Index Media & Material Plus (M+)

volume 02. issue 05. september-october 2020

from the publishers of

INSIDE: The market is expected to expand synergistically in the mid- to long term due to the
announcement of 100 smart cities, growth in infrastructure, increase in FDI and the growing middle class.

Vikas Agrawal,
Founder, Bhimsaria Polymers Pvt. Ltd., Raipur

INDUSTRIES IN FOCUS : uPVC Windows and Doors | Edge Banding







SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

09 Edit note editor & creative head
sylvia khan
10 Likes [email protected]

10 Dakshin Home assistant editor
12 Badari Residence mignonne dsouza
[email protected]
14 Transformation
editorial consultant
14 KHWABGAAH shailendra mehta
16 UNEVEN HOUSE [email protected]
18 KBM SWEETSHOP
20 MD APARTMENT M+ WriteTank

23 Industry in focus: editorial correspondents
uPVC Windows and Doors aadrita chatterji
24 [email protected]
30 Industry overview
LEADER BOARD : Mario Schmidt darielle britto
32 Market speak :
34 Amir Hashmi [email protected]
36 Avanish Singh Visen
38 Mahesh Choudhary studio head
40 Prabjot Dhody harish raut
42 Vikas Agrawal [email protected]
Nikita Agarwal
graphic designer
45 Industry in focus: Advertisers praful prasannakumar
Edge Banding [email protected]
46 1 MERINO
Industry overview 2 GMG PLY WOOD to contribute editorial matter
50 Market speak : 4 AHEC [email protected]
51 Jay Garg 5 AHEC
52 KULVEEN KAUR AHUJA 6 VIRGO LAMINATES to advertise
Ankur Garg 7 DURIAN jasmeet kaur
8 GSEZ [email protected]
54 Italian Tile Trends 2020 22 BRAM WOODCRAFTING +91 98338 05467
44 ALSTRONG
58 Product watch 53 VIR MDF published by
60 ACE MICA
FRONT COVER INSIDE : MODAK Printed and published by Sylvia Khan on behalf
BACK COVER INSIDE : DURBI of Liyakat Ali Khan.
BACK COVER : M+ MAGAZINE Published by Index Media Pvt. Ltd.
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Editor : Sylvia Khan
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Image © Mark Goodwin

FROM
FOREST
TO FINISH

T.ZED Architects have wrapped
KOA Canvas - a unique new residential
community in Dubai representing a new era
in modernized urban property development -
with thermally-modified American tulipwood.
Over 750 square meters of tulipwood have
been used to create the cladding element
which shades and prevents overheating of
the double-height co-working and closed
office spaces, and which also transforms into
an outdoor shaded walkway and elevated
public balcony. This is the first time that
thermally-modified tulipwood has been
specified in these quantities in the region and
the architects are confident that the material
will weather and stand the test of time in this
arid desert climate.

For more information visit www.americanhardwood.org





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As we come to the end of certainly one of
the most strange and difficult years in recent history,
there is a real sense in the market of being fed
up with the lack of action. Businessmen want to
get back to business and manufacturers have had
enough of seeing their machines stand idly by.

The question now is of demand. If all sectors are
doing poorly, then which is the sector that will pull
up manufacturing for this one ? However, the reality
is that demand does exist. Projects are being started
and those that were left half-way at the start of the
Covid crisis, re-started, and factories have slowly
begun operation.

Several owners of factories have complained
about the lack of manpower, really a whole other
conversation if one analyzes why, but those are
moral rather than commercial issues; and of course
we keep them apart ! But with the eye focused firmly
on the commercial, this only means manufacturing
is groggily waking up.

The other side of the demand chain, the architects
and project managers, have all started work,
returning to sites that lay dormant. While it’s not
‘business as usual’, the good news is that it’s the start
of business and augurs well for the year ahead. The
world is getting used to seeing just half of people’s
faces and having their temperatures checked at each
door they enter. It’s no longer as shocking or unusual
and with this acceptance, comes the realization that
the show must go on, that work and manufacturing
and on-site labor must continue. The industry is
willing and eager to re-start. The economy itself
cannot afford further dormancy.

The year also ends on the positive news of several
companies being close to marketing a Covid vaccine.
This in itself has raised hopes and elevated spirits
as few other things could. So while the feeling is of
restrained optimism, let’s focus on the optimism
and enter the new year with the confidence that
the great self-starting dynamism that describes our
industry will prevail and we will be back in the black
very soon.

Team M+ wishes all its readers and contributors a
happy, healthy and prosperous new year !

Sylvia Khan

Editor & Creative Head, Material Plus

EDIT NOTE

text darielle britto

Dakshin Home

Bengaluru

Signa Design

Design brief and aim local sensibilities. It also features an
To bring a fresh new approach to a ‘oonjal’ (swing), which is adapted to
distinctly South Indian style interior. a backrest with a custom brass chain.
A chandelier inspired by traditional
How this was accomplished Thanjavur art with gold leaf and
The design team took inspiration kundan semi-precious stones set on
from the words that define Dakshin a lime mortar paste hangs from the
- sun, tropics, eco, colour, flowers, ceiling; an element that took 300 man-
monsoon rains, cosmos and infinity - hours to create.
to reflect the ethos of South India. The
entry to the villa is flanked by a rust The dining room features a custom
console with small brass bells rangoli-inspired lacquered tabletop,
with reconditioned bullheads, a while the family room has custom-
kerosene lamp and a brass faux made, low seating, multi-configuration
marigold flower bowl. sofas in organic cotton prints and
an art piece by Darshana using the
The living room has a large custom traditional beadwork technique.
veneer panel with a moulded sofa
built-in. The veneer is laid into an The master bedroom is a showcase of
‘infinity’ pattern, which relates to South India’s vibrancy and features

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

a floral headboard set against an exposed The TV lounge area combines strapped Indian bolsters as a
herringbone brick textured wall. The lights modern design aesthetics and headboard. The wardrobes have
are made from banana paper with a woven elements that exude South weathered duco frames with
cane ottoman. The howdah and the majesty Indian charm, like an Urli side fabric-sandwiched glass and
of the Mysore maharajas were the design table, handloom cushions, brass handles.
inspiration behind this area’s chill-out space. brocade blinds, old school
Mysore silk cushions, silk two-tone blinds frill curtains, Madras check This second guest bedroom is
and hand-painted birds from South India on upholstery, rag cotton rugs, a tribute to painter Raja Ravi
a plate add a pop of colour to the room. a recycled antique table Varma and is adorned with
and radio. several prints of his paintings. It
The kitchen features sandwiched glass also includes a classic four-post
shutters on custom overhead cabinets. It The guest bedroom wears walls bed and custom organic cotton
also includes a breakfast counter made from of turmeric and features an headboard. The side table
an old sewing machine base, as well as a up-cycled carved wooden panel features handmade lace from
custom-made wooden bench. from a door frame and leather- the old Jew town in Kochi.

