aïr MOD windows review

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Nick Dardalis

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An independent system designed and made by Everglade Windows in London, aïr MOD windows provide a true alternative to Smart Systems, Aluk, Reynaers, Origin and other similar systems. The overall advantage of aïr MOD windows is their integrated design and components, taking the complexity out of specifying for installers and ease of choosing for homeowners. Above all, these are distinctive and highly attractive aluminium windows for general window replacements or new build openings, and they come in pretty much every window type a project may require.

what are aïr MOD windows

aïr mod windows
aïr MOD windows
grey aluminium windows with a matching grey door

aïr MOD windows provide an excellent alternative to Smart Systems, Aluk, Reynaers or Origin windows because of their holistic and integrated design, substantial styling options and also creating beautiful steel-look, industrial, heritage or Art-Deco windows.

Editor's Rating:
5

Pros

  • Four different styling options
  • Excellent aesthetics and build quality
  • Flush casement and tilt & turn options
  • Suitable for virtually any type of project

Cons

  • Little availability in North of England

aïr MOD windows are the latest generation aluminium windows. They comprise strong but slim aluminium frame profiles with a deep thermal break and are coloured with a professionally-applied powder-coated finish. The philosophy behind the aïr MOD system windows is to simplify specifying, selling and installing aluminium windows. Understanding aluminium windows also just got easier.

The window system is designed and made by , Everglade Windows, one of the best known and longest-established trade fabricators in the UK. Trading over forty years, multi-award-winning, and with one of the most high-tech factories, this London-based fabricator has made aluminium from day one. Over the years, Everglade has dealt with multiple systems such as Smart Systems, Reynaers and Deceuninck PVCu. Everglade Windows do also serve the retail market and have a very experienced Commercial Division, installing their products in housing developments and the wider construction industry.

In creating aïr MOD windows, Everglade set out to create a very attractive collection of aluminium windows. Moreover, the idea behind aïr MOD windows is to create a simpler system with fewer aluminium profiles and less complexity. Simultaneously, the system offers all the choices in several different window types while removing any confusion with the multiple frames, sash and beading options available with other aluminium systems. Within the range, you’ll find:

  • Contemporary and traditional window styles
  • Flush casement windows
  • Steel look and a brand new Heritage steel look
  • Tilt and turn windows

Overall, aïr MOD windows are very easy for the trade to specify and use. They have around 45% fewer components than other systems offering multiple variations of products but all within one system. aïrMOD is also an excellent choice when trying to find slimline aluminium windows.

aïr windows make aluminium easy to understand.

Study the market, and you’ll see multiple aluminium window systems. In the early years of aluminium, products were simple—externally beaded casement windows with a basic set of extrusions, gaskets, seals and accessories.

Over the years, aluminium systems evolved into multiple product types. Many of these use their own series of sections, gaskets, seals and accessories. Fabricators understand the complexities of aluminium systems better because they make the products. Installation companies buying in windows have a different learning process. This is especially the case for surveyors having to understand the options available within a system and the profile combinations needed at the property or to meet a particular installation.

For installers selling aluminium windows, there’s a different learning process. Seals and gaskets, loose sections and accessories, cills and add-ons all add up to window products with a multitude of options and accessories. aïr MOD windows therefore, minimise the quirks of other window systems because whilst there are five different versions of window types, all work together with the same set of accessories and ancillaries. The aïr MOD systems has simplified this entire process with a fully integrated and holistic system of windows, taking the head-scratching away.

Well-known issues solved by aïr MOD windows

Every installer, surveyor, order processor and even technically-trained salesperson will be familiar with any of these scenarios where their business sells one aluminium window version. And pretty much everyone does. Most installers sell casements, a flush version and steel-look product.

aïr MOD windows U-Values

When it comes to U-Values on multiple systems, they’ll be aware different versions of a system come with their own set of performance figures. aïr MOD windows come with the same U-Values regardless of the version chosen. Whether you choose the beautiful steel look, the contemporary version with or without a flush sash or the multi-functional tilt and turn, all aïr MOD windows have the same U-Values.

For the homeowner, this means an easier way to understand the U-Values you can expect from your new windows. For the trade, there’s no confusion in explaining U-Values for the entire window system.

aïr mod windows profiles

options available with aïr MOD windows

Residential installations often call for one type of window at the front of the house and a different window style at the back if there’s a new and modern extension. In this scenario, installers may use a combination of systems. For a surveyor, this means knowing the ins and outs of different systems.

