Vertical sliders remain one of the most specialist products in the window sector, yet they are often treated as just another line in a fabricator’s portfolio. According to Richard Hammond, Sales Director at Universal Trade Frames, that approach is exactly where many of the larger players fall short.

“Vertical sliders are a complex product, and they need to be treated that way,” says Richard Hammond, Sales Director at Universal Trade Frames.

“A lot is going on within the window, and if you don’t give it the right level of attention during manufacture, that’s when problems start to creep in.

“That’s the difference for us. We don’t see it as just another product line. We see it as something that needs a higher level of care to get right consistently.”

That attention to detail is where Universal has chosen to differentiate itself. Rather than chasing volume alone, the business has focused on refining both the product and the manufacturing process to deliver a higher level of performance and consistency.

“At Universal, it comes down to the detail,” Richard explains. “It’s the components you choose, the way the product is put together and the level of control you have over the process.

“We’ve invested in the right equipment and the right people to make sure we can deliver that consistently. With vertical sliders, you can’t afford to cut corners because it will show.”

This approach is particularly important in a sector where many fabricators are working from the same base systems.

“A lot of suppliers are starting from the same place,” he says. “So, if you’re building it in the same way as everyone else, there’s very little to separate you. The opportunity is in how you improve it and how you refine it.”

Performance where it matters

One of the clearest examples of this is thermal performance. Vertical sliders are notoriously difficult to optimise for energy efficiency, yet it’s an area that continues to grow in importance.

Universal has addressed this challenge through a refined reinforcement method, welding RCM reinforcing directly within the sash to create additional chambers.

“We took what we’d learned from improving our standard windows and applied it to the vertical slider,” Richard explains. “By welding the reinforcing within the sash, we’re creating extra chambers that you just don’t get with a standard build.

“We knew it would improve performance, but we didn’t expect it to go as far as it did.”

Following independent testing, Universal’s Spectus Vertical Slider achieved an A+ Window Energy Rating as standard, using its core specification rather than specialist upgrades.

“To get an A+ on a vertical slider is a big achievement,” says Richard. “It’s a difficult product to push that far, so to do it with a standard spec is a real advantage for our customers.

“It means they can offer better performance without complicating the product or the sale.”

Crucially, this performance is consistent and repeatable.

“It’s not about hitting a result once,” Richard adds. “It’s about being able to deliver it every time, and that’s what gives installers confidence.”

Alongside thermal gains, the construction also improves screw retention and overall robustness, adding further long-term benefits.

More than just a standard offer

Performance is only part of the story. Universal has also focused on the finer details that define a high-quality vertical slider, particularly in heritage applications.

The introduction of a 37mm ultra-slim meeting rail is one such example, delivering sightlines that closely replicate traditional timber sash windows.

“The meeting rail is one of the most visible parts of the window,” says Richard. “If it’s too bulky, it immediately looks like a replacement. Getting that sightline right makes a big difference to the overall finish.”

Combined with features such as a deep bottom rail, authentic detailing and a wide range of colour options, the result is a product that balances performance with aesthetics.

Manufacturing also plays a key role. Universal produces its vertical sliders through a dedicated team, combining precision machinery with hands-on finishing and quality checks.

“We still use advanced machinery, but there’s also a level of hand-finishing involved,” Richard explains. “That extra care is what gives the product its final quality.”

Ultimately, Richard believes the gap between Universal and the larger players comes down to mindset.

“It’s easy to focus on volume,” he says. “But with vertical sliders, it’s about getting the detail right. “If you can offer something that looks right and performs better, that’s where the real opportunity is.”