The kids’ bedroom includes a metal and
natural-stained wood bunk bed. The study
tables are decked with coir rope anchored
on cast iron clamps and restored woven
cane chairs.

text darielle britto

Badari Residence

Bangalore, Karnataka

Cadence Architects

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 Design brief and aim: space connects the living, dining, kitchen, prayer room
To create two kinds of spaces - one and the exterior deck into a cohesive whole. The area is
personal and intimate, while the other further animated with an internal balcony and a bridge
was congregational in nature, and overlooking it to establish connectivity with the floor
encouraged interaction between family above. The fluidity in this space enables overlapping of
and friends. individual requirements, providing a cosy interactive
space for the family. It is rendered with an eclectic
How this was accomplished: material palate, replete with colour and texture that seeks
The Badri residence is designed on an warmth and delight.
urban plot measuring 2,400 sq.ft. The
building’s exterior and interiors was The bold façade was conceptualised as a collection of
conceptualized as an assemblage of different parts that come together to form a whole. The
a series of episodes that seek ‘delight’ master bedroom is sculpted to create a figural void and
through architectural effects. is draped in rough marble. A marble screen, structurally
hung from the ceiling, is bound by an earthy terracotta
For the living room, the plan was frame with a void, which is occupied by a garden. The
organised around a double height space green deck negotiates the connection between the
that forms the soul of the house. This interiors of the house and the street it overlooks.

The terrace sequestered from the busy
street is an area where the family
entertains and unwinds. The home theatre
room and the guest bedroom open into an
outdoor area with a Jacuzzi and open deck.
The slatted roof and the raised green wall
provide privacy.

LIKES

text aadrita chatterji

KHWABGAAH

Gurgaon

Studio Crypt, New Delhi

Material palette:
Glazed tiles, Indian black limestone, mirror,
bottle glass, cement IPS, Jaipuri tiles, raw
stone, Jaisalmer stone and natural untreated
hued limestone.

Design brief and aim:
To remodel an abandoned apartment into an
eclectic abode, using sustainable techniques.
This would include a social hangout, a haven
for the adolescent children, a display for their
art collection and a home to visiting parents
and friends.

How this was accomplished:
The firm had to work with a limited budget,
look for unconventional methods to recycle
waste, and alter the existing building plan.
The space was thus demolished to include
larger spaces for the living room, dining
room, kitchen, bedrooms and toilets. Thick
Indian yellow marble skirting framed the
base, which enabled the display of the
client’s Indian handicraft and art collection.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

An experimental design is chosen Heirloom furniture inherited by
for the book display, the kitchen, the client is used for the project,
and the toilet walls. A handpicked while reclaimed timber is used for
material palette of recycled wall new production. Raw stone floors
glazed tiles, recycled Indian black with cement and Jaisalmer flooring
limestone, recycled mirror, recycled make up the basic material palette,
bottle glass, cement IPS, hand while tiles and brass are chosen
printed Jaipuri tiles and natural for the kitchen and bar. A recycled
untreated limestone is used. cupboard door is restored for the
These locally-available and low-E toilet entrance and a bookshelf
materials were sourced through swirls around the staircase.
shopkeepers who wanted to dump
the apparent ‘waste’, or by visiting
the dump yards themselves to
ensure wastage control.

BEFORE

Transformation

text aadrita chatterji
photos ricardo loureiro

UNEVEN HOUSE

Porto

Fala Atelier, Portugal

Material palette:
Glass, marble, mirror, stone, plywood

Design brief and aim:
To transform a 1960s ground-floor
shop and its basement into an
apartment spread over 180 sq. m.

How this was accomplished:
Two levels were conceived as the
main room that spans the two
facades. The longitudinal spaces
were defined by a straight white
wall on one side and a composite
wall on the opposite. This comprises
three massive plywood doors on
the secondary programs, while the
position of the other doors and
windows are retained. Thus, the

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

façade falls on the garden, creating an optical illusion of a
tall single structure.

Both levels have floor-to-ceiling glass openings towards the
outside, and a new staircase is constructed in front of the
garden. As the load-bearing structure of the building goes
through the project, its visual presence is challenged by
marble cladding and mirrors.

A stone pattern extends as a black-and-white striped frieze,
which marks the perimeter of the garden and is framed by a
horizontal window. There is an extension in the back, which
has been demolished and renovated for a garden.

text aadrita chatterji

KBM SWEETSHOP

Ahmedabad

Studio Saransh, Ahmedabad

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 Material Palette:
Brick, Ferro-cement, acrylic

Design brief and aim:
To renovate the primary outlet of a prominent traditional
sweets and savories manufacturer, which included the
building’s façade and interiors. The façade design is
inspired by the texture of Indian sweets, created by the
multiplication of a single-unit ingredient, bricks.

How this was accomplished:
The site is situated in the center of the city on a wide
road opposite one of the city’s stadiums, and its
undulating brick façade makes a landmark statement.
The developed forms soften the edges and its red-

textured layers stand out from Display counters for the sweets are
the otherwise white and grey customized in solid-acrylic as per
neighborhood. A ferro-cement skin their size, quantity, and texture.
acts as an insulation factor for the Each product sample is given equal
project, yet reinforcing the same. On importance and visibility, while
the ground, walls extend beyond the the bulk packaging remains in the
building resembling a fort with an services behind the gallery.
arched gateway, which further relates Fine-grained terrazzo flooring, relief
to the entrance typical of the city. plaster on the wall and curved edges
From the inside, the shop is carry forward the brand’s origins. The
envisaged as a ‘gallery’ for sweets brand further uses the solid-acrylic
with a neutral backdrop to display counters, showcasing the
highlight the colorful products. sweets as ‘artifacts’.

Transformation

text aadrita chatterji
photos the fishy project

MD APARTMENT

Ahmedabad

Studio Saransh, Ahmedabad

Material palette:
Wood, brass, concrete, cement, lime plaster,
reclaimed wood.

Design brief and aim:
To convert a two-bedroom apartment into a studio
spread over 725 sq. ft.

How this was accomplished:
Partition walls, existing toilets, a kitchen and flooring
were removed to create a minimalistic yet inclusive
design. The entire house is visible at the entrance;
with access to the living room, floor-seated dining

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

Polished concrete flooring
with wood, stone, brass, and
cement tile inlays is filleted
onto the wall upto the sill level.
Grey polished marble with
grey-toned soft furnishings
is brightened with indigo
and turquoise ceramics,
cushions and sheer curtains. A
pigmented lime plaster finish is
used for the walls for internal
cooling in the hot weather
of Ahmedabad. Reclaimed
teakwood from 80-year-old
Valsad pols (local housing
clusters differentiated by social,
religious, and professional
groups) adds the element of
sustainability to the project.

area, open kitchen, an entertainment den and
bedroom. There is only one door in the north-
facing apartment, made of fluted glass, which
enables the free flow of natural daylight.

The white-and-grey color palette is accented
with wood and brass elements, while the
toilets feature neutral undertones. Wood is
chosen for the den and the volume reduced
to create a sense of a different space, further
highlighted by a couple of steps at the
entrance. Warm beige walls and blue flooring
add a personal aesthetic to the bedroom.

