DHF NOW PROMOTES BENEFITS OF BOTH TIMBER AND METAL PERFORMANCE DOORSETS

Article first published 08/07/2010

For the first time the UK door industry has an umbrella trade organisation to represent the interests of all leading manufacturers and suppliers of both timber and metal performance doorsets.  
 
This follows the formation by the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) of a focus group especially for timber doorset producers. The group will complement the DHF’s existing specialist member group of metal doorset producers.  
 
The formation of the DHF timber doorset group is in response to the growing preference from specifiers and contractors for complete doorsets to be delivered on-site, rather than on-site assembly of doors from components from multiple sources.  
 
This is being driven by the demand for product quality and consistency and the fact that only a tested, ready assembled doorset, or a complete doorset kit of parts from a single source ready for assembly, can be CE marked.  
 
At the first meeting of the DHF timber doorset group, Jeff Leahy, from Leaderflush Shapland, was appointed chairman with Ian Hopkinson from Laidlaw as vice chairman. As well as Leaderflush Shapland and Laidlaw, leading timber doorset manufacturers and suppliers Ian Firth Hardware Ltd and Bridgman IBC, were represented at the inaugural meeting. It is expected that other main players in the timber doorset sector will be on board by the end of the year.  
 
Said Jeff Leahy: “There are many sound commercial reasons for specifying doorsets as opposed to carrying out on-site door construction. In particular, the specifier has the convenience of specifying from one source, rather than having to specify different parts from multiple sources. It gives him the assurance that the preparation - and testing - of all constituent parts have taken place in the factory. This ensures consistency of performance and quality, so giving peace of mind to the specifier.  
 
“In addition, to meet anticipated CE obligations under the forthcoming Construction Product Regulation, a CE mark cannot be applied to a door assembly that has been assembled on site from separately-supplied parts. Only a complete doorset sold as such - whether made from metal or timber - or a complete kit of parts from a single source ready for assembly and installation can be CE marked under the harmonised standard.  
 
“It means the specifier - and the subsequent building owner or user - will find it easier to demonstrate compliance with the Regulatory Reform Order (RRO) Fire Safety regulations if a CE mark for the completed door assembly is shown.  
 
“It’s clear that the industry needs one objective voice to represent the major door manufacturers who aspire to the highest standards of quality for its customers. The DHF is now the only UK organisation to promote the benefits of completed metal and timber doorsets.”  
 
For more information on the new DHF timber performance doorset group and on door hardware, timber doorsets and metal doorsets, visit www.dhfonline.org.uk

Article ID No.: 197