Draught and Weather Seals

In this day and age it is becoming ever more important to help reduce our carbon footprint and lower the levels of energy we use in our homes. One way to reduce the amount of energy we use and in turn lower our heating costs is to reduce the amount of heat lost through gaps in windows and doors. One way to do this is to use a draught or weather seal around the door or window. There are a variety of different seals available but perhaps one of the most effective is a foam filled seal.

Techseal 21 - Weather seal for Doors

Here at Shop4handles we offer foam filled seals for both doors and windows. Techseal 21 is suitable for doors and is fitted into a purpose groove or kerf, which runs along the jambs and head of the door frame, thus sealing the door completely when shut. Techseal is available in either white or brown finish and in 10 or 250 metre rolls.

Techseal 63 - Weather seal for Windows

Very similar to Techseal 21 is Techseal 63. Techseal 63 has the same application as Techseal 21 but is primarily for windows. Using these type of seals on both doors and windows will dramatically reduce draughts and prevent unwanted heat loss, and in turn lower those energy bills! Furthermore both Techseal seals incorporate a low friction polyethylene outer covering which is impervious to paint and stains, immune to the effects of UV and Ozone as well as water and moisture repellent, which will prohibit the growth of mould and mildew.  The PU foam core will retain its shape year after year as well as withstanding long term use and changes in temperature.

If you have any questions or queries relating our draught or weather seals please do not hesitate to contact us via e-mail at (sales@shop4handles.co.uk) or by phone on 01344 876955 or even our freephone number 0800 0272470.

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New range of Locks added!

5 Lever Insurance Rated Sashlock and Deadlock

We are pleased to have added a new range of contract locks and latches to our collection. Perhaps the star addition is the British Standard (BS3621:2007) 5 Lever Sashlock and Deadlock. Both of these locks are Insurance rated,  suitable for both 30 and 60 minute fire door assemblies, certifire tested and approved, British Standard Kitemarked and also have a 25 year mechanical warranty! Both styles of lock are available in 2 sizes and in either stainless brass or stainless steel finish. These locks are also available at an amazing price too. Priced at £15.23 for both Sashlocks and Deadlocks 5 Lever (once again, insurance approved) it is hard to find a more competitively priced Insurance rated 5 Lever Door lock on the market. As if that is not exceptional value, this month we are giving an extra 10% off! Simply enter the promotional code 5LEVER where prompted at the checkout.

3 Lever Sashlock, Bathroom Lock and Tubular Latch

In addition to the 5 Lever range of locks we have also added a range of other Eurospec locks including a bathroom lock, tubular latch and 3 Lever Lock. The bathroom lock and 3 Lever lock are both of a high quality and have been tested to meet BS EN 12209 standards, are fire tested to suit 30 and 60 minute fire door assemblies, certifire approved and both also come with a 10 year mechanical guarantee. The tubular latches are fire tested and have a 5 year mechanical guarantee and are superb value at £1.59 each including Vat! They even feature a box-keep so the strike plate looks as neat as possible in your door frame! Don’t delay and take advantage of this offer now!

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Intumescent Seals

The importance of restricting the spread of fire and smoke within a building has long been recognised. In most buildings there will be a specific exit route in the case of a fire, in order to keep this passage protected in the event of a fire certain doors have to meet with strict fire testing standards. Fire doors will have been tested to hold their integrity in fire conditions of either 30 or 60 minutes. However in many cases some modern doors only meet these requirements with the additional use of an Intumescent fire seal. Considerations regarding the door’s ironmongery also have to be taken into account with regards to the integrity of a door in a fire.

Intumescent Fire Seal

The purpose and role of the Intumescent fire strip is to seal against the passage of fire, smoke and hot gases. The seal is often made from a graphite based substance which when heated to greater than 150 degrees centigrade will activate and swell to many times its original size, thus sealing the gap between the door and frame. This will then reduce the speed of the spread of fire to the rest of the building.

Intumescent Fire & Smoke Seal

The spread of smoke and hot gases can also be a big problem, in fact smoke can be a major cause of death and injury along with being a significant contributor  to the cost of the fire damage. It is therefore imperative that smoke and hot gases are contained in the event of a fire wherever possible. The containment of smoke can be achieved with fire seals which incorporate a brush smoke seal, which, along with preventing the spread of fire also help aid against the spread of smoke and hot gases.

