Mighton Products, the premium timber sash window hardware specialist, has redesigned VentlockTM to make life easier for customers. The new keyless ‘Push Ventlock’ is fitted simply by screwing the whole unit into a 14mm diameter hole. Ventlock allows a sash to be left open a few inches for ventilation without compromising security. It’s also a great way to prevent children opening a sash window unsupervised.

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, explains: “In a changing market, it’s important to listen to your customers and invest in product development. Our new Push Ventlock is easier to fit so it’s more cost effective, and provides additional security features to the window. It’s discreetly installed into the top sash window, six inches above the meeting rail, to prevent the bottom window from being opened wide. It proves useful in any window above ground floor level or where fire egress may be of concern.”

No part of the market is immune to the economic turmoil but the sliding sash market is far less affected, because homeowners and specifiers love them. Recently, timber sash windows have been transformed by innovations in hardware and window construction, and are now easy to install and maintain. 
Meanwhile, the 'green' market is a still a huge opportunity for those who can offer the right product innovations, and security is a big issue for many homeowners. In 2008 the EcotiltTM timber window system was the first timber sash to achieve an 'A' Window Energy Rating from the British Fenestration Ratings Council, following its Secured By Design certification gained late last year.

The current economic climate is driving many companies in our industry under and frozen others into inertia. No-one is immune to the turmoil, but there are still opportunities out there. Home Office statistics show domestic burglary now makes up 36% of all crime in the UK at an annual cost of £2.8 billion. Consequently the market for security products is still strong. Even the rich and famous aren’t immune - six Liverpool players were victims of burglary recently.

Security is believed to be one of the top attributes homeowners consider when they buy or improve a property. A report from Alliance and Leicester Personal Loans reveals that homeowners are willing to invest £8,500 on home security. And with the police-backed Secured By Design (SBD) initiative, the construction industry has the perfect solution.

Secured By Design aims to encourage our industry to adopt crime prevention measures from the design stage. The scheme recognises products and projects where security has been designed into the whole process from first concept. Developers and Local Authorities are given an SBD certification when they have considered security and used recommended products throughout a project. And the scheme really works. Research shows those living on a SBD awarded development are 50% less likely to be burgled.

Making crime pay

While housebuilders have been hit hard by the economy, there is still work available – but competition is fierce. Secured By Design products can help contractors win large new build and refurbishment projects, particularly in the public sector where the award is fast becoming a must-have for any development.

SBD is also a great sales tool in the domestic market. We know homeowners care about security - so what better way to prove your credibility than by being recommended by the police?

So how do I get Secured By Design?

If you make windows and doors (whether PVC-U, timber or aluminium), contact the Association of Chief Police Officers Crime Prevention Initiative (ACPO CPI) to apply for SBD accreditation. The ACPO will guide you through the process; recommending the relevant security standards you need to achieve and putting you in touch with certification and testing bodies that can help you gain accreditation.

One such certification body is BM TRADA. The company operates third-party certification enhanced security schemes for doors and windows under the Q Mark banner. The Q Mark enables installers to easily identify products that have been suitably tested and are covered by the scheme. BM TRADA's schemes for enhanced security were introduced to support the testing requirements to achieve SBD approval. BM TRADA’s sister company, Chiltern Dynamics, tests to BS:7950 “Specification for enhanced performance of windows for domestic applications” and will carry out the other relevant performance tests required for the SBD licence.

Security sells itself

One of Mighton’s customers, Reg Bishop of Forest Hall Joinery, achieved SBD accreditation for Mighton’s EcotiltÔ timber sash window, working with Chiltern Dynamics’ testing laboratory before obtaining the Q Mark. Ecotilt is the first timber vertical slider to gain SBD accreditation. An easy-to-assemble window system that can be used by joiners and PVC-U installers, it has the beauty of a timber vertical slider combined with modern standards of security and energy efficiency.

Reg comments: “Working with Chiltern Dynamics and BM TRADA to gain SBD accreditation with Ecotilt means our sashes sell themselves. Homeowners believe in the endorsement because it’s directly from the police. And developers and specifiers are thrilled to discover a product that fits both their security demands and the traditional look they want. We also benefit from leads from Architectural Liaison Officers who recommend SBD products to architects, specifiers and developers nationwide.”

Secured by Design can also help boost opportunities already available in the market. The sliding sash sector, for example, is far less affected by the downturn than other parts of the market. Homeowners and specifiers love them, but they have a reputation for unreliable security. The SBD scheme addresses this issue and turns a traditional weak point into a selling advantage.

Police-preferred for cop shops too!

Mighton’s innovative Ecotilt Secure sashes have been installed by Forest Hall Joinery in the Thames Valley Police station at High Wycombe. Six sliding sashes, 3 metres high and 1.3 metres wide, made from engineered softwood, were fitted in a project worth £19,000. At the time of writing, the windows are receiving Secured By Design approval direct from the ACPO on the strength of the BM TRADA Q-Mark for Enhanced Security Windows.

Thames Valley Police found Forest Hall by using the ACPO product finder on www.securedbydesign.com (another lead generator), which came up with Ecotilt as the only timber sash with SBD - an easy choice to make!

Mighton Products has launched a staff bead with a pre-installed weather strip to stop the draughts and rattles typical of even the most modern timber vertical sliders. The weather strip will also make fitting easier, quicker and significantly reduce the friction between sashes so they last longer. The sash window hardware specialist offers a range of 24 weather stripping products, all of which have been tested to exposure category 2000 BS:6375standard and have a severe weather rating.

Mighton Products’ customer, OS Architects, recently renovated a property worth £450,000 in Nottinghamshire. The house had a loft conversion consisting of three new bathrooms, including one special marble bathroom. OS Architects will be restoring the timber sash windows as the renovation continues.

“The owners of the house decided they wanted to keep the original timber sash window in the marble bathroom,” explains Barry O’Sullivan, Owner of OS Architects. “We managed to restore it to its original condition using Mighton’s steel weights and pulleys and made it double glazed.

Mighton’s innovative Ecotilt Secure sashes have been installed in the Thames Valley Police station at High Wycombe. Six sliding sashes, 3 metres high and 1.3 metres wide, made from engineered softwood, were fitted over the course of April in a project worth £19,000. At the time of writing, the windows are receiving Secured By Design approval direct from the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), on the strength of the BM TRADA Q-Mark for Enhanced Security Windows.

Ecotilt Secure uses a combination of security locks and stainless steel protection to make it the only timber vertical slider to achieve SBD standards. These include Mighton’s patented Fitch Fastener and brass Ventlock, the latter designed to allow a sash to be left open a few inches for ventilation without compromising security. Using Solaglas bullet-proof glass, supplied by Andrews Glass (11.5ml laminated glass on the outer pane and 4ml toughened glass on the inner pane), the double-glazed unit for the bottom sash alone weighs 60kg!

Reg Bishop of Forest Hall Joinery who installed the windows gives further details: “Thames Valley Police is refurbishing the front counter area and wanted secure windows that looked like the original single glazed sash windows as the building is in a conservation area – so the planning officers were keen to keep an eye on the project, particularly because the Town Hall is opposite. Peter Moore, Thames Valley’s Project Liasion Officer, found us by looking up Secured by Design timber sashes using the ACPO product finder on www.securedbydesign.com. Ecotilt is the only timber sash with SBD so it was an easy choice.”

