Frequently Asked
Questions
Who is Alchemy Architectural Aluminium Glazing Systems?
Alchemy Architectural Aluminium Glazing Systems is a specialist trade-only aluminium fabricator based in Walsall, West Midlands. For nearly 20 years, Alchemy has manufactured aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling and specialist glazing systems for installers, contractors and construction professionals throughout England and Wales. The company operates from a 20,000 sq ft manufacturing facility.
What is an architectural aluminium fabricator?
An architectural aluminium fabricator manufactures aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling and façade systems from profiles supplied by specialist system houses. The fabricator cuts, machines, assembles and finishes each product to the dimensions and performance requirements of an individual construction project.
Does Alchemy supply directly to homeowners?
No. Alchemy is a trade-only aluminium fabricator supplying professional installers, contractors and construction companies. Homeowners interested in Alchemy products should normally work through an approved trade installer or building contractor.
Where does Alchemy manufacture its aluminium systems?
Alchemy manufactures its aluminium systems at its 20,000 sq ft facility at Unit 2, Bloxwich Road Industrial Estate, Bloxwich Road, Walsall, West Midlands, WS2 7BD.
Does Alchemy supply throughout the UK?
Alchemy is centrally located in Walsall and supplies trade customers throughout England and Wales, with nationwide delivery available for suitable projects. Customers elsewhere in the UK should contact Alchemy to discuss delivery and project requirements.
Which aluminium systems does Alchemy fabricate?
Alchemy fabricates aluminium systems from leading manufacturers including Smart Architectural Aluminium, Reynaers Aluminium, Senior Architectural Systems, Technal by Hydro and Schüco. Its range includes windows, entrance doors, bifold and sliding doors, curtain walling, shopfronts, commercial glazing, heritage systems, secondary glazing, internal doors and screens. View Alchemy’s systems.
What is curtain walling?
Curtain walling is a lightweight, non-load-bearing external façade system, usually constructed from aluminium framing and large areas of glass. It protects the building from the weather while allowing natural light into the interior. Curtain walling can cover several storeys and is widely used in offices, retail developments, public buildings and contemporary homes.
What is the difference between curtain walling and commercial glazing?
Curtain walling is a specific façade system designed to span larger areas or multiple storeys without carrying the building’s structural load. Commercial glazing is a broader term covering glazed products used in commercial buildings, including shopfronts, entrance doors, windows, screens and ground-floor glazing treatments.
Which aluminium window systems are best for commercial buildings?
The right system depends on the building’s design, required thermal performance, ventilation, security, glazing size and exposure. Alchemy fabricates several commercial window systems, including Smart Alitherm, Senior PURe, Technal SOLEAL and Reynaers MasterLine products. Its technical team can recommend the most appropriate system for each project.
What are thermally broken aluminium windows?
Thermally broken aluminium windows contain an insulating barrier between the internal and external aluminium sections. This reduces heat transfer through the frame, improves energy efficiency and helps minimise internal condensation while retaining aluminium’s strength, durability and slim sightlines.
Can aluminium windows meet Part L requirements?
Yes. Correctly specified thermally broken aluminium windows can meet the relevant energy-efficiency requirements of Part L of the Building Regulations. Compliance depends on the complete window specification, including the frame, glazing, spacer bars, configuration and installation. Alchemy can provide technical guidance for individual projects.
What is PAS 24?
PAS 24 is a UK security standard used to assess the ability of doors and windows to resist common methods of attack. Products must be manufactured using a tested combination of profiles, glazing, locks and hardware. Where PAS 24 compliance is required, the complete product specification must follow the relevant tested system.
What aluminium systems are suitable for heritage buildings?
Slim-profile aluminium systems that reproduce the appearance of traditional steel windows are often suitable for heritage-style projects. Alchemy fabricates Smart Alitherm Heritage windows and doors, Visofold 6000 Heritage bifolds and aluminium secondary glazing. Suitability for listed buildings or conservation areas remains subject to the relevant planning approval.
Can aluminium frames be manufactured in RAL colours?
Yes. Aluminium frames can be powder-coated in a wide selection of standard and bespoke RAL colours. Depending on the chosen system, different colours may also be specified for the interior and exterior. Textured, matt, gloss and specialist finishes may be available subject to the product and project requirements.
What are the maximum sizes for aluminium bifold doors?
Maximum bifold door sizes depend on the selected system, the number of panels, individual panel dimensions, glass weight, hardware and site exposure. Alchemy fabricates systems including Smart Visofold, Senior Ali FOLD and PURe, Reynaers CF 68 and Schüco ASS 70 FD. Drawings and specifications should be assessed before final sizes are confirmed.
Does Alchemy manufacture Schüco systems?
Yes. Alchemy fabricates selected Schüco products, including the Schüco ASS 70 FD bifold door and Schüco FWS 35 PD curtain walling system. Availability and suitability should be confirmed against the technical requirements of each project.
Does Alchemy fabricate Reynaers systems?
Yes. Alchemy fabricates a range of Reynaers aluminium systems, including CF 68 bifold doors, HiFinity and MasterPatio sliding doors, MasterLine windows, CW 50 curtain walling and Vision 7 commercial glazing.