We sell both fire only intumescent strips and fire and smoke intumescent strips suitable for both 30 minute and 60 minute fire door assemblies. They are available in 3 different sizes, 10 and 15mm strips are suitable for most 30 minute fire doors, 20mm are suitable for 60 minute fire doors. They come in either white or brown to suit different door finishes and are quick and easy to install with a self adhesive backing. Furthermore all of the intumescent seals we offer comply to BS476: Part 22: 1987 and BS476: Part 31.1 and are Certifire approved. They are also competitively priced too!

If you have any questions or queries regarding intumescent fire and smoke seals please do not hesitate to contact us via e-mail at sales@shop4handles.co.uk or by phone on 01344 876955 or even freephone 0800 0272470.

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Window Security – A few options

It is a commonly known fact that burglars will often try to gain entry to a property via the least secure access, which is often a window.

There are a number of different methods available for you to protect your house from burglars entering this way. Whether you have sash windows or casement windows there is a product to suit.

In this post we will attempt to look at the basic locks and fittings used on many wooden windows. Many UPVC (and some wooden) windows use espagnolette (multi-point) locks, which we sell along with their accessories, but we do not offer for online purchase due to the technical nature of these products. If you would like information on these please contact us directly.

Sash Window Locks and Security

With most sash windows there will already be a fastening device and on upper floor  windows this should be sufficient in securing the window. However with windows on lower and ground floors additional security should definitely be considered. Some sash fasteners offer a lockable feature which when the window is fastened shut it can then be locked in place with a key and then the key removed and stored in a safe place out of sight.

Bramah Rola Locks

One way to increase the security on a sash window is to attach a rola lock. Rola locks can be used to stop the window from sliding up and opening at all, therefore reducing the ability of anyone forcing it open and climbing in. Furthermore they can also allow ventilation without the threat of intruders by enabling the window to only open a fraction. In addition if two rola locks are fitted at different heights the window can be locked fully closed or locked open a small amount to allow ventilation. The locks are both easy to fit and use a separate key for added security, which also satisfies most insurance requirements on domestc properties.

Casement Window Locks

For casement windows there are a number of security options. Perhaps the most subtle and cost effective is to use window fittings which have a lockable function. We supply both casement fasteners and casement stays which can be locked in position and use a separate key which can be removed and kept safe and out of sight.

Lockable Casement Window Fittings

If replacing existing window fittings is not a viable option then there are a number of different window locks which can be applied to the window for additional security. Both Chubb and Yale have a range of window locks but perhaps the most popular are the Yale ventilation lock and the Chubb 8K101 window lock. The Yale lock can be either locked when the window is shut or can be locked in place when the window is opened to allow ventilation, this is also advantageous if you have children as the window opening is restricted. The Chubb window lock fixes onto the window section and is locked around the frame fixed staple by a key. This lock is also suited to more narrow window frames.

Window Bolt, Chubb 8K101 and Yale P117 Casement Window Locks

One other method to increase window security is to use a ‘rack style’ window bolt which is morticed into the window section and shoots a bolt, through turning a key, into the frame thus locking it in place, once again the key can and should be removed and kept out of sight in a safe place.

All of the window locks mentioned are an excellent way to not only deter potential burglars but will offer a high level of protection against anyone attempting to force open a window. Furthermore all are seen as very effective in the eyes of most insurance companies. All of the products are available from our website and other options are also available at our Ascot showroom.

As with all of our security products, if you are unclear of your requirements or would just like some advice, we have a team of staff eager to help you if you give us a ring or drop us a email.

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We ARE open today! (Thursday 7th Jan)

Athough the weather has not let up, some staff members have managed to get into the shop in Ascot today and so we are currently open. Although snow has fallen to a depth of 10 inches locally, creating treacherous conditions for travel, we will endeavour to open the shop if at all possible.

Owing to the unpredictable nature of the weather, we may be forced to close again at some point over the next few days, but we will try and update the site to inform you of this, and we are trying to make sure orders are placed and despatched if at all possible.

