Clearview National June 2015 - Issue 163 | Page 84

conservatories Some Great Advice »»Prefix Systems is one of the UK’s largest independent fabricator of conservatory roofs with a history that dates back to 1996. Run by Chris Baron and Chris Cooke, the leading Ultraframe fabricator operates from a head office in Blackburn, Lancashire and from two further manufacturing sites in Northamptonshire and Swansea. Prefix was one of the first fabricator in the UK to provide a wide range of laminated colours w hich now extends to nine, along with a unique cast iron effect for gutters. They are now pioneering the extended living space market with the tiled GardenRoom and UrbanRoom roof solutions. The tiled GardenRoom solution from Prefix Systems is arguably the most configurable and structurally robust in the sector, but given the number of these new solid roofs that are replacing tired, old conservatory roofs, there’s a need for greater structural information and indeed advice from manufacturers. Prefix Systems has developed its solid, tiled GardenRoom roof with a structural engineer leading the team, through harnessing its 20-year experience. With three branches covering the UK, the company is now offering all installation companies with a comprehensive technical support service from survey through to on-site installation training. There are around 3 million conservatories in the UK, with around 500,000 in need of upgrade and repair, with a recognised proportion being upgraded from a polycarbonate glazed roof to a solid, tiled GardenRoom roof. The difference in weight is considerable, anything up to five times that weight from the original installation, so structural integrity is a pre-requisite on any installation. At each Prefix branch, they are able to advise installation companies on an individual, project by project basis, about all things relating to the survey and installation of 84 » JUN 2015 » CL EARVI E W- UK . C O M tiled GardenRooms. They can even advise as to whether any additional structural supports are necessary, including their own engineered Retro-Fix posts and couplers for larger roof spans. The specifications for which are BS6399 compliant, fully CE marked and Prefix are the only independent company able to do so in the sector. There are an increasing number of people highlighting the structural implications of a solid roof structures, yet few offering the necessary levels of expertise. Right from the outset of the development of its product, Prefix has involved its customers in the key issues for the emerging replacement sector. It’s happened already that Prefix customers have had to replace a number of newly installed, lesser quality, tiled roofs with the GardenRoom roof. Chris Baron and Chris Cooke, co-directors of Prefix Systems commented: “It’s important for us to take a leading stance on the issue of structural integrity, particularly for tiled roofs. Our product offering has been specifically designed by us for both new fit and replacement projects and at each branch we can offer expert advice.” He continued: “Our industry needs to protect consumers and the future reputation for both the tiled GardenRoom market and the replacement conservatory sector.” For a free copy of their latest trade brochure, contact the sales office on 01254 871800, e-mail [email protected] or add to their considerable following on Twitter @prefixsystems