Transformation



INDUSTRY IN FOCUS:

uPVC windows
and doors

text shailendra mehta
inputs darielle britto

uPVC windows and doors:
sky is the limit!

uPVC doors and windows are
poised to change the future of

fenestration in India.

Crucial driving forces in the evolution

of the construction industry have been ingenuity and
a capacity to innovate, leading to constant search for
durable, efficient and sustainable materials. Old materials
have been periodically replaced by new ones as the
industry focuses to create economical, versatile spaces that
integrate with the environment.

beautex industries pvt. ltd., mumbai

bhimsaria polymers pvt. ltd., raipur aparna enterprises limited, navi mumbai
beautex industries pvt. ltd., mumbai
uPVC is one such new material that has emerged as a substitute for painted
wood, mostly for window frames and sills. It is increasingly used while
installing double glazing in new buildings, or to replace not only older single
glazed windows but doors too. Besides, it has several other uses including
fascia and siding or weatherboarding.

PVC or polyvinyl chloride was discovered by mistake twice respectively by
Henri Victor Regnault in 1838 and Eugen Baumann in 1872. They found the
solid white substance appearing inside flasks of vinyl chloride when exposed
to sunlight. However, It wasn’t until 1926 that Waldo Semon, an American
inventor, blended the substance with various additives to create a more
solid and flexible material. It was later discovered that PVC could be made
sturdier, harder and rigid, thereby; enhancing its utility and unplasticised
polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) emerged as tis new material. However, the
common use of uPVC for windows began in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Immense advantages Bhimsaria Polymers Pvt Ltd. Market and energy in the process. uPVC does not
With advantages like sustainability, industry, Raipur, says, uPVC doors and chip or corrode. They last for years
minimum maintenance, long service life, windows are thermal, water and wind without peeling and drying out. Since
sound insulation, resistance from dust resistant. uPVC doors and windows are uPVC windows are airtight, they improve
and water etc. uPVC is perceived as the termite free, highly sound insulated, air and noise insulation in your house. They
replacement for traditional materials dustproof, highly durable, and need no offer a good deal of security with their single
like wood and metal. According to Mario maintenance and can save energy up to or multi-point high-security locks that are
Schmidt, Managing Director, Lingel 25 to 30 per cent.” attached to the window framing.”
Windows and Doors Technologies Private
Limited, Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, windows Besides being weather friendly uPVC Aesthetics, customization and
made of uPVC structures provide higher windows and doors can be recycled functionality are also major factors as
performance, are efficient in saving as much as up to 10 times, according why these products are widely preferred
energy and can be sustained for a to Avanish Singh Visen, CEO, DCJ by architects and interior designers.
longer period. He adds, “It also acts as Group (Encraft India P Ltd. a partof DCJ uPVC windows and doors are available
a natural insulator which helps to resist Group) Market and industry, New Delhi. in various designs and styles that can
heat loss in winter and reduces heat “Besides”, he says, “They are made from match any modern architecture and can
in the summer.” Elaborating further recyclable materials that don’t harm be installed in any kind of building, be
on the positive points of this modern the environment. They are also easy to it villas, high-rise apartments, offices,
material, Vikas Agrawal, Founder, remove and fix, consuming minimal hotels, hospitals or any liveable space.

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

bhimsaria polymers pvt. ltd., raipur

Indian context lingel windows and doors technologies private limited, rajasthan
Projected as one of the fastest growing profine india window technology p. ltd., delhi
economies in the world with huge infrastructure
development opportunities, India has become
a chosen destination for several international
manufacturers and traders of uPVC windows
and doors. According to Amir Hashmi, Chief
Marketing and Sales Officer, Profine India
Window Technology Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, with
growing awareness among the people, uPVC
has emerged as one of the most demanding
and trusted material for window and door
requirements. “As a result, demand of uPVC is
increasing and is bound to shape up the future
of the fenestration market in India. Last 10
years have been quite fruitful due to an overall
awareness among architects and designers.
Now uPVC windows and doors can be seen
in any projects be it residential apartments,
villas, educational institutes, hotels, hospitals,
government buildings etc.,” he adds.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

beautex industries pvt. ltd., mumbai aparna enterprises limited, navi mumbai

Tracing the brief history of this new market size for uPVC profiles and uPVC
material in India, Mario Schmidt says, windows together in India is around
“When we stepped foot in 2006 in INR 20 billion.”
India, the market was nascent and
there were very few players selling However, these figures could be
uPVC. Many of them were not even speculative as Maheesh Choudhary,
fully aware about the product. But with CEO - uPVC division, Aparna Enterprises
the help of UWDMA( uPVC Windows Market and industry, Navi Mumbai,
and Doors Manufacturers Association) feels around 50 to 60 per cent of the
the market share of uPVC products has uPVC windows and doors market is
increased. Currently, overall Indian dominated by the unorganized players,
windows and doors market is worth while Prabjot Dhody Chairman and
around INR 140-150 billion. For the Managing Director Beautex Industries
past few years even the aluminium Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, pegs the proportion
windows and doors is gaining of the unorganized industry as high as
popularity. As per our research the 75 per cent.

lingel windows and doors technologies beautex industries pvt. ltd., mumbai
private limited, rajasthan

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

beautex industries pvt. ltd., mumbai beautex industries pvt. ltd., mumbai
beautex industries pvt. ltd., mumbai
Processes and practices The market is competitive despite
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 According to Maheesh Choudhary, the soaring demand and the
the percentage of technology international and local branded
and manpower used in this players devise various strategies
industry is 50:50. “The profile to establish themselves firmly in
manufacturing and fabrication the market as the end user is yet
process is automated to some to fully understand the benefits of
extent. Glass cutting, packaging using this new material. Avanish
and distribution processes are Singh Visen says, “ To be price
primarily manpower driven.” competitive in the market, a
he says. vast majority of the companies
have found it cost-effective to
According to industry insiders, import cheaper raw materials
the uPVC manufacturing process instead of procuring them
is a work of science and art of from good quality companies
designing and products pass producing domestically. Lack of
through various stages. Avanish standardization by the government
Singh Visen says, “Formulation authorities and the lack of
is the core of the manufacturing awareness about quality standards
process and it determines the amongst consumers have allowed
quality and life of the uPVC the unorganized sector to flourish.
profiles. This is followed by Moreover, Indian consumers being
extrusion, the process of how price sensitive, increasingly opt
uPVC profiles are made. The for lower-priced, inferior quality
extruded profiles require the products to lower their overall
desired temperature to churn the expenditures.” According to
mix accurately. Once the mix is Vikas Agrawal, general challenges
ready for the extruded profile, the associated with door and window
extrusion machine and die is used market is lack of awareness
to give the extruded profiles their about uPVC benefits; absence
shape. The uPVC profiles are then of standardization; rising prices
given a water bath and are cooled. of PVC resin; foreign exchange
After cooling they take a shape of risk; high dependence on raw
sturdy profiles. Products are always material imports hampering the
checked for performance with quality of final product and being
respect to water, wind, rain, etc a technology driven product, the
before the launch. uPVC windows high cost of the technology and
and doors are engineered to skilled manpower.
precision.”

