Stormy weather? Smooth sailing for R9 frame-only weather testing

Independent weather testing, delivered in partnership with The Residence Collection, has returned a series of top passes for HWL Trade Frames’ new frame-only supply Residence 9 window. The specialist trade fabricator has led the development of an R9 frame-only offer, pioneering the application of Timberweld® sash-welding technologies in its manufacture. This process HWL says increases 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. Supported by the Residence Collection, the HWL window was put through a series of independent tests last month [March]. These delivered a series of top-rated passes under BS EN 6375 – 1 weather testing. Graham Howatson, Director, HWL Trade Frames, said: “We’ve always had a high degree of confidence in our manufacturing process because of the time we have invested in its development and in our own in-house testing programme. The independent results we’re now seeing are an affirmation of that.

“While we will continue to offer glass-bonded windows as an option, it means installers can access R9 on a frame-only basis, which allows them to lower their costs but which also delivers so much more in flexibility and ease of installation, removing a barrier which has put off a section of the market. Handling is far easier because you’re removing the weight, they can order glass from their usual supplier and if an IGU is damaged or fails, it can be replaced far more easily than in a glass-bonded window. The BS EN 6375 – 1 test results, conducted by Exova, give HWL’s R9 Timberweld® window 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.

The window is also currently under-going PAS24 security testing, with results expected later this month. HWL’s launch of its frame-only R9 offer follows an extensive developmental programme, which gives HWL an almost unique capability in the UK to butt weld window and door sashes inside and out. This replicates the aesthetic delivered in a 90° mechanical joint but also delivers a significant increase in the structural strength of the sash. Graham continued: “R9 is a highly innovative system. We have embraced that spirit of innovation to move forward again by accessing new manufacturing processes to fabricate a window with an identical aesthetic but which makes installation far, far, easier. R9 has and enjoys incredible market reach. Being able to fit it more easily and to source glass locally, is a key competitive advantage for any retail businesses reducing supply costs and increasing opportunities to build in margin over their competitors.”