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This Award is for excellence in glazing.
Sponsor: Certass
Winner: Polar Windows (Chesterfield)
Polar Windows has an innovative and creative approach to its many projects combined with very special attention to detail. It has completed a number of contracts for Northern Counties Housing Association with an excellent satisfaction rate. Each window is made by hand and consequently the company is able to supply products that might not be possible by automated processes.
On a large new build, extra care home for Hanover Housing Association, 193 windows and doors and a number of curtain wall screens were required but due to the extra needs of the end users, it was necessary to source a range of specialist materials.
The company recycles around 80% of its waste. This not only reduces its environmental footprint but also reduces its overheads.
For two years its products have been free from hexavalent chromium. In particular it has demonstrated that it is possible to be profitable and produce a quality product that meets customers' needs without exploiting vulnerable workers in third world countries.
The Judges' comments
We were greatly impressed with the spirit of partnership developed with the client and the consideration given to the client's staff themselves. The entrepreneurial preplanning and work management solutions developed thereafter, all lead ultimately to a most environmentally friendly and sympathetically delivered renovation.