Demand drivers Almost all industry players are excited
According to a report by Ken Research, about the future prospects of uPVC
the uPVC window and door market windows and doors. They are well aware
is expected to grow by 30 per cent in that it is still an unexplored territory.
India over the next 10-15 years with Vikas Agrawal says, “India still has a
new and replacement sales, while Amir shortage of 18 million homes that
Hashmi expects market to grow at 12 to requires USD 330 billion of construction
15 per cent CAGR depending upon the funding. Therefore, a massive level of
economic environment of the country. residential construction is required to
The major drivers of this growth meet this demand of housing sector.
are expected to be large high-rise Indian uPVC window and door market
apartments in expanding metro cities. would be growing in near future due
to increasing new housing construction
Avanish Singh Visen feels, the uPVC and replacement activities.”
doors and windows market in the
country has been immensely driven beautex industries pvt. ltd., mumbai
by the growing awareness about the
several tangible and intangible benefits
of uPVC products amongst the builders
and consumers. He says, “In the past
two years, there has been a substantial
growth and it will continue due to rapid
urbanization, growth in residential
units, increased adoption of eco-friendly
and energy-conserving products to
comply with the government’s initiative
of Energy Conservation Building Code.
The market is majorly driven by the
demand from high and medium end
residential apartments and hotels in
metro cities. Delhi-NCR accounts for the
dominant share in the market revenue
followed by Bangalore, Hyderabad ,
Chennai, Mumbai and Kolkata.”

bhimsaria polymers pvt. ltd., raipur According to Maheesh Choudhary,
while builders have their own team of
architects to specify products as per their
projects, some end consumers prefer
to discuss and buy window and doors
directly from trusted manufacturers.
“However, many end consumers also
manage this task through architects and
specifiers,”he says.

aparna enterprises limited, navi mumbai

century plyboards (india) ltd., kolkata

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

Mario Schmidt

Managing Director, Lingel Windows and Doors
Technologies Private Limited, Rajasthan

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 The company Market and industry I would position Lingel differently
Karl Lingel Fensterbau GmbH & When Lingel first set up in 2006 in from the current market trend. The
Co.KG was established in 1959 in India, the market was at a nascent overall demand for uPVC doors
Ellwangen, Germany. Lingel is one stage and there were very few and windows is slightly increasing
of the leading manufacturers of players selling uPVC. Many were year by year, but the customer base
high-quality doors and windows in not even aware about the product. went from high end at the early
Europe. With a sound background But with the help of UWDMA, the stage during 2006, towards budget
in building-construction projects, market share has increased. With homes for B and C tier cities. That’s
Lingel also provides cutting-edge around 100 fabricators in 2010 to why the existence of our window
technology and services. around 1,500+ fabricators in 2020, standard is so important, so that
it’s a great achievement. Currently, customers can be assured of our
Lingel has been in India since 2006 the Indian window and door product quality and the products
and has experience centres in every overall market is around Rs 14,000- are priced based on the actual
major city. We provide complete 15,000 crore. As per our research, inputs needed to create a workable
fenestration solutions which the marked size for uPVC profiles product and not by ignoring all
includes premium, customised and uPVC windows together in quality parameters to match the
uPVC, Alu 6.0, Oak wood windows India is around Rs 2,000 crore. price expectation by the consumer.
and doors, glass conservatories, We are working hard to turn As our consumer base are mainly
Venetian blinds, roller shutter, the image of uPVC windows to high-end individual residential
window sills and will be launching the place where it belongs - on villas, the demand has changed
smart windows Smart Li. top, There is a valid reason towards high-end aluminium
that in Europe uPVC windows and so we have moved our
I am the Managing Director have 50% plus market share. focus accordingly.
of Lingel Windows and Doors However, process and technology
Technologies Private Limited, unfortunately still lags behind as uPVC doors and windows in
in India and Germany. Besides the current large demand of the architecture
establishing the company in India market is for ‘super easy’ windows Windows made of uPVC structures
and making it one of the top 10 where no special equipment to provide higher performance, are
companies in the country, he has fabrication is needed. efficient in saving energy and can
been instrumental in creating new be sustained for a longer period.
products like Smart Windows. He Lingel, with its high-end individual Another advantage of uPVC is that
is the President of UWDMA (uPVC designs, occupies a different it acts as a natural insulator, which
Windows and Doors manufacturers position in the market. Our in- helps to resist heat loss in winter
association). His intense knowledge house R&D and designers work and reduces heat in summer. The
of the product and vast experience only on computer systems with e-glass coating is very useful as low
in the field has helped make a the best available software, and e-glass has a low microscopically
mark in the market. are the backbone of all our thin transparent coating which
signature projects. reflects low wave infrared energy.

These factors make it extremely uPVC Window and Door
vital as it does not harm the Manufacturers Association
ecosystem in the long run. This not (UWDMA)
only makes it safe for people living The association has almost 10 uPVC
in it but places fewer burdens on system providers as permanent
the environment too. members. With another 3 to 5 system
providers, non-UWDMA members,
When you opt for a uPVC door or we are working together with BIS
window, you know you will not need to create the first standard on uPVC
to spend on maintaining it regularly profiles and the first window and
by polishing or worrying about door standard for India.
termites. There are also many more
colour options, the locking systems Due to the absence of a window
are durable, safe and aesthetically standard, UWDMA introduced its
pleasing, plus which uPVC windows fabrication manual in 2016 as a
are tough to fight nature’s fury of guideline to show how the right
atmospheric corrosion. uPVC also product has to be fabricated. All uPVC
eliminates the probability of water, system companies need to train their
air and sound leakages with its special fabricators as per the fabrication
sealing gaskets. manual to assure that the correct
products are sold in the market.
COVID-19 effect During the lockdown we completed a
It took a while to rebuild the smooth UWDMA window installation manual
supply chain after the pandemic hit. as well. Our next target with UWDMA
It also took a while that customers is to introduce a testing agency with a
came forward to invest and to third party monitoring the fabricator
purchase again. The present situation to become an UWDMA certified
we are facing is that globally all raw quality manufacturer.
material, in spite of still very low
demand, is witnessing significant We with UWDMA have a training
price increases. I can only hope that centre in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan,
this situation is a temporary one and and during the COVID lockdown
gets resolved very quickly. we provided many knowledge
sharing webinars to uplift the
industry practice.

