High Five for Strand Hardware
Selecting the right architectural ironmongery can be a challenge; from the complex and multifaceted requirements of technical specification, to achieving functionality and durability that meet the needs of users within the built environment. Here we outline considerations to steer you to the right choice.
It’s a tough ask: the complexity of selecting the right architectural ironmongery is a process of navigation. There are a range of factors: diverse and seemingly limitless products and variations, project-specific requirements, regulatory compliance, design integration, budget constraints, technological advancements, reliability, and sustainability considerations. Professionals must face these issues, understanding what’s needed to make well-informed decisions which align themselves against the wider ambitions of the project.
The sheer scope of the process can be overwhelming. It is increasingly difficult to compare ‘similar products’ only to find that they are as different as oranges and apples. Seemingly similar products can vary significantly in quality, durability and cost and therefore it’s essential to consider what’s important when preparing your ‘shopping list’.
That being said, there are some things that should never be compromised, safety and security especially – always check that your selected products have been fully tested and meet safety standards. Fit and functionality is also key – finding quality fittings may stretch your budget, especially if they are being purchased towards the end of an expensive development process, but choosing wisely can save money in the long-term and support the overall design aesthetic.
Finding a reliable partner is all important. Working with a trusted supplier is essential because asking the right questions will save you time and direct you to the right solutions. Strand Hardware places great emphasis on its in-house expertise – meaning help is always just a phone call away. Whether you have purchased directly from Strand, or via one of our carefully-selected architectural ironmongers, we will provide you with advice and guidance to make an informed purchase and technical support on installation.
When it comes to products that you can trust, you need look no further than Strand Hardware. As a manufacturer and distributor of specialist architectural ironmongery, our reputation has been built on product quality and durability, alongside outstanding customer service.
We offer a variety of different products across five key ranges: door and windows, emergency exit and panic hardware, window control systems, Glass Central and D-Fine. These incorporate a variety of product types including finger protection, window openers, glass patch fittings and panic hardware made from grade 316 stainless steel.
Although finding the right product to meet functionality, compatibility and suitability for different environs can a difficult task, Strand’s team of experts make this easy. They are on hand to assist with specification queries and if standard products don’t fit the bill, many can be produced in bespoke lengths and finishes.
Among our window and door hardware, is an extensive range of finger protection. These include best-selling FP200 – so good that it comes with a lifetime guarantee (subject to terms and conditions)! There are products to suit most doors: manual and automatic, external and internal, single and double action, including those made from different materials; timber, aluminium, Pvc-u or glass.
Also included within this parent group, is the Strand Duoflex our range of adjustable folding openers for timber, aluminium, steel and PVCu top hung, outward opening windows. Manufactured in the Midlands they carry the Made In Britain mark, and are available for recessed, flush and stepped profiles, together with a range of accessories.
We are well known for the supply of emergency exit hardware which provides escape devices that combine ease of operation, simplicity of fixing and aesthetic appearance. These come in modular push bar and touch bar options – manual and motorised - together with a range of accompanying products such as outside access devices, strikes and accessories for motorised touch bars.
All our emergency exit and panic hardware products have been rigorously tested and are UKCA and CE marked.
Strand Hardware Window control products are included within our window control systems range. These offer manual and electrically operated natural ventilation solutions which can improve air quality and address potential health and safety risks to better operated high-level or hard to reach windows.
The manual system consists of an opener, fitted to a vent which is linked via lengths of conduit and cable to a wall-mounted operator. It’s a flexible system, as the conduit can be bent around obstructions, with its operating handle positioned at an easily accessible location. There is also an electronic system for a more advanced solution.
Glass Central is Strand’s range of patch fittings for toughened glass walls and doors. This product range has a ‘clear advantage’ and can be used to divide open plan workspaces, providing much-needed privacy space, while maintaining the benefit of natural light sources lost when using other materials to create room separation. Glass Central includes locks, latches, pivots, strike boxes, floor springs, tracks and hinges.
The D-Fine range of panic exit devices is constructed out of grade 316 stainless steel. This guarantees maximum functionality and a long lifetime even under the most extreme weather and atmospheric conditions. They are regularly used on costal buildings, in leisure buildings with swimming pools or environments that suffer extreme weather conditions such as oil rigs.
The range incorporates a variety of push and touch bars – one, two and three point bolt and latch products – and outside access devices. Grade 316 stainless steel is well-established as a corrosion resistant material and all items within the D-Fine range are salt spray tested to 800 hours.
Catalogues featuring each of the ranges can be found in the ‘Literature’ section of this website together with fitting instructions and declarations of performance.
For more information please call our technical sales team on: 01922 639111 or email: info@strandhardware.co.uk
Considerations to help you hone down your choice.
Diverse Product Range:
The sheer diversity of options available in the market can be overwhelming. Professionals need to consider various factors such as functionality, aesthetics, and compatibility with existing structures.
Project-Specific Requirements:
Different projects will have unique requirements based on factors such as building type, usage patterns, security needs, and design preferences. Identifying and aligning the needs of a project with the right solutions requires a nuanced understanding of both the project itself and the capabilities of available products.
Compliance and Regulations:
Building regulations, and standards play a crucial role in the selection of architectural ironmongery. Professionals need to ensure that the chosen hardware meets safety, accessibility, and security standards.
Design Integration:
Architectural ironmongery is not just about functionality; it also contributes significantly to the overall design aesthetics of a space. Selecting hardware that complements the architectural style and design intent of a project is essential. Achieving a harmonious integration while meeting functional requirements can be a delicate balance.
Budget Constraints:
Cost considerations are always a factor in any construction project. Balancing the need for high-quality ironmongery that meets project requirements with budget constraints requires careful evaluation. Cheaper options may compromise on quality and safety.
Technological Advancements:
Architectural ironmongery is constantly evolving. Professionals need to stay updated on the latest innovations and trends to make informed decisions.
Reliability:
Choosing a reliable and reputable supplier is crucial for obtaining high-quality architectural ironmongery. The market is flooded with various suppliers, and ensuring consistency in product quality, delivery timelines, and after-sales support requires thorough vetting.
Sustainability Considerations:
With the increasing focus on sustainability, professionals are now expected to consider the environmental impact of the materials and manufacturing processes used - evaluating the sustainability credentials and outcomes of products.