Timber frame and SIPs panel manufacturers can speed up the installation of windows and doors by using the Sidey Kitfix® system. Pressure is on for builders and developers to get on and off-site faster. This means looking at ways to reduce the time spent installing windows and doors.
“With the Sidey Kitfix® System, windows and doors can be accurately fitted at the factory stage,” says Steve Hardy, Managing Director of fenestration and offsite construction specialists Sidey Solutions. “It’s quick too – 11 windows can be first fixed in 23 minutes. They are installed when the walls are horizontal in the factory and the innovative Kitfix® brackets are twist fitted to the window or door frame. Air tightness, thermal and acoustic seals can also be included at this stage.
“This system makes transportation simple and once on site, the panels are erected as normal. This means homes are wind, watertight and secure much sooner, and makes the build much faster. It also eliminates the need for separate deliveries of windows and doors, with no site storage required either.
“With ever increasing pressure to get the job done quicker,” adds Steve. “Choosing Kitfix® to install windows and doors will help builders and developers build fast.”
Sidey’s KitFix® system was recently used for a development of high quality 1 and 2 bedroom apartments where speed, quality and sustainability of build were principal in the contractor’s requirements, so structural timber frame was specified. The windows and doors were installed offsite using Sidey’s unique KitFix® offsite installation system, thus ensuring the block was both wind and watertight immediately upon erection.
Sidey’s factory fitted air tightness membrane was specified to optimise performance between fenestration and structure. Taking a Fabric First approach, the whole window u-value of 1.4/m2K against the specified 1.6W/m2K, delivered savings in the insulation levels of the walls, roof and floors whilst maintaining superior comfort in the apartments.
