ROCBURN LTD
UNIT 5 SUTTON PARK
SUTTON ROAD
SOUTHEND ON SEA
ESSEX SS2 5NX
Tel: 01702 826267
Fax: sales@rocburn.com
Suppliers of: AOVs, Window Openers, Automatic Smoke Vents, Roof Hatches, Smoke Ventilation, Automatic Opening Vents, Smoke Control Systems, Automatic Window Openers
Rocburn Ltd - Window Openers & Ventilation Specialists
At Rocburn, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the very best ventilation products on the market and provide bespoke solutions to meet your exact requirements.
Whether it’s for your home, a new build project or to make adaptations to existing windows and systems, our specialists are on hand to deliver reliable, high quality, cost-effective window opener and ventilation solutions for properties of all types and size.
From opening skylights, conservatories and hard to reach windows in residential properties to smoke ventilation systems for large commercial buildings, our tailored services make sure that you get exactly what you need for your premises.
Superior Ventilation Solutions
Here at Rocburn we provide a wide range of products and solutions for both homes and businesses of varying types, scale and complexity, including;
- AOVs (Automatic Opening Vents)
- Manual window openers
- Electric window openers
- Plug in electric window openers
- Chain and Linear actuators
- Greenhouse window openers
- Smoke ventilation solutions
- Natural ventilation solutions
- Fitting and repair service for window openers
We insist on only distributing products that are of the highest quality and work with some of the top manufacturers in the business such as – Nekos, TOPP, Ultraflex Control Systems (UCS), AXA, Mingardi, D&H, Aumüller, Window Master and many more.
Products:
Manual Window Openers
At Rocburn, we provide a wide range of manual window openers that are suitable for use across a wide range of window types, styles, and heights. Whether it’s for residential, commercial, or public body premises, we have compatible manual window systems to suit your needs.
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Teleflex Window Winding Gear Systems
A Teleflex window winder is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, space-saving solution for window operation. They use a flexible cable mechanism, allowing them to operate windows located in hard-to-reach areas or where more direct mechanisms are impractical.
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Folding Window Openers
Folding window openers work to lock windows into an open or closed position, leaving a specific sized gap that helps to provide a safe and secure restricted opening.Each of our manual folding window openers is specifically tailored to fit your individual windows frame and material.
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Screwjack Traditional Window Openers
Often installed on skylights, conservatories, and orangeries, screwjacks are simple, reliable, and easy-to-use traditional window openers. They are ideal for high-up or difficult windows and can add a touch of vintage charm to your home.
Electric Window Actuators
Electric window actuators are a popular alternative to manual openers that provides easier, safer and more efficient operation of windows, skylights and vents.
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Chain Actuators
Popular in domestic, commercial and school premises, their flexibility allows them to be installed on most types of window.
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Electric Linear Actuators
Electric linear actuators have a larger, more powerful pushing force than chain actuators, which makes them more suitable and effective for opening rooflights, roof hatches and domes as well as highlight windows, louvres, vents, sashes and more.
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Folding Arm Actuators
Aesthetically more pleasing than a chain actuator, we supply a variety of high-quality folding arm actuators that can be used for most window types as well as doors, vents and skylights.
Window Ventilation Controls
Either as part of a natural ventilation system or used for smoke extract and fire control, ventilation control panels handle the operation of the motors attached to windows and vents.
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Natural Ventilation Controls
From the simplest of switches to systems that offer fully automated window control. We have a wide range of natural ventilation controls to suit any installation and actuator. Give us a call to discuss the best option for you.
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Smoke Control Systems
Smoke ventilation controls are devices that regulate the flow of smoke and air in buildings during a fire. They help to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, protect the occupants and firefighters, and facilitate safe evacuation.
AOV & Smoke Ventilation Systems
When a fire breaks out, smoke and fumes can spread quickly, affecting the whole building within minutes and endangering everyone inside. An effective AOV (Automatic Opening Vent) system can help remove smoke and keep escape routes clear, aiding safe evacuation.
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AOVs for Facades
Getting an AOV to match the existing style of a building can be challenging. Our AOVs for facades are manufactured to order and can be supplied in RAL colours to suit your building design.
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Flat Roof AOV
Roof hatches, rooflights, and louvres can be used as AOVs (Automatic Opening Vents) in smoke ventilation systems. AOVs allow the hot air and smoke to escape from the building, they can also provide natural light, comfort ventilation, and roof access.
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Smoke Shaft Dampers and Doors
Dampers and Smoke Shaft Doors are essential components of fire safety systems in commercial buildings. They prevent the spread of smoke and fire through ventilation ducts and shafts, which can pose a serious risk to occupants and property.
Contact us for advice and technical support
Choosing the correct product for your window frame style, or designing a smoke ventilation system can be challenging. At Rocburn, we go above and beyond to walk you through the available options. By only recommending the products that are suitable for your requirements, we can keep our returns and costs low, passing that saving on to you.
Further technical information is available in the BPi Download Library or from the manufacturer’s own website.
How Window Placement and Automation Maximise Natural Light Indoors
Natural light is one of the most valuable assets in any interior space. It enhances wellbeing, reduces the need for artificial lighting, and plays a crucial role in the overall comfort and energy efficiency of a building. Yet, many homes and commercial properties fail to take full advantage of it. By combining strategic window placement with automated window opening systems, architects, developers, and homeowners can optimise natural light while also improving ventilation and thermal comfort.
In this blog, we explore how thoughtful window design—supported by automation—can make interiors brighter, healthier, and more energy-efficient.
Why Natural Light Matters
Natural light contributes to more than just aesthetics. Studies show that increased daylight exposure improves mood, boosts productivity, and even supports better sleep patterns. For schools, offices, healthcare environments, and homes, maximising daylight can lead to happier, healthier occupants. It also significantly reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day, cutting energy bills and carbon emissions.