If you are waiting for a delivery, please bear with us. We use fedex, an extremely reputable delivery company, however in conditions like these their service, like all other couriers, is highly disrupted.

During this period, the most reliable way to contact our staff is via email, on sales@shop4handles.co.uk, although if we close a mobile contact number is left at the shop which can be contacted if urgent.

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused due to the impact of the weather on our service, and thank you for your pateince and understanding.

Tags: ascot, bracknell, camberley, handles ascot, weather ascot

S’now Joke- we can’t make it in yet!

We have had to shut our shop in Ascot until the snow clears a little

With over nine inches of snow falling in the area around Bracknell, Ascot and Camberley all of our staff have been forced to stay off of the road. Whilst we regret that this means the shop will be shut until the weather improves and driving is possible, we feel that safety in these conditions is paramount, and will be remaining closed until it is safe to travel.

We have staff working from home and managing the website today however, so if you have any urgent enquiries, please send them via email to us and we will respond as soon as possible. Our email address is sales@shop4handles.co.uk

Alternatively, you can leave a message on our answering machine and we will attend to your enquiry as soon as we are back in the shop.

Many thanks for your patience and our sincere apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.

Please remember to stay safe in these unusually difficult weather conditions and we will be back at the shop as soon as we can.

Tags: ascot, Ascot door handles, Door handles in Ascot, shop closure, snow, weather ascot, weather bracknell, weather camberley

15% Off Everything January Sale!

With the dawn of a new year and indeed a new decade, it could be the perfect time to look at improving your home interior. Whether you are looking to modernise your home with new door or window furniture, compliment existing interior stylings, bring life back into your kitchen with new handles and knobs or spruce up your front door for all those to see, we aim to meet your needs.

We are offering all customers a 15% discount on all orders throughout January! Once you have placed your chosen goods in the shopping cart and are ready to checkout, enter the coupon code: 2010

Dual Finish Lever on Square Rose

Faceted Glass Mortice Knob

For example the Dual Finish Lever on Rose pictured above was £15.80 ex Vat and now with the offer it is £13.43 ex Vat. Furthermore the stylish Faceted Glass Mortice Knob was £36.62 ex Vat and is now £31.13 ex Vat with the offer.

We offer a wide range of products including door handles, cupboard handles and knobs, locks and latches, bathroom fittings, hinges, window fittings, front door furniture and a number of accessories to finish any home off beautifully.

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Quality Ironmongery and Bathroom Fittings from Samuel Heath

Dating right back to the 1800’s, Samuel Heath is one of the most established and prestigious firms offering high quality architectural hardware and bathroom accessories. With a wealth of experience gained from almost 2 centuries of British craftsmanship and manufacturing heritage, it is easy to see how Samuel Heath are able to create stylish products of the highest quality. They combine traditional techniques and modern processes as well as sourcing some of the purest brass available, so it is no wonder that their products can be seen all over the world in hotels, offices and even royal residences.

Architectural Ironmongery from Samuel Heath

Samuel Heath also offer a wider variety of finishes to their products than many manufacturers. If you are looking at more traditional finishes, Samuel Heath offer Non-lacquered Brass (NL), Polished Brass (PB), Sanded Brass (SD), Bronze (BRZ) and Bronze Metal Antique (BMA).  Samuel Heath also offer a range of more modern finishes including Polished Chrome (CP), Satin Chrome (SCP), Polished Nickel (PN) and Satin Nickel (SN). Most of their products are available in all of these finishes, however some are made to order and can take up to 4 weeks.

Bathroom Fittings and Accessories from Samuel Heath

In addition to offering superior quality architectural hardware products, Samuel Heath also offer a range of high quality bathroom fittings and accessories. If you are looking at a more traditional style bathroom then the Fairfield range of fittings and accessories is the perfect answer.  Samuel Heath also offer the Curzon and Novis ranges which will accompany both traditional and more contemporary bathroom designs beautifully. For ultra modern bathrooms their Xenon and 7000 Series finish the bathroom off with sleek modern style. One new addition to their bathroom range and for those wanting something a little different is the Kevin McCloud (of Channel 4’s ‘Grand Designs’) range of accessories. This range truly embodies the idea of bathroom jewellery, encompassing mother of pearl elements which add an exquisite and glamorous finishing touch.