Take the Smart Systems Alitherm System. The Alitherm 300 system is different from the 600 or 800 and different again from the Alitherm 500 flush casement. Fixing positions, thermal break locations and more all differ. These window products are essentially separate products.

The aïr system is the same regardless of the window option chosen. With aïr, all the surveyor or salesperson needs to do is ‘swap out’ one type of frame and sash combination for another. You’re working with one system, not several.

Fitting different window systems

Speak to a good installer, and they’ll tell you not every aluminium system is fitted in the same way. Screw positions, the location of fixing screws, where the thermal break is located, and the overall method of fixing differs between a casement, a fixed light, a door/window combination or a steel-look window.

All six aïr MOD window versions use exactly the same fixing method.

aïr mod windows gaskets

A common set of window parts with aïr MOD

Installers buying in a variety of products from different suppliers are all too aware of just how many different parts their fitting teams need. Then there is the added headache of figuring out the wedge and captive gaskets, brackets, screws etc. Better-integrated systems are available today. However, most still have parts unique to that particular window series.

Of course, a good trade supplier puts systems in place to help installers identify which parts go with the different window types. The reality is not every fitting team is as diligent on site. Gaskets are a great example. Installers and office staff needing to replace gaskets will be aware of identifying the type of gasket. Is it 2mm, 3mm 4mm? What’s the colour of the stripe on the back? Is it a wedge or a flipper? Does it have a tear-off strip or not?

Using the familiar scenario of additional gaskets, the aïr MOD windows use just five types of gaskets that work across all window versions.

The same applies to window handles. One window system often comes designed to work with different brands of handles. Hoppe, Fab n Fix, VBH, and many more different handle brands are all designed to work with multiple systems. aïr windows come with a simplified range of accessories and essential items, making life much easier for the installer.

large aluminium windows

aïr MOD windows compared

We’ve taken eight of most popular bought in systems and compared them to aïr MOD windows. Only Stellar and Sheerline offer a streamlined simplified system but they don’t come with as many window versions. All the other systems come as different window versions depending on the look you’re after. Some systems even offer more than one version of products like steel-look.

The purpose of this table is to illustrate that popular aluminium systems remain separate when it comes to choosing different window versions often with lots of frame, mullion, vent and accessory combinations for the installer to decipher.

BrandVersionsCasement TypesSteel-LookFlush CasementTilt & Turn
aïr MOD1MOD ContemporaryMOD Heritage/Heritage FlushMOD FlushMOD Tilt and Turn
Smart7Alitherm 300,600, 800
Eco-Futural
Alitherm HeritageAlitherm 500Alitherm 600
Aluk658BW
77IWE
58BW ST58BW Flush58BW TBT
Stellar1StellarNoStellarNo
Sheerline2ClassicClassicClassicNo
Comar55p.1
Eco LT
NoNo5P.1
Reynaers8MasterLine
SlimLine 38 & 68
CS77 & 68
ES50
CS 24-SL
Slimline 38
YesYes
Origin2OW70NoOW80No

Schuco, as usual, goes beyond the standard requirements of most installers having 12 different types of windows this number gets even bigger when you take in the specialist versions.

aïr MOD windows – conclusion

The design of the new aïr system is very much targeted at installers buying in fabricated aluminium windows looking to offer multiple types of window styles without needing to learn different systems and versions within systems. Gone is the complexity, but retained is the range with casement, flush casement, steel-look and heritage windows all under one product. Of course, all the products come with the required security certification, today’s buyers expect.

The system’s simplicity makes it ideal where different types of windows are needed, say on the front elevation of a house compared to the back. It’s as simple as changing the sash and frame profile while retaining the same accessories. Gone is the head-scratching figuring out the many different versions available with aluminium systems and what the best product, combination and profiles required.

Understanding an aluminium window product just got easier for the salesman, surveyor, installer, and even the order processor.

Look around most trade-focused systems; the benefits don’t resonate with the end user. However, window aesthetics, performance, quality and several window types under one system are good sales propositions.

aïr MOD windows also form part of the aïr brand, also including steel-look doors in both the Smart Systems and aïr MOD profiles. Windows and doors made by Everglade are supplied by reputable home improvement companies in the South of England.

Everglade Windows as a trade manufacturer is well-known for lead times and service as well as providing their trade client base with other business services to support them and help them sell more.

WHERE TO VIEW OR BUY aïr MOD windows

You can get in touch with us for more information about aïr MOD windows and details of showrooms in the South of England to view them. Use our contact form to get in touch for more information.

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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
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Really helpful and useful came back to me on a Sunday with some invaluable information. Highly recommended.
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