LEADER BOARD

Amir Hashmi

Chief Marketing & Sales Officer,
Profine India Window Technology Pvt. Ltd., Delhi

The company
Profine India Window Technology Pvt.
Ltd., a 100% subsidiary of Profine GmbH,
is a worldwide leading manufacturer of
uPVC profiles for windows and doors, PVC
sheets and shutter systems. Under the
brand name Koemmerling, the firm has
sales offices and manufacturing facilities
in 60 countries, including India, Germany,
France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Ukraine, the
United States of America and China.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 Koemmerling uPVC window and door uPVC doors and windows in From granules to the finished
systems are highly developed technical architecture window and recycling, we
products. The distinctive Koemmerling Koemmerling is best known for see environmental protection
approach rests on attention to quality, its innovative and technically and sustainability as a holistic
innovative strength, customer-oriented advanced system made with exercise.
production, service and an awareness of an environmentally friendly
our responsibility. uPVC formulation without With an innovative new
compromising on product generation of window and door
Since 2004, the company has eliminated quality. Our sustainable systems, Koemmerling sets new
lead completely in the virgin material for product helps in reducing CO2 standards in the Indian market
the Koemmerling brand, which makes it emissions due to their thermal to create conditions for modern,
eco-friendly and sustainable. The brand insulation properties. energy efficient architecture.
aims to deliver the highest technical and Koemmerling windows and
physical performance values, together For our synthetics, we do not doors offer optimized sound
with an extremely long service life and use lead as a stabilizer in our insulation for quiet and stress-
minimal maintenance. Profine India was virgin material, but instead use free living spaces and create a
established in 2010 and Mr. Farid Khan an environment friendly lead- healthy atmosphere for a
is the Director & CEO. The company’s free calcium zinc formulation. quality life.
headquarters is in Germany, and the
Group Owner & CEO is Dr. Peter Mrosik.

Market and industry profile manufacturer, we supply
The current Indian uPVC window to our fabricators and channel
and door market is estimated to be partners, who further manufacture
approximately between Rs 1,500- and install the customized windows
1,800 crore, which is expected to rise and doors for residential projects,
between 12-15 % CAGR depending hotels, institutions and individual
upon the economic environment of apartments.
the country.
COVID-19 effect
India is one of the fastest growing The outbreak of Covid-19 brought
economies in the world in this the world to a standstill and
category. Like developed countries, created uncertainties in the various
uPVC is considered to be the future verticals of the economy globally.
in India, due to the many advantages This includes the infrastructure
of the product - sustainability, sector as well, which is one of the
minimum maintenance, long service major contributors in the growth
life, sound insulation, resistance of any economy. Due to the sudden
from dust and water, etc. The market lockdown in the country, ongoing
is expected to grow at a good pace projects were stopped (though
due to more restrictions on cutting some resumed after unlock, others
of trees, awareness towards eco- became inactive due to a financial
friendly products and initiatives crunch). Now that it has been
by government establishments to 6 months since the unlock was
use sustainable products, which announced, the market is trying hard
are durable and low maintenance. to gain momentum.
With growing awareness, uPVC
has emerged as one of the most The fenestration industry is entirely
demanding and trusted materials for dependent on new projects and
window and door requirements. As a the replacement market and is
result, uPVC is seen to be the future still finding its way. The pandemic
of the fenestration market in India. certainly slowed down the demand
uPVC windows and doors can be seen for windows and doors due to
in many projects, from residential financial uncertainties and pandemic
apartments to villas, educational fear. People are still taking extra care
institutes, hotels, hospitals, while spending money on buying
government buildings, etc. new homes or upgrading their
existing ones. Though we can see
Demand for uPVC windows and positive signs for a market reset and
doors is considered to be around strengthening, we are hopeful the
10-12% of the overall windows and demand curve will remain on a
doors market in India. Being a uPVC rising mode.

MARKET SPEAK

Avanish Singh Visen

CEO ,
Encraft India P Ltd, a subsidiary of DCJ Group, New Delhi

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 The company Encraft boasts 10-15 years, the uPVC window
In 1961, our Chairman Mr DC Jain • 100% local production to and door market is expected
started extruding HDPE strips for European standards using the to grow by 30%. Domestically,
cane furniture and then ventured latest technologies. Delhi-NCR accounted for the
into PVC pipes. The company carried • Only UPVC profile company dominant share in the market
on expanding into flexible PVC that is RoHS compliant. revenue; followed by Bangalore,
extrusion and developed patented • Member of the ‘Indian Green Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai
magnetic sealing systems used by the Build Council’. and Kolkata.
refrigeration industry. • IMS certification, covering
ISO9001, ISO14001, and Encraft always focuses on
In 2005, Mr. Rajeev Jain had a vision to OHSAS18001 standards. bringing in new technology in
enter the uPVC fenestration market in • Nationwide coverage, with 5 alignment with our people and
India. He carried out extensive research distribution centers. processes. The current situation
across Europe to evaluate companies • 50 years of plastic processing now demands that we have to
that had the best practices and most know-how. serve our customers without
innovative products. In 2006, he teamed • 40 years of technical know- them stepping out of their
up with Halo Systems in the UK, which how in the fenestration homes. We have developed
has been involved in UPVC fenestration industry. a virtual showroom using
since 1979, supplying innovative • Innovative Product designs advanced 3D technology and
products designed by an Austrian with fast response to the virtual reality, enabling our
engineer. This is how Encraft was born market. customers to see our showroom,
and set up; the systems were designed • In-house tooling design and color palettes, and the window
with the needs of the Indian consumer manufacturing facility. functionality from the comfort
and the Indian climate in mind. • Associate training program of their own home. We then
covering fabrication and conduct video calls to better
installation. understand their requirements.
• In-house testing facility for Our team is also working on
weather performance and digital techniques and tools,
wind loading. which will be unique to the
• In-house latest state of the entire industry.
art fabricator training school.
To be price competitive in
Market and industry the market, a vast majority of
The current Indian window and companies have found it cost-
door (all material) market is effective to import cheaper raw
around Rs 14,000-15,000 crore materials instead of procuring it
and the market share of uPVC from the good quality companies
window and door profiles is producing domestically. Lack
about 8-10%. As per a report of standardization by the
by Ken Research, over the next government authorities and lack

