The multi-year design and development exercise saw the fine-tuning of the top end, high-performance APL Architectural Series as the last step in a process of product segmentation and comprehensive choice for designers, homeowners and developers. Many years ago, APL was the first to offer a variety of ranges — Residential, Metro and APL Architectural Series — with diversified features and capabilities through the Altherm, First and Vantage window networks. These offerings have now been redesigned and relaunched in ThermalHeart+ format to conform with the government’s tougher insulation standards. With longevity in mind, this high performing range of products is designed to enhance the complete window system.

The final step was the release late last year of an extended glazing platform for the Architectural Series ThermalHeart+ to allow triple glazing up to 44mm thick for the ultimate thermal performance in cold winter locations.

This product rollout has allowed APL to continue to offer a full-service comprehensive system, in a market where the landscape is constantly evolving with time. The full window system approach includes four key products, one being the ThermalHeart+ frames. The AGP System IGU from sister company AGP is available with either Solux-E or Solux Ultra low-emissivity glass. The BRANZ appraised and CodeMark certified Centrafix installation method has already been seen across the country. Lastly, the Plus range of Entrance Doors are thermally enhanced for further performance.

A spokesperson for APL Window Solutions said that the whole exercise of gearing up the company and its manufacturer network for the production of ThermalHeart+ thermally enhanced profiles was a high cost one which had seen the installation of six machines to zip the composite aluminium and polyamide ThermalHEART profiles together. A seventh machine and a new building were also on their way.

“We expect that the current government review of the H1 standards may have some impact on our product mix going forward but we don’t expect this to be major. Regardless of what happens, the APL supply chain is set up to respond effectively to all aspects of market demand.”

Late last year, MBIE proposed changes to the Building Code’s insulation settings, following feedback from the industry. As many organisations submit feedback to the proposed changes by February 28th, popular subjects include the calculation and scheduling methods. While APL eagerly await updates, they place confidence in their complete window system offering and its contribution towards creating warmer, drier, and healthier New Zealand homes.