Coronavirus – Which Windows and Doors Companies are open for Business

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Nick Dardalis

Updated on

See this post with updated information about the second lockdown in November 2020

With the Coronavirus/Covid-19 in the headlines, what is the door and window industry doing to reassure customers during these uncertain times? Like any industry right now, window and door companies across the supply chain are following official advice and putting measures in place, to protect their customers and their staff.

At the bottom of this article is a current update on the types of work being done right now and why. You can also read more information about what this now extended lockdown means for the window industry.

As of mid-April, a significant number of businesses are now implementing a staged and careful approach to re-open. They’re putting in additional safety measures, re-organising production and warehouse areas and carrying out careful risk assessments.

How the supply chain is currently operating.

To help homeowners and the trade understand better how the supply chain is operating, we’ve separated the three key tiers of the supply chain. Systems companies, manufacturers and installers. In the comments column, where available we’ve linked to their relevant website statements.

The names are just a handful of the many thousands of businesses operating in the fenestration sector and give a snapshot of the industry.

Systems Companies

Towards the top of the supply chain, systems companies supply bar length and accessories. All UK systems companies are substantial operations, employing a lot of staff and with complex operations. Broadly speaking, most have ceased manufacturing and distributions. Some are operating a much-reduced service. Others are supporting manufacturers working in NHS, MOD or other essential contracts. Our table below shows some of the major systems companies and their position.

NameStatusComments
Aluk Partially OpenHelping customers restart
Aluprof UKOpenStatement from Aluprof HQ
Alutech SystemsNot Known
Comar SystemsOpenRemote services
DeceuninckClosedSome remote services
Epwin GroupPartially OpenSome remote services
Exlabesa SystemsNot Known
Garnalex ClosedServices suspended 1st April
Jack AluminiumNot Known
IKON AluminiumOpen Open from 20th April
Kestrel SystemsPartially OpenScaled back services
Kawneer SystemsOpen
Liniar SystemsPlanned openingPlanned re-open 7th May
Metal TechnologyOpenOpen from 22nd April
Reynaers SystemsOpenUpdated Reynaers statement
Senior ArchitecturalPartially OpenRead the latest update
Schuco SystemsOpenReduced Services
Smart SystemsOpen27th April service update

Major Manufacturers

Major manufacturers are those medium-large trade fabricators or those also installing in the commercial sector. Generally speaking, most are closed although some are also operating a skeleton staff and/or quotation and order processing services. Some of these are also active in the commercial sector whether fabricating or installing and are required to service active construction sites.

There are also companies buying fabricated products from manufacturing bases in Europe. We are advised by these businesses that European factories are open and deliveries coming to the UK. As a result they can provide quotations and process orders.

As of 24th April, most are now planning a staged re-opening while continuing to adhere to official guidelines and carrying out risk assessments.

NameStatusComments
Acorn AluminiumOpen Restart of Manufacture
Alufold DirectOpenOpen 18th May
Arkay WindowsClosedLatest company information
Everglade WindowsPartially
Open
Remote services & support
Express Bifolding DoorsOpenClear statement on operations
Centor UKNot Known
CDW SystemsOpenAnnouncing 27th April opening
Customade/Real/AtlasOpenCompany statement on reopening
CWG ChoicesOpenAluminium from 27th April
Duration WindowsOpenStatement from Duration
Dekko WindowsClosed
Dutemann UKPartially
Open
Remote services & support
Granada Secondary Partially OpenLimited service information
Howells Patent GlazingOpenServicing customers
Made for TradeOpenOpen from 4th May
Origin Frames LtdOpenApril statement from Origin
Pioneer Trading Co.Open Servicing NHS/essential work
Pyramid AluminiumOpen
Sunflex UKPartially OpenRemote services and support
SunparadiseOpenFactories operational
SolarluxPartially OpenQuotations/orders processed
Swan Doors & WindowsClosedOpening 27th April
Whiteline ManufacturingPartially OpenQuotes & product support

There are numerous suppliers serving the fenestration sector for hardware, finishing, and other essential components or services. Some of the well-known ones we list in this table.