Mighton Products customer, JMS Joinery, recently renovated two large office blocks near Oxford Street, Central London. The £670,000 project with Raphael Contracting involved replacing and renovating around 200 timber sash windows over eight floors using Mighton hardware.

John Gould, Manager at JMS Joinery, comments: “For this job we used Mighton’s steel weights, brass lifters, fitch fasteners, brush seals and parting beads. Initially the architect specified a different timber sash window hardware company. We knew Mighton Products were of a much higher quality and durability without adding expense so we showed them samples to compare. Once they saw the samples they quickly changed their minds and used Mighton’s sash hardware throughout the project.

"As well as the traditional, quality products, the next day delivery is second to none. The excellent lead times mean we can pass the efficient service on to our customers. For this project, for example, the products were delivered straight to site so we could save time and money, and were able to give a better service to our customers."

A new addition to the Mighton Products range, the Cambridge Fastener, helps homeowners open windows in hard-to-reach places using a pulley system. Vertical sliders are often large, heavy, and difficult to open, especially if they’re fitted above sinks or over desks.

But installing the Cambridge Fastener means homeowners and residents (especially the elderly and disabled) can easily open their sash windows. It’s quick and easy to install and can be retro-fitted too – an ideal and profitable add-on to joiners’ and installers’ product ranges.

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton Products, comments: “With the Cambridge Fastener, sashes can be locked in a venting position that allows fresh air to circulate without fully opening the window and creating a security risk or losing heat.

And although it’s a practical tool, the fastener looks great too. It can be finished with traditional style handles in light or dark wood. It’s just one of our wide range of quality products that make fitting and using sashes easier.”

Mighton Products has appointed Paul Kirkby as Sales Executive to help raise awareness of the Mighton and EcotiltTM brands. The sash hardware specialist has invested in its sales force as part of its campaign to triple its turnover.

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton Products, comments: “Paul has over six years’ sales experience and family connections in the joinery industry. His new role will involve meeting customers and prospects from one-man-bands to national companies, promoting the benefits of Mighton’s advanced and innovative hardware and the Ecotilt system.”

Paul Kirkby has high hopes for the unique Ecotilt window: “It’s an exciting time for Ecotilt, Mighton’s energy efficient timber sash. Vertical sliders have a reputation for being draughty and easy to break into, but Ecotilt is different. With Secured By Design accreditation and A-C window energy ratings Mighton’s customers can differentiate themselves.  

“Selling Mighton’s products is an adventure because we’re constantly innovating and improving our product ahead of our competitors. Ecotilt is just one example of how we’ve become a leading supplier of hardware and sash window solutions.

Mighton’s EcotiltTM has become the UK’s first timber sliding sash window to achieve a BFRC ‘A’ energy rating for energy efficiency. Designed by sash specialist Mighton Products, the ‘A’ rated vertical slider was manufactured by Hertfordshire-based Forest Hall Joinery, which also offers ‘B’ and ‘C’ rated Ecotilts. It is also the only timber sash to gain police endorsement through Secured By Design certification.

“It’s an amazing achievement,” says Reg Bishop, of Forest Hall Joinery. “We can now offer a timber sash that has the same energy efficiency and security standards that the best aluminium or PVC-U casement window.  Architects, specifiers and homeowners no longer have to compromise on design or material. If you want the natural beauty of wood with the traditional charm of a vertical slider, that meets the highest energy and security requirements, this is the product for you. Ecotilt can help homes achieve a better Energy Efficiency Certificate for HIPs and is ideal for the Government’s latest eco-town plans.”

Combining a timber exterior with a PVC-U structural hidden Jamb, Ecotilt comes as an easy-to-assemble window system aimed at both joiners and PVC-U installers. We’ve engineered it to dramatically reduce fitting times, helping to keep refurbishment projects and new builds on time and on budget.

Just weeks after the launch of Mighton’s revolutionary Ecotilt™ system in the summer of 2007, 38 sashes were ordered and manufactured by Forest Hall Joinery to replace the existing windows for the development of a listed building on Tooley Street. The multi-million pound project involved converting an old pub in the City of London on this well-known street, home to a number of tourist attractions including the famous London Dungeon. To be completed in April, it includes new build commercial offices, the conversion of two warehouses into offices and retail space, as well as refurbishing of The Britannia pub into apartments, all undertaken by Laing O’Rourke and installed by B.W. Consultants.

Steve West, owner of B.W. Consultants, comments: “Laing O’Rourke was looking for replacement sliding sash windows to match the existing timber sashes, but the latest building regulations meant that they had to be double glazed windows with a specific U-value. Forest Hall Joinery recommended Ecotilt because it’s an authentic, traditionally styled timber sash with the highest energy efficiency and security standards, as certified by BM TRADA certification.

“The Britannia building was originally a pub, but had been converted to offices – we helped strip it back to its shell and turn it into luxury apartments and retail space. Because it’s a Victorian building there were no lintels above the windows so we had to put new ones in. We also had to repair the brickwork and replace cracked joints. It’s a huge, prestigious project – the window installation alone was worth £35,000.”

B.W. Consultants also achieved BM TRADA’s Q-Mark for survey and installation for the Tooley Street project. The voluntary standard looks at the quality of fitting, covering installation and maintenance of damp-proof membranes, for example - particularly relevant for the conversion because of the age of the building.

Ecotilt is the UK’s first timber sliding sash window to achieve a ‘B’ rating for energy efficiency. “However,” says Mike Derham, Mighton’s Managing Director (and creator of Ecotilt), “because the sashes installed at Tooley Street were made from Sapele hardwood - as specified - they require a different energy rating certificate from the BFRC, which will be issued retrospectively.”

Combining a timber exterior with a PVC-U structural hidden Jamb, Ecotilt comes as an easy-to-assemble window system aimed at both joiners and PVC-U installers. It’s been engineered to dramatically reduce fitting times; helping to keep refurbishment projects and new builds on time and on budget.

“Making traditional timber sliding sash windows can be a nightmare,” says Reg Bishop, owner of Forest Hall Joinery, “fiddly and hard to get right, with a different specification for each one. Installing sliders, whether timber or PVC-U, can be even harder. Because Ecotilt is so easy to put together – with minimal routing and joinery - it cuts down the long lead and installation times that eat into margins. It’s also a fully functional tilting window (hence the name), and both sashes can be removed for cleaning and maintenance from inside.”

The spec: Vorsprung Durch Technik?
Ecotilt™ windows are supplied with Mighton’s Assisted Lift™ Balances as standard, giving up to 70% assistance to overcome the inertia of the sash. Fitted to these are the patented Ultrashoes™ which allows you to adjust the spring and spiral balances in minutes. For any maintenance other than balance adjustment, the sashes should be removed completely. Ecotilt also includes Safety Stays, with a catch on either side of the sash that - when activated - allow the sash to tilt to 90 degrees.
The patented Boston Hinge is a cleverly designed quality brass fitting which allows the traditional timber staff beads at either side of the window to be unscrewed by hand and then swing outwards.

Ecotilt has also achieved the British Standards BS 6375-1:2004 for weather tightness and BS 6375-2:1987 Specification for operation and strength characteristics. Ecotilt Secure has BS 7950 for enhanced security, and the police-backed Secured By Design accreditation. This has allowed Forest Hall Joinery to gain the BM TRADA Q-Mark accreditation for Enhanced Security Windows.