How Window Placement Affects Daylight
The amount of daylight that enters a room depends on more than just window size. The location, orientation, and style of windows all influence how light penetrates and moves through a space.
South-facing windows (in the northern hemisphere) receive the most consistent sunlight throughout the day. Placing larger windows on this side can flood spaces with warm, balanced light.
North-facing windows bring in softer, indirect light—ideal for reducing glare in workspaces or art studios.
High-level windows, rooflights, and clerestory windows can draw light deeper into a building, illuminating areas that standard side windows can’t reach.
Corner glazing or dual-aspect rooms allow light to enter from multiple directions, reducing shadowed areas and creating a more dynamic interior.
By carefully considering these elements during the design or refurbishment phase, it’s possible to dramatically enhance the daylight experience within a property.
The Role of Window Automation in Light Management
While placement brings the light in, automation helps control it. Automated window opening systems are often associated with ventilation—but they can also play a crucial role in managing daylight. Here’s how:
1. Automated Shading and Opening Schedules
Smart window systems can be linked with light sensors or programmed to open or close based on the time of day and sunlight intensity. This ensures the right balance between natural light and solar gain, preventing spaces from overheating in the summer or feeling dim in the winter.
2. Improved Thermal Comfort
Controlling when windows open or close can help regulate indoor temperature more efficiently. By using natural ventilation in combination with passive solar gain, spaces can stay comfortable while minimising reliance on air conditioning or heating.
3. Integrating with Smart Lighting
Automated windows can be paired with smart lighting systems that dim or brighten in response to changing daylight levels. This creates a seamless environment that adapts naturally throughout the day.
4. Enhanced User Experience
In schools, offices, and healthcare environments, automated windows help create a consistent lighting and temperature experience, reducing distractions and improving wellbeing. They also remove the need for manual operation, which can be especially helpful in large or hard-to-reach areas.
Applications in Different Settings
Homes: Maximise daylight in kitchens and living areas while using automation to reduce overheating in bedrooms during the summer.
Offices: Improve productivity by ensuring even light distribution and reducing glare on screens.
Schools: Provide well-lit, ventilated classrooms that support focus and reduce energy use.
Healthcare Facilities: Promote healing and comfort with bright, calming spaces and fresh air control.
Conclusion
Strategic window placement and automation are a powerful combination. Together, they maximise the use of natural light, reduce energy consumption, and improve indoor environments across a wide range of settings. Whether you’re designing a new build or upgrading an existing space, investing in well-placed, automated window systems can have a lasting impact on how people feel, work, and live within it.
Get in touch to learn how we can help bring more light, and life, into your next projec
Childproofing Windows: Essential Safety Features Every Parent Should Know
Windows are essential for bringing fresh air and natural light into the home—but for families with young children, they can also present serious safety risks if not properly secured. Whether you’re in a house, flat, or multi-storey building, ensuring your windows are childproof is a crucial part of keeping your home safe. Thankfully, modern window opening systems offer a range of features designed specifically to minimise risk while maintaining ventilation and ease of use.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most important child safety features for windows, how automated window systems can help, and practical steps every parent can take to protect their little ones.
Why Window Safety Matters
Every year, thousands of children are injured due to falls from windows. Inquisitive toddlers and young children are naturally drawn to windows, and without the right precautions, even a short drop can result in serious injury. The risk is particularly high in upper-floor rooms or buildings where windows open wide without restriction.
The good news is that there are now innovative solutions available that can significantly reduce these risks—without compromising the functionality of your windows.
Key Window Safety Features for Families
1. Window Restrictors
A window restrictor limits how far a window can open—typically to around 100mm—preventing a child from climbing out. Restrictors are one of the most effective ways to ensure safety in both manual and automated window systems. They can be fitted to top-hung, side-hung, or sliding windows and are especially important in bedrooms and play areas.
2. Remote-Controlled Operation
Modern automated window opening systems can be controlled via switches, remote controls, or even apps, allowing parents to open or close windows without children physically interacting with them. This adds an extra layer of protection, particularly in homes with large or floor-level windows.
3. Programmable Opening Limits
Some automated systems allow users to pre-set maximum opening distances, ensuring that windows never open beyond a safe limit, even during automated ventilation schedules.
4. Tamper-Proof Mechanisms
High-quality window openers come with lockable or tamper-resistant features, meaning children can’t easily interfere with the operation of the window. These features are especially useful in nurseries or upstairs bedrooms.
Additional Childproofing Tips
Install window guards or safety grilles where necessary—especially in homes with large windows or low sills.
Keep furniture away from windows to avoid giving children a climbing platform.
Use shatter-resistant glass or apply safety film to windows to reduce the risk of injury from broken glass.
Educate children about window safety from an early age, and ensure they understand that windows aren’t for climbing or leaning on.
How Window Automation Can Help
Automated window systems, using Electric Window Actuators, offer more than just convenience—they can actually enhance home safety. By enabling central control of windows, parents can manage ventilation without having to leave windows manually open and unattended. Features like rain sensors, smart home integration, and child-lock settings give you full control over your home’s ventilation while keeping curious little hands safely out of reach.
Final Thoughts
Childproofing your windows is an essential part of home safety for families with young children. With a combination of window restrictors, remote controls, opening limits, and tamper-proof features, modern window opening systems offer practical and effective solutions that prioritise safety without sacrificing comfort or usability.
We provide a range of child-safe window opening systems tailored to homes of all sizes and layouts. If you’re looking to upgrade your windows with safety in mind, get in touch with our team today for expert advice and installation support.
