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What are BS and RAL?
If you’re in the building, architectural, design or interiors sectors, you will almost certainly have heard of RAL and British Standards (BS) colour matching systems. Though just how many of those reading this blog know what RAL stands for, and what are the finer details of these systems and their uses?
RAL stands for “Reichs Ausschuss für Lieferbedingungen” (in English, the German Commission for Delivery Conditions!) RAL is a colour-matching system used to identify standard colours for paints, coatings, and plastics. It was developed in 1927 and has become an internationally recognised standard used by many nations across the world.
British Standard (BS) colours are a collection of colours that have been derived from sets of regulations and standards laid down for the use of industrial colour specifications within the UK. The BS 4800:2011 colour chart was first introduced in 1936 and is currently used as a reference guide for specifying surface finishes on building projects.
What are the benefits of using BS and RAL charts?
By having precise definitions for each shade listed within these two systems, designers can rest assured knowing that their project will always turn out just as they envisioned it – without any unpleasant colour surprises later down the line! These are also helpful tools for traders to utilise and follow, ensuring that the vision and instructions of designers and/or clients are easily followed and achieved, without risky and unnecessary guess work.
Where are BS and RAL used?
RAL and BS colours serve an important role in ensuring consistency within projects across a variety of industries around the globe. In terms of the construction sector, RAL and BS colours are used to ensure colour consistency throughout a build project, enabling architects and designers to create designs with confidence. By referencing these standardised colour charts, professionals can be sure that they have accounted for all necessary shades or textures before beginning a job.
What are the most popular colours?
Over the last few years there has been a big increase in the popularity of doors and windows in grey, and black. On-trend statement colours for front doors, for example, are Uplifting Greens e.g RAL 6019 Pastel Green, Warm Tranquil Blues such as RAL 5009 Azure Blue, or Serene Soft Pinks such as RAL 3015 Light Pink.
Many people are also opting for contemporary charcoal (e.g RAL 7021-P Black Grey) or sage green (e.g RAL 6011-P Reseda Green) windows instead of the traditional white PVC style or woodgrain effect aesthetic.
Edge Building Products provide a range of windows and doors in popular colours.
At Edge Building Products, we provide a wide range of uPVC and aluminium windows and doors, and our Anthracite Grey glazing remains a firm favourite with homeowners. Aside from our popular stocked options, we can supply aluminium window frames to match any RAL colour.
Our extensive range of uPVC windows is the broadest on the market, especially for coloured products with PVC foil laminations. At Edge Building Products we supply the most technically advanced uPVC windows, utilising the latest technology innovations.
We supply bi-folding doors manufactured by Origin and Korniche. In recent years, bi-folding doors have become an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking for their kitchen and living spaces opening out onto patio and lawns, and the trend shows no signs of slowing. Our range of aluminium bi-folding and sliding doors are available in a variety of configurations and colours utilising the RAL chart.
Cladding has also seen a rise in popularity in recent years, with many opting to add a pop of a colour to their home with external composite cladding. External cladding has become the go-to for transforming the exterior of a home at an affordable cost with little ongoing maintenance. Cladding can turn a dated or tired looking frontage into a contemporary, smart and stylish home with a quick facelift.
At Edge Building Products, we offer a variety of cladding options including;
- Shiplap cladding. This is popular, in part because of its rustic and traditional look, which adds character and charm to any building. The overlapping boards create a tight seal that helps prevent air and moisture from entering the building, which is especially important in wet or humid climates. This tight seal also helps to provide a sound barrier, reducing noise from the outside. Our Shiplap cladding is available in a number of woodgrain effects as well as Chartwell Green, Cream, White, Black and Dark Grey.
- Fortex Cladding System. The Fortex range of innovative cladding products is available in 10 different colours and combines an authentic painted timber grained look with the low maintenance benefits of PVC. It is durable, made from an environmentally friendly lead-free formulation and is guaranteed for 10 years (T & Cs apply.)
- Fibre Cement Cladding System by James Hardie. The ultimate alternative to wood, Hardie plank cladding is made from resilient, maintenance-free fibre cement. Giving your customers all of the benefits of a stylish wooden façade with none of the hassle. Made from natural materials this product provides strength, durability and protection. It is also available in a wide range of colours to give your project the perfect finish. The Hardie cladding comes with a 15-year warranty and is available in a variety of styles (and over 21 colours!)
We also supply fascias, guttering, trims and soffits that we can spray to any RAL or BS Colour. This will help you to maintain consistency throughout the job and allow the designer freedom to create and plan without limitation.
In addition, we also offer RAL colour spray cans and Konig touch up pens for any cosmetic fixes or hard to get to spots.
To conclude, for those looking for a host of options, RAL and BS colours and styles when it comes to doors, windows and cladding then Edge Building Products are the ultimate choice offering a wide variety of the above in addition to other construction materials to the trade with the option to spray to match existing features of the building if purchasing new isn’t an option.
We have helpful customer service and trade desks with the added benefit of offering free drinks across our three locations; Chichester, Horsham and Croydon. For more information on any of our products or services you can call the team on 01403 218877 or email us at [email protected].