According to Mike Derham, Ecotilt is unlike anything else on the market: “Legislation, rising energy bills and the media coverage of climate change mean that consumers, architects and specifiers want thermally efficient windows. They want windows which are easy to maintain but are not prepared to compromise on appearance – so they want timber too. Ecotilt meets all these demands.”

Police approved
Ecotilt Secure sashes are also being installed in Thames Valley Police station, High Wycombe. Nine sliding sashes, each 3 metres high and 1.3 metres wide and made from engineered softwood, are being fitted in a £27,000 project this April in two stages. Three of the Ecotilt sashes are being fitted into the custody suite – although we were reassured to find the police specified that these don’t open! At the time of writing, the windows are receiving Secured By Design approval direct from the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), on the strength of the BM TRADA Q-Mark for Enhanced Security Windows.

Ecotilt Secure uses a combination of security locks and stainless steel protection to make it the only timber vertical slider to achieve SBD standards. Mighton’s patented Fitch Fastener and brass Ventlock, the latter designed to allow a sash to be left open a few inches for ventilation without compromising security. Using Solaglas bullet-proof glass, supplied by Andrews Glass (11.5ml laminated glass on the outer pane and 4ml toughened glass on the inner pane), the double-glazed unit for the bottom sash alone weighs 60kg!

Reg Bishop gives further details: “Thames Valley Police is refurbishing the entire station, and wanted secure windows that looked like the original single glazed sash windows, particularly because the Town Hall is opposite – so the planning officers were keen to keep an eye on the project. Peter Moore, Thames Valley’s Project Liasion Officer, found us by looking up Secured by Design timber sashes using the ACPO product finder on www.securedbydesign.com. Ecotilt is the only timber sash with SBD so it was an easy choice.”

Always innovating
Mike Derham has revolutionised timber windows through years of research and development. Ecotilt helps architects and specifiers choose beautiful timber sash windows and comply with Government legislation. Mighton will continue to invest in the product to keep ahead of changing regulations. Mike explains: “Designing Ecotilt seemed like an impossible task. We returned to the drawing board many times until we designed a timber sash window to defy convention. Ecotilt is the most energy efficient, highly secure timber vertical slider available. But we’re not going to stop there. After redesigning the system (including changing the spacer bar, glass combination and some development of the sash profiles) we’ve achieved an ‘A’ energy rating in-house that is currently being submitted to the BFRC.”

Hertfordshire-based Forest Hall Joinery has been given the opportunity to tender for a huge national housebuilder project with Mighton’s Ecotilt™ timber sash window system.

Ecotilt was proposed by the housebuilder because it’s the only timber sash window to have been tested to the BS:7950 security standards, with Secured By Design accreditation.
The Ecotilt window system has also achieved A-C energy ratings from the British Fenestration Ratings Council.
  
Reg Bishop, Owner of Forest Hall Joinery comments: “Ecotilt is opening up new sectors for us. Housing Associations and Local Authorities are increasingly specifying timber sash windows with these specific accreditations.

Being invited to tender in this huge Housing Association project because we’re an Ecotilt joiner illustrates the growing demand for the latest security and energy efficiency standards. We’re thrilled to be given the opportunity to tender. We can’t give any more information yet, further details will soon be available!

Established in 1983, Mighton Products is market leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of advanced timber sash window products. 2007 saw the introduction of the innovative Ecotilt™ – the only timber sash window to achieve both the Secured By Design (SBD) accreditation and a ‘B’ energy efficiency rating from the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC). Mighton has also developed the Fenestrator, an electronically opening sash, perfect for the elderly and disabled markets, plus a stream of practical innovations to make timber sash windows easier to make and fit, and improve their performance.
A problem solved
Traditional timber sashes give British homes unique character but are often draughty, expensive to fit (and maintain) and can be a security risk. Ecotilt gives architects and specifiers a new option: an authentic timber sash window that passes all the latest energy efficiency and security standards in windows. Ecotilt’s SBD kit uses a combination of security locks and stainless steel protection to make it the only timber vertical slider to achieve SBD standards.

Future-proofing for a safer, greener future

Housing developments continually change with the times. Energy efficiency and security are ever-growing concerns and developments now consider them at every stage of design. The SBD accreditation is already mandatory in Housing Associations, and Home Improvement Packs (HIPs) containing the Energy Performance Certificate are now obligatory for any house on the market. These requirements are valuable so long as architects and specifiers have the products to achieve them. Mighton’s Ecotilt is the most secure, most energy efficient timber sash window available. It future-proofs developments against increasingly stringent legislation giving architects and specifiers confidence in the performance of timber sash windows. It’s the first and only traditional-looking timber vertical slider with SBD and a ‘B’ energy rating.

A natural progression to timber

The global community has begun to realise the value of timber as a natural resource. Environmental issues are a strong guiding light for the house building industry as a whole, leading to growing demand for energy efficient timber vertical sliders. But until Ecotilt they just didn’t exist. Many properties in conservation areas can only be refurbished with timber. Ecotilt is a window system with all the traditional charm associated with period timber sliding sashes but none of the traditional problems. It can be fitted in conservation areas so there’s no need to refurbish a property with rattling, poorly insulated timber sashes.

Making fitting and maintenance easier too

Time is money. That’s why the Ecotilt window system is easier to fit than the regular timber sash windows. Combining a timber exterior with a PVC-U structural hidden jamb liner, it’s been engineered to dramatically reduce fitting times; helping to keep refurbishment projects and new builds on time and on budget.

Ecotilt is also a fully functional tilting window, and both sashes (including the frames) can easily be removed for cleaning and maintenance from the inside, avoiding health and safety issues when working at height.

Mighton’s easy-to-adjust pivot shoe, Ultrashoe, which helps apply tension to spring and spiral balances with ease, is fitted as standard to the Ecotilt window system. This ‘small’ innovation means vertical sliders last longer and are easier to maintain too.

Always innovating

Ecotilt’s creator, Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton Products, has revolutionised timber windows through years of research and development. Ecotilt helps architects and specifiers choose beautiful timber sash windows and comply with Government legislation. Mighton will continue to invest in the product to keep ahead of changing regulations. Mike explains: “Designing Ecotilt seemed like an impossible task. We returned to the drawing board many times until we designed a timber sash window to defy convention. Ecotilt is the most energy efficient, highly secure timber vertical slider available. But we’re not going to stop there. We’ve already got an ‘A’ energy rating in-house that will be confirmed by the BFRC later this year.”

Installer Apex Shop Fitting recently replaced 97 windows in six apartments with Mighton’s Safe-T-Tilt timber sash, in a residential development in Bowden. “We choose Safe-T-Tilt because of its quality and its tilting action,” explains Martin Stanley, Director of Apex, “which allows for easy cleaning or glazing from inside. Furthermore, Safe T-Tilt is easier to install, so we finish the job faster and our margins are better too.”

Having installed timber sashes for more than three years, Apex Shop Fitting changed supplier to Mighton Products after receiving samples from the premium sash window hardware specialist. Martin Stanley continues: “Mighton’s Safe-T-Tilt sashes were streets ahead of its competitors in terms of quality.

“Our orders are driven by what our customers need - but Mighton is always reliable however large, small or obscure the order is. And because they deliver within 24 hours, lead times are short, which helps close more orders. We can rely on Mighton to deliver quality products rapidly and reliably.”

