Ifs & Butts

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Reverse butt jointing is widely used for PVC-U. If only they could be used in the aluminium market! Sadly, older systems can’t accommodate them. Sheerline has changed all that, writes MD Roger Hartshorn.

If we go back to the start, when we developed our patented corner cleat, we did so in such a way that it would reduce misalignment and make life easier for fabricators. Fast forward a few years and this tried and tested corner cleat became the foundation for our patented T cleats.

An evolution of our standard design, these precision-machined T cleats enable fabricators to manufacture reverse butt jointed windows using the Prestige Z transom for fully internally beaded aluminium windows.

This presents a raft of opportunities in the specification sector, particularly for large-scale commercial projects where efficiency is key. This is partly due to the fact it streamlines the installation process and also because it saves both time and money.

 

Gaining Recognition

It is easy for us at Sheerline to talk about the benefits of our products because we know the R&D that’s gone into them and the benefits they offer. It is great when we receive industry recognition, as it reinforces the notion that the work we’re doing is having an impact.

An example of this is the fact the Prestige reverse butt joint was recently named ‘Best Technical Innovation’ at the GGP Installer Awards where the judges commented that it was great to see aluminium products using a such a joint.

The win was special to Sheerline for a couple of different reasons. First because it highlights that innovation is at the heart of everything the company does. Second, it’s the third time in five years that it has picked up the award.

 

The benefits

There are many benefits when using Sheerline’s Prestige reverse butt joint. It eliminates the need for external glazing, reverse adaptors and dummy sashes. It enables customers to offer fully internally beaded aluminium windows that feature both opening vents and fixed panes.

In turn, this saves around 20% on material and labour costs (unglazed costs) when compared to a window featuring a dummy sash rather than a fixed light. It also reduces remedial costs on commercial projects.

For instance, if a pane of glass needs to be replaced in a fixed pane on a combination window, this can be accomplished from inside the property, saving on scaffolding and other costs. This combination of cost and time-saving efficiencies is why this product lends itself to commercial projects.

It is not just a purely practical solution. The discreet joints also give a sleek, contemporary appearance in line with the looks homeowners and specifiers are striving to achieve. As with all Sheerline products, it’s practical yet stylish.

 

In summary, installation advantages include:

• Easier installations.

• Improved appearance.

• Save time on remedial work.

• Cost-effective in terms of both labour and installation costs.

 

Impact

We’re bringing our reverse butt joint to the aluminium sector to highlight the benefits it offers fabricators, installers and specifiers (particularly those working on commercial projects).

It is another example of how Sheerline is focused on continuous improvement, innovation and developing practical solutions to everyday problems. Yet more than this, the solutions Sheerline develops are practical without compromising on style.

Sheerline gives its customers a competitive advantage, which is essential during challenging times, as 2025 is predicted to be. In the future, we expect the reverse butt jointing method to be as commonplace in the aluminium sector as it currently is in PVC-U.

 

Picture: Sheerline’s Prestige is at home in both residential and commercial settings.

www.sheerline.com

Article written by Roger Hartshorn, MD, Sheerline
05th June 2025

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