NameService StatusComments
Aluminium ShapesExtrusions
Fabrications
OpenOpen from 27th April
Debar HardwareComponents
Hardware
Open
Dual Seal GlassGlassOpenOpen from 20th April
Morley GlassIntegral BlindsOpen Operations Restarted
Hitech BlindsIntegral BlindsClosedServicing clients/remote working
Vertik-al Powder CoatingOpenRe-open 20th April
Superior GroupPowder CoatingOpenOpen from 20th April
CMK TreatmentsPowder CoatingOpen
Metal Coating ServicesPowder CoatingOpen
Reddiplex GroupSeals/GasketsNot Known
Finish ArchitecturalMetal FabricationOpenFully open 20th April
Building ProfilesHardwareClosedClosed until further notice
Mila HardwareHardwareOpenLimited service statement
DuffelsHardwareOpenKey Service- remains open
Parkside AximHardwareOpen
GlazpartHardwareOpenContinue to operate
SE ControlsMechanismsPartially OpenEssential Activities Only
Glass SystemsGlassOpen SoonStatement on LinkedIn
Tripleseal IG GlassOpen
Thermoseal GroupGlass ComponentsOpen
GlassolutionsGlassPartially
Open
Glass processing sites closed
Clayton GlassGlassOpenSites open
Padiham GlassGlassOpenRestart of Manufacture
Saint GobainGlassOpenGradual opening from 27th April
SupertuffGlassClosedOpen from 4th May
Window WareHardwareOpenPhased reopening

Home improvement showrooms and installers.

For home improvement showrooms, there are many currently servicing enquiries and even taking orders. While their showrooms may be closed and their manufacturers also shut, they’re found ways to keep working and keep trading even at a reduced level. And we’ve helped some of these.

First of all, much of the home improvement work nowadays doesn’t require the traditional salesman visit in the home any more. In fact, this is a declining service with many. Drawings, plans and a more knowledgable customer means most can prepare accurate quotations.

We’ve found savvy aluminium home improvement companies still selling, still taking deposits and even better for them and their customers, booking production slots with their manufacturers. They can do this because most major manufacturers operate online ordering systems. Therefore, when we all return to work, these installers will have booked the production slots in advance. And where jobs require a survey they can do this while working safely, responsibly and to official guidelines.

Others have set up video links to their showrooms. Using Facetime, Skype, Facebook messenger and other video apps, we’ve experience of window companies having one member of staff in a showroom and demonstrating products to the customer at home.

The customer can show them their old door, the wall they want knocked out, and more. That is enough for an expert home improvement company to provide a quotation and keep working. The customer gets a service too.

Additionally, many are now more active on their social media pages, engaging with potential customers and keeping customer service going.

Homeowners, choosing the right business, are therefore well-placed to still plan or book their forthcoming projects if they want to. They won’t get a firm installation date, but they will at least have planned and pre-booked.

While the advice is to avoid non-essential contact, it’s also possible to think and plan future home improvements online. And our research indicates installers are responding and adapting well to the current situation.

There are also those home improvement companies that are doing their bit for the community and helping their brand too. We know of businesses making their storage units and showrooms available to charities and local groups to store food and essentials, vans for deliveries to the needy and elderly.

We are updating this article on a regular basis.

The situation with the diverse supply chain that is windows and doors is not the same for everyone. Following the advice of the Government has meant some systems companies, manufacturers and suppliers have had to change their policy. Not only are they trying to do their best for their customers, staff and the public, but they’re also trying to service a complex customer base.

Some have fully closed with all operations suspended. Most have their staff working from home. Others are continuing to operate albeit with a much-reduced service and complying with official advice.

Importantly, many businesses are directly or indirectly involved in the construction sector. Not just for windows but powder coating, metal fabrications and other material used extensively on construction sites. Therefore, while there is a grey area around construction, some commercially orientated installers are continuing to work while following Government guidelines.

We are being contacted by window installers and manufacturers telling us they’re either actively involved in ongoing work, or receiving actual orders. NHS, Government or other essential work. This includes work such as converting existing buildings or building new ones. This is just one area needing new windows and doors. Systems companies need to provide material, manufacturers need to make it and installers are needed to fit it.

But it’s not just windows and doors. Related industries are also working alongside fenestration to get the facilities needed completed fast. Window ventilation and smoke control systems, fire door actuators, remote window controls, aluminium partition systems and even PVCu doors used to make infection control doors and privacy screens in hospitals.

Some domestic installers with no experience in anything other than their local replacement window work remain critical of others in the window supply chain continuing to work. Windows and doors, replacing draughty old windows in a home, may not be essential work. Converting or building a much-needed hospital or other government facilities right now is.

Some companies have made the decision to close altogether. We respect their decision. Others have made a decision to service essential contracts and support their commercial fabricators and doing everything they can to keep safe too.