Sash hardware and window system specialist, Mighton Products, has reported a 25% boost in sales for 2007 compared to 2006. The record-breaking sales reflect Mighton’s dedication to innovating in a changing market. In the last year the company’s brought out eight new products including the Ecotilt window system, the Boston Hinge and the Cambridge Fastener.

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton comments: “Our products are designed to make timber sash windows perform better for longer. And they make fitting easier and quicker too. This helps ours customers avoid call backs and make better margins on jobs.

“Last year, we launched the Ecotilt window system so now our customers can sell the only timber vertical slider with Secured By Design accreditation and a ‘B’ energy rating from the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC). But we didn’t stop at that; we’ve refined the design so Ecotilt’s achieved an ‘A’ in-house, shortly to be confirmed by the BFRC.
“We’ve produced a traditional-looking timber sash window that defies convention – it’s long-lasting, energy efficient and secure,” continues Mike. “Our sales show that the demand for a high performance timber sash window, like Ecotilt, is growing.”

Mablethorpe Joinery has manufactured and fitted 50 sliding sash windows and entrance doors for a new development of houses in the conservation area of Louth, Lincolnshire. Oglesby and Limb Ltd, architects for the development specified traditional styling for the five townhouses to complement the surrounding buildings in the old market town.

Mablethorpe Joinery and sash hardware company Mighton worked together to provide quality doors and windows to the standard and specification required for this conservation area. Mighton, the sash window hardware specialist, provided several products including spiral spring balances, parting beads and all the brass window furniture.

“Everything for this project was bespoke,” explains Chris Haddon, owner of Mablethorpe Joinery. It’s not unusual for the company to be commissioned to produce sash windows – even for new homes – with a growing trend for traditionally-styled windows. ”About 60% of our orders are for sashes,” continues Chris. “The difference these days is that they are made from renewably sourced timber and are double-glazed to meet modern building regulations.”

Mighton’s donation of a 10-day Caribbean holiday raised £8,400 at the GM Fundraising (GMF) Gala Dinner. The top bidders can look forward to a stay worth £10,000 on the idyllic island of Tobago. The 1970s-themed event in November raised over £39,000 for Hope House Children’s Hospice, a charity that provides palliative care for children with terminal conditions and support for their families.

Dave Broxton, one of the GMF team and Sales Director at Glassex and GPT, comments: “Once again I am amazed at the glazing industry's capacity to embrace the GM Fundraising cause. Through the generosity of sponsors such as Mighton Products we will be adding a total of over £39,000 to our fund for Hope House Children's Hospice.”

Mike Derham, Managing Director of sash window hard specialist Mighton Products, couldn’t make it to the Dinner so auctioned a 10-day stay in his Caribbean mansion instead. The GMF team is now planning a sponsored a 3,000 mile bike ride across America to raise more money for Hope House. Email gary@gmfundraising.co.uk to find out how you can donate.

There were smiles all round at the November launch of Mighton’s Ecotilt at the WinDoor Expo in Toronto, Canada. The timber sash window system was launched jointly by sash specialist Mighton and architectural hardware company Ferco. David Warr (right), Vice President of USA Business Development for Mighton comments: “We’re excited by the positive response from Canadian manufacturers and look forward to building awareness of our highly thermal efficient product. We’ve had several requests for pre-production samples already and have ambitious growth targets for 2008.”

Yvon Soucy (left), Vice President of Ferco, is also positive: “It’s an exciting time as we help Mighton’s product development across the Canadian market and the company continues to grow nationwide.”
Ecotilt is one of the most energy efficient and secure timber vertical sliders available in the UK and Canadian markets. With a timber exterior and a PVC-U jamb liner, Ecotilt comes in an easy-to-assemble system form. It doesn’t need any specialist skills to put it together - just a few ‘clicks.’ Find out more at www.ecotilt.com.

“Making traditional timber vertical sliders can be a nightmare,” Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, explains. “They’re fiddly and hard to get right, with a different specification for each one. Because Ecotilt is so easy to put together – with minimal routing and joinery - it cuts down the long lead and installation times that eat into profit margins.”

Launched at GlassBuild 2007, Mighton’s new screwless Boston Hinge allows easy removal of sashes for cleaning and retouching with no need to get on a ladder. Fitting is also simpler - because it’s screw-less, it’s quicker to install sashes than with traditional 10-screw baton rod hinges so installers can fit more timber sash windows in a day, improving their margins.

The premium sash hardware specialist’s Boston Hinge needs no screws because it’s secured through the barrel of the hinge. It’s designed to allow the staff bead to be swung out of position giving access to the bottom sash so it can be easily tilted and removed. And in keeping with the look of a traditional timber sash, there’s a brass knob handle.

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton Products, comments: “We launched the Boston Hinge at GlassBuild 2007 to a fantastic reception. It makes fitting sashes easier, quicker and safer – which means better margins.”

Paxton Restoration has restored 40 timber sash windows with Mighton Ventlocks at an old dairy in Hertfordshire, which has been converted into four luxury apartments. Craig Boddington from architects Michael Cook Associates, who designed and specified the project, states: “Mighton Ventlocks were recommended by an experienced joiner. They are a great invention - allowing the windows to be left open a few inches for ventilation without compromising security. It’s also an excellent way to prevent children from opening a sash unsupervised, especially windows at first floor and above. On this project they have allowed us to use the existing windows, retaining the character of the property, whilst meeting the requirements of the Building Regulations.”

Richard Sullivan, Director of Paxton Restoration, explains: “There’s something very satisfying about restoring windows to their former glory with modern hardware so they keep their traditional looks but work beautifully too. We’ve been using Mighton for three years, and it’s our first choice for window hardware. Continual product innovation means Mighton’s range is always the best on the market. The guys at Mighton are always looking for solutions to window problems and are keen to expand and diversify the product range. It’s clear that they’ve got a passion for what they do.”

Mighton’s Ecotilt window system has achieved another industry first - it’s joined the Secured By Design (SBD) initiative, making it the only SBD timber sash window available.

Demand for SBD products is rapidly growing in domestic and commercial sectors, partly driven by the New Crime Strategy launched by the Home Office in July which endorses SBD. The strategy laid down guidelines that actively promote the adoption of SBD in private and public developments.

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, comments: “Architects and specifiers are looking for highly secure timber sash windows but until now there simply weren’t any on the market. The combination of a rise in the fear of crime and the Government’s Crime Strategy means that demand for SBD timber sash windows will keep growing. Our customers will be perfectly placed to take advantage and make future developments more secure.”

Companies with combined turnover of over $1 billion sent representatives to Mighton Products stand, at this year's Glassbuild. Mightons' B energy rated timber sash window system, Ecotilt™, proved a hit with visitors who, in a cautious market, are looking for new ways to add value and differentiate.

Mightons' Ecotilt sash window set new standards when it achieved a ‘B' Window Energy Rating. It's done it again. On the 22 nd of June Ecotilt passed BS7950 – ‘Specification for enhanced security performance of windows for domestic applications'. The standard enables the installer, after auditing, to achieve Secured By Design accreditation.

Vincent Kerrigan, Deputy Tech Manager at Chiltern International Fire and Chiltern Dynamics praised the achievement: “In passing the BS7950 standard with a timber sliding sash window, Mighton has in one stroke shattered the defeatist view in the industry, that timber windows are not capable of meeting today's standards.