We are able to supply Samuel Heath products but are unfortunately unable to sell them online as we offer them at discounted prices (Also many products are made to order so we like to speak with any potential buyers first to ensure complete satisfaction). If you are interested in any of Samuel Heath’s products and require more information please do not hesitate to contact us either via e-mail at sales@shop4handles.co.uk or phone 01344 876 955 or freephone 0800 027 2470.

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Bronze – A traditional and elegant finish

Bronze has been used by man for thousands of years and is a traditional metal used to make products of an architectural hardware nature, mainly due to its strength and corrosion resistant properties. Although modern alloys, zinc, stainless steel and aluminium have become increasingly popular in industrial use, bronze still remains a very important, useful and an aesthetically pleasing material. Bronze manufacture and finishing offers an aesthetic quality -a rustic, natural charm and a warm complex colour not found elsewhere.

In current architectural hardware products there are a number of different bronze finishes available.

Imitation Bronze & Real Bronze Metal Antique Finishes

Imitation Bronze (IBMA) is not actually made from bronze, but is the result of applying a bronze powder to, in the majority of cases, a brass base. The end product is a deep, satuary bronze lustre. This type of bronze is made to produce a bronze look at a lower cost and as a result does not have the varying degree of finishing actual bronze does. The colour is often a darker, greyer finish, often with hints of plum in many lights. There are several manufacturers producing bronze produucts in this way and there is some variety between the colours of these manufacturers. Although some variation of colour is expected and encouraged with bronze, Shop 4 Handles staff have an intricate knowledge of the offerings of the UK market and can advise you to ensure you are getting products that don’t vary  to the extent they no longer compliment one another. Please give us a call today on 01344 876955 (UK) to discuss your requirements and receive free advice.

Real Bronze (RBMA) is the result of polished pieces of bronze going through a special process which rapidly oxidizes the surface. Over time and continued handling the oxidised layer will break down to reveal the polished bronze beneath. This is where the iridescent appeal of real bronze becomes apparent. We have suppliers of many products manufactured out of bronze made right here in the UK, including door handles, mortice knobs (which are very popular!), bolts and front door fittings such as letterplates and knockers. We can obtain almost any architectual ironmongery product in this finish, although most of it requires a little patience as it is often manufactured to order.

Polished Bronze & Rustic Bronze Finishes

Polished Bronze is the result of the real bronze material being highly polished after being sand-casted, in addition a protective wax coating is applied. In order to keep the bronze at its true brilliance regular polishing is required, although if  left it will oxidise and age gracefully.

Rustic Bronze is yet another type of bronze finish available and reflects bronze of times gone by. Using traditional cast bronze the effect is more rough and rustic and truly embodies the feel and look of yesteryear.

Some of the finest purveyors of bronze products are based in England. Frank Allart, Samuel Heath and Croft Architectural all offer a variety of ironmongery products in bronze finishes. If you are interested in any bronze products including door and window furniture please do not hesitate to contact us via email (sales@shop4handles.co.uk) or calling us on 01344 876 955 or freephone 0800 027 2470.

If you would like to see some of our designs in bronze, pop into our shop in Ascot, Berkshire, or give us a call if you can’t make it and need to see a sample.

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Square bathroom fittings by Vado

We have just added a fantastic new range of bathroom accessories by Vado. The square range of bathroom fittings bring straight edge and cubic design into the bathroom. If you are looking to compliment square style door or window furniture then this bathroom range is the perfect match.

Square Tumbler & Holder, Towel Ring and Soap Dish & Holder by Vado - Click picture to buy now!

The range includes various products such as a toilet roll holder, soap dish, towel ring and robe hook which will not only bring style to any bathroom but practicality too.

Square Range of Bathroom Accessories by Vado

Not only is the square collection sleek and stylish but it is also of the highest quality. Made from solid brass and finished in polished chrome the range is very durable and each product comes with a manufacturers 12 year guarantee.

The superior quality of Vado products extends beyond the range we offer online. If you are looking for something extremely special, contact us for details of a range of handmade fittings from their range which we can offer, as well as other excellent quality design suites and products not featured here (yet!).

Remember that you can call the shop on 01344 876955 if you need any assistance with making your purchase.

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