Disrupt-Global-Trade

New York Times, “It’s All Happening Again”, Supply Chain Under Strain, June 24 2024, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/24/business/global-shipping-rates.html