“ Mike Derham has a keen eye for innovation and design and he and his team went back to the drawing board to address the specific issues presented by a timber sash window. Mighton has invested two years of research and development to manufacture what is proven to be a first-class, robust product, and Chiltern Dynamics was proud to work with the Mighton team.”

Mike Derham , Managing Director of Mighton says: “Classic styling, energy efficiency and police-backed security levels are now all available with Ecotilt. As the PVC-U industry has been quick to recognize, there is a big demand for security tested products as well as energy rated ones. Ecotilt enables them to seize this opportunity and capitalise on architects and specifiers' love affair with timber.”

Sash window hardware specialist Mighton has launched Ecotilt TM , the first ever ‘B' rated vertical slider window kit. With a timber exterior and a PVC-U jamb liner, Ecotilt comes in an easy-to-assemble kit form. It doesn't need any specialist skills to put it together - just a few ‘clicks' and you have an energy efficient vertical slider capable of achieving a BFRC ‘B' rating! Visit www.mightonproducts.com/catalog/eco_tilt_video.php to see a full explanation.

“Ecotilt is unlike anything on the market,” Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, explains, “it's revolutionary. Ecotilt is not only the first ‘B' rated timber sliding sash, it's a unique product in its own right, aimed at joiners and PVC-U installers. Making traditional timber sliding sash windows can be a nightmare, fiddly and hard to get right, with a different specification for each one. Installing sliders (whether timber or PVC-U) can be even harder. Because Ecotilt is so easy to put together – with minimal routing and joinery - it cuts down the long lead and installation times that eat into margins. It's also a fully functional tilting window (hence the name), and both sashes can be removed for cleaning and maintenance from inside.”

Consumer demand for thermally efficient products is rising in the wake of rising energy bills and media coverage on climate change. But homeowners also want low maintenance windows that match the character and increase the value of their properties. With Ecotilt installers can offer homeowners the best of both worlds, and save time on making and fitting too.

Mighton Products, the sash window hardware specialist, has re-designed its website to incorporate a series of instructional films on sash windows.

Managing Director, Mike Derham explains: “Our website is now easier to navigate and still serves the small one-off purchaser and the regular customer with an account. Our full product range remains online, including all the technical specifications, with ordering and next day delivery arranged in a few simple steps. But the new site, www.mightonproducts.com , isn't just an online catalogue. Also available online is ‘Sash Window TV', a series of instructional films designed to help those new to sash window installation or just refreshing their skills. The films cover a wide range of topics from the basic anatomy of sash windows to the installation of innovative products such as ‘Powersash'.

“We appreciate that installers' time is money. The ordering system is straightforward and effective and exactly what you would expect from the pioneer of online ordering for sash window hardware.”

Timber windows are growing fast. The latest bi-annual Timber Windows report, carried out by Michael Rigby Associates in September 2006 which is sponsored by the British Woodworking Federation, found that a balance of 30% of firms expected to sell more timber windows in the next six months (September 2006 - February 2007) as compared to the previous six months (March - August 2006).

Mighton customer, Chris Ross, Owner of Ross Joinery says: “Timber windows are an increasing part of our business. The traditional sash window market is growing so quickly that we are considering specialising in this area after 20 years of traditional joinery and Mighton's sash window hardware fits our requirements.

In the last year I have used Mighton products for two large jobs, one where we had to fabricate and install 15 sash windows to a prebendery - a stone property attached to a church. We replaced single glazed windows with glass units using bigger weights and Mighton's hardware. It's easier to buy from Mighton, 124 miles away, than from local suppliers, because it means I can get it all from one place, and their next day delivery service is invaluable.”

With increased demand for New Build and replacement timber vertical sliders, joinery companies need hardware suppliers to deliver orders as quickly as possible. London-based AA Joinery uses sash hardware specialist Mighton because it's online ordering system is second to none, offering a typical 24 hour turnaround.

"Mighton's online catalogue, www.mightonproducts.com, offers all the hardware we need," explains AA's Director, John Kennedy. "Ordering is quick and easy, taking a fraction of the time needed to order products from other companies. There are far fewer errors with orders too. Mighton's Managing Director, Mike Derham, has been in the sash window industry for over 25 years and really understands the products he sells."

AA Joinery was established in 1981 and manufactures high quality timber windows for residential and public sector properties.

John continues: "We looked at other hardware manufacturers but none offered the range, quality or service that Mighton does. We needed a company that could support us with fast, efficient service every time - and we haven't been disappointed yet!”

Successful property development depends on knowledgeable and reliable suppliers. Surrey based property developers, Aspex, has used Mighton Products for the last nine years for all of its sash window hardware requirements enabling it to expertly renovate period properties.

Felix Deer, Director of Aspex Property Developers Ltd, explains: “On a recent project in Surrey we converted a run down Victorian house into four luxury flats. The property is in a conservation area, so the original sash windows, which were in very poor repair, had to be retained where possible.

“A total of 26 windows were comprehensively refurbished and a number had to be duplicated and replaced. Using Mighton's innovative and modern product range enabled us to maintain the traditional appearance of the windows as well as to eliminate the problems normally associated with sashes. The work was completed to a high standard and on schedule, in no small part due to the excellent products and support from Mighton.

“We use Mighton products because they help our windows look great, run freely, open easily and have no draughts or rattles. We are proud of them and our buyers love them, which is the foundation of our excellent reputation and business.”

Anyone who installs or refurbishes traditional sash windows doesn't need to be reminded how difficult storing and transporting sash weights can be, not to mention the time needed to cut them to the correct size. Just launched by Mighton Products, the sash window hardware specialist , stackable weights allow the joiner or installer to carry a stock of sash weights that can be used in any combination to correctly balance a sash window regardless of its size.

Mike Derham , Managing Director of Mighton, explains: “T he range of sizes of stackable weights we offer means it is possible to make virtually any sash weight, with no cutting required. We provide both cast iron and lead stackable weights, which are silver painted for health protection during handling. And because the weights stack, they can be stored tidily and transported without difficulty, making installers lives easier.”

Next generation products can be over-hyped. Remember the fanfare that preceded the Sinclair C5? But Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton Products, a premium sash window hardware specialist, explains that the upgraded version of Fenestrator, has new benefits that are hard to overstate.

“The first version of Fenestrator, a manually operated system that allows heavy sliding sash window - timber or PVC - to be opened, made a difference to many homeowners. It enabled them to open heavy or difficult to get to sash windows – sometimes for the first time in years. But we thought that now homeowners could open them, wouldn’t they want to secure them once open? This gave us the inspiration for the next generation of Fenestrator. The new style handle, which folds discreetly into the main body of Fenestrator, also locks the window firmly in any position. Security is becoming a major issue in the window industry. Being able to offer your customers innovative ways of securing sash windows is an invaluable selling point.”

Visit www.mightonproducts.com for more details.

The high level of coverage that security issues are receiving in the media, for example Secured by Design in the window trade press, is proof that security remains a leading issue. This is why Mighton, the premium sash window hardware specialist, has launched its new PVC-U Ventlock to help customers offer the best possible security to homeowners.

Customer feedback has shown that homeowners are buying windows not just for the style or finish but are considering security when making their purchase. Ventlock is discretely installed into the top sash window, six inches above the meeting rail. When deployed it prevents the bottom window from being opened further.