of awareness about the quality standards After cooling, they take the shape of COVID-19 effect
among the consumers have allowed the sturdy profiles. The following are the four challenging
unorganized sector to flourish. areas that need to be taken care of
The window testing area will show how and for Encraft, we have well-driven
Moreover, Indian consumers, being products are checked for performance strategies in place to keep it going for
price sensitive, have increasingly with respect to water, wind, rain, the next decade and beyond:
opted for lower-priced, inferior etc., as against EN standard using a
quality products to lower their overall KS Schulten test rig (we have the only Safety of employees: Our
expenditure. The unorganized sector facility in India). The KS Schulten manufacturing facilities are functioning
accounted for the majority of the test rig provides accurate readings at normal capacity, but with many
market share. Growth has been driven about the quality and function of the additional measures to keep our
by the growing awareness about the tested elements like air leakage, water employees safe, and we expect our
several tangible and intangible benefits tightness, and wind resistance. lead times to remain stable. The
of uPVC products amongst builders and primary focus of Encraft has always
consumers. Over the past two years, A lot of thought and process goes been the employees and the
there has been substantial growth into making uPVC windows, starting community; we are ensuring that
due to rapid urbanization, growth from the design to the packaging. our employees are safe, and that our
in residential units and increased Supplements like glass, gaskets, operations are being conducted using
adoption of eco-friendly and energy- hardware, sealant, accessories, etc., the best COVID safety measures.
conserving products to comply with also play a major role in making the
the government’s initiative of Energy uPVC profile trustworthy. Moreover, our Consumer safety and virtual
Conservation Building Code. R&D constantly innovates and adds technology: We are providing
new value to our consumers, and we solutions and design consultation
The process are always on the verge of the market to our consumers from the
uPVC stands for unplasticized and consumer trends. comfort of their home, and have
polyvinyl chloride, a type of hard already implemented many virtual
plastic material commonly used uPVC doors and windows in advancements considering the safety
in windows and doors. The uPVC architecture of our consumers.
manufacturing process is a work of Today, most properties are replacing
science and art of designing. Selection their traditional windows with modern Supply chain and manpower: We
of raw material and formulation is uPVC windows since they offer a higher have a robust supply chain that
the key; we place special emphasis degree of durability and security. If constitutes both imported as well as
on this step because the formulation you want windows that are not only indigenous product quality standards.
is the core of the manufacturing high-quality and cost-effective, but Furthermore, our team is never far
process and it determines the quality also provide great insulation from away when further support is required.
and life of the uPVC profiles. Our weather and pollution, then uPVC is
formulation is tropicalized to Indian the best investment for your home. Technology and R&D: R&D is deeply
climatic conditions. For a healthier and The material is resistant to termites, ingrained in its culture and we
environmentally friendly approach, lead- pollution, moisture, corrosion, and continuously update our state-of-the-
free substances are used in the resin. mold. This makes uPVC windows a art infrastructure to be on the cutting-
longer-lasting alternative to timber edge of new technology.
Then comes the extrusion. The and aluminum windows.
extruded profiles require particular I am proud and inspired by the way our
temperatures and our state-of-the-art What makes uPVC windows special company has risen to this challenge -
mixing equipment ensures that the mix is that they can be recycled as with flexibility, resilience, courage - and
is churned accurately. Once the mix is much as up to 10 times. Their a caring heart. I am also very proud of
ready for the extruded profile, then the sturdiness and durability allow them the hard work and dedication of our
extrusion machine and die are used. to last for several decades. Since uPVC employees during these unprecedented
The die is used to give the extruded windows are airtight, they improve air times. We will work together as a team
profiles its shape. After the extruded and noise insulation in your house. across all parts of the business - to
profile takes its designated shape, the They also offer a good deal of security keep going and to make this one of our
final stage of the uPVC manufacturing with their single or multi-point high- finest hours.
processes is where the uPVC profiles security locks that are attached to the
are given a water bath and are cooled. window framing. MARKET SPEAK

Mahesh Choudhary

CEO - uPVC division,
Aparna Enterprises Limited, Navi Mumbai

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 The company fabrication technology is completely
The Aparna Group believes in imported from Germany from the
bringing world-class technologies likes of Krauss Maffei and Wegoma.
and delivering world-class products Since its inception, Aparna Venster
to India. The group started its has successfully delivered over 1.2
operations in 1990, and by 1996 we million windows and doors till
diversified into building materials and December 2016.
real estate development.
Ökotech uPVC Profiles
Aparna Enterprises Limited (AEL) is Ökotech is a range of 100% lead-free
a leading business conglomerate in uPVC profiles for windows and doors.
the building materials industry with Ökotech provides great flexibility to
an employee strength of 2,700. AEL is fabricators around India, to design a
associated with many leading brands wide variety of uPVC systems, through
in the construction sector and all our availability of 60+ unique profile
products are listed and approved by designs. Ökotech has a pan-India
government organisations like DRDO, presence, from metros to tier-II cities.
South Central Railway, PWD, CPWD, etc. The company’s history upholds its
genuine expertise in providing a
AEL manufactures and markets its diverse range of building material
products under Aparna RMC, Vitero products. AEL also believes that for
Tiles, Aparna Venster uPVC windows the overall well-being of society, the
and Doors, Ökotech uPVC profiles, fruits of development must flow to the
Aparna CRF and Aparna Unispace underprivileged. With this in mind, the
(Luxury Showroom for Leading ‘Aparna Novel Society for Welfare and
European Sanitary ware brands) Research’ (ANSWER) was initiated by
the company in 2007. The program is
Aparna Venster uPVC Windows a unique social development initiative
and Doors where housing, water, sanitation,
Aparna Venster is a market leader health services, employment and
in providing end-to-end solutions in educational opportunities are provided
uPVC windows and doors. The division to orphaned children and abandoned
has a production capacity of 2 lakh elders. Through this initiative AEL has
square feet windows and doors per transformed the lives of many children
month. Venster’s manufacturing and who are now doing well for themselves.

Market and industry prefer to discuss and buy windows and
The uPVC windows and doors market in India doors directly from trusted manufacturers.
is valued at around INR 1,500 Crore. Many end consumers also manage this task
The COVID-19 pandemic has had very through architects and specifiers. We supply
minimal impact on the trends in the window Aparna Venster uPVC windows and doors
and door industry as uPVC had already directly to individual consumers, architects
become the preferred material for windows and builders in some parts of India and
and doors. Casement and gliding doors are Ökotech uPVC profiles to fabricators who
the most used types of uPVC windows and in-turn supply these to end consumers,
doors. However, several special mechanisms builders and architects in some parts of
– slide and fold, arch windows and villa India. We also export uPVC profiles to several
windows – are also gaining traction. Asian countries.

Around 50% to 60% of the uPVC windows and Aparna Venster uPVC window and door
doors market is dominated by unorganized manufacturing is a process driven by use
players. uPVC has emerged as one of the of high quality raw material and adoption
best choices for windows and doors over of stringent quality measures. The process
traditional materials such as wood. Since involves the following stages - extrusion of
wood is becoming a scarce resource, this uPVC profile, fabrication of profile and glass
alternative is going to stay for a long time. cutting, assembly of windows and doors in
In the last 10 years, we have been a lot desired sizes and glazing, and packaging.
of change as people have realized that The Aparna Venster uPVC window and door
using more wooden windows and doors manufacturing facility uses machinery from
will ultimately harm the entire ecosystem. Wegoma, Germany, to ensure high reliability
This is one of the biggest reasons why an and accuracy in the manufacturing process.
alternate durable and eco-friendly material The uPVC profiles used in windows and doors
was needed for this purpose. uPVC fits right are reinforced with galvanized steel sections
in this space. Over the last decade, uPVC has for high strength and security.
gained popularity in most residential and
commercial high-rise structures. The percentages of technology and
manpower used is about 50:50. The profile
The demand in the uPVC market is handled manufacturing and fabrication process is
in several ways. While builders have their automated to some extent. Glass cutting,
own team of architects to specify products packaging and distribution processes are
as per their projects, some end consumers primarily manpower driven.