If you can work from home, you must. You cannot operate a saw, machining centre, welder or fit these windows from home. If the workplace is open then observe the guidelines and let’s keep a steady focus even in these difficult times.

The message remains to Stay at Home, Protect the NHS and Save Lives.

The Aluminium Trade Supply Website is also here to help.

As an online free information resource, we are here to help, advising and informing on aluminium windows and doors, putting you in touch with the right suppliers. Get in touch with us today.

Providing expert help to homeowners and trade professionals since 2010

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Andrew DOBSONAndrew DOBSON
16:42 30 Oct 23
Nick responded incredibly quickly to my enquiry (on a Saturday too!), and was able to offer invaluable advice on both aluminum systems and manufacturer / suppliers. Thanks Nick!
chris steerchris steer
16:18 09 Oct 23
Had a meeting with Nick during the grand designs show. Was extremely helpful and professional would highly recommend
Chris WesthorpChris Westhorp
19:55 13 Sep 23
Extremely helpful with pointing us in the right direction to find the products we required and suggesting firms that could reliably fit them.Nick was quick to reply and very detailed in his advice.Highly recommend reaching out to them.
Cathy GreenwoodCathy Greenwood
07:03 11 Sep 23
Update - A second email to nick for help on bifolds resulted in a detailed informative reply even on a Sunday ! This guy is so knowledgable and helpful .I approached Nick for an independent view on sliding doors v bifold and the different brand options . His reply was extremely detailed and prompt and allowed me to navigate this often confusing world in a much more informed way . Thanks so much Nick
Anthony CraigAnthony Craig
12:45 05 Sep 23
This is a must site for anyone looking for advice. Great service and very quick answers to questions. Nick has been of great help quiding us through the maze of aluminium products. Thank you
Philip DuffieldPhilip Duffield
20:24 26 Jul 23
I contacted Nick @ ATS for guidance on what aluminium sliding door systems would be suitable for an opening in an extension that is going to be both wide and tall. He came back really quickly with very detailed and incredibly helpful advice. He is clearly extremely knowledgeable about the systems on the market and their respective features and capabilities. If you’re feeling a bit lost by the overwhelming range of choices out there, I’d definitely recommend contacting him.
Dariush HekmatDariush Hekmat
17:25 19 Jul 23
Nick's advice is great. He is always quick to respond and spends time on responses, which really help to make an informed decision.
Alan FosterAlan Foster
07:51 12 Jul 23
Absolutely fantastic. Asked for advice about replacing Crittall (?) windows late last night and early this morning received 3 great suggestions and contact information for suppliers
Rachel LauRachel Lau
09:24 16 Jun 23
Fantastic website full of valuable and pragmatic advice about product selection and comparison: no other website gives information like this. Truly written for public interest. Don't hesistate to reach out to Nick via the mailing system. He responds very quickly, is friendly, and has very sound and high knowledgable advice. I have already shared this with my friend planning her own grand design.
guard Charlieguard Charlie
12:28 14 May 23
I emailed this company just on the off chance they could help me with new magnetic sliders for my patio door. They were not able to supply those but were so very helpful providing me with the name of a company who could. I am so very grateful at the great service. Dare say customers must be very happy. thank you so much.
Benjamin LewisBenjamin Lewis
10:06 04 May 23
Nick is very helpful indeed. Extremely knowledgeable on bifolds which was in relation to my query. Great website as well, some very useful articles. Particularly appreciated the article that lists all the major bifold options in order of their sightlines! Thank you!
P JonesP Jones
08:07 15 Apr 23
I asked Nick some questions about an installation we were considering and he replied within hours with some very useful suggestions that will probably lead us to using a different make and supplier. Thanks, Nick. Great work.
Nicholas WallNicholas Wall
13:18 02 Apr 23
Looking for fair and honest expert advice on all aspect of aluminium windows and doors? These guys will arm you with all the information you need to make the RIGHT choice in a highly complex, crowded marketplace. post a question and you will get a very quick professional answer you can rely on being based on fact. Thanks guys!
Giorgia SiriacoGiorgia Siriaco
16:25 21 Mar 23
After a lot of research to find doors that would meet our unusual size requirements and feeling increasingly uncertain about the best way to spend our small budget, I stumbled on the ATS website, and I'm so glad I did! I contacted ATS to request advice and Nick promptly replied with a wealth of information, providing us with options and relevant contact details. I only wish I'd found them sooner!
Carol NortonCarol Norton
10:01 17 Mar 23