Ventlock is quick and simple to install;

• Drill hole
• Insert Ventlock
• Drill rivet holes
• POP rivet Ventlock to the sash
• Conceal rivets with self adhesive trims

As with all of Mighton’s products, Ventlock is being tested to all relevant standards for window. Enabling PVC-U sash window fabricators and installers to offer their customers the peace of mind that comes with fully tested security products.

‘Fiddly, time consuming and sometimes painful’ - how tensioning a spiral balance was described before the launch of Mighton’s adjustable pivot shoe, Ultrashoe, last year. The sash window hardware specialist has now taken the design a step further, incorporating new benefits.

Mike Derham, Managing Director, explains: “Launching Ultrashoe last year was a great success, but Mighton’s not one to rest on its laurels. With the original Ultrashoe we designed it so that once weighed and replaced in the frame installers don’t have to hold the weight of the sash when tensioning. Reducing it to a simple three step procedure; open the sash on its pivot, insert your screwdriver and turn until the correct tension is reached.

After some feedback from customers, complaining about the time it takes to remove a sash window for weighing, maintenance or cleaning, we wanted to see how this could be reduced too. The new design, suitable for clockwise and anti-clockwise tensioning balances, enables the sash to be pivoted to 90 degrees and then simply lifted from the frame, making Ultrashoe a real time and money saver.”

The annual GM Fundraising Gala Dinner, held 17 June 2006, raised over £50,000 for Hope House, a charity providing palliative care and support to terminally ill children and their families. Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton Products, the sash window hardware specialist, donated a luxury holiday on the Caribbean island of Tobago and is amazed with the generosity of the winning bid.

“When I made the offer I thought it would help raise a bit more, but the level of generosity surprised me, with the winning bid reaching £15,000. Because of this, I made a phone call and managed to extend the holiday from seven to 10 nights. More importantly, to raise a total of over £50,000 on the night is great and makes a big difference to those in need. The success of this year’s dinner means that I’m definitely going to be involved in next year’s event.”

This weekend luminaries from the fenestration industry, attending the GM Fundraising Gala Dinner, get the chance to bid for a stunning week’s break on the paradise island of Tobago courtesy of Mighton Products, the sash window hardware specialist.

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, says chequebooks should be at the ready: “We think a special charity, such as GM Fundraising, deserves as much support as possible. Raising money doesn’t have to be hard work or boring - as I think will be evident by the fancy dress on Saturday night. With this in mind, we believe that the best way to contribute to GM Fundraising is to donate a week’s holiday on a tropical island in a private five star villa.

The winning bidder will find that Tobago is a great place to begin charity.”

The annual GM Fundraising Gala Dinner, held to raise funds for terminally ill children and their families, is being supported by Mighton Products, the sash window hardware specialist, this year. Gary Morton, Chairman of GM Fundraising, explains why donations are so important: “Most hospices providing palliative care receive very little funding from the health service. So it’s important to keep fundraising on their behalf to ensure that the best care is given when it’s most needed.

Mighton Products has generously donated a week’s holiday at an exclusive Villa in Tobago as the star prize for the auction being held at the Gala Dinner. It’s a five star residence and past guests have included pop stars and celebrities. So I’m confident, that with such a great prize, we will generate a lot of interest and raise a lot of money.”

The Gala Dinner takes place on the 17th June at The Palace Hotel, Manchester. For details of other GM Fundraising activities, visit www.gmfundraising.co.uk.

Mighton Products, the premium sash window hardware specialist, has opened a US office in Orlando, Florida. Business Development Director, David Warr is in charge of American sales and market development: “Mighton can offer quality products and systems never before seen in the USA. The market to date hasn’t had a real innovator.”

The aim of an overseas presence for Mighton is to grow awareness of its innovative products like Powersash, the world’s first fully integrated powered sash window mechanism, and Fenestrator, a manually operated system that allows even the heaviest sliding sash window – timber or PVC-U – to be opened easily. Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, explains the expansion: “Mighton’s innovative products are well received in a market that’s always looking for advancement. Our research and development will continue for the UK market but it’s just as relevant to the US market. I think America is ready for us!”

Sliding sashes, known as ‘double hung windows’ over there, are the windows of choice in the States with sashes making up 30-40% of all replacement windows.

Mike Derham continues: “The US remodelling and restoration market offers real potential. With housing stock at a mean age of about 34 years, many homes are ripe for window replacement, helped by a new tax incentive that encourages window buying.”

As well as new lines, David Warr will promote Mighton’s generic hardware to the 3-4 million commercial home renovators looking for quality sash window accessories and architectural ironmongery. “One of the key drivers in the US for 2006 is premium products. Many more American homeowners expect a practical, aesthetically pleasing and upmarket look for replacement windows.

“I’m really pleased to be representing Mighton” says David Warr, who has been supporting British businesses in the US since 1999 (see below). “I believe we can create a new and serious market leader contender to compete with existing suppliers.”

David Warr MIEx.LAE
Following an international career in the aviation industry, culminating in a senior management position, David returned from work in the USA, Brunei, Singapore and Abu Dhabi, to Britain in 1987. After gaining various academic qualifications Dip in Export Marketing Management he provided export consultancy for local government which led to the development of a multi-disciplined consultancy practice in 1993, where he was Chief Executive. In 1997 this company formed an alliance group, Euro-Link Partnership UK Ltd. In 1999 David moved his business to Florida to continue business and market development projects for US and European companies. His work there included support for small and medium-sized companies as part of UK Government Business Link and Enterprise Florida initiatives.

Sash windows are increasingly specified in new developments. McCarthy and Stone, the leading retirement home builder, reflecting this trend, recently specified Mighton Products sash window hardware for it’s newly built retirement home, Imperial Court, in Clacton-on-Sea.

Peter Alderman, Customer Services Manager at McCarthy and Stone, explains the choice: “We had always dealt directly with the window manufacturers before but I needed some specific, high quality hardware. So I searched the internet and found Mighton. I asked for some samples and when they arrived we installed them. We were so impressed that we installed the hardware on the other 300 sashes.”

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, says it’s something that’s happening more often: “Sash windows are often seen as a niche market, but they are becoming more popular in a wide range of developments. McCarthy and Stone used our assisted lift balances to help the residents operate the window. Old, draughty and rattling sash windows are a thing of the past. The modern version of the sash window still retains its classic good looks and with innovative, high quality hardware it lends itself to all types of property.”

The owner of a Victorian town house in Hadleigh, Suffolk, is delighted after spending £7,000 to have seven PVC-U windows removed and replaced with hardwood sash windows and Mighton sash hardware. “The new owner is a surveyor with Suffolk County Council,” says Tim Butcher, Managing Director of Brett Valley Joinery. “She felt it was important to put the property back to its original condition, and the right choice of sash windows and hardware was very important. Having reliable and strong gearing on the sashes means the customer will stay happy for many years to come and we won’t be needed for interim repairs.”

Based in Hadleigh, Suffolk, Brett Valley Joinery has been in business for over a decade, “We use Mighton because they are a supplier dedicated to sash windows,” says Tim. “They know their products and they are excellent for delivery. I can call them at 3.55 pm and I will have the delivery here the next morning. I send them the order form with the sash window measurements, state whether it is hard or soft wood, and they work out the sash balances for the weight.”