MARKET SPEAK

Prabjot Dhody

Chairman and Managing Director,
Beautex Industries Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai

The company and furnishings, established
Carrying forward the legacy of in 1963, and introduced a
its founder, the late Swaranjit Woods and Fenestration
Singh Dhody, the two promoters vertical in collaboration with
of the family-owned-and-run global partners. The company’s
Beautex Group - Mr. Prabjot philosophy of customer delight,
Dhody and Mr. Ranjit SS coupled with professionalism
Dhody - have spearheaded and a strong personal touch,
the firm’s success story for has been the pivotal force of
over two decades. Celebrating success at every step of its
over five decades in business, journey. Mr Dhody believes
Beautex has been beautifying that success is no accident – It
lives through its wide range of is a by-product of hard work,
exclusive products. perseverance, learning, sacrifice
and most of all love of what
Beautex has earned great you are doing.
respect for its outstanding work
and has been continuously The process
innovating new products to The uPVC manufacturing
offer the best in fenestration, process is a work of science
floors and facades. We operate and a subtle art of designing
on a pan-Asia level through a better uPVC profiles. The
network of companies. Beautex, uPVC manufacturing process
in association with different comprises four stages:
stores across the world, also formation of the resin
guarantees multi-location compound, extrusion of
inventory programs to serve uPVC profiles, packaging and
time-bound projects globally. distribution and making of
Origin story. reinforced profiles.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 Once a milestone is achieved, Skilled manpower and using
there is always another the latest advanced technology
one to be crossed. With this is the key to delivering quality
thought, 24 years ago, Mr products and reducing error
Prabjot Dhody took over his and production rejections.
ancestral business of carpets Constant learning and

development is needed and latest European profile systems have
technology helps to increase better expectancy due to advanced
production capacity and meet engineering and better energy
market demand. uPVC doors saving values. The primary buyers
and windows are aesthetically are architects, interior designers,
pleasing, durable, termite-free, and end users.
low maintenance, recyclable, eco-
friendly, great insulation, corrosion- COVID-19 effect
proof and safe. This has been a difficult,
unprecedented time, not only for
Market and industry us but pretty much for everybody.
The current market size of the Everybody is grappling in the dark,
Indian uPVC doors and windows trying to figure out how and what
market is Rs 14,000- 15,000 Cr. is happening and how to deal with
the situation. For us, the focus has
The upcoming trends in the post- always been on the employees.
Covid uPVC doors and windows Fortunately, both in India and
industry are: virtual product demos, globally, we have not had any
reduced visits by clients for closing incidents of COVID mortality. More
orders, and Zoom meetings for than anything else, I think it is the
discussion and decisions. morale of the employees that was
impacted, and the focus right now
The percentage of organized and is to get back to work and restart
unorganized players in the uPVC where we left off.
doors and windows market is: 75%
in the unorganized sector and 25% This industry is affected by the
in the organized sector. economy and policy, so it’s
important to keep an eye on
The future of the uPVC doors and economic indices. With the
windows market: a projected growth global economic recovery, more and
rate of over 5.7% from more people are paying attention
2020 to 2026. to rising environmental standards,
especially in underdeveloped
The market has been growing regions that have a large population
as per projection, in which and fast economic growth.

MARKET SPEAK

Vikas Agrawal

Founder,
Bhimsaria Polymers Pvt. Ltd., Raipur

The company
Siesto Systems is an Indian company
operating all over the world, founded
by Mr. Vikas Agrawal and Mr. Nirmala
Agrawal. It is the flagship company of
the Bhimsaria Group, which is in the
business of franchise development
and management. It was incorporated
to venture into the business of retail
supermarket chains, and later started a
new concept, ‘lakadee.com’ where we
had planned a chain of retail outlets
involving franchisees dealing in goods
related to wood.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 Siesto is the leading franchiser of Smart Siesto’s franchise business has customized solutions in windows
Home Solutions/Systems in India and evolved after deep studies and and doors that are specially
Nepal. Its unique solutions comprise the project development phase designed to suit harsh climatic
specially engineered designs of featured as discussed above. This system and environmental conditions.
doors and windows, interior and exterior of franchising has been in Our uPVC doors and windows
solutions, fresh air ventilation systems, planning for over three years, are not pre-designed products;
pre-fabricated structures, etc. So, every after studying, analysing and we offer total customization
system is as stylish as it is ingenious adopting all required knowledge in colour, size, and styles
and as attractive as is durable, for both and resources. We launched our of doors and windows. Our
practical and aesthetic reasons. franchise in 2019 at Franchise experts measure the location
India, where our system was and after discussion with
Siesto ensures systems that work named ‘The Best Franchisable interior designers, architects,
beautifully, taking care of a major factor Business Of The Year 2019’. consultants, civil engineers and
in the success of any building project. clients, we finally design the best
We focus on unique concepts, green, The process fit solution.
energy efficient and cost-effective Siesto’s door and window
products, which keeps the systems manufacturing process is an Special methods, procedures and
features alive. organized system. We provide equipment are used to check

every product for reliability, The India uPVC doors and COVID-19 effect
performance and durability. We windows market is dominated COVID-19 has put a lot of strain
have stringent measures, and we by organized players’ (around on the manufacturing industry,
use them to assure the quality 70%). The general challenges which contributes almost 20%
of our products at all levels of associated with this market is of GDP. Post this, the industry
manufacturing, delivery and lack of awareness about uPVC will also have to teach workers a
Installation. benefits, no standardization, few precautions such as thermal
rising prices of PVC resin, sensing, sanitizing the factory,
Siesto utilizes applied foreign exchange risk and high providing sanitizers to workers
German Technology uPVC dependence on raw material and establishing boundaries
for the manufacturing of door imports hampering the quality of social contact. The door
and window systems, ensuring of the final product. Also, being and window market would
absolute reliability in the a technology-driven product, the be impacted due to COVID-19
manufacturing procedure. cost is a bit high due to technology because the product quality,
Our products are machine and skilled manpower. safety, hygiene and other factors
made under the observation has increased the cost of the
of highly skilled, well-trained We are very optimistic about product, which will directly affect
manpower. the future of the uPVC doors the final price of the windows
and windows market. The and doors.
Market and industry market is expected to expand
The Indian uPVC door and synergistically in the mid- to long Due to the financial crisis and
window market would be term due to the announcement other issues in the country like
valued at around INR 100 of 100 smart cities, growth in rising unemployment, lower GDP,
billion in the current scenario infrastructure, increase in FDI clients might start postponing
of 2020. The uPVC door and and the growing middle class. non-essential purchases, and
window market is growing due disengage from the construction
to its tangible and intangible India still has a shortage of processes by postponing their
benefits, such as uPVC doors and 18 million homes that require demands. Another challenge
windows being thermal, water USD 330 billion of construction we are facing is that customer
and wind resistant as well as funding. Therefore, a massive interaction has been minimized,
corrosion-free. uPVC doors and level of residential unit due to which we have less
windows are termite free, highly construction is required to meet face-to-face interaction and
sound insulated, dustproof, this demand. This would boost low site visits. This impacts the
highly durable and need no the domestic UPVC window and customization issues and leads
maintenance; they are also door market and present a huge to end customers preferring low-
energy efficient. potential for expansion. cost cheap alternates.