I've been so confused about how to achieve the look I'm after, and going round in circles with various window/door companies, trying to get away from the huge chunks of plastic currently around my windows. I didn't expect an email to a company found through a Google search to really help - but I was desperate, so I tried. I'm SO glad I did. Finally I have clear explanations from ATS of where I've been going wrong, exactly what I'm looking for, and a list of local companies that might be able to provide it! The response has excelled my expectations and I feel as if I'm finally inching closer to a home with which I'll be happy and comfortable: thank you.
David NunnDavid Nunn
20:54 14 Mar 23
It is rare that I write reviews, however after my very positive communication with Nick - enquiring about suitable slim sash aluminium windows for my project, I felt that a review was definitely warranted. I can reinforce the many positive reviews posted so far, Nick was very quick to respond, providing comprehensive detail, with excellent independent advice.In summary, great service, thank you Nick.
Chantal AuerbachChantal Auerbach
13:04 09 Mar 23
Nick from Aluminium Trade Supply was incredibly helpful informative and pleasant to deal with. He responded quickly to emails and was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend being in touch with Nick if you are considering new aluminium windows or doors.
Lee JonesLee Jones
20:21 22 Feb 23
I dropped Nick at Aluminium Trade Supply an email re high security slim sightline bi-folds and their alternatives and he responded that quickly (and so comprehensively) that I felt bad I’d not paid him for his time!Nick Sir your product knowledge is outstanding and you are providing a level of service that goes wayyyy above and beyond expectations. I’ll definitely make sure I mention Aluminium Trade Supply to anyone I encounter looking for a fenestration solution 🙏🏼
G JG J
15:13 13 Feb 23
We are looking to replace some old UPVC patios doors with aluminium ones. The ATS website is a great source of advice in an area where clear information is sorely lacking. Having used the website, I then followed this up with a number of specific questions relating to our search, and Nick came back very quickly with clear, detailed and very useful advice.I have been very impressed with both the website and with Nick's advice. My only regret is that I didn't come across ATS before replacing various windows in 2021 - I'm sure it would have saved me a lot of grief and money! Thanks again Nick.
Azza McCabeAzza McCabe
17:47 01 Feb 23
So impressed with this company.Responded to my query quickly andgave valuable advice. Nick was extremely helpful and we were able to move forward with our project.
Adri LoloçiAdri Loloçi
11:21 08 Jan 23
Nick was super fast to respond and provided some great recommendations. I would recommend this website to anyone looking to find bifold or sliding aluminium doors.
Stephen HoustonStephen Houston
16:16 03 Jan 23
Looking for aluminium crittall style internal door and external patio French doors. Noted good reviews and thought would ask for advice. Comprehensive reply with excellent independent advice and lists of fitters who could provide products and installation. Great service.
Inga GeachInga Geach
08:25 21 Dec 22
Nick from Aluminium Trade Supply has been extremely helpful with navigating the jungle that is aluminium glazing for our upcoming extension project. His advice was prompt, detailed and always impartial. Very grateful for your input, thanks Nick!
Amanda BurtonAmanda Burton
10:54 16 Dec 22
Brilliant website and an excellent service. Nick provided not only detailed advice and supplier contacts, but highlighted the considerations of various products so I could make an informed choice. Our Sunvista minimal sliders were fitted this week and I couldn't be happier, stunning. Thanks once again for your advice and recommendations, invaluable!
Keith BarnesKeith Barnes
17:18 10 Dec 22
Very helpful advice given to my question, including the name of 3 different companies that i could try for the product being enquired about. Many thanks
Munim ChowdhuryMunim Chowdhury
11:45 13 Sep 22
Nick has been very helpful on signposting me to a number of partner organisations for steel/aluminium doors.
SUSAN wallaceSUSAN wallace
17:26 31 Aug 22
My experience with this firm was exceptionally good and this is notalways the case as a female, dipping a toe into technical waters.I was spoken too with courtesy and at a level that helped me consolidate what was needed .On top of that I was given a list of companies and places where I could obtain the type of product I needed.I could not thank them enough and would certainly go there again and reccommend others do too.
Paul SalterPaul Salter
22:39 22 Aug 22
Contacting Aluminium Trade Supply is like contacting the Oracle direct. Advice is always comprehensive and balanced. On multiple occasions they have provided me with options that fully meet our objectives. Many thanks.
Nick McCormackNick McCormack
20:25 14 Aug 22
Really helpful and useful came back to me on a Sunday with some invaluable information. Highly recommended.
ray addisonray addison
13:14 14 Aug 22
received a prompt reply to my query,and helpful information from ATS
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