Tim estimates that the 2005 market was down by 10-15% on 2004. With increased legislation and upgraded standards, it costs more to make windows with all the extras. “The high quality of the hardware and customer service means that I get real value for money and I can honestly say I will be staying loyal to Mighton.”

Brighton’s Regency architecture isn’t all as grand as George IV’s magnificent Royal Pavilion, but throughout the town are examples of its 18th century heritage. Today, many Regency terraces are being restored by homeowners’ intent on retaining the charm of these elegant town houses. All Regency houses in Brighton have sash windows, many of which are renovated using products from ML Banfield, & Sons Ltd. The local family firm has provided locks, latches, handles and architectural ironmongery to the residents of Brighton since 1856 – nearly as long as the Regency buildings of Brighton have been standing. Mighton sash window components have appeared in their product range for the past fifteen years.

Philip Banfield, partner in the business, says: “Our sash hardware sales are steady year on year. We buy our stock from Mighton because they have provided impeccable quality products, service and delivery. We value their next day delivery; Mighton is a premium sash window hardware specialist and hasn’t let us down in fifteen years.”

“We specialise in the designs and standards demanded by installers of sash windows in heritage buildings” says Mike Derham, Managing Director, Mighton. “It’s in everyone’s interest to consistently supply the quality products and flexible service our customers need; that’s why we have long-term relationships with them”.

Philip Banfield adds: “We have a long standing reputation to keep up and can only do this through good customer service and good quality hardware.”

Hardware development is set to become a major point of differentiation. Homeowners want to see and feel progress. Classically designed timber windows will always remain popular with a section of the market, but to broaden the appeal and increase market share it has to be supported by improvements in energy efficiency, reliability, longevity and security.

For further information contact Mike Derham at Mighton on 01223 497097 or email mike@mightonproducts.com

*1 © Copyright BWF and Michael Rigby Associates, The Bi-Annual Timber Windows Survey.
*2 Bloomberg 28.02.06
*3 Home Improvement Research Institute/Global Insight, US

When a company has been trading successfully for over 50 years it has to be doing something right. Joinery manufacturers of high quality sash windows, A & W Gowers Limited of Chelmsford, Essex is a family concern with an excellent local reputation. To uphold that reputation the firm has to work closely with the right suppliers. Production manager Ian Gowers chose a supplier that would meet his standards. He chose Mighton.

“As a premium sash window hardware specialist, Mighton offers us all the solutions for sash windows,“ said Ian. “Because they are specialist they can tackle any situation or specification we ask for. We send over the dimensions and weights of the windows and Mighton does the calculations for the balances. We trust them because we've never experienced any failed or wrong specs. Being able to remain flexible is important for us as it enables us to meet our customers changing demands.”

Ian Gowers, who works alongside his father and uncle in the business, is pleased that Mighton can offer a high quality product with the flexibility the company needs.

Mike Derham, Mighton's Managing Director, says: “We pride ourself on being adaptable enough to supply every customer, from plcs to sole traders, with the products and service they need for effective and successful trading. We value A & W Gowers' business and understand its reputation is riding on our quality and reliability.”

Mighton Products, which offers premium sash window hardware, is the first choice for MH Joinery from Bridgwater, Somerset, when it comes to quality, aesthetics and security. With the British Crime Survey of 2002/03 reporting 24% of all burglaries in England and Wales occurring via a window that was open or that was forced open, MH Joinery is bolstering its standard specification with Mighton's Ventlock, as Lee Scampton, Sales Director, explains: “Because of our reputation we get a lot of demand from specifiers and architects who want to reinstate or replace existing timber windows but, increasingly, also upgrade the security of the building. Mighton's Ventlock, which complies with ISO 9002, solved the problem.”

Lee continues: “We've used Mighton Products for eight of our twelve years in business. The Ventlock allows timber sash windows to be securely locked in an open position so our customers feel safe. It is discreet, strong, a theft deterrent and child proof, as well as being uncluttered and aesthetically pleasing. The range, which is easy to fit on site, fits in nicely with our own range of finishes - brass, chrome and satin chrome. We do a lot of work for local authorities, who are increasingly replacing timber with timber, as well as listed buildings and conservation areas. Maintaining high standards of workmanship as well as offering value and security is enabling us to lead the sash window revival.”

When Mighton Products, a premium sash window hardware specialist, decided it needed a new face to use in its latest promotional campaign, it looked for someone who could genuinely benefit from its products. Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, explains: “Using a celebrity to endorse your products can back fire. Just ask Chanel about Kate Moss! So we knew we had to be selective when choosing someone to promote our range of sash window opening aids. Fortunately we found Betty Hoskin, who is a regular face on Graham Norton’s TV shows.”

“We could have gone for a youthful model, but we wanted someone who, in reality, could benefit from our products and Betty, who is 83, found both Fenestrator™, a manually operated system that allows the heaviest sliding sash window to be opened easily, and Powersash™, the world’s first fully integrated powered sash window mechanism easy to use. We will be using Betty in the coming months as the face of Mighton, so keep an eye out for her big grin!”

Everyone knows someone who hates computers. And not everyone that uses computers has eagerly embraced the internet. But still many companies have put all their efforts into online marketing and forgotten the more humble media of the catalogue. Mighton Products Ltd, a premium sash window hardware specialist, has recently launched an A5 catalogue that works with its website to cater for as many as possible customers.

The 31 page catalogue contains 92 items, including Mighton’s innovative suite of Powersash™, Fenestrator™ and Ultrashoe™. Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, explains: “Many sash window hardware companies rely entirely on their websites to communicate with their customers. We felt it was important not to forget that some fabricators and installers still like to refer to catalogues rather than visit websites. The added benefit for installers is that if they can’t get online to our website when they are on a job and need to order something, they can refer to the catalogue and place their order over the phone. And if it’s before 4.30pm we can have the items out to them the next day. This helps us maintain the fast and reliable service that installers need.”

For your free copy of the catalogue call 0800 0560471 or click here to request one

Under the Disability Discrimination Act 2004, housing specifiers and managers are obliged to make provisions for the disabled. It can be difficult to do this effectively while keeping costs down, particularly in older properties. Sliding sash windows, a common feature in older properties, are generally bigger, heavier, and more difficult to open than casements, but replacing them can be expensive. Modern sashes which are heavier, taking into account the double glazing required by Building Regulations, and the more robust frames needed to support it. Mighton, the premium sash window hardware specialist, has spent five years designing and testing the Powersash™ system. Powersash™ takes the strain out of opening and closing sash windows. The window can be opened, at the touch of a button, either by remote control or a wall mounted control panel.

Due to its fully integrated design the Powersash™ preserves the traditional style and originality of the window whilst ensuring that the effort of opening is minimal. Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton explains: “A key benefit of Powersash™ is the ability to be adapted to new build or retro-fitted. Installers, with only standard joinery skills can fit the Powersash™ using its fast bolt on process.” Mike continues: “It’s ideal for the aged or infirm, and particularly appropriate for Residential and Nursing Homes, many of which are based in older buildings.”

Today’s consumer is both prudent and knowledgeable. They like to ‘try before they buy’. This can be a problem if you are a fabricator or installer. A few glossy photos of some windows now may not be enough. Mighton Products Ltd, premium sash window hardware specialist, has combated this by producing a new CD.