MARKET SPEAK

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 Nikita Agarwal

Executive Director,

Century Plyboards (India) Ltd., Kolkata

The company
Century Plyboards was launched in 1986
by Mr. Sajjan Bhajanka and Mr. Sanjay
Agarwal, who serve as the Chairman and
Managing Director. We have pioneered
borer-proof plywood, laminates and veneer
in India at different price points, catering
to a broad customer base. We have further
diversified into MDF and particleboard,
and look forward to adding to our existing
product range.

Current market size
The current door market in India is
approximately `11,000 crore, out of which
plywood doors constitute about 25% at a
market size of `2,700 crore. Plywood doors
are superior to other materials in the door
market, as they can be easily installed and
modified. Compared to wooden doors,
they blend with one’s residential and
commercial interiors. Furthermore, one
can choose their veneer and laminate as
per the surroundings.

Aestheticism or functionality?
Due to several options available in the
market, customers choose products with
multi-dimensional benefits. While the doors
primarily serve to protect the household,
the colors and designs need to blend in with
the household. We have a strong presence
in the builder and retail segment, and our
clients include Ahluwalia Contracts (India)
Ltd., Trident Group and L&T Constructions.

Manufacturing process
High-quality timber is first dried to remove
moisture prior to manufacturing doors.
The second step consists of preservative
dipping, where the timber is chemically
treated to make the door termite and borer-

resistant. The wood is then dried further Advantages of plywood doors
in a process called kiln seasoning, which The key to manufacturing a sustainable
removes moisture and microbes present door is to focus on the elements
on the surface. that could damage the door, such as
weathering agents and insects. Doors
A plywood door consists of four major must stand against rain, wind, heat,
parts: frame, filler, core and face. The and dust along with termite and borer
frame, consisting of horizontal rails and attacks. They are susceptible to swelling,
vertical stiles, is constructed from wooden bending, and warping. Manufactured
logs, which are then filled with compact from fine-quality timber, they have a large
solid wood fillers to provide strength. A and uniform frame with compact solid
core layer of hardwood is added to give wood fillers for resistance and strength.
an even surface to the door. The face The doors at Century Ply are of Boiling
consists of a layer of laminate or veneer Waterproof (BWP) grade and patented
that is glued to the door, which provides Glue Line Internal Protection (GLP), which
a smooth surface. Finally, it is examined make them termite and borer-resistant. A
for its compliance with the IS 2202 (Part: premium-quality flush door has a lifespan
I) regulations and packaged to be sent to of 20 years, while molded doors last for
the market. 5-7 years.

Technology
The plywood manufacturing process
involves both technology and labor, at
30% and 70% respectively. While precise
cutting and treatment involve technology,
assembling the components is a labor-
intensive task. The Indian door market
has been dominated by unorganized
players for a long time, but the trends
have changed in the last decade.
Increased disposable income and a
consumer preference for branded
products have contributed to the rise of
the organized segment. Today, people
look for strong, durable, and energy-
efficient doors for thermal and sound
insulation in their projects.

MARKET SPEAK



INDUSTRY IN FOCUS:

Edge banding

text shailendra mehta
inputs aadrita chatterji & darielle britto

Edgeless wonder

Edge banding has emerged as an independent industry, driven by the
use of artificial wood substitutes and cladding in furniture.

Edge banding became Evolution the hot-cold process was developed
A relatively new technology in Germany by Homag in 1962. Since
increasingly important that evolved with the advent of then there have been numerous
engineered wood in the last century, innovations and developments in
as wood was replaced in furniture and edge banding extends the life of a this industry. According to Kulveen
interior design by different kinds of work surface. As long as furniture Kaur Ahuja, Manager- Marketing,
boards like plywood, particle board or was made from solid materials such Communications and Branding,
MDF, with raw edges. Uncovered raw as stone, wood and metal, the need Rehau, Delhi, currently, edge banding
edges of boards not only affected the for edge banding did not arise as is available in over one million
aesthetic value but also the lifespan the edges of these materials could options. He says, “They have evolved
of the product. Edge banding protects be curved without any external to become a style statement to
wooden panels in furniture from application. any interior space. Edge banding
moisture and reduces the effects of enhances the overall appeal of the
atmospheric humidity and liquid spills. Traditional edge banding was done furniture and has emerged as a
It also contains VOC from agglomerated manually using ordinary carpentry perfect solution for kitchen cabinets,
man-made woods. tools and materials. However, this countertops for offices, cupboards,
could not meet the requirements of table edges, etc. In addition to being
the modern, high-volume, modular cost effective, edge banding offers
manufacturing and edge banding a smooth finish by concealing raw
became an automated process; a edges, increasing the durability of
ubiquitous and critical ingredient for the furniture. It is child friendly, pet-
quality work surfaces. The world’s friendly and eco-friendly.”
first edge banding machine based on

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

e3 panels, new delhi

Process
Edge banding is a process of covering the raw edges
of wood panels with a thin strip of wood, PVC, or
resinous material. These narrow strips, known as edge
bands are commercially produced by using industry-
grade heat applicators and a hot-melt adhesive.
The process involves several stages. Edge bands are
extruded and texturized, printed, and lacquered
to provide the required finish. A thin strip of this
impermeable material is cut to fit the size of a wood
panel. It is then applied to the raw edge with strong

e3 panels, new delhi rehau, delhi
rehau, delhi
adhesive. A heat roller is used to
unipegasus profiles pvt. ltd., new delhi melt the adhesive and to glue
the edge band over the board.
The ends are trimmed, flush
and bent so that they cover
the board almost seamlessly
without sharp ends. Surplus glue
is scraped off and the finished
edge is buffed to give a flawless
finish. The machine used for this
process is called an edge bander.
Ankur Garg, Director, Unipegasus
Profiles Pvt.Ltd., New Delhi,
says, “Edge band manufacturing
process is divided into three
steps; extrusion, printing,
and packaging. In the edge
band manufacturing process,
technology and manpower is
equally involved. PVC resin,
inks, and primer are the main
raw materials. Edge band is a
technical product, so every raw
material is important.”

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

Different forms PMMA is a high-grade thermoplastic material, transparent like
The material used in making edge glass, due to which its application is limited and selective.
bands varies with the application. Laser edge banding or Zero Joint edge banding offers the
PVC edge banding is most possibility of a permanently functional and invisible joint on the
popular in modular furniture as finished component. It is an adhesive-free, functional layer that
it is extremely durable, simple seamlessly bonds to create a permanent, functional, invisible
to fix and has a long life. PVC is joint and enhances the finished components’ resistance to
impermeable and PVC edge bands thermal distortion as well as the moisture resistance.
can be customized. Also, it can
be easily used on curved surfaces e3 panels, new delhi
unlike real wood bands.

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene
styrene) has almost all the
characteristics of PVC, but ABS
has a low density and does
not include chlorine in its
composition. It is also not
flame retardant.

PP (Polypropylene) is a semi-
crystalline plastic used regularly
in the packaging industry and
is appropriate for small radius
applications. It is chlorine-free
and has emerged in the furniture
industry as a popular alternative
to traditional materials like PVC
and ABS.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 e3 panels, new delhi

rehau, delhi