<i>Jeld-Wen&amp;’s Norco windows feature composite frames, with timber interior and aluminium exterior finishes</i><p></p><p><b>The windows sector is experiencing a coming-together of classical styling and high tech thermal insulation innovations. Allison Heller takes a look at how suppliers are adapting to changing market demands, and the advantages of partnering arrangements in meeting these</b><br><b>The environmental sustainability agenda has recently hit the window sector with the introduction of more stringent thermal insulation requirements into English and Scottish Building Regulations. Many manufacturers have had to make significant adaptations to their products to meet U-values as low as 1.8.</b><br> &amp;“Environmental issues are becoming ever more important, and as a company we support moves towards better thermal performance of products,&amp;” says Mike Butterick, product development manager at LB Plastics. &amp;“We have invested a considerable amount of money to meet the new standards. </p><p> &amp;“Our Thermlock patented reinforcement product features PVCu and galvanised steel which gives significantly better thermal performance. It also uses recycled materials.&amp;”</p><p> Speedframe&amp;’s latest Part L compliant windows are argon gas-filled and feature therma plastic instead of metal spacer bars to minimise heat loss through cold edges. &amp;“The low U-value of our windows is an important issue for builders because it can be offset from …