Spectus has issued a direct challenge to aluminium windows in high-rise with the launch of its Flush Tilt & Turn PVC-U system, that has a similar look to the metal but with significant benefits including thermal performance and cost.
With U-Values as low as 0.8 W/m2K (WER A++) achievable, window openings up to 1,450mm wide X 2,300mm high, and many other unique features, the Spectus Flush Tilt & Turn is ideal for new-build apartments, housing, hotels, health education and public buildings, where aluminium or composites might otherwise have been first choice.
Its sleek external flush styling and square edge appearance gives it a close visual match to aluminium, especially with the smooth grey foiled finish on grey base as a stock option, but the profile also benefits from Spectus’s extensive range of 28 other foils – one of the widest ranges of any PVC-U system.
As well as the obvious cost saving of PVC-U over aluminium, the Spectus Flush Tilt & Turn’s exceptional thermal performance can be achieved with Argon-filled triple glazed units, rather than expensive Krypton-filled units, and without insulation in the profile or expensive special reinforcements. This is due not only to its six-chamber sash and five-chamber outer frame but also Spectus’s unique Aeroframe thermal wall technology, which has proven to provide greater thermal performance through its complex ‘thermal barrier’ design.
Further weather-proofing is achieved by a high performance centre seal system, with an optional third weather seal as an additional air and water barrier. The weather rating is tested to BS6375-1:2009.
Its advanced functionality also includes a unique anti-switch barrier that prevents accidental movement between the tilt and the turn functions. Also, anti-slam is fitted as standard and the gearing is concealed for improved aesthetics. Advanced security features, including increased security around the hinges, also mean the system is Secured by Design and BES6001 accredited.
Spectus Technical Director Martin Althorpe said: “A growing number of developers and specifiers are looking at the significant benefits that PVC-U can offer over aluminium and they will find all those benefits and more in the Spectus Flush Tilt & Turn, as well as the choice of the visual match with smooth RAL 7016 or any other of our wide range of finishes.”
The Spectus Flush Tilt & Turn has no overlapping of external framework because the sash sits neatly inside the outer frame to give a fully flush exterior. It offers 28-44mm glazing options and is compatible with all common types of hardware. The Spectus Flush Tilt & Turn is designed and manufactured in Great Britain in one of the most advanced PVC-U extrusion factories in Europe.
Martin Althorpe concluded: “We have looked very carefully at what developers and specifiers want from a system, either PVC-U or aluminium. Our answer to those needs is the Spectus Flush Tilt & Turn and those who have already seen the system say they have been impressed with what they saw.”