The CD contains a full catalogue and demonstrations of all their products. This includes animated movies which help customers visualize the impact they can have. The disc which is less than eight centimetres in diameter works in any normal CD drive. Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, says: “The advantages of having this disc means that fabricators can use it as a demonstrator and as a sales aid. It also means that if installers are out and about and need to access technical information, they can still view our full range of products.” To get hold of a disc ring 0800 0560471.

Anyone who has installed a sash window knows how difficult and time consuming adjusting the balance can be. As double glazing technology gets more advanced, vertical sliders have got heavier and harder to adjust, but pivot shoe design has remained the same for the last 20 years. Ultrashoe is a new patented adjustable pivot shoe, which allows the tensioning of the balance in a sash window, without removing the spring. Recently launched by Mighton Products, the premium manufacturer of advanced hardware products for sash windows , it’s just one of a new range of products to revolutionise the UK window industry.

Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, gives further details: “With Ultrashoe you just open the sash on its pivot, insert the screwdriver, turn until the desired tension is achieved and then close the window. It’s that easy. The benefit to installers and fabricators is two fold, as it’s such a simple process that sashes can also readjusted by the homeowner at a later date – there’s no need to call the installer back in.

Mike continues: “Standard pivot shoes are more prone to breakage as sash windows become heavier - Ultrashoe is proven to be more robust.”

Mighton Products Ltd is a market leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of advanced hardware products for sash windows. Mighton offers a comprehensive product range, and has recently introduced a suite of innovative products to revolutionise the window industry.

Fenestrator is a retro-fitted easy-opening device. Easy to turn with one hand, Fenestrator takes the strain out of opening and closing sash windows, even the largest and heaviest. It doesn’t interfere with the tilt action of PVC-U vertical sliders, and gives easier access to windows that are partially blocked or difficult to reach. Other diversification products often require lengthy installation training, but Fenestrator is easy to fit – it’s a simple, bolt-on procedure with no complicated adjustments. Because it’s retro-fitted, installers can sell Fenestrator to homeowners who want to keep their original sash windows but find them difficult to open.

Ultrashoe is a patented adjustable pivot shoe, which allows the tensioning of the balance in a sash window, without removing the spring. “Anyone who has installed a sash window knows how difficult and time consuming adjusting the balance can be,” comments Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton. “But with Ultrashoe you just open the sash on its pivot, insert the screwdriver, turn until the desired tension is achieved and then close the window. It’s that easy.”

Mighton’s pièce de resistance is Powersash, the worlds’ first fully integrated powered sash window – for timber and PVC-U. Built-in, bespoke software enables Powersash to calibrate itself, measuring the size and weight of the window when initially installed. A special safety feature also prevents fingers from being squashed when the window closes. It can also lock the window in any position for maximum security. Because it is integrated into the window and not face-mounted, appearance is hardly affected. The mechanism requires no modification to existing PVC-U profiles.

With the domestic replacement market for PVC-U windows reaching saturation point, and fabricators and installers looking for new opportunities to make up the missing volume, Ultrashoe, Fenestrator and the Powersash can open up the sash window market.

With the first quarter of 2005 behind us and the election finshed, many windows companies assume that the worst is over, and that the industry will begin to bounce back. “They are wrong,” states Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, the premium sash window hardware specialist. “With the economy slowing and saturation in the core casement replacement market affecting even the biggest systems companies, the window industry needs new markets. And there are opportunities out there. Vertical sliders, for example, are a profitable, relatively untapped market. Twenty percent of housing stock in the UK is pre World War One, and most of those contain vertical sliders which are yet to be replaced.”

Vertical sliders - sliding sash windows - are generally bigger, heavier, and more difficult to open than casements. Modern sashes are even heavier, with double glazing and more robust frames.

Fenestrator, a new, retro-fitted, easy-opening device, is designed and manufactured by Mighton. Easy to turn with one hand, Fenestrator takes the strain out of opening and closing sash windows, even the largest and heaviest. It doesn’t interfere with the tilt action of PVC-U vertical sliders, and gives easier access to windows that are partially blocked or difficult to reach.

Fensestrator is suitable for all PVC-U and timber sash windows, whether weight or spring balanced. “A key benefit is Fenestrator’s ability to be retro-fitted. Installers can sell Fenestrator to homeowners who want to keep their original sash windows but find them difficult to open,” explains Mike. “Companies can easily sell Fenestrator as an extension of their services. The Disability Discrimination Act 2004 is opening up the market for products that help the aged or infirm. There is huge potential for the Grey and Disabled markets, particularly Residential and Nursing Homes, Local Government and Housing Associations.”

Mike continues: “Unlike other diversification products, which require lengthy installation training, Fenestrator is easy to fit – it’s a simple, bolt-on procedure. It doesn’t need any complicated adjustments. It’s the ideal add-on product.”

Under the Disability Discrimination Act 2004, service providers are obliged to make provisions for the disabled. It can be difficult to do this effectively and still keep costs down, particularly in older properties. Sliding sash windows, for example, are generally bigger, heavier, and more difficult to open than casements, but replacing them can be expensive. Modern sashes are even heavier, especially when you take into account the double glazing required by Building Regulations, and the more robust frames needed to support it.

Fenestrator , a new, retro-fitted, easy-opening device, is designed and manufactured by Mighton, the premium sash window hardware specialist. Easy to turn with one hand, Fenestrator takes the strain out of opening and closing sash windows, even the largest and heaviest. It doesn’t interfere with the tilt action of PVC-U vertical sliders, and gives easier access to windows that are partially blocked or difficult to reach.

“Unlike other opening devices,” says Managing Director Mike Derham, “which can be heavy, slow and complicated to use, Fenestrator has a streamlined design and is easy to fit. It doesn’t need any complicated adjustments.

“Fenestrator is suitable for all PVC-U and timber sash windows, whether weight or spring balanced. A key benefit is Fenestrator’s ability to be retro-fitted. It’s easier and cheaper to fit Fenestrator on sash windows than simply replacing them with casements. Sash windows are also often more attractive than casements, and more in keeping with the character of many properties. Fenestrator opens up the options,” explains Mike.

“It’s ideal for the aged or infirm, and particularly appropriate for Residential and Nursing Homes, Local Authorities and Housing Associations.”

Fenestrators are also very useful for wheelchair users, since the winder can be set at a height to suit them. The fact that it can be operated with one hand by a wheelchair user allows them to position themselves sideways on, to bring them closer to the window. You only have to imagine how they would go about trying to carry out this task without a Fenestrator to see how valuable this simple device is.

The company also has an electric version for those with more severe mobility restrictions, but the simplicity of the installation and the low cost means that the Fenestrator will be an easier sell.

Professional Builder Feb 2005

It’s currently in the final testing stages with Mighton the UK’s leading sash window hardware specialists … and managing
director Mike Derham is excited by the potential: “As the market for windows gets increasingly more competitive, fabricators are
looking for a ‘hook’ to counteract falling prices … a motorised window system is a natural progression,” he told Clearview editor Keith Dixon.

“We’ve designed the prototype to fit, initially, into a Rehau extrusion, so that the bottom sash can be motorised – and the
unit doesn’t interfere with the tilting operation."
“The unit will be very simple to fit. It’ll be ready for testing early in the New Year, and will then subsequently re-design the unit
casing to fit other window systems. The potential is huge … as is already being proved by our manual aid, the Fenestrator".